Piedmont Park parking deck foe gets award
February 12, 2009 at 5:02 pm by Thomas Wheatley in News
In 2005, Doug Abramson — along with an army of Midtown residents and Atlanta activists who banded together as Friends of Piedmont Park — fought tooth and nail to not only battle plans for a controversial parking deck in Piedmont Park, but also push the city and Atlanta Botanical Garden to act in a transparent manner about their plans for a project proposed on public land.
The fight split the neighborhood and the city. Signs in residents’ front yards became billboards for support or opposition. In July 2008, after much heated debate and several legal skirmishes, a Fulton County Superior Court judge said Friends of Piedmont Park must pay damages to the garden.
Nonetheless, Abramson remains involved in efforts to make government more transparent and accountable. And on Feb. 28, the Georgia First Amendment Foundation will honor Abramson for his open-government work at its awards banquet at the Commerce Club in downtown Atlanta. That night, at a reception honoring Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears, Abramson will be presented with the 2009 Open Government Hero Award.
For more information about the banquet, one which is sure to attract many of the state’s legal bigwigs and activists who are open government advocates, visit the Georgia First Amendment Foundation.
(Photo by Joeff Davis)
February 12th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
Doug Abramson is a great American.
I wish more people had the courage to speak up when something is wrong.
Lou
February 13th, 2009 at 8:10 am
What a disgrace. An award for bringing frivolous suits to stall projects after all other avenues had been exhausted. Next week the Georgia Association for Greener Pastures will be giving awards out to people that don’t pick up their dog’s shit.
I’m all for transparency and accountability in government but those ideas should not be used as a shield in some merit-less personal vendetta.
February 13th, 2009 at 10:39 am
The ABG got public, TAXPAYER land for a PRIVATE PURPOSE.
To say that the citizens have NO RIGHT TO KNOW what deals were cut to hand over park land to private developers is just nuts. Unless, of course, you are benefitting from it.
Florida has a very strong Sunshine Law for a reason. Georgia (and the City of Atlanta) sees fit to do business the old-boy way: behind closed doors.
If the ABG had nothing to fear, they would have fought back with open records demonstrating they were in the clear. They did not.
February 13th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Congratulations to Doug Abramson on a well-deserved award.
Ignore the opinions of anonymous(cowardly), uninformed posters.
February 13th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Doug Abramson is my Open Government Hero.
Kudos to the Georgia First Amendment Foundation for recognizing his great work.
February 13th, 2009 at 11:07 am
Oh so the critics say that the Gardens are entitled to their closed records and the citizens have no rights over their own land. Lets see what the taxpayers have to say when the lawsuits start over the “collapse.” Me thinks, the tax payers are going to be footing a big portion of that bill. If anything the legal expenses are going to drive the deficit further. At least Doug and crew can be out there saying we told you so. Now if more people would get involved maybe the “shadow government” that controls Atlanta may get exposed for what it is. Congrat to Doug and CL for staying on top of this issue.
February 13th, 2009 at 11:09 am
Congratulations to Doug!
February 13th, 2009 at 11:34 am
We need more public activists like Doug. All governments and government sponsored entities should be transparent and should shepherd public land, not hoard it for their own use. Congratulations to CL and Doug!
February 13th, 2009 at 11:38 am
do i detect a statue of doug at piedmont park in 50 years?
February 13th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
Congratulations Mr. Abramson!!!
People should take inspiration from your actions and now accolades. there is nothing frivilous about your actions, they were extremely righteous and just! Piedmont Park, and the land “RENTED” by the ABG are all public property and we the citizens of Atlanta and Georgia have a right to protest when THEIR PROPERTY is being illegal governed and developed by what is becoming a special interest, introverted group of elitist snobs who have lost their way…Where are the righteous philanthropists of Atlanta’s Past? Maybe they are out there still, however, they have been blindfolded by the likes of Mary Pat Mattheson….The Emporer has new clothes, or shall we say the ABG does, and it has been laid bare, tattered, torn, and regretably with blood on its hands..Maybe one day it will be cleansed, but not if we silence the voices of reason that some brand as “frivilous”.
February 13th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
The Garden will have nothing but dispair and tragedy in its future. Arrogance and hubris get their just reward. If I were the cleverly named “O” I would keep watch over my shoulder.
February 13th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Congratulations to Doug, this is a well deserved award. It’s fantastic to see recognition for neighborhood activism and community organization–we need more people as engaged as he is.
February 13th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Blogger 0 seems as bent as his logic. He supports transparency, but he supports secrecy? The Garden is clearly not getting their money’s worth out of their PR team.
Thank you Doug Abramson for tremendous dedication and focus as a defender of neighborhood interests. Don’t let the Turkeys drag you down.
February 13th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Great news about Doug Abramson!! And what a weird alignment of the stars and the planets. The AJC had an article today about Jackson Bedford, the whacked out judge who ruled for secrecy and the fat cats. Bedford seems to be hiding from the lawsuit process servers!! http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/northfulton/stories/2009/02/12/bedford_anderson_suit.html
February 13th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
In our country we bemoan the lack of citizen participation in government. I appreciate the willingness of Doug Abramson and others like him who pay attention and call others on improper and illegal operations that somehow get “overlooked” by those who are in charge.
Our country is in a mess right now because nobody has been willing to pay attention and get involved.
Thank you Doug Abramson and others who get involved and are willing to publicly take a stand.
February 13th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Seems the only one with a meritless personal vendetta is “o”. I have known Doug for at least 30 years and have always found him to be above board, even handed, well measured and fair in all he does. I cannot imagine what sort of personal gain he would have accrued from asking for an open and transparent process concerning the ABG development. Perhaps “o” would care to enlighten the public on his personal “intere$t” in the matter?
February 13th, 2009 at 3:49 pm
@Bad Karma
I wont hold my breath.
