The city of Forest Park, the largest municipality in Clayton County, has announced a strategic plan to enhance the aesthetic appeal of its neighborhoods and commercial districts. The plan, which was approved unanimously by the city council, aims to beautify and unify Forest Park through various projects and initiatives.
Beautification plan aligns with ONE Forest Park vision
The beautification plan is part of the ONE Forest Park initiative, which is a comprehensive vision for the city’s future. The initiative focuses on four pillars: neighborhood sustainability, economic development, public safety, and community engagement. The beautification plan closely aligns with the first pillar, as it seeks to create a clean, vibrant, and attractive environment for residents and visitors alike.
The plan also reflects the city’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and safe city for all, as stated by Mayor Angelyne Butler, MPA. “By utilizing this plan, it is our hope that our city remains in the best position to attract more businesses, new residents and even long-term economic investments,” she said.
Beautification plan includes four key highlights
The beautification plan consists of four key highlights, which are:
- The creation of a beautification committee: The proposed committee would comprise of nine residents who would be charged with initiating various projects such as litter management campaigns, right-of-way cleanup events, and meetings with residents and business owners.
- Neighborhood enhancement: By enforcing city ordinances, codes, and regulations, city officials are able to address other issues related to property values, lower crime, and civic engagement.
- Litter control programs: Code enforcement will work cooperatively with other municipal departments and community members to address ongoing concerns related to trash, graffiti, junk vehicles, park maintenance, and illegal dumping.
- Demolition of dilapidated structures: City staff have begun working with property owners to identify structures that will cost more to rehabilitate than it would to be demolished.
Beautification plan encourages active participation from all stakeholders
The beautification plan is not only a responsibility, but also a shared commitment, as emphasized by Derry Walker, Director of Code Enforcement. “We’re asking for everyone to do their part so that we can continue to be the premier destination to live, shop, and do business in,” he said.
The city has also made it easy for residents to report code enforcement-related issues directly to city staff, by downloading the Forest Park ONEClick App in the Apple and Google Play app stores. Alternatively, they can also visit the online ONEClick Request Portal to create an account and submit requests for service.
The city invites all residents, local business owners, and community stakeholders to actively participate in this transformative initiative. To access the city’s beautification plan, click here.
