Street Names With Possible KKK Tie To Be Changed In Sandy Springs

SANDY SPRINGS, GA — During its June 16 meeting, the Sandy Springs City Council voted in support of a resolution to begin the process of renaming Lake Forrest Drive and Forrest Lake Drive, removing one “r” in the word "Forrest."

Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul called for the change, noting that the streets may have been named for Nathan Bedford Forrest, a general in the Confederate Army during the Civil War and the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan.

“We are a city that is inclusive of all individuals and one that does not tolerate hate and racism," Paul said. "While one can appreciate the general’s acumen as a military leader, the name also connotes an association with a group that fostered racism.”

To rename a road, the city must hold a public hearing, advertise at least 25 days in advance, and provide written notice to all impacted property owners. The public hearing for the name change is expected to occur at the July 21 meeting of the city council.

Lake Forrest Drive and Forrest Lake Drive are both partially located within the city limits of Atlanta. Atlanta city leaders were contacted to work cooperatively to change the names for the entire length of the streets.

More information about the city of Sandy Springs is available by visiting online or calling the Citizen Response Center at 770-730-5600. Follow community news on Facebook and breaking news and traffic alerts on Twitter @SandySpringsGA.