Medlock Area Neighborhood Association (MANA)

North Decatur Road Workshop #3: Notes from 9/12/24

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 22:34:00 +0000

Prepared by Monica Morgan, MANA Sustainability and Public Works Chair

MEETING TOPIC: Presentation of Final Design for North Decatur Rd. from Webster Ct. up to the 6-way Medlock Rd./North Decatur Rd./Scott Blvd. intersection

City of Decatur worked with Dekalb Co., GDOT, MARTA, and several consultants over the last 2 years to put together a plan for N. Decatur Rd. to address safety concerns, traffic speeds, and drainage. In past presentations a number of different options were proposed to the public and polls taken. The presentation shown at the meeting is the final design selected in partnership with the groups listed above and can be found at here. City of Decatur's North Decatur Road Initiative page has additional information, slides and files about this planning process. Images below are from City of Decatur documents unless otherwise noted. Presentation slides can be found here.

It is worth highlighting that when residents discuss North Decatur Road concerns, there are multiple jurisdictions and interests represented. Currently, City of Decatur has a drainage project on the section along its boundary; while doing so, they are trying to also include road safety improvements (e.g., pedestrian crossing being striped, with crossing signal being installed in late October; other temporary paving). The City of Decatur section is flanked by roads that are the responsibility of DeKalb County. At our six-way intersection, Scott Blvd./Highway 78, a state highway that prioritizes moving traffic in and out of Atlanta, intersects with North Decatur and Medlock Roads. Local residents worry that changes may drive additional traffic into residential streets. As MANA knows from years of working with area developers to improve pedestrian and bike safety and access, collaboration among jurisdictions has not always been smooth due to conflicting priorities and funding availability. The current project, with its focus on safety, shows a level of collaboration that is very encouraging.

Blue section highlights City of Decatur section of the project.

As neighborhood lore goes, North Decatur Road was originally a two-lane road that was expanded to accommodate additional traffic as the area grew. Four-lane roads can be problematic, as the presented crash data and traffic analyses confirm. Like skiers swerving around slalom gates, some drivers leave their lane to weave around cars that are slowing down to make turns or due to other vehicles or pedestrians not readily visible to the impatient driver. This can result in crashes and reduces safety for all. Thus, at peak times, the road is never truly two lanes flowing. Add elevation changes and turns on this road, and the result is too many accidents and fatalities. This section of North Decatur Road has the traffic capacity to benefit from a “road diet” to address existing concerns. The Federal Highway Administration has a list of countermeasures that can be expected to reduce 17%-47% of crashes in situations like ours. The presentation outlines both short-term measures to improve safety and long-term improvements that would come if the project is completed in full.

City of Decatur road section highlighted in the middle, with brackets marking DeKalb Co. road sections.

FINAL DESIGN SELECTED – ROAD DIET WITH IMPROVEMENTS:

Of the designs presented in 2023, the “Road Diets with Improvements” was the plan selected

- Reduced lanes to a single lane in each direction, with transition zones/increased lanes closer to 6 way intersection.

2 left turn lanes at 6 way to increase traffic flow through the intersection

- A center lane that would alternate between a both-way turn lane and potential raised mid-block pedestrian crossing

by concentrating lane turn activity in the middle lane, the remaining lanes should have more consistent speeds, if likely slower at peak times—which adds safetly

- Eliminating one lane creates space for a 10’ Shared-use path along South side of N. Decatur Rd.

- Eliminating one lane also creates space for a 6’ sidewalk along North side

- NO roundabout at N Superior – Cost prohibitive and not supported by the public

- Adding retro-reflective backing to traffic lights for improved visibility

- Enhanced striping and other improvements that provide safety for pedestrians and cue drivers to reduce speed (please see the slides linked above).


Recommendation: Reduction to 3 lanes (with center turn lane) that allows the creation of a 10' multi-use path (south side of the road) and a 6' sidewalk (north side).

ADDITIONAL NOTES: (please see slides for additional images)

    - 4 Lane undivided roadways (like N. Decatur Rd.) are known to be very dangerous.
    - Traffic counts determined that road diet (reduced lanes) was appropriate for the number of vehicles that travel N. Decatur
    - Short-term safety improvements along N. Decatur have been approved while final plan is in approval process (see slides for details)
    - Similar project was completed at Chamblee Tucker just north of Lavista
    - Per Ms. Keeter, road diets are about safety, not efficiency or an attempt to divert traffic into neighborhoods. Per DeKalb data and models, improved roads continue to serve the same traffic level, at lower speeds

SIX-WAY INTERSECTION:

- Many options were looked at with GDOT but they declined to proceed due to other intersections in the state being deemed more in need/ dangerous.

