Runners at Inaugural NationsBank Freedom Park 5k Run and Walk, a park fundraiser held recently on site's greenway trails. The impact of the park goes beyond recreational value. Several acres have been set aside on which to build affordable housing, a feature park advocates hope will bring more people into the city. The value of existing homes will increase because of their proximity to a major park, as is the case for residences around New York City's Central Park. Businesses will be encouraged to set up in the area.
People come from parks to businesses to eat, drink and shop.
This meets our vision for a revitalized and safe Atlanta. Additionally, Freedom Park will afford residents and visitors with transportation alternatives. Echols said the Conservancy, which receives funds mainly from corporations and individuals, is also close to matching that commitment. Transforming the park from a vision to a reality is the culmination of protracted struggle by community leaders and politicians. Making room for those highways, however, also meant demolishing much of those eight historic neighborhoods.