Atlanta seeks community input on expanding its trail network

The Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation is looking for public input on how to expand the city’s trail network. Creating a more walkable city is part of the Activate ATL Comprehensive Plan, which was approved in 2021.

Research from the comprehensive plan revealed that, more than anything, Atlanta residents want more multipurpose trails. Now Trails ATL is conducting an online survey to find out where people want to see those trails to be located.

The city is focused on equity with the goal of all residents living within a 10-minute walk of a trail. Deputy Commissioner Rachel Maher said the effort wants to hear from as many people as possible — young or old.

“If you live in a household, we want to know what your 8-year-old thinks," Maher said. "Where do they want to go? You know, we're talking about all ages. We want to know where, you know, our senior citizens are trying to get to.”

This initial survey will be available on the Trails ATL website until April 29. The survey is the first of three rounds of public outreach. Atlanta Parks and Recreations will also hold virtual meetings for public input in this first round in English and Spanish.

Maher said they’re also asking people what kinds of trails they like.

“Are you most comfortable on more dedicated greenways that are kind of off the street more and have more of a park and greenspace type feel?” she said. “Are you interested in side paths, which are really the kind of path that runs more parallel to a street?”

Trails ATL will work with the Path Foundation to make the trail connections happen. Project Manager Tara Buckner said there are still plenty of places to make changes.

“The beautiful thing about Atlanta is that it's not fully built out," Buckner said. "And so we have this opportunity right now as Atlanta is growing and we're building more places for people to live within the city to develop the trail plan.”

Trails ATL expects to conclude all three rounds of public engagement early 2025 and begin implementing ideas.