@Marshal
I am affiliated with neither the park nor garden beyond patronage. Did you even look at the suit that Mr. Busy Body brought?
Mr. Abramson filed this suit solely because he didn’t have his way with the deck. Irony of ironys, he used transparency as a smoke screen. His lawsuit had nothing to do with openness, they were intended to delay the project and drive up costs. Go read the suit brought against him.
Meh, let him have his pat on the back. I doubt it comes with $270,000!
February 13th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Am I the only one who thinks Piedmont Park needs a parking garage? As a life long Atlanta resident I know parking for events at the park is horrendous. I’m glad the garage in being built.
February 13th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Blogger 0(zero) continues to spew misinformation. Doug Abramson was one of three individuals, plus the Friends of Piedmont Park, who filed the lawsuit. I value the judgment and commendation of the Georgia First Amendment Foundation over the ignorant sniping of an anonymous zero.
To S. Dekalb voter’s concern about the lack of parking during large events at the park: even the fiercest proponents of the deck acknowledged that the net gain of fewer than 100 parking spaces would have almost no effect on that problem.
February 13th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
As far as not enough parking at the park, there is no excuse not to use MARTA in situations like that. At least for me, most big events at the park involve a good bit of drinking as well.
February 13th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
Please educate me Jim. I thought the deck had 800 spaces?
February 13th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
@Jim Pettit
The other two filers are not being honored. Doug is the face of the FOPP. With all this talk of openness, you would think that the FOPP would list its board members on its site. Not so! It seems that Mr. Abramson is wielding a veil of secrecy!
“net gain of fewer than 100 parking spaces”
Seems like you are the one spreading misinformation. Where are the current 700 odd spaces? Counting both the park and garden spaces gets you nowhere near that number.
February 13th, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Congratulations to Doug Abramson for his courage and tenacity in the pursuit of open government. Many thanks to the Georgia First Amendment Foundation for recognizing a true citizen hero!
February 13th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Doug is a courageous person fighting for the public’s interest. If his being assessed legal costs for his lawsuit is allowed to stand, no person or environmental or public interest group will ever again be able to oppose a damaging project without risking financial ruin.
Lewis Regenstein
February 13th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Thank you, Georgia First Amendment Foundation, for acknowledging Mr. Abramson’s efforts. The point is that we have a right to free speech and Mr. Abramson has the courage to use it. I am grateful to this organization for honoring the work of this citizen, and for recognizing the work and effort that was put into this incredible fight.
February 13th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
The deck will have about 800 spaces: half devoted to ABG, half to the Park. Currently, the existing Park and ABG lots can accommodate about 650. I was mistaken: it’s a net gain of fewer than 200 spaces. Given that a large event attracts as many as 100,000 to the park, the parking deck will have no impact on parking during festivals.
Zero: yes, Doug is the face of FOPP. Unlike you, he has the courage of his convictions and is willing to put his name and face on an issue he (and I and many others) care deeply about. Unlike you, Doug took a public stand on behalf of a principle. Very brave of you to continue to cower anonymously and spew bile…
February 13th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
“Currently, the existing Park and ABG lots can accommodate about 650.”
Which lots are you talking about? The current ABG lot is 120 spaces and the Magnolia Hall lot at Piedmont Park is 146 spaces. Am I missing other lots? Otherwise the deck is a net gain of more than 500 spaces.
Also, the point, in my mind at least, isn’t about parking for large events. You correctly point out the deck won’t make much of a dent with those. But it does make the park more accessible on that next sunny weekend when a families across the city want to spend a Saturday in Atlanta’s Central Park. Not everyone knows the streets around the park and can find parking. This deck makes the park a true citywide resource and will encourage those outside of Midtown, Va-Hi and Ansley Park to visit.
Just my two cents. Congratulations on the recognition, Doug.
February 13th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Doug Abramson is one of the most dedicated and civic-minded people we have ever known. He has been relentless in defending our public park, and selfless in the pursuit of protecting our right to know.
Thank you to the Abramsons and Friends of Piedmont Park for all of their hard work!
The majority of the citizens of Atlanta do not realize how lucky they are to have the likes of Doug and Susan Abramson rallying the forces!
February 14th, 2009 at 1:22 am
Congratulations to Doug and Susan Abramson! It’s great to see their selfless efforts on behalf of Piedmont Park and open government in Atlanta recognized.
February 14th, 2009 at 9:41 am
I have known Susan and Doug for more than 20 years; they are tireless workers who have contributed so much to many city and county projects; most of the bloggers seem to forget that the parking deck will eliminate ALL free parking, plus create a crime hazard; ABG wanted the deck simply to afford easy access to their events; the fact that it will be paid for with private funds is no excuse to avoid an open process; in my opinion, this important decision should have been vetted through a public referendum;lastly, I’m sure everyone is aware how precious little public park space exists in Atl; putting a monstrous parking deck in the middle of one of our most important public parks is unconscionable
February 14th, 2009 at 11:56 am
Mr. T you are 100% correct. On top of the 500 spaces, there will be less asphault and, best of all in my opinion, cars will be at a separate grade then pedestrians. These are appeals to reason however. It’s pointless to argue with these zealots since their claims are purely emotional and devoid of reason.
Pettit: I am a neighbor of both you and Doug. Having such an unpopular opinion in this den of iniquity necessitates my anonymity. I do find it telling that Doug doesn’t post the judgment against him. Perhaps if some of these people know the complete story they wouldn’t be so quick to give him kudos.
February 14th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
Congratulations to Doug for speaking out and acting for the benefit of his community. I know it has taken much time, patience and courage. We need more citizens like Doug to stand up and be counted. Bravo to Doug for his pursuit of justice and open government.
February 14th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
At one of their public meetings, PPC reps acknowledged a net gain of fewer than 200 spaces. Thank you, Mr. T, for acknowledging the larger point that the deck will have no effect on parking during large events, or, for that matter, during nice weekends such as last weekend when huge crowds gathered in the park.
