Atlanta Beltline and city leaders are celebrating the grand opening of the final 1.2-mile segment of the Southeast Trail (formerly known as Southside Trail Segments 4 and 5).
The ribbon-cutting ceremony takes place at 3:30 p.m. at 905 Glenwood Ave SE, marking a significant step toward completing the ambitious 22-mile Beltline loop.
Atlanta Beltline Opens Southeast Trail, Adding 1.2 Miles of Connectivity to Southside Neighborhoods
This new paved multi-use trail runs from Boulevard to Glenwood Avenue, completing the full 2.5-mile Southeast Trail from the iconic Krog Street Tunnel to Boulevard Southeast.
It brings the total paved Beltline trail network to 14.8 miles, with more expansions on the horizon.
Connecting Communities and Enhancing Access
The Southeast Trail directly serves four vibrant Southside neighborhoods: Glenwood Park, Grant Park, Ormewood Park, and Boulevard Heights
It provides safer, more accessible routes for walking, biking, and commuting, including improved paths to Parkside Elementary and Maynard Jackson High School—the second Atlanta public high school located directly on the Beltline.
By improving connectivity between these areas and linking to the broader Eastside Trail network, the project promotes active transportation, recreation, and economic activity in historically underserved communities.
When did the Southeast Trail Open?
The Southeast trail opened Thursday, April 16, 2026.
What to Expect on the New Trail
Visitors can enjoy a scenic, well-designed path featuring:
- Vibrant public art, including colorful murals along Wylie Street.
- Proximity to attractions like the Stumpery Garden at the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Arboretum.
- Easy access to retail, dining, and entertainment in Glenwood Park and along Memorial Drive.
- Nearby highlights such as Zoo Atlanta and Grant Park.
The trail is designed for all users—walkers, runners, cyclists, and families—offering a safe, multi-use corridor that reflects the Beltline’s vision of transforming old rail lines into vibrant public spaces.
Broader Impact and Future Plans
This opening advances the Beltline’s goal of creating a 22-mile loop of trails, parks, and future transit that will connect 45 neighborhoods. Construction was handled by Reeves Young, with design by Kimley-Horn.
Looking ahead, the completion of the remaining Southside Trail (expected by June 2026) will add even more continuous paved trail, pushing the network toward 17.9 miles total.
Additional projects, including lighting, cameras, and connections like the Westside Trail expansions, continue to progress.
A Milestone for Atlanta
Atlanta Beltline President and CEO Clyde Higgs, along with local officials including City Councilmember Jason Winston and representatives from Grant Park Neighborhood Association, highlighted the project’s role in fostering equity, health, and community pride.45
Whether you’re a longtime resident exploring new routes or a visitor discovering Atlanta’s urban renaissance, the Southeast Trail offers fresh opportunities to experience the city’s dynamic mix of nature, art, and culture.
Lace up your shoes, hop on a bike, or grab the family—the Beltline’s latest chapter is open and ready for adventure. For maps, directions, and updates, visit beltline.org.
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