- NOW: Dekalb County Transportation (Patrece Keeter) is looking at reworking the 6-way. TBD

IF FUNDING IS VIABLE then the County can move forwar

GDOT permit will be required. GDOT wants intersection improvements.

TIMING:

- Final cost analysis will be completed and presented to Dekalb Co. Transportation (Patrece Keeter). – in 6 months (approx. April 2025)

- Dekalb Co. Transportation will present plan and costs to Commissioners

- DeKalb County Commissioners approval needed for funding

- If approved – then project will move into Design (~ 1 year) and Construction (~18 months).

Neighbors reviewing are maps and having questions answers by the presenters.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If DeKalb County Commissioners do not approve funding for the plan, the only funding available is that which the City of Decatur has assigned to complete its drainage project within city limits.

Several residents who live along the corridor raised the concern that any changes to North Decatur Road (lane reduction, slower speeds) will increase cut-through traffic on nearby residential streets. The speakers acknowledged that this may be true but that volume is not as high as one might think. Early on, drivers will test out new routes but will ultimately settle on what works best. Also see comment above by Ms. Keeter (that the road would still serve the same amount of traffic but at lower speeds).

We are excited about the big-picture, long-term improvements to safety, user experience, mobility, and connectivity that full approval and funding of this project would bring to area residents. We are also concerned about existing safety issues in our streets and how those risks will escalate with increased traffic (whether related to North Decatur improvements or simply due to our area's population growth). This would be a good time to discuss how the County can improve residential street safety. The streets with the largest impacts should have sidewalks, as well as improved striping and other appropriate safety-enhancing improvements as highlighted by the City of Decatur's report.

North Decatur Road Public Workshop #3

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 18:54:00 +0000

North Decatur Road Public Workshop #3 will take place on September 12^th 6-8pm at the North Decatur Presbyterian Church. For more information, visit http://www.decaturga.com/northdecaturroad

MANA Yard Sale [May 4, 9am-noon]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 May 2024 21:52:00 +0000

No early birds please! Sales open at 9am-noon

Over 40 families participating!

Rooftop Solar Program

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 15:04:00 +0000

from Monica Morgan

There is a new rooftop solar program, Georgia BRIGHT, which was just made available in Georgia for a limited time. Here are my notes from attending a webinar hosted by Commissioner Ted Terry and a nonprofit Solar program organizer:

(Links below to the presentation, webinar, and application)

KEY FACTS:

- This program is for low/ medium income households (income eligibility caps at $100k/household).

- This is a lease program. After 6 years you are able to purchase the system at a reduced rate.

- You pay ZERO upfront cost. The nonprofit, Capital Good Fund, pays for your solar panels and installation and is responsible for maintenance for the life of the lease: 25 years.

- Monthly, you pay for the lease payment of the solar panels + your Georgia Power payment (yes, you still have a power bill, but it will be lower due to the solar offsetting it.)

- The math works out to be a total savings for the homeowner of approximately $5-45/month.

- This program was made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act that extends the 30% rooftop solar discount to Nonprofits to lease the systems to homeowners. So the Capital Good Fund is able to purchase the systems with the Federal discount and lease them to you.

BENEFITS:

- Lower your energy costs

- Support green energy and reduce your load on the grid

- If you opt for a battery - you'll have electrical continuity during power outages.

APPLY:

- When to apply: Now! They will close applications when they receive 160 home installations or April 2024, whichever comes first.

- If you sign up before the end of the year there is a $200 gift card incentive.

- Application and Assessment are FREE

To learn more about the Georgia BRIGHT program and sign up, please visit https://bit.ly/GABRIGHT. Reminder to start the process before the end of the year to take advantage of the $200 incentive!

WEBINAR links:
You can view the presentation from the session via https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:3177182e-783d-3665-a805-c1ca8ed78d73.

A recording of the webinar can be watched via https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/vCl2S_nlaUcFAI38n4WXaqfaqQcx-v26F-ICcIuyQfZ-lvMs6Q6CwiKg4hx-jFc.U42XryGaBlo_J6e0.
Passcode: 1ZRNA8*@

Haunted Trail & Fall Festival 2023

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 16:22:00 +0000

Info and tickets available in the Haunted Trail & Fall Festival page!

