A long-awaited connection between the Atlanta Beltline and one of the city’s busiest commercial corridors is finally nearing completion. After more than a decade of planning and construction, a new ramp linking the Eastside Trail to Ponce de Leon Avenue is set to open this April. This long-anticipated project, spearheaded by Atlanta Beltline Inc., will provide a crucial access point where four eastside neighborhoods converge. The addition of this ramp will significantly enhance connectivity, making it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to transition between the Beltline’s most heavily trafficked segment and the vibrant businesses along Ponce. The design features a steel ramp, stairs, and railings at the northwestern corner of the Ponce-Beltline bridge. It mirrors the Edgewood Avenue ramp that connects the Eastside Trail to Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park—except this version will feature a smooth surface rather than serrated metal, a thoughtful design choice to accommodate pets.
Beyond convenience, the ramp prioritizes accessibility. By offering an ADA-compliant exit and entry point, the project aims to improve mobility for all users, whether they’re heading to Ponce’s shops and restaurants or making their way onto the Beltline for recreation. According to the Beltline’s February construction update, work is progressing steadily. Wall construction is ongoing, with installation of the elevated ramp structure and handrails scheduled in the coming weeks. If all goes according to plan, this long-awaited enhancement will soon provide a seamless link between one of Atlanta’s most popular pedestrian paths and a key commercial hub.