Zero: you chose to respond to the CL article about Doug’s award with an anonymous, crude, mean-spirited post. And you want to impugn Doug’s integrity? Please…
February 14th, 2009 at 2:57 pm
I have been following the controversy since it’s inception and I am so glad that they have given Doug Abramson an award for his efforts!
February 14th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
Having attended, as a community representative, the long and painful meetings held by the PPC to explain and defend their participation in the building of this deck, this blog needs some clarification. First of all, Friends of Piedmont Park was not against a parking deck in Piedmont Park, they were against a parking deck in the middle of the park with all the associated roads and concrete that will accompany this ill conceived project. It is unbelievable that the deck was allowed to be built based on all the community opposition against it. The public was shut down and shut out of the process. Community input was ignored…tragically. This albatross that the Atlanta Botanical Gardens (ABG) has forced on the citizens of Atlanta is fraught with secret back room deals and possible criminal activity. It is amazing to me that Doug stuck his neck out for all of us on this issue. (Even for the embittered “0″!) The ABG should be ashamed of itself for its unprofessional and boorish behavior. The ABG had a chance to show leadership and sensitivity in developing public land but instead has shown nothing but greed and utter contempt for the public and the citizens of this City. My dealings with the Director of the Garden, Mary Pat Matheson, were frightening. The rot started at the top at the ABG and was the catalyst for all of this civil unrest. This is not going to go away folks. The deck will be a blight on the ABG and the park forever and a sorry and embarrassing legacy to leave for future generations of Atlantans. Whether or not you agree with the outcome of this process everyone should be thankful there are people willing to risk their reputation and honor to provide a better community for us all as Doug has done.
February 14th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Congratulations Doug on your award. Thank you for your selfless efforts on behalf of our park.
February 15th, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Doug Abramson is a courageous, humble, incredible person. There should be more community activists like him out there. Congratulations on your hard fought, well-desered award! Way to go! We’re not done yet…
February 15th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
I am confused by the “net gain” arguments. Are the existing lots being destroyed after the deck is complete?
February 15th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Yeah, the Park Drive surface parking lot is being restored to green space, and I think the ABG surface parking lot is too, so that’s something.
February 15th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
To DaleC: yes.
The figure I wrote in my notes from one public meeting was a net gain of fewer than 200 spaces, but I now realize that the deck went through various size incarnations. In any event, the net gain in parking spaces will be relatively small and will have no effect during large events or whenever nice weather draws crowds to the park.
February 16th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Jim: Do I need to point out that we have no assurances that you are who you say you are. This is the internet and you don’t need a password to post here. Let’s move away from ad hominem attacks, shall we?
True the deck will have little effect for large weekend and festival crowds but neither will the price of tea in china. Those events are not what the deck is intended for.
Events at Magnolia hall and the ABG make parking a necessary evil. If we can’t agree on that, then we need to take a few step back.
February 16th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
I just do not understand why any resident of Atlanta would want a parking deck. As someone who lives here i feel like the park is ours. It is not for people who have to drive to get to it. I live in Edgewood and if i wanted to go to the park i would simply bike it or take marta. To hell with those that have to drive to it.
February 16th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
I think Edgewood Adam has expressed the true sentiments of many of those who were against the deck. Many, not all.
Yeah, screw all those taxpayers who don’t live next to YOUR park Adam. I live about six blocks away, but often drive to the ABG for events because it isn’t safe to walk home after dark. I didn’t realize I was such a problem for you.
Jerk.
February 16th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
In all this uproar, we’ve forgotten what the deck will look like. Have you seen a rendition of it? The structure is dug into a hill that, at present, is nothing more than a tangle of kudzu. It will be green and LEED certified. It will look nothing like the old, Muscovite-looking decks we see downtown.
Decks aren’t necessarily bad, you know. If people are going to drive there — and they will — it’s best to accommodate them intelligently. NIMBY mewlings are merely a distraction.
And, count on this: You will see more decks like this in the future. Just wait until the zoo unveils its master plans.
February 16th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
i don’t have a problem with the parking deck.
i do, however, have a problem with the way that the piedmont park conservancy handled the situation.
who are the people who make decisions at the conservancy? how much money flows in and out? why such an air of mystery about the group and the parking deck decision in particular?
are the local media outlets at all interested in digging deeper to satify the public’s curiousity?
February 16th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
6 blocks? You are even closer than me. I am probably 2 miles away. Get a bike and quit your bitching. You will get exercise, feel a nice connection with the city, and save money on gas.
February 16th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
You can not find an alternative way to get 6 blocks a few times a year and i am the jerk? Don’t worry your suv would probably be too tall to fit in the parking deck anyways.
February 16th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Ah, finally, a little truth from “Zero”..the deck was motivated in large part by “events at Magnolia Hall”…funny, those are usually PRIVATE events. Piedmont Park is a PUBLIC park. Thanks for bit of honesty and for making the case against the deck.
By the way, I am exactly who I say I am, have lived in Midtown on Greenwood Avenue for twenty years, have no fear about voicing my opinions about Doug Abramson’s civic nobility, about the deck, about the park,,,, and have friends who disagree(and are still friends), and I still find Zero’s anonymous slander cowardly.
February 16th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
Still with the ad hominem attacks Jim? I don’t know why I would expect more from you.
Let us pick your brain a bit “Jim.” Should no private events be held at Magnolia hall? Or do you propose they be free to anyone to use?
By the way “Jim,” say what you like but we really don’t know you from Adam. For all we know you threw a dart at a phone book. Does it really matter though? One more thing… that letter on your keyboard, between “I” and “P,” it’s a lot fewer keystrokes and you’ll look a lot less petty.
