New Urbanism in Dahlonega

The GMUUC Social Action Conversation Cafe led by Dr. David Broad generated some great discussion on various ways that Dahlonega could improve some of the principles of New Urbanism. Some of the information was taken from http://www.newurbanism.org

Some of those principles discussed included:

1. Walkability- Pedestrian friendly street design and most things within a 10 minute walk of home and work. Dahlonega has a great opportunity to incorporate this principle with the new grant mentioned by Joel Cordle, Downtown Development Authority Director, to add sidewalks in conjunction with NGCSU to make the area more friendly to walkers. Bike paths would also be a great thing as well.
2. Connectivity- A interconnected street grid network that disperses traffic and eases walking.
3. Mixed Use and Diversity- A mix of shops, offices and apartments on site. Mixed use within neighborhoods. Would it be nice if Dahlonega had a Seaside, Florida type of development that was designed to promote shop owners to live above their stores, encouraged housing within walking distance to the historic square. It can be done with proper vision, planning and leadership. Such a development appears to be happening in Woodstock, Georgia at http://www.hedgewoodhomes.com/community.asp?communityID=27.
4. Traditional Neighborhood Structure- Public space at center. Discernible center and edge. Importance of quality public realm. The city has mentioned that they would like to take control of the main road going around the historic square. It is now controlled by the State of Georgia. What if the historic square was modified to allow for more pedestrian interaction by making the current parking near the historic courthouse into pedestrian areas with benches, landscaped areas, areas for entertainment. Parking could occur behind the shops. The area could have musical concerts and other entertainment that would also draw more people to the businesses. My wife is from Cape May, New Jersey, and years ago they basically closed down main street for a pedestrian only mall. It created a great people friendly space.

These are only some ideas and sure other may have many more. Now is the time to make plans to make Dahlonega even more special in terms of that small town atmosphere. In the future these possibilities may be impossible to implement because the land and resources may not be available.