Go to the Haunted Trail & Fall Festival page for details!

North Decatur Road Initiative: Design Presentation [June 21]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 12:47:00 +0000

From June 7, 2023 presentation

Per Decatur Next...

Proposed designs, based on prior input from prior sessions, will be shared on Wednesday, June 21 from 6-8pm, at the North Decatur Presbyterian Church, 611 Medlock Road. There will be a presentation, followed by Q&A, followed by an opportunity for further community input. Please arrive by 6pm.

Notes and slides from the presentation on June 7 can be found here.

North Decatur Road Initiative Notes (6-7-2023)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:25:00 +0000

From June 7, 2023 presentation

Big thanks to Monica Morgan for providing this summmary of the June 7 meeting:

"Quick recap of the meeting this evening in case you missed it, and info below on the meeting tomorrow.

The section of N. Decatur Rd. and sidewalks from approx the six-way intersection up to Webster Dr. will have some changes - could be minimal, could be quite significant, dependent on public input.

WHAT: Presentation of N. Decatur road study- a range of options were presented to address safety concerns, traffic, and drainage. Details, impacts, and costs were all presented. Lane changes, turn lanes, roundabout, sidewalks, crosswalks… etc.

GOAL: To gather public comment and determine what the neighbors’ priorities are.

If you weren’t able to attend the meeting but want to learn more and give your feedback there’s another meeting on JUNE 8th 6-8pm at Decatur Recreation Center (231 Sycamore Street). The same information will be shared.

If you are able, please attend tomorrow and give your feedback! This is how they’ll decide what direction to go with the design. They did a quick digital poll with us while we were in the room using our mobile devices."

To access the slides of the presentation, click here.

Findings of North Decatur Rd. Initiative

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 12:16:00 +0000

The City of Decatur is sharing findings of its North Decatur Initiative Transportation Study. This relates to improvements to the North Decatur Rd and Superior Ave. intersection.


Image from https://www.decaturnext.com/2022/11/17/n-decatur-road-kickoff/

Please join 6-8PM on June 7th at North Decatur Presbyterian Church (611 Medlock Road) or June 8th at Decatur Recreation Center (231 Sycamore Street) for a presentation of the findings and an opportunity for the public to provide input regarding the path forward.
The same information will be shared at both meetings; please join at 6PM to avoid missing the presentation.

Do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

CARA SCHARER, PE (she/her)
Senior Engineer
City of Decatur
Public Works Department

South Peachtree Creek PATH and Tax Allocation District updates

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy) — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 20:25:00 +0000

Some very brief updates:

PATH UPDATE: connecting North DeKalb Mall to the Medlock Park neighborhood. Seep page 14 on this link for specifics on our neighborhood https://drive.google.com/file/d/1glTAFKCsVjUxbL-nCqhwvVIvfqdf8wwP/view

TAX ALLOCATION DISTRICT: With the North DeKalb Mall redevelopment are plans to establish a Tax Allocation District (TAD), which would be used to pay for infrastructure and other improvements in the nearby vicinity of the redevelopment. These are essentially tax dollars that would be earmarked for use only in our area. The current TAD area includes North DeKalb Mall, Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve, Little Creek Horse Farm, Laurel Ridge Elementary, Druid Hills Middle, University Heights UMC, Shamrock Forest, Medlock Park, the International Community School, Shamrock Plaza, and several businesses along N Druid Hills Rd and Lawrenceville Hwy. This proposal is pending final approval from the DeKalb County Commissioners at this time. You can review this proposal here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12zk2KITJOKc-JFuiRClU3vxECHIZa8J_/view

Fall Festival and Haunted Trail [Oct 22]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 21:10:00 +0000

See UPDATE below!

Online tickets are now sold out; there will be a very limited number of tickets available on-site on October 22.

Food will be available for sale. See the Fall Festival and Halloween page for more details.

DeKalb's Comprehensive Land Use Plan needs additional review and input

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 21:04:00 +0000

Commissioner Jeff Rader requested that we distribute his message below, to share his concerns about the DeKalb County Comprehensive Land Use Plan which, in his opinion, requires more review before it is approved. See the relevant files and his concerns below

DeKalb County Comprehensive Land Use Plan 2050

Comprehensive Land Use Plan Resolution

Agenda Items (July 12)

"This document should get a lot of review and comment from the public, particularly our ITP neighborhoods represented by CAN.

