Sandy Springs, Cobb Leaders Begin Talks On Braves Traffic Plan

SANDY SPRINGS, GA -- Just days after a contentious work session in which Sandy Springs' mayor openly expressed dismay at a Cobb proposal to use a busy interchange to direct Braves traffic to SunTrust Park, it appears leaders in both communities are coming together to work out a suitable plan.

Cobb County Chairman Tim Lee, Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul and members of their senior team met Thursday morning to hash out operational and transportation initiatives related to the Braves' move to the suburban Atlanta county.

“We have work to do, but we are committed to collaborating with Cobb County in developing viable solutions that create a win-win scenario for both communities,” Paul said.

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The group reviewed signage, game-day and public safety initiatives, with agreement that cooperative efforts "have produced a strong base related to operational considerations," the city of Sandy Springs said.

The group also discussed systemic issues, specifically the need for significant capital projects to alleviate traffic concerns in and around the New Northside area in Sandy Springs.

Thursday's gathering follows a tense June 21 work session in which Cobb Interim Transportation Director Jim Wilgus felt the wrath of Paul, who blasted the county's plans to direct motorist to use the New Northside Drive interchange and Interstate North Parkway to access the east parking lot for SunTrust Park.

Paul also criticized the county for refusing to meet Sandy Springs leaders to keep them abreast of their proposals.

“Cobb County and Sandy Springs have a long history of collaborating on many projects and we plan to add traffic management around SunTrust Park to our record of success," Lee added. "I am confident that we will end up with a plan that works in the best interest of both communities.”

At the request of Lee and Paul, a set schedule of meetings will be established between Cobb County Manager David Hankerson and Sandy Springs City Manager John McDonough, as the two communities continue working together in developing alternatives to address game day travel.

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