2‑minute version

Protect Delmar public access to the BeltLine

There is already a recorded public easement from the Delmar block to the BeltLine Southside Trail. After a land dispute made construction more complicated, the developers are now asking ABI to terminate the easement entirely—turning public access land into private property.

Email ABI / David Pierce

No accounts, no sign‑ups. Read, send an email, you’re done.

Context in 6 lines

3 facts and why they matter

Fact 1

The easement exists today.

In 2017, a permanent public access easement from this block to the Southside Trail was recorded in favor of Invest Atlanta/ABI so people could reach the trail on foot.

Fact 2

A land dispute made it harder to build stairs.

A survey dispute narrowed the usable space and complicated ramp/stair designs. The public access right stayed on paper.

Fact 3

Now developers want to back out.

The developers are actively asking ABI to terminate the easement they agreed to in 2017—so they can convert the public access land into private lots and increase their property value.

Keep the public route. This isn't about stopping homes; it's about making good on the promised walk-up connection to the BeltLine.

Don't lose the easement. Once a public easement is terminated, restoring it later is extremely difficult.

Main thing you can do

Email ABI (attention: David Pierce) to keep the easement

One email from you = one more voice asking ABI and Invest Atlanta not to erase this access.

Step 1

Click the button below. It opens an email to ABI / David Pierce about the Delmar public access easement. Edit it however you like. Personal notes about how you use (or would use) the trail help.

Open email to ABI / David Pierce
Step 2 (optional)

If it helps, copy‑paste and tweak this short message:

Dear David Pierce and ABI, I am asking you to keep the Delmar public access easement to the BeltLine Southside Trail, or provide clearly equivalent access nearby. The developers recorded this permanent public easement in 2017 as part of their commitment to the community. Now they are asking you to terminate it so they can convert public access land into private property for their own financial benefit. Please honor the original 2017 agreement and do not allow this easement to be quietly erased. This access would make it easier and safer for nearby residents, families, and people without cars to reach the trail. Thank you for upholding this public commitment. Sincerely, [Your name] [Your street or ZIP]

Click "Copy" above, then paste into your email and edit freely.

📄 View the 2017 easement agreement

Research-backed actions

3 more ways to make your voice heard

These tactics are proven to be most effective with decision-makers at ABI and Atlanta government.

1

Submit formal public comment to ABI Board meeting

Email your statement to ABI's Board of Directors. It becomes part of the official record and ensures decision-makers hear directly from you.

Why this works: Most direct channel to decision-makers; creates documented record.
How: Email [email protected] by 8:30am on meeting day (2nd Wednesday of every month). Include your full name, phone, email, area of residence, and a brief statement asking to preserve the easement.
2

Attend an ABI Board meeting in person

Show up to a monthly Board meeting at 8:30am on the 2nd Wednesday. Bring neighbors if you can—visible group support sends a powerful message.

Why this works: Research shows in-person advocacy is the most effective form of lobbying; demonstrates real community commitment.
When: 2nd Wednesday of every month, 8:30am. Contact [email protected] for exact dates and location details.
3

Request a meeting with David Pierce at ABI

As VP of Real Estate & Asset Management, David Pierce handles easement decisions. Request a direct conversation—even better if you coordinate with 2-3 neighbors.

Why this works: Direct engagement with actual decision-maker; opportunity for dialogue vs. one-way communication.
How: Email [email protected] requesting a brief meeting to discuss the Delmar easement. Mention you're a nearby resident/neighbor.

Other helpful actions: Bring this up at your Neighborhood Planning Unit (NPU) meeting • Contact your City Council district member • Share this page with neighbors who use the Southside Trail

Quick FAQ

Two things people ask

No. This is about access, not blocking development. Homes can be built and a public path can still exist. We are asking ABI and Invest Atlanta not to erase a public easement that was already granted.
No. This page does not collect names, emails, or clicks. The main action is for you to send your own email directly to ABI.
Want to keep Delmar BeltLine access?
Tap to email ABI / David Pierce.
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