From Abandoned Gas Station to Thriving Greenway
In the heart of DeKalb County, a remarkable transformation has taken place. What was once an abandoned gas station on a vacant strip of land—has blossomed into a greenway, breathing new life into the community. This inspiring redevelopment is a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and the Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund (BRLF) administered by Decide DeKalb.
A Site with History
The one-acre property at 890 S. Columbia Drive in Decatur has a history dating back to the 1940s. Originally developed as a gas station, it later served as a repair shop. However, since its abandonment in 1999, the site had fallen into disrepair, becoming a blight on the landscape and a potential environmental hazard.
A Nonprofit’s Vision
In 2016, a local nonprofit organization approached Decide DeKalb with an ambitious vision: to transform this neglected space into something special for the community. They saw beyond the deteriorating structures and contaminated soil, envisioning a green oasis that would enhance the ecosystem, protect the watershed, and support human health.
The Challenge of Contamination
The site presented significant environmental challenges. Years of operation as a gas station and repair shop had left the soil contaminated with petroleum substances. Before any redevelopment could occur, extensive remediation was necessary to ensure the safety of the community and the local environment.
Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund to the Rescue
This is where Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund proved invaluable. The nonprofit applied for grant funding to remediate the property, setting in motion a year-long process of careful environmental cleanup.
The Transformation Process
The remediation effort was no small feat. It involved:
- Removing old, underground storage tanks
- Excavating and properly disposing of contaminated soil
- Unearthing and removing a buried car (an unexpected find!)
Throughout this process, environmental experts worked to ensure that all contaminants were safely removed, preparing the site for its new life as a community asset.
A New Lease on Life
Today, the East Decatur Greenway stands as a shining example of successful brownfield redevelopment. Where once stood a dilapidated gas station, visitors now find a greenway.
This transformed space offers numerous benefits to the community:
- Enhanced ecosystem: Native plants and trees now thrive where contaminated
soil once lay - Improved watershed protection: The removal of pollutants helps safeguard local
water resources - Community health: The greenway provides a space for recreation and relaxation,
promoting physical and mental well-being
Looking to the Future
The transformation of 890 S. Columbia Drive is more than just a single project—it’s a model for future brownfield redevelopment in DeKalb County and beyond. It shows how, with the right support and resources, even the most neglected spaces can be reborn as valuable community assets.