Please come to the Friends of Medlock Park meeting tomorrow 3/12 at noon in the DHYS clubhouse in the Park. Need lots of helpers to help keep our Park great!
You don't have to live in the neighborhood. If you use and enjoy this DeKalb County park and care about its current and future use, you are welcome to join us.
Friday, March 11, 2016
Friday, March 4, 2016
MARTA expansion on life support?
Last week, this AJC report appeared to dash all hopes of MARTA expansion progress due to resistance from "six GOP senators whose districts touch the north Fulton region" who did not support SB313:
But... is there hope? The AJC reports today that some legislators won't stop believing and are discussing a separate, local legislation bill not subject to cross-over day that would include the "city of Atlanta and perhaps DeKalb County to vote on whether to pay an additional half-percent sales tax increase."
The push is justified: recently, Curbed Atlanta reported that per surveys of likely voters conducted last October by the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Fulton and DeKalb County residents are now firmly in favor of expanding MARTA.
The Metro Atlanta Chamber survey indicates that public opinion about the GA DOT and MARTA is much improved. Also from the survey:
The Clifton Corridor MARTA expansion appeared to be highly supported by survey respondents.
Why should MARTA expand its reach? In its "Economic Benefits of Investing in Traffic" report (October 2015), the Metro Chamber of Commerce suggests that every $1 invested in transit yields $4 in gains to the community, as measured in increased personal and disposable income, reduced travel times, growth in jobs and GRP (gross regional product).
The report benchmarks Atlanta metro investment in MARTA and concludes that we rank last among peer cities when railways are considered.
Millennials and seniors are identified as key populations that demand public transport in the Atlanta metro area:
"SB313, the bill that would authorize MARTA to pursue a massive $8 billion expansion up through north Fulton County and east to Emory University, failed to make the Senate Rules Committee calendar and won’t receive a Crossover Day vote on Monday." ... read the rest here.Support for MARTA expansion has been growing, in sharp contrast to the summer of 2012, when a T-SPLOST was defeated in all ten counties that voted on it.
But... is there hope? The AJC reports today that some legislators won't stop believing and are discussing a separate, local legislation bill not subject to cross-over day that would include the "city of Atlanta and perhaps DeKalb County to vote on whether to pay an additional half-percent sales tax increase."
The push is justified: recently, Curbed Atlanta reported that per surveys of likely voters conducted last October by the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Fulton and DeKalb County residents are now firmly in favor of expanding MARTA.
The Metro Atlanta Chamber survey indicates that public opinion about the GA DOT and MARTA is much improved. Also from the survey:
 |
| from http://atlanta.curbed.com/archives/2016/02/12/marta-expansions- unprecidented-support-in-11-charts-1.php |
The Clifton Corridor MARTA expansion appeared to be highly supported by survey respondents.
 |
| from http://atlanta.curbed.com/archives/2016/02/12/marta- expansions-unprecidented-support-in-11-charts-1.php |
 |
| Click to enlarage. Note that the Clifton Corridor is a large employment center and also the only one not served by MARTA. From http://macpolicy.com/wp-content/uploads/ 2016/02/HNTB-Transit-Report-Printable-version.pdf |
Why should MARTA expand its reach? In its "Economic Benefits of Investing in Traffic" report (October 2015), the Metro Chamber of Commerce suggests that every $1 invested in transit yields $4 in gains to the community, as measured in increased personal and disposable income, reduced travel times, growth in jobs and GRP (gross regional product).
The report benchmarks Atlanta metro investment in MARTA and concludes that we rank last among peer cities when railways are considered.
Millennials and seniors are identified as key populations that demand public transport in the Atlanta metro area:
- millenials are a growing percentage of the workforce and as a group, favor having multiple options for transport. Companies consider workforce availability when choosing work sites.
- seniors are often dependent on transit and Atlanta's senior population is on the rise.
MARTA has proposed three expansion projects for high employment areas currently underserved by transport. By year 2040, these projects would allow access to transit to over half a million Atlanta Metro workers:
Clifton Corridor: 197,000 jobsSB313's failure to advance was a surprise, given strong endorsements:
1-20 East: 190,000 jobs
GA 400: 203,000 jobs
- the AJC supported investment in transportation infrastructure and urged the legislature to invest in transit (MARTA in particular).
 |
| ARC's Atlanta Region Plan Vision |
- the Atlanta Regional Commission's just-released long-range blueprint for success (with year 2040 as the target) also highlighted the importance of MARTA expansion projects (see that plan here).
