Latest news with #ATLDOT
Yahoo
01-03-2025
- Yahoo
Confusing crosswalk along Peachtree Street under scrutiny after tragic accident
The Brief A 67-year-old man, Prapdeep Sood, was fatally struck by a truck while crossing Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta, raising concerns about pedestrian safety. The area where the incident occurred "appears to be a crosswalk," but city officials clarified it is not recognized as an official crosswalk, as it was part of a halted 2021 pilot project. Street safety advocate Rebecca Serna criticized the crossing's design, highlighting a broader issue in Atlanta where street designs prioritize vehicles over pedestrian safety. ATLANTA - A deadly collision in downtown Atlanta has reignited concerns over pedestrian safety. A 67-year-old man was struck and killed by a truck while crossing Peachtree Street earlier this month. The backstory A tragic incident in downtown Atlanta has brought pedestrian safety into the spotlight. Earlier this month, 67-year-old Prapdeep Sood was fatally struck by a silver pickup truck while attempting to cross Peachtree Street. The collision has raised questions about the safety of street designs in the city, particularly concerning crosswalks. What we know Traffic camera footage captured the moment when Sood was hit by the truck. Atlanta Police, after reviewing the footage, did not find the driver at fault. Their report noted that the area "appears to be a crosswalk." However, city officials have clarified that the markings are not recognized as an official crosswalk. The Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) revealed that these markings were part of a 2021 pilot project that was halted by the mayor before it could become permanent. What they're saying Rebecca Serna, a street safety advocate with Propel ATL, criticized the design of the crossing, describing it as hazardous for pedestrians. "It was installed to be a crosswalk, and it looks, for all intents and purposes, like a crosswalk," she said. Serna and other advocates argue that this issue is symptomatic of a broader problem in Atlanta, where street designs often prioritize vehicle traffic over pedestrian safety. By the numbers A 2023 report by Smart Growth America ranked parts of metro Atlanta among the deadliest areas for pedestrians nationwide. This statistic underscores the urgent need for improved pedestrian safety measures in the city. What's next ATLDOT has announced plans to repave Peachtree Street in late summer or early fall. However, there are currently no plans to reinstate the crosswalk. With Atlanta set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, there is hope among advocates like Serna that city officials will reconsider street designs to make them more pedestrian-friendly. "It should be a place that's welcoming and safe, where you can cross without fear for your life," Serna emphasized. The Source FOX 5's Rob DiRienzo spoke with Rebecca Serna, a street safety advocate with Propel ATL for this article. Additional details were provided by the Atlanta Police Department, the Atlanta Department of Transportation, and Smart Growth America.
Yahoo
26-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
State of Atlanta: Mayor Dickens celebrates Atlanta's economic boom, public safety successes
The Brief Mayor Andre Dickens highlighted Atlanta's economic growth, public safety improvements, and major infrastructure investments in his State of the City address. Significant strides have been made in public safety, with a 26% drop in homicides since 2022 and the installation of over 30,000 streetlights. Atlanta's economy is thriving, recognized as the best city to live and start a business, with a booming film industry and ongoing airport expansions. ATLANTA - In a spirited State of the City address Tuesday night, Mayor Andre Dickens declared that Atlanta is thriving, highlighting economic growth, public safety improvements, and major infrastructure investments. Delivering his remarks at the Woodruff Arts Center, Dickens underscored his administration's progress while reaffirming his commitment to building a more unified, prosperous city. The backstory Atlanta has been on a transformative journey under the leadership of Mayor Dickens, who has emphasized a collective effort across government, business, and community organizations. His administration has focused on efficiency, ethics, and equity, aiming to create a stronger and more united city. "Atlanta is the best bet for the future, and everybody knows it," Dickens said. "All of this makes me proud to be an Atlantan, proud to be your Mayor, and I am proud to stand here tonight and reaffirm that the state of our City is Strong!" What we know Mayor Dickens has made significant strides in public safety and infrastructure. He highlighted a 26% drop in homicides since 2022 and significant investments in first responders. "When crime was on the rise in 2021, I promised you safer streets. Another promise kept," he said. The city has also made progress in infrastructure, repairing over 30,000 potholes and upgrading roads, sidewalks, and streetlights. "I promised you 10,000 new street lights to make our streets safer for everyone. ATLDOT didn't just keep that promise—in partnership with Georgia Power, we tripled it by installing over 30,000 streetlights," he added. Economic growth is another area where Atlanta has excelled. The city has been recognized by Money Magazine and Black Enterprise as the best city to live and start a business. The film industry is booming, and infrastructure expansions at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are underway. Affordable housing remains a key priority, with more than 11,000 units already completed or under construction. "Our Housing Help Center has helped seniors and legacy residents stay in their homes, and we are deeply committed to helping our homeless population," Dickens noted. What's next Looking to the future, Atlanta is preparing for major redevelopment projects and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to bring nearly $1 billion in economic impact. "I want to ensure that when the World Cup hits Atlanta next year, that it doesn't just happen to Atlanta, but with Atlanta," Dickens said, referencing the Showcase Atlanta initiative. What they're saying Throughout his speech, Dickens reinforced his belief in Atlanta's potential and called on residents to stay engaged. "Go tell them about the city that loves its people," he urged. "Love looks like taking care of our youth and our seniors. Love looks like affordable homes and good schools. Love looks like clearing our streets of gangs and guns. Love looks like feeding the hungry and housing the homeless." Why you should care Mayor Dickens' vision for Atlanta is one of progress, equity, and unity. His administration's efforts in public safety, infrastructure, economic growth, and housing initiatives are shaping a city that is not only thriving but also inclusive and supportive of all its residents. As he stated, "I love this city, and I'll never stop fighting for it. Not today, not tomorrow, and not when I leave City Hall in 2030." SEE ALSO: Atlanta crime rates plummet: Major reductions in homicides, auto thefts Ping pong protest: 'Stop Cop City' demonstrators throw balls at Atlanta City Council Atlanta water crisis: City Council approves small business relief plan City of Atlanta talks about Summer Safety Plan, Tuesday's shootings Mayor Dickens declares Atlanta's infrastructure needs complete revamp The Source The details about the upcoming State of the City address were provided by the City of Atlanta. Details about Mayor Andre Dickens' accomplishments come from previous FOX 5 Atlanta reports.
