DUNWOODY, Ga — Next week, the City of Dunwoody and Perimeter Community Improvement Districts will break ground on the first phase of the Ashford Dunwoody Path in front of Perimeter Mall, according to a news release from the city.

“We’ve spent several years gathering public input and planning for this project, so we’re excited to get started,” said Dunwoody City Manager Eric Linton. “This path supports the City Council’s goal of promoting connectivity and walkability, especially in Dunwoody’s Perimeter Center.”

Phase 1 will include a two-way, raised bicycle path, a wider sidewalk, new pedestrian streetlights, and landscaping along Ashford Dunwoody Road in front of Perimeter Mall from Hammond Drive north to Perimeter Center West, where it will connect with a previously built section in front of the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar.

The cycle track will be separated from the roadway by a wide landscape buffer. Most of the existing trees will be retained, and new oak trees will be planted to replace the oak trees that require removal for the project.

Officials said this will bring greater pedestrian safety and walkability options along this busy corridor.

This project is included in the City’s transportation plan and aligns with the current draft of the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan, which is being developed in partnership with the PATH Foundation.

The majority of the $1.5 million construction cost will be split halfway between the City and PCIDs. Decorative pavers, posts, benches, and trash cans will be fully funded by PCIDs. The City’s share of the cost will be funded through hotel/motel taxes.

Future phases of the project will connect north to Mt. Vernon Road. This stretch of the path includes another recently-completed section in front of Perimeter Marketplace between Meadow Lane Road and Ashwood Parkway.

Dunwoody City Council Members and City staff will join PCIDs Board Members, plus representatives of Discover Dunwoody and Perimeter Mall, to kick off the project along the stretch of the path near Hammond Drive at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.

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