- In an op ed, Emory University also chimed in to unlock the gridlock.
Light rail would be a boon to our community. MARTA representatives attended our community meeting last February 15 and that report is available here.
Friday, February 26, 2016
DeKalb District 6 survey
from Kathie Gannon...
Dear Neighborhood Leaders,
As your County Commissioner, I have made it my mission to make your voice heard. For big and small issues alike, I insist that your interests "have a seat at the table." I value your opinions.
A new survey is posted on my website so that you can make clear what our DeKalb County priorities should be. Tell me what needs to be improved and what needs to be changed.
Please pass this along to your neighborhood groups. I look forward to reading the thoughts you share.
Kathie Gannon
DeKalb County Commissioner
Super District 6
404-371-4909
www.kathiegannon.com
Thursday, February 25, 2016
MARTA / Clifton Corridor presentation to the Medlock neighborhood
MARTA representatives attended the MANA community meeting on February 15, 2016 to discuss the proposed Clifton Corridor expansion that would bring light rail connectivity to our area. The Clifton Corridor encompasses some of the largest employers in the area: Emory University, Emory Hospital, the Centers for Disease Control, Children’s Healthcare, and Veteran’s Administration Hospital. The overall plan attempts to address current congestion while projecting for the area's needs as far as yr 2040. The Clifton Corridor rail would connect Lindberg and Avondale stations, with multiple in-between stops.
In contrast to heavy rail (like MARTA trains that are powered by ground-level electrified third rail), light rail would be powered by overhead lines. Typically, light rail travels less quickly than heavy rail but offers stops that are more closely spaced. Compared to buses, light rail travels faster (due to right of way) and has higher capacity.
Public meetings and discussions have been ongoing for years (see our Clifton Corridor posts and MARTA's Clifton Corridor page) and through public input meetings, MARTA is coming closer to defining the locally preferred alternative (LPA) plan.
The presentation below includes maps of alternatives being considered, with highlights for our Medlock neighborhood. All options include stops at Emory University / CDC, Suburban Plaza and DeKalb Medical. The current LPA includes Clairmont Rd. service to the VA Hospital. Other alternatives bypass Clairmont and provide service along North Decatur Rd. only, or along North Decatur Rd. and Haywood Drive.
The Haywood Drive option would potentially reduce Clifton Road traffic by 50%. North Decatur Road would have to be widened to allow for a dedicated lane.
MARTA has additional information on federal funding for these types of projects. In a best-case scenario (the proposed T-SPLOST garners support at the November election and additional federal funds for the project are secured), the project could be completed as early as 2025.
The last page of the presentation includes contact information, as MARTA continues to receive input about this plan.
These images provide some ideas of what light rail vehicles and stations may look like (images shared by MARTA).
In contrast to heavy rail (like MARTA trains that are powered by ground-level electrified third rail), light rail would be powered by overhead lines. Typically, light rail travels less quickly than heavy rail but offers stops that are more closely spaced. Compared to buses, light rail travels faster (due to right of way) and has higher capacity.
Public meetings and discussions have been ongoing for years (see our Clifton Corridor posts and MARTA's Clifton Corridor page) and through public input meetings, MARTA is coming closer to defining the locally preferred alternative (LPA) plan.
 |
| Current LPA (click to enlarge) |
The Haywood Drive option would potentially reduce Clifton Road traffic by 50%. North Decatur Road would have to be widened to allow for a dedicated lane.
MARTA has additional information on federal funding for these types of projects. In a best-case scenario (the proposed T-SPLOST garners support at the November election and additional federal funds for the project are secured), the project could be completed as early as 2025.
The last page of the presentation includes contact information, as MARTA continues to receive input about this plan.
These images provide some ideas of what light rail vehicles and stations may look like (images shared by MARTA).
Notes from MANA Community Meeting (Feb 15)
via Tanya Myers, MANA Secretary
State Representative Rahn Mayo gave a brief recap of the legislative session thus far. Asked about whether there were any cityhood bills he would be voting for, he stated that he’s not been convinced that the cityhood proposals are the solution to the problems that people are looking to have solved. Stonecrest and Greenhaven are the two that might move forward this session, but sentiment of DeKalb delegation for cityhood legislation is lukewarm at best. Answering another question, Rep. Mayo also said the bill to eliminate the CEO position had slim odds of passing.