The most notable section is the creation of a new extensive “Walkable Neighborhood” Character Area which, if you review the map on p 42, encompasses much of D2, D3 and D4. To me, it is problematic because it suggests disrupting current stable patterns of development with the introduction of more mixed use and higher density housing without a strong foundation of infrastructure, including street grid, bike/pedestrian , and public amenities necessary to support the evolution they prescribe for the Character Area.

Note also the zoning table, which eliminates R-100 as a compatible zoning classification and suggests new uses more extensively distributed throughout the new “Walkable Neighborhood” areas.

As you know, our stakeholders intensively negotiate new urban development serving our neighborhoods to insure the density, diversity of use and development design actually perform as advertised. In my opinion, this site based focus would be diluted under the new Character Area, and we would be faced with a lot of new proposals that better match a builder’s proforma rather than the community’s needs. I believe that diffusing development through our neighborhoods would also reduce the market imperative to plan and execute truly urban projects replacing obsolete commercial districts as was accomplished at North DeKalb Mall.

In any event, stakeholders need to dissect this draft and weigh in before it goes to DCA. Once approved by them, there will be resistance to further amendment.

I hope you can get this out and alert our neighbors that they should speak up at the public hearing on July 12 and ask for more review.

I’ve attached the plan, and will follow with the public hearing agenda item and other supporting documentation for circulation to CAN and others. Let me know if you have questions."

Jeff Rader

Commissioner, District 2

DeKalb County

jrader@dekalbcountyga.gov

MANA Pool Party 2022 [Aug 6]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 03:23:00 +0000

Hello MANA neighbors!

The MANA neighborhood pool party is back on! We hope you can join us on Saturday, August 6, from 6:00 - 8:00 at the Medlock Pool. The event is potluck and MANA will provide proteins and a few sides. Everyone is welcome: MANA members can enter free WITH a potluck dish. Non-members can pay $5 per person without a potluck dish or $3 per person with a potluck dish (kids 12 and under are $2). You can certainly become a MANA member onsite! Please bring your own chairs, plates, utensils and pool gear. Also, if your dish contains any allergens (peanuts, gluten, etc.), please make a note to put next to the item.

Lastly, we are looking for 4-5 volunteers to help before or during the event. If you are interested in helping out or have any questions, please reach out to Kim Groover at 702-271-3257 or kimgroover@gmail.com.

Hope to see you there!

Medlock Park pool opening delay

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 May 2022 02:10:00 +0000

Posted at the request of DeKalb Co. Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs; information sent to MANA via email on May 27, 2022 at 9:17pm

During the inspection today with the Board of Health, the Pulsar motherboard which feeds information electronically to the chlorine pump at Medlock Pool short circuited. Standguard, the pool contractor, is working continuously to install a replacement board. In order for RPCA to open Medlock Pool, the Board of Health will need to return to Medlock Pool for a final inspection prior to opening. Once the BOH has been notified that the panel is replaced, they will be available for re-inspection.

Until final inspection occurs at Medlock Park, nearby Kittredge Pool located at 1520 Kittredge Park Road, NE, will be open at noon tomorrow as scheduled.

We will continuously work with our contractor to see the repair completed as soon as possible.

I would appreciate if your office could help get the word out and hopefully this is a short term issue.

Please let us know if you have any questions, thank you!

Chuck Ellis
Director
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs

North DeKalb Mall redevelopment approved

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 May 2022 18:44:00 +0000

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved the redevelopment of North DeKalb Mall on May 26, 2022, with conditions (pdf).

At this time, we would like to share the documents below, with an additional write-up to be added in the near future. UPDATE: A summary by Theresa Same is now available on page 12 of the Summer 2022 MANA newsletter.

Happy Memorial Day weekend, Medlockians!

Exhibit A: Master Development Plan -- a graphic depiction of the development's footprint and location of structures, roads, sidewalks, etc.

Exhibit B: Master Sign Program -- describes the type of signage that site tenants must observe

Exhibit C: Architectural Standards -- representative architectural style and material examples for office, retail and residential structures

Exhibit D: Open Space -- close-up detail of open spaces

Exhibit E: Concept Subdivision Plan -- depicts anticipate ultimate layout of site lots

Exhibit F: Sustainability Program -- outlines how redevelopment improves on existing conditions, retailer/tenant sustainability expectations, and stormwater management

North DeKalb Mall update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 04 May 2022 16:27:00 +0000

Side-by-side comparison of Edens proposal per Staff Report vs aerial view courtesy of GoogleMaps.Click to enlarge.

