I have been saucy towards the Beltline idea for a while, mainly because their unfortunate out-of-touch relations with involved neighborhoods made them seem G'Tech-ed out and a little pretentious. And when shit goes wrong for them, I'm always curious.
As I'm reading this article, however, I am realizing the little movement that is starting and how right side of the road people can be.
So here it is, big and bright for everyone to notice. Atlanta walking space is creeping in. The less parking lots, the less people will be inclined to drive places. Like in most major cities, cheap parking is impossible to find. But, unlike most major cities, our transit system and walking space is in total shambles.
One business, Urban Body Fitness, is moving because of the lack of parking. Instead of embracing the shift of a sustainable lifestyle, they are using time and energy to maintain the status quo. 'People drive cars in Atlanta.' 'They won't come to your business if there is no parking.'
So it could be possible, by way of Beltline, to really start the shift into a healthier, more engaging Atlanta. Businesses like Urban Body should know that. The more you move and get out in your world, the better you feel. It would be mindfully progressive for the Studio to get more involved with it. Get clients to take public transit by mapping out routes and having bus maps on hand. Do neighborhood focused advertising and encourage them using the walk-way.
After seeing the sad car-obbessed realitly that is Atlanta when Artichoke Bliss, a community garden on Edgewood Ave, was viciously graveled for a parking lot for a facility across the street who were the owners of the lot. At most one truck per week takes up the lot.
Eventually we are going to have to get in position to ween off car addiction. The small steps of the Beltline people shows that long stroll that will get us to a walking, biking, active, vibrant city.
Viva la Feet !
