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city manager's report masthead 2022
Dunwoody, Georgia: March 2023
I’m excited to share news about the Ashford Dunwoody Path, the next project on the Dunwoody Trailway. After several years of public input and planning, we’re ready to break ground on Phase 1 of the project later this month. The path is a collaboration between the City of Dunwoody and the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCIDs).
Two sections already built:

To picture what’s coming, all you have to do is look at the path in front of the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar along Ashford Dunwoody Road. The developer built the path as part of its rezoning agreement. Phase I of the City’s project will extend this path south toward I-285 at Hammond Drive, and future phases will connect north to the recently-completed section in front of Perimeter Marketplace between Ashwood Parkway and Meadow Lane Road. This section was also built by the developer.

Phase 1 will include a two-way, raised bicycle path (also known as a cycle track), a wider sidewalk, new pedestrian streetlights, and landscaping along Ashford Dunwoody Road in front of Perimeter Mall from Hammond Drive north to Perimeter Center West, connecting with the section in front of Lazy Dog. The cycle track will be separated from the roadway by a wide landscape buffer. Most of the existing trees will be retained and new oak trees will be planted to replace the oak trees that require removal for the project. 
Background:

We’ve worked closely with Brookfield Properties, which owns Perimeter Mall, to negotiate easements and right-of-way. Most of the $1.5 million construction cost will be split 50/50 between the City and PCIDs. Decorative pavers, posts, benches, and trash cans will be fully funded by PCIDs. The City’s share of the cost will be funded through hotel/motel taxes.

This project is included in the City’s transportation plan and has been split into phases for funding purposes. It also aligns perfectly with the current draft of the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan, which is being developed in partnership with the PATH Foundation. Phase 2 will extend the path to Mt. Vernon Road. We’re still developing a timeline for that phase.
Looking ahead:

In addition to a big groundbreaking, we’re looking forward to a long-awaited ribbon cutting. Soon we’ll set a date for the official opening of Two Bridges Park, a five-acre park located at 50 Perimeter Center East. Rainy weather has delayed construction, but it’s almost complete. The first park in Perimeter Center features an accessible playground, small and large pavilions, restroom facilities, exercise equipment, and winding, wooded trails. Closer to summer, we’ll also open the City’s first splash pad at Two Bridges.
Safe streets hire:

Meet Jonathan DiGioia, the new Safe Streets Program Manager for the City of Dunwoody. Jonathan will focus on developing a Local Road Safety Action Plan, which involves analyzing safety data, gathering public input, and prioritizing strategies with the goal of reducing fatalities and serious injuries on local roads.

Jonathan will also look for quick fixes that support safer streets for all users. Plus, he’ll work with staff and the PATH Foundation on the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan. This is a part-time contracted position approved by Dunwoody City Council and funded for three years through the American Rescue Plan (ARP). Welcome to Dunwoody, Jonathan!