City Launches Feasibility Study For Downtown Pedestrian Bridge

FOREST PARK, Ga. — May 14, 2024 — The City of Forest Park is embarking on a significant endeavor to enhance pedestrian connectivity and access with the launch of a feasibility study for the construction of an overpass pedestrian bridge. Spanning across SR 331/Forest Parkway and the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks, the proposed bridge would link pedestrians to vital destinations including Main Street, City Hall, Starr Park and the proposed Model Mile Greenway Project.

Community involvement is at the heart of this project, with the City of Forest Park prioritizing collaboration with city staff, agencies and most importantly, residents. A series of public engagement events will be conducted throughout the planning process to ensure that the voices of the community are heard and valued. In addition to traditional public meetings, the project team will meet the community at planned city events and at key technical milestones throughout the project.

“A pedestrian bridge is not just a structure. It is a vital piece of infrastructure that can significantly improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike by enhancing access to key destinations throughout our downtown area,” said Mayor Angelyne Butler, MPA. “As we work strategically to revitalize our Main Street district, we encourage all Forest Park residents and business owners to participate in these engagement events so that together, we can shape the progress that we would all like to see in our great city."

The comprehensive study, which is being spearheaded by the city, is made possible through Regional Transportation Planning Study funding from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), supplemented by matching funds from the city. The final public event will be an appearance before the Forest Park City Council, where the selected design concept will be showcased. All events are open to the public and will be publicized by a variety of methods in advance of each event.

“We’re excited to support Forest Park’s efforts to make this thriving community an even better place to live,” said John Orr, Managing Director of Transportation Planning at ARC. “Forest Parkway and the railroad are vital transportation corridors, but they also have served to divide the city. A pedestrian bridge will help reconnect the community in a way that unlocks newfound energy and economic dynamism.”

For more information and to stay updated on upcoming public engagement events, visit www.forestparkpedbridge.com. 

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