State Senator Elena Parent mentioned Chamblee annexation proposal, but mentioned that it is large (adds over 100% in area to Chamblee) and doesn’t think it will move forward this year. She also stated that Avondale Estates and Decatur have decided not to move forward with their annexation initiatives this year. As part of the study initiatives, recommendations included a much more comprehensive review process that would include impact on county and school systems and a codification of the rules for how legislation moves forward. Bill to forward study commission recommendations has been introduced and she is hopeful that the bill may move forward. Georgia Municipal Association may be opposed. With respect to Representative Taylor’s bill to reduce the millage rate for DCSD, she is hopeful that it will not move forward.
County Commissioner Kathy Gannon and Jeff Rader spoke about the Doraville TAD and importance to the county. General questions from the audience expressed hesitancy for the school district to take on risk in support of development initiatives. Based on Gannon and Rader’s comments, it seems that there has not been a reasonable mechanism for effective communication and collaboration between the board of commissioners and DeKalb County School District. Gannon spoke about the Blueprint Initiative for reform of DeKalb county government. Budget setting process is ongoing, but she has concerns about some expenditures and is planning to vote against it as it currently stands. Smoke testing of sewer lines will be ongoing throughout the year. Glass recycling was also discussed, and difficulty finding a vendor to accept glass from a multi-stream recycling program (comingled glass breaks and contaminates the more valuable paper recyclables). Audience members mentioned dissatisfaction with the trash/recycling pickup inability to completely service the neighborhood on the target day.
MARTA presented on the Clifton Corridor Transit Initiative, giving a general overview of the project and the different alignments under consideration as well as neighborhood impacts. Detailed handouts are included as an attachment to the minutes. [This presentation is covered in a separate post.]
Casey Boudreau gave a Greenspace Update, including cleanup dates initiated by Druid Hills Youth Sports and the workgroup working on the playground. Regarding questions about the lights at the field – these are on timers and DHYS will provide the neighborhood with a number to call when lights are on too late.
Tanya Myers gave a quick schools update on HB 969 to lower the millage rate supporting DCSD.
Theresa Same gave a zoning update, including when stores are expected to open at Suburban Plaza and on Fuqua Phase I (addressing a deviation from negotiated conditions at the corner of North Decatur Rd. and Scott Blvd.). Phase III of the Fuqua Development is in planning; DeKalb Cross-Neighborhoods Committee has provided extensive feedback and revisions to the initially presented plan are coming. Chevron Station on Scott is officially closed, and a national mattress retailer is expected to go into the space. Medlock Gulf is still interested in developing Maddie’s BBQ space into a hybrid battery repair shop, but rezoning will be required and formal plans aren’t available yet. R60 rezoning at corner of Sunnybrook and Medlock is still under consideration.
State Representative Rahn Mayo gave a brief recap of the legislative session thus far. Asked about whether there were any cityhood bills he would be voting for, he stated that he’s not been convinced that the cityhood proposals are the solution to the problems that people are looking to have solved. Stonecrest and Greenhaven are the two that might move forward this session, but sentiment of DeKalb delegation for cityhood legislation is lukewarm at best. Answering another question, Rep. Mayo also said the bill to eliminate the CEO position had slim odds of passing.
State Senator Elena Parent mentioned Chamblee annexation proposal, but mentioned that it is large (adds over 100% in area to Chamblee) and doesn’t think it will move forward this year. She also stated that Avondale Estates and Decatur have decided not to move forward with their annexation initiatives this year. As part of the study initiatives, recommendations included a much more comprehensive review process that would include impact on county and school systems and a codification of the rules for how legislation moves forward. Bill to forward study commission recommendations has been introduced and she is hopeful that the bill may move forward. Georgia Municipal Association may be opposed. With respect to Representative Taylor’s bill to reduce the millage rate for DCSD, she is hopeful that it will not move forward.
County Commissioner Kathy Gannon and Jeff Rader spoke about the Doraville TAD and importance to the county. General questions from the audience expressed hesitancy for the school district to take on risk in support of development initiatives. Based on Gannon and Rader’s comments, it seems that there has not been a reasonable mechanism for effective communication and collaboration between the board of commissioners and DeKalb County School District. Gannon spoke about the Blueprint Initiative for reform of DeKalb county government. Budget setting process is ongoing, but she has concerns about some expenditures and is planning to vote against it as it currently stands. Smoke testing of sewer lines will be ongoing throughout the year. Glass recycling was also discussed, and difficulty finding a vendor to accept glass from a multi-stream recycling program (comingled glass breaks and contaminates the more valuable paper recyclables). Audience members mentioned dissatisfaction with the trash/recycling pickup inability to completely service the neighborhood on the target day.
