Atlanta councilman proposes ‘car-free’ Peachtree Street for limited time

Visualize Peachtree Street in Downtown and Midtown Atlanta without automobiles.

Atlanta Metropolis Council member Amir Farokhi claimed blocking off Peachtree Road from Mitchell to 14th streets for a number of hours a thirty day period will be exciting for the common person—and gain business enterprise.

He has proposed the avenue go “car or truck-less” from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. one Sunday a month, from 14th to Mitchell. That involves a stretch of highway near Underground Atlanta.

“It provides persons the opportunity to take pleasure in the area on foot,” he reported.

If the idea appears common, that is simply because the Atlanta Streets Alive initiative has performed one thing identical for the earlier decade, blocking off large website traffic streets for only cyclists and people walking by.

Council also tried out to get a similar plan off the floor last 12 months, but they pushed for 4 “car-free of charge” hrs every single Sunday. 

At the time, metropolis leaders and business proprietors agreed that’d be a little bit considerably. 

This year’s proposal would only transpire 12 occasions a yr starting in 2023. Council will explore the approach at Wednesday’s transportation assembly.

“Blocking off a street like this is a global phenomenon,” Farokhi mentioned. 

“I come from France,” Eliza Gicquel reported. “I consider it’s a fantastic idea. We do this in Paris on Sundays, and it cuts again on air pollution.”

Gary Mc mentioned Peachtree is a important thoroughfare that should not be blocked, but Omer Gungoren whose family members owns close by Anatolia restaurant, claims he is open to the concept.

“I imply glance close to, people are normally strolling down here,” he reported.

No matter if inhabitants consider this will induce a visitors nightmare, or definitely enjoy the thought, Town Council desires to listen to about. 

Comments can be sent by e mail just before the transportation meeting Wednesday and right before it goes up for consideration following 7 days.