In celebration of Coca-Cola’s 135th anniversary, the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership has received a $2 million grant from the Coca-Cola Foundation to fund the green water infrastructure planned for Westside Park and Enota Park.
The Coca-Cola Foundation has also awarded $20 million in grants to nonprofit partners in the field of Covid-19 vaccine distribution, personal protective equipment, and public awareness campaigns. Another $15 million is provided to local environmental and community initiatives in the United States and Canada, which includes the Atlanta Beltline.
Bea Perez, Chair and President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, said: "The green infrastructure funded by this grant to the Beltline Partnership will provide much-needed green space to the community while addressing water issues impacting the westside of Atlanta. Water stewardship is imperative to the long-term success and health of our hometown.”
The funds will be used to assist Westside Park's future expansion, which will provide 30 to 90 days of emergency drinking water, invest considerable resources in underprivileged communities, improve and maintain the natural environment, and promote economic development.
In addition, the funds will also be used to support the construction of Enota Park that will improve both stormwater management and public access to the Westside Trail. The environmentally-focused Westside Park is set to open its first phase of 65-acres this summer.
"We are grateful to The Coca-Cola Foundation’s dedication to our environment and waterways. As one of the most comprehensive revitalization projects in the City of Atlanta, we are committed to ensuring access to green space and healthy quality of life for all people, regardless of race, age, culture, or income," said CEO Clyde Higgs of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.