MARTA presented on the Clifton Corridor Transit Initiative, giving a general overview of the project and the different alignments under consideration as well as neighborhood impacts. Detailed handouts are included as an attachment to the minutes. [This presentation is covered in a separate post.]
Casey Boudreau gave a Greenspace Update, including cleanup dates initiated by Druid Hills Youth Sports and the workgroup working on the playground. Regarding questions about the lights at the field – these are on timers and DHYS will provide the neighborhood with a number to call when lights are on too late.
Tanya Myers gave a quick schools update on HB 969 to lower the millage rate supporting DCSD.
Theresa Same gave a zoning update, including when stores are expected to open at Suburban Plaza and on Fuqua Phase I (addressing a deviation from negotiated conditions at the corner of North Decatur Rd. and Scott Blvd.). Phase III of the Fuqua Development is in planning; DeKalb Cross-Neighborhoods Committee has provided extensive feedback and revisions to the initially presented plan are coming. Chevron Station on Scott is officially closed, and a national mattress retailer is expected to go into the space. Medlock Gulf is still interested in developing Maddie’s BBQ space into a hybrid battery repair shop, but rezoning will be required and formal plans aren’t available yet. R60 rezoning at corner of Sunnybrook and Medlock is still under consideration.
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Paving on Superior Avenue
From DeKalb Watershed Management via Commissioner Kathie Gannon's office:
Please be advised that the cut and plug on N. Decatur was a success. We will begin grout filling of the 14in. on Thursday and Friday. The pouring of concrete cap will take place tomorrow. Weather permitting we are still on schedule for paving on Monday.[February 22]
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Notes from Friends of Medlock Park meeting [2/13/16]
notes prepared by Casey Bordeaux, MANA Greenspace Coordinator
Notes from Friends of Medlock Park meeting, 13 Feb 2016:
Notes from Friends of Medlock Park meeting, 13 Feb 2016:
Review of action points from January meeting (updates in italics):
1. Identify
landscape architect/designer/playground designer to help figure out what can do
a. Set
up working group to provide input (Lisa will coordinate): Lisa is
organizing work group with Jen Raby and Katie Curtis. Will send information out via existing
channels and try to recruit parents with kids who use the playground to provide
input.
b. County is supposed to maintain
playground, including replacing mulch on regular basis but inconsistent. Parks Department budget has been cut in half
in recent years and causes inability to provide a lot of necessary maintenance. County should still respond to actual safety
issues.
c. Working group will collect list of
safety issues with photos and send to Parks Department: Paige Singer (Supervisor of Maintenance),
Revonda Cosby (County liaison to Park Pride), copy Roy Wilson (Director of
Parks & Rec), as well as Commissioner Jeff Rader.
2. Identify
and review grant opportunities: below is link to Park Pride website
i. According to Dave Butler, we could
potentially apply for 2 types of grants with Park Pride. Small grants (up to $2,500) which are awarded
throughout the year as well as the large community grants (up to $50k) which
are only awarded once per year with deadline in the fall for applications
c. Create list of items for smaller grant
or donation options, like benches or message board to place near playground to
display notices of interest to Park users.
MANA could potentially help raise funds for these types of small
projects. Identify possible Eagle Scout
projects. Notify Revonda of any such
projects.
3. Organize
cleanup of floodplain lots (debris; undesirable plantings; etc.) – tentatively
in Mar 2016 (prior to significant Spring growing season): possible dates
3/26 or 4/2
a. Action
point: Casey to contact Dave Butler for assistance: Dave has agreed to help. Dave to
confirm whether or not 3/26 will work for him.
Consider having monthly events to increase opportunities for
neighborhood and user involvement, such as create "Medlock Park
Rangers" group
b. Identify
and review grant opportunities: Casey made contact with Trees Atlanta,
need to follow up but could be possible.
Casey sent email requests to Trees
Atlanta 2/13. Further research needed to
determine if should apply for grants through Park Pride.