February 17th, 2009 at 8:22 am
Doug and Susan Abramson deserve our sincere thanks for their tireless efforts in attempting to insure that entities who have responsibility over public lands operate in an honest, open and forthright manner. We need more citizens like them who are willing to challenge the powers that be and willing give of their time, energies and money on our behalf. I worked closely with them in trying to stop the travesty of the Parking Deck in the middle of Piedmont Park. Even though we did not prevail, that fact does not diminish the valiant effort that was made to preserve the integrity of our Park for future generations. During this discussion, we should not fail to point the finger of blame where it squarely belongs and that is with Anne Fauver and others on the City Council who fell in lock-step behind our mayor, Shirley Franklin. These individuals voted against the wishes of nearly every single NPU and their constituients, not to mention a host of other environmental and civic organizations who opposed the idea of replacing 100 year old trees with roads, concrete and steel. ABG and Piedmont Park Conservancy should be ashamed for the irreparable harm that they have brought to Piedmont Park and therefore to the city of Atlanta. Doug and Susan, on the other hand, should have our utmost gratitude and respect for the personal sacrifices that they have made. Congratulations, Doug!!
February 17th, 2009 at 9:37 am
“O” how dare you try to change the subject of how dastardly the plan for the parking deck was and how it will irrevocably change the landscape of Piedmont Park by attacking Jim? Jim has been a tireless neighborhood supporter and volunteer for decades. Who are you? (BTW, far more people were against the deck than were for it.) Twenty NPU’s in the City who heard both sides voted against it. No other City project has ever elicited that kind of opposition. It seems to me, after being involved with this project from the beginning, you, “O” must be a paid consultant from the ABG or PPC. You are spewing evil bile and rhetoric. Leave Jim alone, he is way more legitimate than you. And he uses his real name…why are you hiding behind the skirts of secrecy? If all you can add to this blog is your personal hatred for others in the community, then it is time for you to shut up and sit down!
February 17th, 2009 at 10:36 am
this “o” person does seem like a tool who just wants to attack people for personal reasons.
can someone PLEASE give the guy a hug so he isn’t so bitter about life?
February 17th, 2009 at 10:56 am
Why do some of the people who live around the deck act like Piedmont Park is their personal park? It’s not. It’s the City’s park.
This mess about the majority of people being against the deck is nonsense. The 30 of so residents who show up to the NPU meetings are not the majority. The council overwhelmingly voted for the deck, because it was a non-issue with their constituents and made sense for the city as a whole.
February 17th, 2009 at 11:06 am
S. Dekalb Voter:
That is exactly what i am trying to say. It is the city of Atlanta’s and maybe when you are going to a green space you can find a green way to get there. Everyone in atlanta could take marta or bike to the park. I could care less that the deck is built really because i will never need it. My point is that we do not need to accomodate those from the burbs and the lazy.
February 17th, 2009 at 11:09 am
Is this what it comes down to? Name calling and personal attacks? I suppose when you can’t post a congruent thought with logical arguments…
@Beth:
I’ll address each and every sentence in your post.
Is is “dastardly” to visit first principals? Irrelevant. A neighbor and daily park user.(Irrelevant) Yet it was still approved by better informed individuals. In your memory. Faulty conclusion based on shaky premise. Not nearly as much as some people. “Jim” is a big boy (I think), he can take care of himself. All we have is his word on that, I’ve already addressed this please scroll up. I don’t personally hate anyone but I do hate the misinformation spread about this topic.
@Wesley:
I do hope that your irony was intentional. Though you, also, are operating under false premises. The only personal attack that I’ve made is one instance of name calling. For that I apologize.
@S. Dekalb:
Right. Bush served two terms. The masses aren’t necessarily wise. There are very few rational arguments against the deck. Hopefully I can put my finger on this breakdown of logic with Jim.
So Jim, should no private events be held at Magnolia hall? Or do you propose they be free to anyone to use?
February 17th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Edgewood Adam – take a look at MIdtown crime stats, especially the around 10th and Piedmont and then tell me why I should walk home. What alternative do you propose for my walk home.
You are a “jerk” for declaring that the park belongs to those who live around it. By your own words, it belongs more to me than you, so stay out of MY park.
For your information, I almost never drive to the park, except when the return trip is at night.
Any more ignorance you wish to display for teh reader of CL?
February 17th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Let’s see if these two statements match;
“As someone who lives here i feel like the park is ours. It is not for people who have to drive to get to it.”
vs.
“That is exactly what i am trying to say. It is the city of Atlanta’s”
That may be what you are TRYING to say, but it is clearly not what you said, is it?
I am curious which MARTA route I should take for six blocks at 11:00 at night? What “green” method would you suggest?
February 17th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
It’s all perspective. I am not a scared yuppie that is afraid to walk around where i own a home. If you want parking decks in your backyard, that is your choice. I do not live within eye shot of the park. I really do not care. But i find it mind blowing that you are so dependent on your car. Why not just move out to Alpharetta where it’s safe and there is tons of parking for all the yuppie events your heart desires.
February 17th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
You also took out the part where i said that i lived in edgewood so obviously i was talking about all of atlanta. Or do you not know where that is? Your poor reading comprehension or lack of knowledge of Atlanta neighborhoods does not take away from my point that either you are a gas guzzling suv a-hole, a lazy fat body, or just a scared yuppie if you can not make it to the park without driving.
February 17th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
You said that the park is for people who live near it. You then said later is is all of Atlanta’s. Which is it? Your two statements are contradictory.
How am I ignorant of Atlanta? I said I lived closer to the park than you and that, based on your own statments, the park belongs to me more than you. That means I know that Edgewood is farther away than my neighborhood.
I am not a scared yuppie afraid to walk around. I am a reasonable and prudent person who doesn’t wish to be a crime victim. Brilliant solution to your “green” ideal, I should move out of town and drive more. BTW, I drive a Civic and a single speed with “Cars R Coffins” hand painted on the top tube. Unfounded assumptions are a distinguishing characteristic of ignorant people and you have just displayed several.
