East Decatur residents press city to oppose Georgia Power transmission route through historic neighborhood

Multiple East Decatur residents told the commission Feb. 3 they oppose Georgia Power's proposed relocation of high‑voltage transmission lines that would cut through a tree‑lined residential historic district. Speakers said the project would require removal of many mature trees, degrade a gateway neighborhood and depress property values.

Residents said they have organized, retained counsel and will launch fundraising and outreach; they asked the city to take an on‑record stance. City staff said they hosted a Dec. 11 meeting with Georgia Power and engineering partners, pressing Georgia Power to treat a route along Sycamore Street and East Ponce de Leon as a "nonstarter" and to explore alternatives. Staff recommended closer coordination with the GDOT College Avenue project and said Georgia Power was asked to consider partial undergrounding where the roadwork provides an opportunity.

Commissioners expressed concern, affirmed sympathy with residents and discussed drafting a formal statement or resolution in support of the neighborhood. Staff reported that Georgia Power had indicated it would follow up with CSX, MARTA and GDOT and that the company planned community outreach; commissioners urged the city to remain engaged and said they would consider a written statement or resolution at a future meeting.

Residents emphasized potential impacts: damaged tree canopy, visual intrusion of tall steel structures, property easement takes and potential home‑value reductions; staff reiterated the path forward: press Georgia Power to consider cemetery and CSX corridor alternatives, pursue undergrounding where feasible, and coordinate with GDOT design teams.