Calls for Emergency Relief and Accountability as Project Continues
Councilmember Marci Collier Overstreet, vice chair of the Council’s Transportation Committee, today responded to concerns from Cascade Road business owners, who are concerned their businesses are suffering because of the prolonged road improvements and construction.
In response to mounting concerns from business owners along Cascade Road, Overstreet issued a detailed letter reaffirming her strong support and advocacy on behalf of the affected merchants. The message comes amid prolonged disruptions tied to the Cascade Road Complete Streets infrastructure project, which has led to reduced customer access, lost revenue, and operational hardship for many small businesses.
“These are not minor inconveniences—they are critical issues with real economic consequences for your livelihoods and our community’s cultural and commercial fabric,” Councilmember Overstreet wrote in her letter to the merchants earlier today. “Your businesses are not only a source of local pride but also a key part of District 11’s economic vitality.”
Over the past three years, Councilmember Overstreet has worked consistently to elevate concerns to City Hall, engage with the Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT), and facilitate solutions on behalf of Cascade Road stakeholders. Her recent outreach underscores an ongoing effort to secure direct financial assistance for impacted businesses.
“I have advocated for Invest Atlanta to explore the provision of emergency grant funding—not loans—to support Cascade business owners during this time,” she noted. “Immediate financial relief can provide a vital bridge to ensure your businesses survive the temporary disruption and continue to thrive once construction is complete.”
Councilmember Overstreet has also called for increased transparency and accountability from project administrators and continues to coordinate with fellow Councilmembers Andrea Boone, Matt Westmoreland, Eshe Collins, and Michael Julian Bond to push for equitable solutions and stronger support mechanisms.
A copy of Councilmember Overstreet’s letter to Cascade business owners is attached.
