The Atlanta Beltline—20 Years Later

The scope of the Atlanta Beltline's effect on the city has astounded most observers, including the person who came up with the idea first.

1 minute read

December 26, 2019, 9:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Linear Parks

The Beltline, pictured in 2012. | Paris on Ponce & Le Maison Rouge / Flickr

It's been 20 years since Ryan Gravel turned in the master's thesis that would present the idea for the Atlanta Beltline for the first time.

"The project — or more correctly, a series of projects — has astounded even its biggest supporters, bringing more than $5 billion in investment so far. And there is no sign of slowing down," according to an article by Bill Torpy.

The main purpose of the article is for Torpy to check in with Gravel, referred to in the article as "The Beltline Guy," on the 20th anniversary of the thesis that first proposed the idea. For instance, Torpy asks Gravel what people want to know when they discover who he is. Gravel's reply: "They always end up talking about gentrification."

The article details the history of the project (extending back beyond the thesis, by the way) and the movement that built behind the idea

Monday, December 9, 2019 in Atlanta Journal-Constitution

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog