ATLANTA — Only Channel 2 Action News was there Friday as Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens crossed a brand-new pedestrian bridge that is helping reunite two sides of downtown Atlanta.
It replaces the old Nelson Street Bridge close to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The bridge has been closed for more than 5 years.
“It’s completely changed,” said Melissa Farmer, who was walking in the area.
Dickens commemorated the reopening by taking some of the first steps across the bridge.
“This is great to be able to walk across the Nelson Street Bridge after it’s been closed for so long,” Dickens said.
“It’s going to do a lot for this area, a lot for the economy, a lot for the city of Atlanta,” said David Clark.
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The iconic bridge was built more than 100 years ago serving as a vital connection between area neighborhoods and downtown, but it was closed more than 5 years ago because of structural issues.
“To see it now, it really has come a long way,” Clark said.
“Anytime you are able to walk in an area, it’s going to be great,” Farmer said.
The bridge reconstruction is all part of the Centennial Yards megaproject – a multimillion-dollar development plan to revitalize and reconnect Atlanta’s east and west side.
“It’s truly a bridge,” Clark said.
Brian McGowan, president of Centennial Yards Company, said the area will soon be a gathering place for people visiting the city.
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