4. Lots
of mud & sand get washed out during rain, hard to clean up (may be coming
from Horse Park); Dave has pursued working on mitigating these issues with the horse park
for a number of years without significant progress
a. Tex
to contact Paige at Parks & Rec: County is supposed to come out next week to
power wash PATH (paved area) and other areas to remove mud
5. Better
maintain creekside trail
a. Action point:
Lisa to contact South Fork Conservancy & Keep DeKalb Beautiful for
help KDB
needs 5 day lead time to provide supplies for event. No response yet from SFC – Dave B is
currently working with SFC, which has no Exec Dir. Suggest plan for fall event (creek usually lower
in the Fall), coordinate with Rivers Alive program
b. Action point:
Identify landscape architect with appropriate expertise who can assist
with project. Table for now.
c. Action point:
Organize cleanup (potentially piggyback with Scott lots clean-up in March 2016)
- Suggest change of plan to have fall
event instead of Spring (creek usually lower in the Fall), coordinate with
Rivers Alive program; Dave Butler has experience organizing creek cleanups (and
has relationship with South Fork Conservancy) and he will help in Fall.
i. More
plantings (trees help soak up water)
Dave Butler: on Parks Community
Advisory Board (CAB). Fuqua (and Selig)
owe trees to DeKalb county tree bank due to development. Tex:
has been informed by Paige that Medlock Park is on the list to get trees
but no timeline. Type and size of trees depends on request and location. He has a plan for the park proper (by PATH
and along field in back), will send to Paige and Steve Strickland, County
Arborist. Casey will review with MANA to
ensure tree request is on radar for both Selig and Fuqua. There are no good options to plant trees (for
shade) or bushes (to soak up water) near playground.
Consider involving other groups such as trail runners to assist with
maintaining creek side trails. Lisa has
Intown Ace gift certificates that could be used as incentives, rewards.
DHYS:
Update on capital campaign?
Not yet started, still in planning
phase of multi year proposal. There will
be a field work day next Sat, 2/20 from 9 am – 1 pm. Focus is mainly on ball fields and immediate
areas, including culvert area near playground and playground itself. Chris and Tex will be present to organize
volunteers, there will be a sign in table and some equipment provided. Lisa will send out notice of clean-up to
Friends of Medlock Park Facebook group and main Medlock Park Neighbors Facebook
group to try to get residents to volunteer.
Inquiry about land
survey few months ago: DHYS commissioned to mark boundaries for proposed plan
to increase compliance with ADA and assist with potential future drainage
work. Lingering plastic ties will be
removed during cleanup day, anyone can also remove – please just ensure proper
disposal!
MANA:
Update on bids for 979
Scott Circle – vacant white house: Email from Brian Shoun, DeKalb Flood
Management on 2/11: Still working
on it and the demolition date is not set.
Continue to followup with Brian on 979 Scott. Also discussed flood plain lots on Hunting
Valley – KDB is supposed to maintain but inconsistent and inadequate
response. Consider cleanup day, either
linked to Scott lots one or other day.
Hanging wires near the community garden are likely phone lines that
neither the demolition companies nor the utilities will remove. As they are not electric, can be removed or
at least trimmed during a cleanup day.
Emails from Medlock residents:
Lights in ball fields: Are on
timer, max is 12 hours which means sometimes could accidentally be on past 11
pm cut off time. DHYS tries to ensure
lights are off before departing, and will investigate replacing some timers to
ease manual shut off. DHYS will provide an
after-hours phone number on main light box to report problems, this number will
also be shared on MANA web page when made public.
Inquiry about dog park:
as previously reported, a dog park
is NOT possible in the current MP footprint nor in the Scott lots greenspace
due to being in floodplain and close proximity to stream or ditch – law requires
200 foot buffer. DHYS requested reminder
that dogs are NEVER allowed on fields, and both MANA and DHYS remind dog owners
to comply with state laws to keep dogs on leash (if caught, ticket can be
$200+) and to pick up and properly dispose of poop.
To Stay Informed:
People can find updates relating to the park at:
Friends of Medlock Park Facebook Group -
https://www.facebook.com/groups/friendsofmedlockpark/
can subscribe to for the Friends of Medlock Park email list
at:
http://eepurl.com/bQeTrH
Updates are also posted on the MANA web site:
http://www.medlockpark.org
Next Friends of
Medlock Park meeting:
Saturday, March 12 at 9:00a at the Clubhouse meeting room in
the park
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