When I asked if you wished to reveal more ignorance to the readers of CL, I didn’t think you would actually do it.
Now, in addition to a jerk, you have shown yourself to be an ignorant jerk with a backpack full of predjudices.
Care to continue?
February 17th, 2009 at 4:16 pm
Oh and thanks for not suggesting a MARTA route for me. BTW, which one brings you from Edgewood to Piedmont Park?
February 17th, 2009 at 4:24 pm
“It is not for people who have to drive to get to it.”
Edgewood Adam thinks the disabled should not attend, unless they want to schlep their chair or dog onto a MARTA bus. Ditto for really old people who don’t feel safe on MARTA.
You are such a sweet person.
February 17th, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Edgewood station to midtown station. Bike the rest of the way. Get exercise. Or just bike the whole way. And if there are not enough handicap spaces around the park then that is another issue that has nothing to do with a parking deck. Do you like it when chain eateries come into your neighborhood too? Maybe they can build an Applebees next to the parking deck? As far as a route for you, GET A BIKE. i would never even consider driving somewhere that close. This is what people in other cities do. And of course i wrote back. I am not intimidated by midtown yuppies in real life. Why the hell would i be on the internet?
What the hell am i predjudice about? lazy people? Yuppies?
I will admit being wrong about the suv though. I drive a civic as well.
February 17th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Does anyone else find it both laughable and pathetic that Zero comes here anonymously to smear Doug Abramson and then cries foul about perceived ad hominem attacks?
Deck proponents like Zero had( and apparently still have) a distressing habit of attacking the character and motives of people who opposed the deck rather than arguing the issues of access and accountability.
February 17th, 2009 at 4:53 pm
Wait, so you do own a bike. Why the hell dont you just use that to get to whatever afair you are attending in the park? Because if you are afraid of getting mugged on a fixy while riding it 6 blocks then you are a scared yuppie.
February 17th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
My god Jim. I asked you a direct question. Twice. Instead of answering you falsely accuse me of character assassination. I think you got “proponents” and “opposed” swapped in your last comment.
Once again, like it or not, everyone that posts comments here (with the exception of CL employees) is anonymous. Get over it.
I’ve asked you a straight question Jim. We will get to your hot topics in due course. For a third time Jim, should no private events be held at Magnolia hall? Do you propose Magnolia hall be free for anyone to use?
If question dodging and insult hurling is what the deck opponents bring… well it’s no wonder the deck got built!
February 17th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
Single, not a fixie. If you know bikes, you know they are distinctly different animals. If not, stop throwing lingo that you don’t understand. And you were giving me grief for my reading comprehension?
The other people can’t ride on my bike, especially in nice clothes after they have had a few drinks.
Chain restaurants? Yeah, that is exactly why I live in Midtown. WTF?
Handicap spaces? I thought you said the park is not for people who have to drive to it? By your definition, there should be NO handicapped parking at the park.
The prejudices I refer to are all the conclusions you reached about me and those who drive to the park on occasion. Fat yuppies, scared, assholes, etc
Why would you be afraid of anyone? If you walk around the park area late at night without fear, you are either a badass or a moron. I haven’t said anything intimidating. When I asked if you cared to continue, I meant do you care to continue to embarrassingly out yourself as a condescending jerk who seeks to exclude people from Piedmont Park based on their distance from it or inability to get there in a manner which does not carry the “Edgewood Adam Seal of Approval”.
I know exactly what a condescending jerk is… just ask Mr T, Andisheh, Wesley What What, Ken Edelstein, John Sugg or many others who have called me that before :-)
February 17th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
O an His Opponents – can we stipualte that blogs are anonymous and stop arguing that point? Unless you are a well known blogger (Grift, Sara, Andisheh), a CL employee or other well known media type, blog comments are unverifiable.
February 17th, 2009 at 6:07 pm
See what I mean?
February 17th, 2009 at 6:08 pm
I can be anyone on the blog, I just have to type it.
Anonymous and unverifiable…..
February 17th, 2009 at 6:09 pm
How about you take a cab? You and your yuppie friends can all split it instead of driving drunk home the 6 blocks you are afraid to walk. Problem solved. But I guess it is too late now. You guys got your precious parking deck. I really could care less. I just was suprised and disgusted that so called Atlanta residents would support such shopping mall like crap. And no I do not know shit about bikes. I have one and I ride it all over.
February 17th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
He’s right you know
February 17th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
i hate to change the subject from jerks and bikes which has been so entertaining (i think i heard some “BMF diddy rapper cousin” posters laughing at this page), but i’d like to humbly submit some actual evidence.
the deck as it looks today:
http://twitpic.com/1jlrs
http://twitpic.com/1jlqr
-w
February 17th, 2009 at 6:22 pm
not the worst thing in the world, but the manner in which it was handled is a blemish on the record of the atlanta botanical gards and the piedmont park conservancy.
kudos to friends of piedmont park for fighting for atlanta citizens’ right to be heard.
February 17th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
This is beginning sound like part 2 of the BMF blog. I expect more from you liberals.
February 17th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Edgewood Adam, I tried to tell you that making ignorant statements makes you look bad.
There is no driving drunk because I am the designated driver.
After pounding the “green” cause you suggest a cab. How is riding home in a clapped out Astro van or Crown Vic more green than driving?
I am still waiting for your green alternative to your ignorant and smarmy commentary.
The deck will be ADA compliant so I am pretty certain this will net more handicapped spaces for Piedmont Park. The deck will be required to devote 2% of it’s total spaces to ADA-compliant handicapped parking. Thats what 15 or 16 spaces? My 72 year old father will tell you that is a lot of access for people like him.
February 17th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
What’s a designated driver? Haha. Anyways have fun with your parking deck and lame park functions. I’ll be the guy riding my bike to and from. You can’t change everyone.
