Many Atlanta BeltLine projects have moved forward in 2016. One of the most highly anticipated projects is the Eastside Trail’s extension south from Irwin Street. The 2-mile Eastside Trail, spanning from Piedmont Park south to Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park, has become a boon for development, social activity, recreation, and a brand new way for east-siders to commute. Since its opening in 2012, neighborhoods adjacent to the trail have been asking for more.
With funding in place, ground was broken on the first phase of the trail’s extension in summer 2016. This phase of the extension will bring the trail from its terminus at Irwin south to Kirkwood Avenue in Reynoldstown.
Much of the early work on the trail occurred underground, with ductbank and drainage installation, and water-line/utility movement to accommodate construction. Included in the work was grading and clearing of debris in preparation for heavy construction. Stormwater infrastructure was installed at Kirkwood, where the temporary construction office trailer is located.
The path for the 10-foot multi-use trail has been cleared on Wylie Street. This section of the trail will connect the Krog Tunnel with the rail corridor near Flat Shoals Avenue. The trail will be on the north side of the street and will be separated from the road with a landscaped buffer. On the south side of the street, improvements will be made to the curbs and sidewalks.
Beneath the Krog Tunnel, pavers have been installed to provide a smooth surface for trail-users to cross beneath the rail yard. Work will continue beneath the tunnel to improve the lighting and install new handrails.
Initial work has begun to survey the intersection of Krog Street and Dekalb Avenue. At this intersection, a pedestrian scramble will be installed to halt motor-vehicles and allow safe pedestrian crossing.
Upcoming work will include the reconstruction of the very south end of the existing Eastside Trail to install a speed table at Irwin Street, as well as the construction of a speed table at Kirkwood. Temporary street closures will take place at that time.
Phase I of the Eastside Trail extension will be complete in summer 2017. When funding is secured, work will continue on Phase II to bring the trail to Memorial Drive. Keep an eye on our blog for more construction updates and news about the Eastside Trail extension.
