MARIETTA, Ga. (May 4, 2023) — The Cobb County Department of Transportation, along with the PATH Foundation, is set to begin a project that will connect the Silver Comet Trail to the Beltline in the City of Atlanta.  Cobb County DOT will begin construction of a portion of this Silver Comet extension along Atlanta Road from Plant Atkinson Road to the Chattahoochee River. 

Additional work included in this construction project will consist of the rehabilitation of Atlanta Road Bridge over CSX Railroad, a new median across the bridge to separate northbound and southbound traffic, rebuilding the traffic signals at Plant Atkinson Road and Nifda Boulevard, and the repaving of Atlanta Road.

The PATH Foundation oversaw the design phase of the engineering plans and has raised the funds needed to make this vision become a reality. They will hire a contractor to build the next 2.3 miles of the Silver Comet Trail from East West Connector to Plant Atkinson Road once land has been acquired from CSX Railroad. This rail to trail project will add a multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy on the west side of Atlanta Road that spans from Plant Atkinson Road to the River.

Safety enhancements for the bridge rehabilitation will add reinforcements to the structure to extend the life of the bridge, improve the riding surface for commuters and new landscaping will consist of trees and shrubs.

Upon completion, this will be one of the many options for Cobb residents and visitors to explore. The Department of Transportation plans to expand its network of trails to encourage outdoor exploration and connect local communities to the National Trail System.

Bridge improvements and safety enhancements are expected to begin summer 2023. Lane closures and shifts will be in effect during the duration of construction to provide median separation between northbound and southbound lanes.