Atlanta BeltLine partnership receives $2 million for GI from The Coca-Cola Foundation

The Atlanta BeltLine Partnership has received a $2 million grant from The Coca-Cola Foundation supporting green infrastructure planned for Westside Park and Enota Park. In celebration of Coca-Cola’s 135th anniversary, the Foundation awarded several grants including $15 million to local environmental and community initiatives in the United States and Canada.

The Foundation’s gift will help the future expansion of Westside Park, whose first 65-acre phase is scheduled to open this summer. This exceptional park will provide 30 to 90 days of emergency drinking water, invest significant resources in an underserved community, improve and preserve the natural environment, and spur incredible economic revitalization.

The Coca-Cola Foundation joins The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and Georgia Power as lead donors to the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership’s forthcoming Advancing the Vision campaign. The campaign will provide critical philanthropic investments alongside the recently approved Special Service District and other public funding to complete the full 22-mile BeltLine trail corridor, develop Westside Park and Enota Park, and help BeltLine residents remain in their homes through the Legacy Resident Retention Program.

“The green infrastructure funded by this grant to the Beltline Partnership will provide much-needed green space to the community while addressing water issues impacting the westside of Atlanta,” said Bea Perez, Chair and President, The Coca-Cola Foundation. “Water stewardship is imperative to the long-term success and health of our hometown.”

Funding will also support construction of an initial passive portion of Enota Park that will improve stormwater management and enhance public access to the Westside Trail. It is an essential first step toward realizing the full buildout of Enota Park as additional funding is secured.

“Effective stormwater management is a key consideration for any new development, and we appreciate The Coca-Cola Foundation’s generosity and the BeltLine as a strong partner in embracing the implementation of green infrastructure practices,” stated Commissioner Mikita Browning, Department of Watershed Management.

“We are immensely grateful for The Coca-Cola Foundation’s longstanding support of the BeltLine vision,” said Atlanta BeltLine Partnership Executive Director Rob Brawner. “As we continue connecting communities across Atlanta, their gift will increase equitable access to greenspaces and trails, enabling people of all demographics to live healthier lives and interact more closely with one another and their surrounding environment.”

SOURCE: Atlanta BeltLine