#USA #Cumberland #Cumberland CID #Paces Mill #New Day Palisades

Celebrating Paces Mill's Renewed Experience

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID), along with the nonprofit One Cumberland and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA), hosted a festive gathering to unveil the transformed Paces Mill, following a notable investment of $6.3 million. This significant milestone was celebrated by community members, local officials, and many engaged citizens who expressed enthusiasm for the revitalized green space. The complete rehabilitation project spans 22 acres, aimed at improving access and enhancing the natural beauty of the area along the Chattahoochee River.

Vision and Execution

Bob Voyles, the board chair of the Cumberland CID, articulated the project’s vision: “We imagined a front porch on the Chattahoochee that everyone could enjoy.” This vision has materialized into a welcoming space designed for over 270,000 visitors annually.

Phase One of the New Day Palisades project highlights several transformative aspects:

• - Innovative Traffic Solutions: A new parking hub paired with a dedicated bus-drop loop minimizes vehicular traffic and boosts pedestrian safety, offering an inviting atmosphere for all who visit.
• - Environmental Considerations: The project integrates native meadows, bioswales, and precise grading designed to manage stormwater effectively, safeguarding the river’s ecosystems and fortifying the area’s resilience.
• - Accessibility for All: Reconstructed boardwalks and pathways ensure that everyone, regardless of mobility, can reach the riverfront effortlessly, making the Chattahoochee a place of adventure and learning.

Funding for Phase One comprised $4.3 million from the Cumberland CID, matched by $2 million in federal support led by Georgia's congressional representatives, including Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and Representatives Barry Loudermilk, Lucy McBath, and David Scott.

Community Commitment

U.S. Representative Lucy McBath remarked on the importance of collaboration, emphasizing the potential impact of such strategic investments on public lands in improving health and fostering economic growth, while preserving Georgia's natural resources. Congressman Barry Loudermilk also expressed pride in the work done to bring this vision into reality, ensuring continued enjoyment of the area for upcoming generations.

Rob Garcia, chair of One Cumberland, reinforced the project’s role in upholding community values and environmental stewardship. He indicated that further engagement with the community would be essential moving forward, particularly for the forthcoming Phase Two.

Looking Ahead

Set to commence in 2026, the planned Phase Two will advance the initiative with an estimated budget of $9.5 million and is projected to be completed by spring 2027, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the CRNRA. Exciting features to look forward to include:

• - New Visitor Information Center: Complete with modern restrooms and facilities, designed for accessibility.
• - Open-Air Pavilion: A venue for environmental education and community gatherings.
• - River Access Enhancements: Improved access to the river with broadened overlooks, allowing visitors more opportunity to connect with nature.

When finished, these upgrades will represent the largest investment made in public access to the Chattahoochee River within the national park’s history.

For more details on the New Day Palisades project and ongoing updates, visit New Day Palisades.

About Cumberland CID

Established as Georgia's first Community Improvement District, the Cumberland CID exemplifies successful public-private collaboration, generating enhanced infrastructure and community value driven by contributions from over 190 commercial property owners. Every year, they tackle projects to improve the livability and attractiveness of the area, contributing significantly to Georgia’s economy.

To learn about ongoing projects and initiatives, visit Cumberland CID.

This unprecedented transformation is a testament to community efforts and demonstrates what can be achieved when diverse groups unite for a common purpose: to elevate the quality of life and preserve the environmental legacy in the Cumberland region.