What’s the Economic Impact of the Peachtree Creek Greenway? Now We Know.
For years, the Peachtree Creek Greenway has been envisioned as more than a scenic walking and biking path—it’s a backbone for sustainable growth, a tool for economic mobility, and a vital piece of infrastructure that connects communities. Now, thanks to a newly completed Economic Impact Study, we finally have the numbers to show just how powerful this trail can be.
Conducted by KB Advisory Group, a respected Atlanta-based economic development and planning firm, this study provides a comprehensive, data-driven look at how the Greenway will shape the economic landscape over the next decade. From job creation to public revenues, the findings are clear: investing in the Greenway is not just good for quality of life—it’s a smart economic decision.
Key Findings from the Study
Here’s what KB Advisory Group found when evaluating the full build-out of the Greenway:
For every $1 invested, the Greenway will generate $13.76 in statewide economic impact—a return that includes construction-related spending, increased property values, and new retail activity.
That same $1 will return $1.17 in direct public revenues, such as property taxes, sales taxes, and permitting fees—helping fund schools, roads, and essential public services.
The trail will drive an estimated $159 million increase in property digest value, leading to an additional $7.1 million in annual property tax revenues.
228 permanent jobs will be created in retail, food service, and tourism, along with 143 temporary construction jobs during build-out.
During construction alone, the Greenway will generate $67.9 million in direct spending on goods and services, and $55.5 million in direct earnings for workers.
One-time public revenues from construction-related activity are expected to total $8.2 million.
These aren’t just abstract figures. They translate to real impact: new businesses along the trail, safer walking and biking options for residents, and stronger tax bases for cities and counties across the region.
A Huge Thank You to Our Supporters
This study wouldn’t have been possible without the support and vision of our local leaders. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran Johnson, Commissioner Robert Patrick, Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, and Commissioner Ted Terry for their sponsorship and continued commitment to the Greenway’s future. Their investment in this study reflects their understanding that infrastructure like the Greenway is essential not just for recreation, but for equity, connectivity, and economic resilience.
Why It Matters
The Economic Impact Study gives us a vital tool to advocate for continued investment in the Greenway—especially in underserved areas of unincorporated DeKalb, where connectivity and green infrastructure are urgently needed. It provides elected officials, planners, and residents with data they can use to support funding, attract new partners, and push this vision forward.
As more segments of the trail are planned—like the ones around Mercer University and from Fisher Trail Park to Chamblee Tucker Road—we know this project is gaining momentum. But it’s the numbers in this report that give that momentum direction, purpose, and weight.
We’re proud to share this study with our community and partners, and we’re excited to use it as a foundation for what comes next.
Want to dive into the data?
Peachtree Creek Greenway Economic Impact Assessment 2025 final
