September, 2007

Community Members Discuss Results of Heritage Trail Benchmarking Study

Central Atlanta Progress and Councilman Kwanza Hall, gathered about 50 members of the community to discuss the possibility of a heritage trail or tour in Atlanta. CAP solicited help from Deloitte and Touche Consultant, Latonda Henderson, to research and report on the best practices of existing heritage trails across the country.

The report indicates five key recommendations for successfully implementing a trail: conduct community engagement, construct a strategic plan, choose a governance model that aligns with the overall objective, choose sites of historical significance that support an overall vision for the trail, and identify funding options early. 

The idea of a trail or tour highlighting important venues and events is not a novel concept to the city of Atlanta. There are already several small trails or tours around the city including: the Underground Atlanta Walking History Tour - "Civil War to Civil Rights" - and the City Segway Tours. The heritage trail could thus be a part of a larger network of trails and tours throughout the city.

A discussion following the presentation highlighted challenges and opportunities for instituting a heritage trail in Atlanta. Meeting attendees explored the ability to coordinate a trail in the Auburn Avenue corridor emphasizing African American history and the contributions of African Americans to the city of Atlanta.  The trail is envisioned to promote the preservation of historic buildings, spur economic development in the surrounding areas, and further promote cultural tourism in the city of Atlanta.   

City Trails Benchmarking Report Executive Summary

Center for Civil and Human Rights Partnership website

Center for Civil and Human Rights Document Library

Overview of Report
Full Report Recommendations
Appendix