In the interest of keeping the public informed of this ongoing process, we are directing you to the current, 172-page DeKalb Planning Department Staff Report that outlines the North DeKalb Mall proposal:

https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/sites/default/files/2022-04/N8.%20NDM%20EDENS%2C%20LLC%20-%20Denn%20Webb%2C%20Jr.%20Z-22-1245595.pdf

This plan will be discussed by the Planning Commission on May 5, 2022 and by the Board of Commissioners on May 26, 2022. Both meetings will be broadcast via Zoom.Links to these meetings and their respective agendas are posted at https://dekalbcountyga.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.


Aerial view of proposed development foot print per above Staff Report.

Zoning per Staff Report.

South Peachtree Creek Trail Connectivity Study [May 11]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 03 May 2022 15:48:00 +0000

Public Meeting

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

6:00 - 7:30 PM

Highwoods Auditorium

2635 Century Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30345

Zoom link for option virtual attendance: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86211157236?pwd=NitZcTlSNnJHS1pHNVVPdFVEVnYrZz09

More information on the project and a public input survey can be found on the PATH Foundation website:
https://www.pathfoundation.org/announcements/south-peachtree-creek-trail-study

North DeKalb Mall: GRTA Notice of Decision

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 12:03:00 +0000

"The purpose of this notice is to inform Jim McKenney (the Applicant) and Dekalb County (the Local Government), the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) Land Development Committee, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), and the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) of GRTA’s decision regarding Development of Regional Impact (DRI) 3582 DRI North Dekalb Mall Redevelopment (the DRI Plan of Development). GRTA has completed a non-expedited Review for the DRI Plan of Development pursuant to Section 4.2.3 of the GRTA DRI Review Procedures and has determined that the DRI Plan of Development meets the GRTA review criteria set forth in Section 4.3.

The DRI Plan of Development as proposed is approved subject to conditions, as provided in Attachment A and subject to the limitations placed on allowable modifications to the DRI Plan of Development, as described in Attachment B. Subject to the conditions set forth in Attachment A and Attachment B, GRTA will approve the expenditure of state and/or federal funds for providing the Land Transportation Services and Access improvements listed in Section 2 of Attachment C. The need for said approval shall terminate and be of no further force and effect after ten (10) years from the date of this Notice of Decision, unless substantial construction of the proposed DRI has been commenced during this ten (year) period."

The full report is available here (pdf).

South Peachtree Creek Trail Expansion Study [March 10]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 03:56:00 +0000

Click image to view full-size pdf.

In-Person Open House Workshop
Thursday, March 10, 2022 from 6:00 to 7:30pm
AMC North DeKalb 16, 2042 Lawrenceville Hwy, Decatur, GA 30033

Join Commissioners Jeff Rader and Ted Terry, the DeKalb County Transportation Department, and the PATH Foundation on a trail study to extend the South Peachtree Creek Trail.

The northern study area will focus on connectivity with the greenway trail and street calming between North Druid Hills Road and the existing/planned North Fork Peachtree Creek Greenway.

The southern study area is from Medlock Park to the N. DeKalb Mall redevelopment area, with spur connection to Laurel Ridge Elementary School and the Little Creek Horse Farm.

The workshop will collect input for potential trail destinations, preferred types of trail, and desired trail connections for both study areas. Workshop stations will be organized to promote social distancing and masks are strongly encouraged.

The workshop is being facilitated by KaizenCollaborative.

The maps below show a clearer views of the existing South Peachtree Creek PATH and existing/planned Peachtree Greenway.


South Peachtree Creek Trail in red. via https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35894934

Peachtree Creek Greenway (existing and proposed) interactive map, with the Medlock Park area and
North DeKalb Mall visible at the bottom center of the map.

North DeKalb Mall Update from Neighborhood Council

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 19 Feb 2022 21:39:00 +0000

DEKALB CROSS-NEIGHBORHOODS COUNCIL

and the North DeKalb Mall Redevelopment, February 2022

written by Theresa Same & Mary Shellman

Who we are: The DeKalb Cross-Neighborhoods Council (DCNC) is a coalition of community volunteers representing neighborhood interests with developers concerning commercial and residential development in and around our central DeKalb neighborhoods. The DCNC alliance aims to ensure that the outcome of local economic development will bring measurable improvements that benefit nearby residents and reflect good policy practices.

DCNC participants come from a variety of local neighborhood and community organizations and are appointed as representatives to DCNC by the boards of those groups. Representation on the DCNC is fluid, based primarily on proximity to the development, organizational structure, and outreach capability. The current DCNC team working with EDENS on the North DeKalb Mall proposal includes:

· Clairmont Heights Civic Association (Jim Smith, Michael Dowling);

· Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve (Chris Beck);

· Good Growth DeKalb (Mary Shellman);

· Greater Valley Brook Civic Association (Elizabeth Roberts, Kenna Simmons, Josh Shuster);

· Laurel Ridge Shamrock Civic Association (Marylee Putnam, Susan McWethy);

· Medlock Area Neighborhood Association (Theresa Same), which includes Tuxworth Springs Condo Association (Jean Logan, Adam Manchester); and

· North Druid Valley Home Association (Gail Richman, Dawn Lanier)

MANA’s Zoning Chair Theresa Same serves as the DCNC Chair, working to identify project specific impacted communities; sharing her zoning expertise; and bringing her negotiation experience to community-developer communications. Jim Smith has served as the Zoning Chair for Clairmont Heights since 1995 and currently serves on the Community Council. Elizabeth Roberts is an attorney experienced in zoning and real estate issues. Theresa Same and Jim Smith have worked together representing their neighborhoods in zoning issues since 2008. Coming from varied backgrounds, the other DCNC members each bring unique skills and a willingness to work hard for their communities. In an ongoing fashion, DCNC members report back and provide community updates through their member organizations.

What we seek: Most important of all, the DCNC strives to give the community a voice in the development process. In DeKalb County, developers wield formidable sway and financial resources. Coupled with the limited opportunities for advocacy, communities are often left feeling powerless to impact meaningful change. DCNC brings neighborhoods together, creating a more powerful and influential voice.

While each development is unique, DCNC generally promotes the inclusion of desired amenities such as quality restaurants and locally owned businesses, employment centers, and service and retail establishments which satisfy the needs of the community; and the use of quality construction materials and desirable architectural styles which are compatible with the existing neighborhoods. We support the inclusion of a percentage of affordable, workforce and senior housing in residential developments.

We advocate for developments that adhere to smart growth principles by defining traffic patterns and impact on existing neighborhoods and implementing traffic mitigation strategies. We push for enhanced pedestrian and bicycle pathways throughout and surrounding the developments. The most difficult piece to negotiate has been our goal to limit environmental impact by striving to retain, replace and enhance greenspace within development.

Thus far on the North DeKalb Mall Redevelopment: For some of us on DCNC, this is the fourth go around with redevelopment of the mall. EDENS reached out to the DCNC in May 2021 shortly after purchasing North DeKalb Mall. We had an introductory meeting which gave us an opportunity to familiarize ourselves with EDENS and their development portfolio while sharing some of the desires and priorities of our communities.

A development of this size (77 acres) in north-central DeKalb is a unique and important opportunity. Recognizing the stakes, Commissioners Rader and Terry dedicated County time and resources to more fully understand the possibilities of the site and to “workshop” with the developer. In support of this process, the Commissioners asked DCNC to outline the concerns, priorities and requests we had previously received from our communities. We provided a 4-page document informed by the community feedback wereceived during the most recent development proposal for this property bySterling Enterprises in 2018 [link to pdf].

In late January 2022, EDENS invited DCNC to meet for a second time to present a preliminary site plan in preparation for their community meeting on February 22, 2022. (This was the plan recently reported in Decaturish and the AJC.) We had many questions and concerns – many of the same ones we see neighbors asking on various social media platforms. (Note: The plan EDENS will present at their community meeting on February 22, 2022 may vary from these preliminary materials.)

While we still have some important concerns, we have been encouraged by the fact that EDENS has shown its willingness to listen and adjust, and we look forward to further dialogue as the plans evolve. Following their formal presentation to the community, we will listen to your concerns and actively collect community feedback before coming back to the table with EDENS and our Commissioners.

What happens next: After their pre-submittal community meeting on February 22nd, EDENS will file its rezoning application and begin the public review process. The plans will be reviewed by the DeKalb District 2 Community Council, the DeKalb Planning Commission, and the staff of the DeKalb County Planning & Sustainability Department. Each of these bodies will make a recommendation. Ultimately the Board of Commissioners will vote on whether to grant the rezoning. Developments of this size often take many months to work through this process. We will keep you informed of the meeting dates once we have them.

