Among the many things Atlanta voters voted on Tuesday was an infrastructure package that got overwhelming approval, composed of three ballot referenda, that is collectively called “Moving Atlanta Forward.” The $750 million package will help to build new city facilities and fund some massive transportation investments.
“Thank you to the voters of Atlanta for showing their support of the Moving Atlanta Forward infrastructure investments,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “These investments will transform our roads, trails and pedestrian infrastructure, construct new public safety facilities that meet the needs of the women and men who serve our communities, and transform our parks, recreation centers and pools.”
Made up of a Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) and two bonds, Mayor Dickens spent the last few weeks leading up to the vote doing some politicking to build support. He visited Atlanta Fire Station 26 – on Howell Mill Road, which is slated for a $13 million replacement. Dickens also made a stop to the city’s 911 Center, ready for a $15 million investment upgrade. The total cost for the non-transportation piece is nearly $300 million. Parks, Rec and the Arts will be receiving nearly $100 million, and public safety will be receiving another nearly $100 million – much of it likely dedicated to the new police officer training facility off Moreland Avenue that has generated significant controversy among those opposed to police investment (which have a tendency to be a loud constituency).
The biggest chunk of the infrastructure investments is the $460 million dedicated to transportation. Atlanta’s notoriously poor sidewalks may be in for a big upgrade, with nearly $200 million dedicated to sidewalks and trails. Safe streets projects – basically a pedestrian-friendly street redesign – and protected bike lanes will be getting $100 million. There is $40 million set aside for bridges and bridge matching funds which will trigger more money from the federal government. Another $32 million is dedicated for street repairs. With increasing implementation costs due to a variety of factors, another $32 million has been set aside as an inflation reserve fund to ensure projects can be completed. The much-vaunted traffic light coordination may get a little boost thanks for $10 million for traffic and pedestrian signals.
A few years from now, the nearly billion dollars may amount to a different feel moving around the city.
“These investments will touch every corner of the city. I greatly appreciate the partnership of the City Council Members who have been determined advocates for these projects, and who will be valued partners as we move forward with implementation,” said Dickens. “The voters have demonstrated their trust in the City to carry out these projects, and now it is up to us to deliver. Our Administration is committed to delivering these projects in a transparent and efficient way that meets the expectations of Atlanta residents.”
