ROSWELL, Ga. — The city of Roswell is waiving all fees at the city’s new parking deck, which is set to open in May, while neighboring Green Street is closed for construction for six months.
Some businesses have expressed shock at the closure, saying it will hinder access for patrons just as they’re approaching the busy summer season.
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“To say I’m shocked and stunned would be an understatement,” said David Bailey, owner of Naylor Hall, a special events venue with its rear access on Green Street. It’s right across from a nursing home, where he said emergency vehicles regularly arrive on Green Street every day.
“This is not going to be received very well, nor would I say it’s necessary,” he said.
Roswell’s vision is to make the one-way street, which is less than a half mile long, more pedestrian friendly. It will feature a brick-paved, multi-use trail with improved lighting and landscaping, with utilities placed underground.
But city officials said a recent field reassessment determined the street must fully close to do all the necessary work, allowing the project to be completed in six months rather than a year.
That closure is tough to swallow at Fellows Cafe, where patrons dine outside, separated from Green Street by a white picket fence.
“For others, six months may feel like nothing, but for us, it’s going to feel like a lifetime,” said Imani Lusega McLendon, who’s the general manager.
She’s concerned about the impact on the bustling summer season.
“So without us having a road at all, I don’t see how we’ll be able to have many guests come dine with us,” she said.
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Businesses do appreciate the walker-friendly vision for Green Street.
“Successive administrations have in Roswell have worshipped at the altar of pedestrian access,” said Bailey. “I applaud that. I like that. But we also have to live in Realville.”
Matt Holmes, a Roswell spokesperson, told Channel 2’s Bryan Mims that the city has in fact been in touch with residents and businesses about the closure.
In the news release announcing the plan, Mayor Mary Robichaux said the city is waving the parking deck fees to ensure people have access to Green Street businesses and support downtown.
Construction is set to begin on Green Street and be completed by the fall.
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