Projects of this size require a Development of Regional Impact study (DRI). The DRI process looks at impacts created by the development beyond its immediate boundaries. This study produces an advisory report for informational use by the host local government as it moves through its local process. EDENS has already begun this process and study results should be available in the spring.

The County has also contracted the PATH Foundation to do a preliminary study of alternative transportation options available in the area that surrounds North DeKalb Mall. PATH will hold a series of public meetings, tentatively beginning in March. We will let you know the dates. This is the first building block needed for the community to understand what options we have in our area.

Every development is different and as such the DCNC will assess how we can best assist the community with the redevelopment at North DeKalb Mall as it unfolds. In the past we have addressed a range of community issues by negotiating contracts to ensure that a developer’s promises regarding community benefits are legally enforceable.

As always we are restricted by the dictates of the county zoning code. The amount of leverage we are able to exert during negotiations is directly proportional to the property’s current zoning designation and the type and number of zoning changes and special permits requested by the developer. We are fortunate to have County Commissioners who have encouraged us and often complement our conditions with their own. Their planning expertise and support has been essential to our efforts.

Community involvement: DCNC members are here to support the voices of our communities. Each DCNC member organization represents many residents of DeKalb and our strength during negotiations comes from those numbers. Your participation and input are crucial. We are here to solicit, organize and share neighborhood feedback with EDENS and the Commissioners. We will work to keep you informed of upcoming meetings and developments. We encourage you to stay informed and if you do not understand something, ask us. At any time during the process you can send us your input by reaching out to your neighborhood association or by emailing the DCNC directly at crossneighborhoodscommittee@gmail.com, and we strongly encourage you to do so.

NEW DATE: Community Meeting: North DeKalb Mall Redevelopment [Feb. 22]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 20:43:00 +0000

Dear Neighbors of 2050, 2054, and 2144 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur, Georgia

EDENS is interested in redeveloping the North DeKalb Mall property and proposes an
application to rezone the property, located at 2050, 2054, and 2144 Lawrenceville
Highway, Decatur from C-1 to MU-4 to allow for a mixed use development. As indicated
below, EDENS plans to host a virtual community meeting to provide more information.

Due to scheduling conflicts of certain stakeholders, EDENS is rescheduling the
meeting from the original date of February 15th to February 22nd.

What is a Community Rezoning Meeting? Community rezoning meetings are
designed to inform the surrounding communities of current rezoning applications. It’s
an opportunity for the community to learn about the proposed project, ask questions,
present concerns, and make suggestions. You are receiving this letter as you own
property within 500’ of our project. We hope you will be able to meet with us at the
following date/time:

Revised Meeting Date/Time: February 22, 2022 at 7:00 pm
Meeting Location: https://sgrlaw.zoom.us/join
Webinar ID: 984 3418 0720 / Passcode: 642663
Or join by phone: 646.558.8656 or 301.715.8592

We look forward to discussing the project with you and getting feedback on February
22, 2022. If you are unable to attend or wish to reach out beforehand, please contact
Den Webb at dwebb@sgrlaw.com or 404.815.3620.

Sincerely,
EDENS
http://www.EDENS.com

Nightmare on Wood Trail Lane [Oct.23, 2021]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 13:10:00 +0000

The Harvest Festival and Haunted Trail is back in 2021!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23 from 5:00-8:00 at the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve.

This is a family friendly outdoor event combining the wild natural beauty of the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve with fall fun including a bonfire, food, a live band (Hot Tamale Ringwald!), an area appropriate for smaller children to enjoy, and a more chilling haunted trail experience along the wooded path for older children and adults.

To ensure a safe experience for all, we are selling a limited number of advanced tickets, each with a timed entry into the Haunted Trail. We will not be selling tickets at the event. Pre-sale tickets only!! For more information and tickets, visit http://tinyurl.com/hauntme21. Update: Tickets to the haunted trail are sold out. We hope to return to no ticket limits next year.

WE STILL NEED HELP!!! This is a huge event and requires an army of volunteers. We need help with all aspects of the trail, in the days ahead of the event as well as the day of the festival. Please consider chipping in – opportunities abound.

