Sandy Springs To Study Trails, Access Along Chattahoochee River

SANDY SPRINGS, GA — During its Sept. 17 meeting, the Sandy Springs City Council approved the selection of Heath and Lineback Engineers, Inc. to conduct a feasibility study for trails and access along the Chattahoochee River within the northern district of the city. The initiative is one of six strategic goals recommended by the North End Redevelopment Task Force in 2018, as part of an effort to rejuvenate the northern end of Sandy Springs.

Creating access to the Chattahoochee River is included in two of the six strategic goals recommended by the Task Force. As part of its contract, Heath and Lineback will study possible locations and methods to create access to the Chattahoochee River and its associated public lands to open the areas for recreation and economic activities. The study will also incorporate creating access to the river through walking and biking trails, which will connect with communities in the North End revitalization area. The final plan is expected to include a comprehensive review of existing conditions, including land use and zoning, as well as obtaining preliminary approval from regulatory agencies, which govern those properties in the river corridor.

Public involvement will be incorporated throughout the planning process, including information workshops, public briefings, and via online tools. At least three citywide public meetings will be included in the planning program.

In selecting Heath and Lineback, the evaluation committee noted the company’s prior experience with similar projects, working with the City, particularly in building trails along streams and rivers. The project team also includes members representing the Trust for Public Lands and BioHabitats, both of whom have experience in constructing trails with approval from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Atlanta Regional Commission.

It's expected to take between 12 to 18 months for the firm to complete its work and provide the City Council with recommendations.

For more information about the City of Sandy Springs, visit online at www.sandyspringsga.gov, or call the Citizen Response Center at 770-730-5600. Follow breaking news and traffic alerts on Twitter and community news on Facebook, both @SandySpringsGA.