February 17th, 2009 at 9:16 pm
Wide Awake – the construction company should carry enough insurance and the contract should specifically indemnify the ABG and all related parties from damages. If not, the people who signed the contract are morons.
There should be no cost to the taxpayers.
February 17th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
That’s the difference between us, I have no desire to change you or anyone else.
You can’t change everyone’s mind…. no matter how many times you demonstrate that they are wrong.
February 17th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
Zero–
Why answer anonymous cowards
who come here to deride?
I’m at 553 Greenwood
I’ve no reason to hide
You said you’re a neighbor
I think that you lied
No true neighbor would slander
A guy like Doug—-
OK, it doesn’t rhyme, screw it…
February 17th, 2009 at 10:54 pm
Wow, I’ve missed a lot. As with many posts, I tend to identify with S. Dekalb…it annoys me that some people who live near Piedmont act like they’re the only folks who can decide what happens in the park.
While many of the deck’s opponents are well-intentioned and deserving of praise (Doug), the fact remains that this deck will make the park more accessible to more people, period. That’s a very good thing.
I can’t even begin to address our hard urban pioneer, Edgewood Adam, other than to say grow up douche. I live in Grant Park, have lived intown practically all of my adult life and I would do exactly as Dale does. Being safe is not stupid. And driving six blocks in a car is not the problem, Mr, Environmental.
February 17th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Jim, how old are you? What’s next, picking fights in the Grady parking lot.
Your fear of answering the question shows who the real coward is.
February 18th, 2009 at 9:01 am
This has really gotten off topic but what a sad statement it is for our city that you can not walk 6 blocks home from the park at night through one of the nicest neighborhoods in Atlanta without fear of being mugged. I certainly do not walk home from EAV down moreland and then down memorial to get home because my neighborhood is still very much developing. (i would ride a bike anywhere though) But i think i would do it through midtown especially if i was with a group. Maybe i am just stupid.
February 18th, 2009 at 10:09 am
Edgewood Adam-
I want to party w/ you in the EAV some time. How about we throw back a few cold ones at the Flatiron? I’ll bet you’re a blast to hang out with.
KYS
February 18th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Zero–
Lighten up, Francis…
Why would I want to debate someone who came here only to demean the character of a neighborhood hero? You showed your true colors with your nasty anonymous posts about Doug.
DaleC–I agree that the deck MAY improve access to the park for some. My problem (well, one of them..) is that the entire process was driven by the deck rather than by a comprehensive plan to improve access to the park. That debate never happened. As for access for the handicapped, you may recall the earlier controversy about “development”(paths and structures) on Oak Hill. Opponents of that plan were attacked as wanting to deny access to the handicapped. Guess what? Look at the paths today.(Hint: no wheelchairs allowed on the paths). So forgive me if I’m skeptical when the same crowd that positioned themselves as advocates for the handicapped then try to do so again.
February 18th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Jim – I took offense to some of Edgewood Adams statements. I am not aware that anyone advocated the deck from the standpoint of handicapped access, certainly I have not. I was merely pointing out an incorrect statement by someone else.
It MAY improve access for some? That is not even debateable. You can didlike the process and I understand that, but to debate the utility of the deck is a non-starter, especially for ABG patrons.
KYS – careful SUV fatass yuppies go the The Flatiron, wouldn’t want to expose you and Edgewood Adam to my yuppie virus. One whiff and you may never walk or ride a bike again. :-)
February 18th, 2009 at 11:20 am
Jim,
All you provide are red herrings and personal attacks. Does your wife put up with that bull shit?
February 18th, 2009 at 11:22 am
” I am not a scared yuppie that is afraid to walk around where i own a home. ”
then…
“I certainly do not walk home … because my neighborhood is still very much developing.”
So do you walk home at night or not? Maybe you are a scared hipster rather than a scared yuppie?
You really make this too easy.
February 18th, 2009 at 11:25 am
T – that was so sweet :-)
February 18th, 2009 at 11:26 am
Jim – I did appreciate tyhe Pee Wee Herman reference
February 18th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
That was a Stripes reference not a Pee Wee Herman one. And you just choose to see what you want to see. When i lived on Ponce i walked to and from the park alot. Even at night, mostly pretty drunk after weddings i went to at Park Tavern. I am admitting that i could be wrong about that area. It does not seem unsafe to me but i do not live there anymore. Would i walk home from the park through midtown? Yes. Would i walk home from EAV back to my house in Edgewood? No. All though i did try it a few times when i first bought my house. I look forward to a day when my neighborhood is as safe as yours. It is coming around but its a process. The nice thing is that my neighbors are musicians, artists, and working class people. Hopefully we develop into a cabbagetown like area though and not someplace where the residents yearn for suburban comforts like parking decks and waspy champagne functions in the park.
February 18th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
And thanks for the tip about Flat Iron. I ll make sure to wear yuppie repellant the next time i am there. (one part Black Flag, two parts Slayer, and some beer spilled on my shirt for good measure)
February 18th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Your right, Stripes not PeeWee. I was thinking of the rich kid Francis in Big Adventure.
Funny, I am a musician (writer and performer) and my wife sells art. Our neighbors are authors, professors, artists, architects, musicians, and other “working class” people (what ever the hell that means). You seem to think that Midtown is some weird ITP form of Alpharetta. It’s really nice here, except from about 9PM to about 7 AM. It’s not Omega Man, but it’s not Disney World either.
More fun with your words;
“Would I walk home from EAV back to my house in Edgewood? No. ”
vs.
“I am not a scared yuppie that is afraid to walk around where i own a home. ”
So, which is the truth? And which is a lie? Or is it semantics and you are a scared hipster/goth/geekster who is afraid to walk around where you own a home? Either way, you are obvioulsy afraid to walk in your neighborhood at night.
Your class envy just oozes out. It must be wonderful to be so superior in so many ways to others.
