Safer Streets and Stronger Connections: Atlanta Beltline Completes Major Streetscape Projects

Improving safety and inclusive connectivity lies at the core of the Atlanta Beltline’s mission. The recent completion of major streetscape projects on Ponce de Leon Avenue and Ralph David Abernathy (RDA) Boulevard reflects this commitment—transforming key corridors into more welcoming, multimodal routes that serve pedestrians, cyclists, and surrounding neighborhoods. 

These upgrades link communities to schools, parks, and businesses, expanding access to opportunity while supporting Mayor Andre Dickens’ Moving Atlanta Forward infrastructure agenda. 

Ponce de Leon Avenue Streetscape 

Spanning 0.68 miles from Boulevard to Freedom Parkway in the Old Fourth Ward, the Ponce Streetscape Project revitalizes one of Atlanta’s busiest streets with thoughtful updates focused on accessibility and connection: 

• New sidewalks and pedestrian lighting

• New ramp to the Eastside Trail via the north side of the Ponce de Leon Avenue bridge

• Renovated and extended bike lanes

• New traffic signals and relocated utilities

• Raised center medians to calm traffic and increase safety

Funded through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Centers Initiative, the improvements were designed by Kimley-Horn and built by JHC. 

“This project reflects the Beltline’s commitment to sustainable design, connectivity and investment in infrastructure that directly supports the user experience on the trail and surrounding neighborhoods,” said Clyde Higgs, President and CEO of Atlanta Beltline, Inc. “These new access points, bike lanes and more make our city safer and more accessible for everyone.” 

Ralph David Abernathy (RDA) Boulevard Streetscape 

The 0.5-mile RDA streetscape, spanning from East Ontario Avenue to Willard Avenue, enhances community safety and strengthens connection to Westview’s historic business district with key features including: 

• Marked crosswalks and center medians near KIPP Strive Academy

• Median-protected parking by Westview Cemetery

• New bike lanes and resurfaced roads

• Widened sidewalks and curb replacements

• New striping and pedestrian lighting

Completed in March 2025, the project was funded by the Renew Atlanta Infrastructure Bond (RAIB), designed by Volkert, Inc., and built by F.S. Scarborough, LLC. 

“With improved walkability and bike access near the Westside Trail, this project supports local businesses and encourages healthy, active mobility in a historic neighborhood,” said Kim Wilson, the Beltline’s Vice President of Design and Construction. “It’s about more than infrastructure—it’s about investing in the heart of our communities.” 

This streetscape connects directly to Segment 4 of the Westside Trail, enhancing mobility across historic neighborhoods. A new access point and plaza at South Gordon Street and RDA Boulevard were also completed in February 2025 with funding from the Beltline Tax Allocation District, further strengthening connectivity in the area. 

Safer Streets for Every Season 

Additional projects, including the South Boulevard Streetscape, will complement this work, enhancing safety for the Southside Beltline trail and future crossings. 

By prioritizing walkability, bike access, and community-friendly streets, the Beltline is creating neighborhoods that are safer, more vibrant, and welcoming—not just for Halloween, but all year round. To learn more about ongoing Beltline projects, visit beltline.org/learn/current-projects.