West Howard Avenue Cycle Track and Traffic Calming Improvements

Illustrative street section of West Howard Avenue showing, from left to right: a sidewalk with two pedestrians, a 10-foot parking lane with a parked car, a 10-foot vehicle lane, another 10-foot vehicle lane, a 4-foot planted buffer with a tree and flowers, a 10-foot two-way cycle track with two cyclists, and an adjacent existing trail with two pedestrians. Labels indicate lane widths. Produced by the City of Decatur and AtkinsRéalis, dated May 16, 2024.

The Reimagine West Howard project is now in its final stages. Crosswalks have been installed, and all trees and plantings have been placed along the corridor. Some traffic drums and minor work areas remain as crews complete the last elements of the project.

While the remaining work is expected to wrap up in the coming weeks, the exact completion date may shift slightly as final adjustments are made. Thank you for your continued patience as we bring this project to a close.

Project Overview

The City of Decatur is making important improvements to West Howard Avenue, from Paden Circle to Commerce Drive. Managed by Blount Construction, the project includes:

  • Paving and sidewalk repairs
  • Safety enhancements for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers
  • Cycle track installation along the CSX right-of-way
  • Traffic calming features designed to reduce vehicle speeds

Note: Work at the Atlanta Avenue intersection is not included in this phase. That area will be addressed as part of a future railroad crossing realignment project.

Construction Timeline

Construction began on September 24, 2025, and has progressed steadily through early 2026. Most major work is now complete, with only final tasks and cleanup remaining.

Goals of the Project

  • Improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers
  • Create a more walkable, bike-friendly environment
  • Transform the corridor from a four-lane thoroughfare into a calmer, neighborhood‑oriented street

Pedestrian Access

  • Work on both the north and south sidewalks has been completed.
  • Pedestrian and bicycle access has been restored, with minor detours possible until all traffic control devices are removed.

Important Reminder: Please keep sidewalks clear of bicycles, scooters, trash, and recycling bins.

Landscaping and Final Appearance

A separate landscaping contract has installed native pollinator plants, canopy trees, and additional shade trees near the existing PATH trail. These improvements will help create a greener, more park‑like corridor along West Howard Avenue.

Contact Information

For questions or additional details, please contact: David Junger – david.junger [at] decaturga.com (david[dot]junger[at]decaturga[dot]com)

View PDF of Page