February 18th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
I am trying to meet you half way here. No i would not walk home from EAV but yes i do walk home from little 5 points (i can use whiteford/oakdale so it’s feasible). Of course i drive a car places when needed. My convuluted point is that the deck was probably not necessary except for the convenience factor for events that i do not care about. I am not stupid, i know that midtown is not alpharetta. Though if i had to rank my least favorite neighborhoods in Atlanta it would go Buckhead, Atlantic Station, and then Midtown. Just not a whole lot goes on that i am interested in those areas. (however i do like eating in midtown every now and again). As far as class envy goes I am 27 years old. I own my home, i have a solid job, and i play in a band that i love. What’s to envy? It’s easy and fun to hate on yuppies when you are young.(and im really not that young anymore). Im sure i will suck too when im 40. But until then its dive bars, public transportation, and stumbling home drunk for me.
February 18th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
And what the hell is a geekster?
February 18th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
morons.
especially the a-holes who just want to attack someone else.
grow up.
if u have nothing to say about the piedmont park deck, then step outside and conduct your slap fight without bothering the rest of us.
better yet, get a job that keeps u busy.
February 18th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
DaleC–I agree that ABG patrons will likely benefit most from the deck. For park patrons, I expect the benefit (in turns of increased access) will be minimal and the costs significant. Hearing comments from park visitors who expect that the deck will solve parking problems during large events leads me to believe (1) traffic jams in and around the park will worsen(i.e., if you build it they will come) and (2) lots of frustrated patrons will be denied entrance to the deck.
Zero–careful there…
February 19th, 2009 at 10:37 am
i hate to change the subject from jerks and bikes which has been so entertaining (i think i heard some “BMF diddy rapper cousin” posters laughing at this page), but i’d like to humbly submit some actual evidence.
the deck as it looks today:
http://twitpic.com/1jlrs
http://twitpic.com/1jlqr
-w
February 19th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
That cannot be the deck. ABG and PPC said the deck will not be visible. And Zero has said that if you go to the park you will not be able to locate the deck construction site. So whatever that massive structure is, it cannot be the deck.
February 19th, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Jim are you so small minded that you take the construction site sans facade as providing the final presentation? That’s as asinine as claiming it to be an eyesore because there was a crane present! Pettit isn’t your last name, it’s an adjective! Perhaps you should use the alias “Jim pettit penseur.”
Yes wesley, I road up to it not 10 minutes ago stood at nearly the exact vantage point as your second photo. What can barely be made out in that picture is the dirt held by a retaining wall along the southern face. Planted with trees similar to the evergreans along the lake*.[flicker] The structure as in your first photo will be all but hidden.
I am looking forward to when they close the bridge to vehicle traffic and tear out the current lot. No more near hits with idiots driving on their phones in the park!
Now to address pettit penseur’s points. I’m sure you know that the deck will be accessed by Evelyn St. A non-residential road that intersects Monroe. On a typical day, this means a huge reduction in traffic on Park, Orme and Elmwood. On days of high demand (your second point) access may be denied directly at Monroe. During events, the current lot is closed anyway (at the bridge no less) so that point is moot.
Something that had botherd me was the idea that parking should be at the periphery of the park. Putting perking there renders it useless for events at Magnolia hall not to mention forcing people to cross the beltline on foot.
*not my photo.
February 19th, 2009 at 10:13 pm
Zero-
Wait a minute…not long ago, you claimed that it would be all but impossible for park visitors to locate the deck site…and now you’ve easily found it! Congratulations!
Also, before you attempt to mangle French, work on your English;
it’s rode, not road, evergreens not evergreans, bothered not botherd.
Yes, plant a few trees and the deck will disappear….happily ever after…hold on, are those flying pigs??
February 19th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
So they are closing the road in over the bridge on Park? Sweet. It’s always a pain to ride or run through that little traffic gauntlet.
February 19th, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Pettit, such a sorry little man!
DaleC – Isn’t that great? I’ve been nearly hit a half dozen times by cars whose drivers weren’t paying attention. It seems like the footprint of the deck is smaller then the current lot as well. Once they tear it out it will be a net gain of greenspace.
February 20th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Poor Zero–
You just don’t get it.
The deck is a done deal. Time will tell.
This article was about Doug Abramson receiving a well-deserved award for PUBLIC service.
And you chose the sewer–an anonymous gutter-snipe spewing filth on a person I admire. I object to that. So I post my name and toss your nasty crap back your way, and you think I’M to blame….
Friends defend friends. Get some, or even one.
I’m done here.
February 20th, 2009 at 10:23 pm
Oops… wrong…one more thing…
It took courage for Doug Abramson to take a public stand against powerful political entities….it took the exact opposite quality for a moral zero to try to smear Doug….
Live with yourself…ZERO
February 21st, 2009 at 10:55 am
No little Jim. I get it just fine.
You are right. The deck IS a done deal. That’s the first accurate thing you’ve posted.
Perhaps Doug does deserve an award for public service. I don’t know what other crusades he has been on. What I do know is that he doesn’t deserve an award for his litigious attacks against the PPC and ABG.
The deck is the rational choice for all parties including the patrons and neighbors. Anyone that takes an hour with the plans, the criticisms and an open mind would see that. Then there are those that have a knee jerk, thoughtless and purely emotional reaction when they hear the phrases “parking deck” and “Piedmont park” in the same sentence. Upset that no bones were thrown his way and that he had no input on the final plan he turned to litigation.
Throwing the dice one last time or salting the earth as he lost the war, I won’t pretend to know what his motives were. In any case, the result was the same, any kernel of valid criticism he had in his suit was mired down by half truths and baseless accusations that he schlepped on top. I wouldn’t doubt that the inconsistencies in his suit was part of the reason he was ruled against. He could have taken his defeat with dignity (and been deserving of recognition) but instead, he went out kicking and screaming still to no avail.