Go to https://forms.gle/JWtdirtFHbRgbdvG8 and indicate how you’d like to lend your talents.
See the FAQ’s on the ticket website for additional information on the event.
More questions or comments? Email us at medlockparkhauntedtrail@gmail.com Proceeds from the Festival and Trail go to offset MANA’s costs and support the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) information

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 17:56:00 +0000

This information is being presented to you by Deb Elkin and Kathryn Firago, who are organizing outreach around the Medlock neighborhood. The goal is to ensure that those who have limited ability to leave their homes have some level of assistance with delivery of groceries, medications, etc. If you wish to help with any such neighbor support, please contact medlockassoc@gmail.com. A flyer with this information is being distributed to mailboxes around the neighborhood.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 COVID19
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

What are symptoms of COVID19?
• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

How does it spread?
• Person to person (keep a distance of 6 feet between)
• Droplets from sneezing and coughing
• Maybe by touching a contaminated surface, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads

What you should do if you are sick with COVID19?
1. Stay home except to get medical care.
2. Call ahead before visiting your doctor.
3. Separate yourself from other people and animals at home.
4. Wear a face mask.
5. Cover your coughs and sneezes.
6. Avoid sharing personal household items.
7. Clean your hands often.
8. Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day.
9. Monitor your symptoms.

ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/home/index.html
https://www.nih.gov/health-information/coronavirus#!/detail/403327
https://blog.getpocket.com/2020/03/corona-virus-collection/?utm_source=pocket-newtab

OTHER RESOURCES

GA Department of Public Health: https://dph.georgia.gov/

City of Decatur COVID-19 Updates: https://www.decaturga.com/ems/page/covid-19-updates

DeKalb County COVID-19 Response: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/coronavirus

Homeschooling
Parent in West End: https://www.facebook.com/wesprout/

https://www.youcubed.org/online-student-course/?fbclid=IwAR0fUXl0KM8DgDHGjFAtn4G-VyAj456nmPtrTm2wgje-GVDFGJfdbcTiM8w

Mental Health
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html

https://afsp.org/taking-care-of-your-mental-health-in-the-face-of-uncertainty/

Domestic Violence
https://gcadv.org/

Filing Unemployment Insurance Claims
https://dol.georgia.gov/file-unemployment-insurance-claim?fbclid=IwAR2LfLmZAztTxhBaARGKJxdW1v54EvsYrghAomQftg0GS6oPulrr2D2ko2o

Support for Atlanta Restaurants
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1dnHzKSCFexss6qkWhEWj3dn32bujm9KoK3JGWVyftw8/edit?usp=drivesdk&fbclid=IwAR3OIG9YkxF4qTUO4I5bKq4AmTkYNFdWj8WhwBqObo4IJURTiGGCP0a06Fo

Alternative Gift Market [Dec 7]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:55:00 +0000

Alternative Gift Market at North Decatur Presbyterian Church

Saturday, December 7, 10 - 3

Press Release November 2019

Take a shopping trip around the world! North Decatur Presbyterian Church presents its annual Alternative Gift Market on Saturday, December 7^th from 10 to 3. These vendors sell fair trade, environmentally sustainable and reasonably priced holiday gifts that create positive change for refugees or disenfranchised populations. For truly one of a kind gifts, one can purchase items from Africa, Latin America, Asia, South America and the Middle East, as well as local products from emerging entrepreneurs. Also available will be gift cards in honor of or in memory of loved ones such as goats for the Haiti EcoVillage School, El Refugio legal defense for detainees, or sending a child to Peacemakers Camp. For a low stress shopping adventure we offer refreshments and a children’s craft corner. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted by most vendors. For holiday gift-giving that makes a difference, come see us at 611 Medlock Rd, Decatur GA.

Contact: Deedee Murphy, ddmm54@comcast.net 404-276-0593

Fall Festival & Haunted Trail 2019 [Rescheduled to Oct 27]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 20:44:00 +0000

RESCHEDULED DUE TO RAIN

TO SUNDAY OCT. 27, same time!

Would you like to help? Just sign up and the volunteer coordinator will contact you!

If you would like to make a donation to towards this activity, please choose the DONATION button in our "Support MANA" page.

Donations help defray set-up costs for MANA and also support the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve. Please bring small bills and prepare for yummy snacks!

Haunted Trail and Fall Festival [Oct. 26]

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 18:48:00 +0000

The Fall Festial and Haunted Trail takes place at Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve on Oct. 26, 2019. We need volunteers to help in the weeks and days leading up, day of, and next day for clean up. Let us know how you'd like to be involved!

To sign up for help (setting up the area a day early, or participating on the day of), please fill out the form embedded below and an event organizer will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you!!