And you “little” Jim? The only argument you can bring forth (and you do so with nauseating regularity) is that of my anonymity. To that I say that you seem like a loose cannon. It doesn’t seem prudent to put myself or those I love in danger. I didn’t miss the thinly veiled threats in this thread.
Friends? I have plenty. That’s why I’m not posting dreck online at 9 and 10:30 on a Friday night.
February 23rd, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Zero…
Your rhetoric is sickening, ugly and repulsive. You should be ashamed of your cowardly accusations. I hope you are getting paid for the vile PR you have been spewing on behalf of the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. It is a sad for someone like me to read your misinformed and erroneous bile. But on the other hand, I am tickled to say that this Beltline project is so screwed up at the moment, not to mention that Amtrak is considering commandeering the railroad tracks, that the Park Drive bridge may be the only way cars can access the deck from Monroe Dr.!! Isn’t that wonderful? All those folks on Park Drive who sold their soul to the parking deck to get the cars off their street will now have to face the reality of the entrance to the deck going over their precious (public) Park Drive bridge…oh, I can hear the screams now….how sad…a deal with the devil is treacherous indeed. Jim, thank you for trying to respond to this less than significant person with reason and actual facts. Zero, I find it hilarious that you feel threatened! You have done nothing but threaten Jim and those with differing opinions from yours this entire blog and made it scarily personal…I can see why you are ashamed to be outed. The deck is an abomination and embarrassment to the City of Atlanta. AND, it will not be user friendly to those chomping at the bit to pull into one of the coveted spaces. For the record the deck, and whatever spaces that can be used in it, is available to Park users at the discretion of the ABG! When the big, garish,flashing sign on Monroe Drive informs you that the deck is full or not available, you will be totally without recourse. Closed out of your own park. No parking on neighborhood streets either. That is going to be by residential permit only. Piedmont Park is not going to be accessible to you. Now that is the really sad part of this entire debacle. Selling the deck as a way to make the Park more accessible is a joke. Oh, and bring your money, you’ll have to pay to park in your own park now.
February 23rd, 2009 at 11:18 pm
Beth, show me one threat that I’ve made. Just one.
Right.
You strike me as a very vengeful woman. Joyful that the beltline is having troubles. Happy that people that live next to the park have to deal with traffic.
Do you even live inside the perimeter?
Did you read the article that you linked to above?
Are you trying to look like a fool?
February 27th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
0=zero=fail
February 27th, 2009 at 2:48 pm
Wesley, you and Jim are two peas in a pod. No real substance.
Actually, reading over your posts, it isn’t really fair to Jim to group the two of you together. Misguided as he is, at least Jim attempts to move the dialog. All you do is throw around names like “tool”, “douche”, “moron”, and “piece of shit.”
Jesus man, you’re a looser. Go back to your internet porn or playing with your wii or what ever it is you do.
February 27th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
if the shoe fits, wear it.
February 27th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
i just call it like i, and everyone else, see it.
if u don’t like people responding to your attacks with criticisms of how u are a douche, then
a) stop attacking people just beacuse they hold a different opinion than u on a PARKING DECK lol or
b) stop being a douche in your interactions with people.
in your case, i think (a) will be easier than (b).
your choice, though. or i suppose u can continue to keep attacking people and then acting hurt when people point out what a “looser” u r, lol.
btw, no need to call me “jesus”. my name is actually wesley. i don’t need to hide behind pseudonyms.
February 28th, 2009 at 12:11 am
this sounds so stupid.. at least the BMF diddy’s blog had a real story behind it.. a bloody parking deck? give me a break!
February 28th, 2009 at 12:33 am
They have something else in common. The BMF going to jail and the deck getting built will benefit the community-at-large while enraging a vocal minority.
March 2nd, 2009 at 3:32 pm
i don’t see an enraged minority.
i see lots of people asking questions that have yet to be answered.
attempting to marginalize the questioners doesn’t address the issues at hand.
or maybe that’s the idea???
March 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm
Way to go, Doug and Susan! You deserve a medal for taking on the entrenched interests and their endless, misleading PR games. It was a fight worth fighting – as the overwhelming support of the neighborhoods across Atlanta demonstrated. Now if we just had a city government that listened to the neighborhoods …
March 2nd, 2009 at 5:47 pm
a “miffed” minority?
March 3rd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
“miffed” sounds fair but i’m not convinced that the majority or people actually support this parking deck.
from what i’ve seen/heard, most people think it sets a poor precedent and raises lots of questions about the ABG and piedmont park conservancy that need to be addressed.
these institutions seem to be failing the citizens of atlanta and lots of people are concerned about that.
March 3rd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
I think that “what you have seen/heard” comes from the vocal minority to which I referred. The vast majority of Atlantans probably haven’t even heard or they don’t care.
March 3rd, 2009 at 1:45 pm
That would explain why thousands of people didn’t show up to fight the deck. Those who supported the deck let ABG fight the battle, while those who opposed it coalesced under the efforts led by Doug The Exalted.
March 6th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
I have known Doug Abramson my entire life and can vouch for the fact he has been a conscientous worker in this city as long as I can remember, always a real part of the community and giving back.
Anyone who accuses him of selfish machinations has no idea who they are talking about.
Here’s to the Abramsons and here’s to the ABG’s summertime attendance being DOWN!
March 17th, 2009 at 2:11 am
Hooray for Doug! He is an inspiration to all who believe the public has a right to know how tax dollars are being spent. Doug is a citizen hero! The ABG’s legacy will be a parking deck. Doug’s will be honesty and integrity. Thank you Doug!
April 6th, 2009 at 6:15 am
Hello. I am free of all prejudice. I hate everyone equally.
I am from Zealand and know bad English, give true I wrote the following sentence: “Cheap flights and low cost airline tickets.”
Thank you so much for your future answers 8-). Caledonia.