addressed in concert, maintaining both the safety and quality of life for Forest Park’s residents. At the heart of Forest Park’s strategy is the enhancement of its road and water systems. The city currently supports a population of nearly 20,000 residents, all relying on an aging infrastructure that needs consistent upgrades to meet new demands. The roadways, while not in critical condition, need to be improved gradually as traffic volumes increase. Water systems, similarly, require maintenance and expansion to support the growing population. Clark emphasizes that these improvements cannot be delayed — patching and piecemeal solutions must be continuously applied while the city works toward long-term fixes. Simultaneously, Forest Park is focusing on addressing the needs of its senior population, whom Clark refers to as the city’s “legacy residents.” As these residents move into their later years, they are seeking more manageable housing options that allow them to remain part of the community without the burden of maintaining large homes. The development of communities like Forest Station, which offers affordable one and twobedroom housing for residents aged 55 and older, is a prime example of how the city is catering to this demographic. Clark emphasizes the importance of ensuring seniors can “age in place” rather than being forced out due to a lack of suitable housing options. This focus on affordable, community-centric housing aligns with Forest Park’s broader goals of inclusivity and sustainability. Forest Park is not only about maintaining its existing charm but also about embracing modern innovations. When asked about residents’ reactions to the city’s growth, Clark notes that the community is excited about the changes. “Our residents are more excited about the future,” he says, pointing to the city’s ability to balance tradition with progress. Residents still recognize Forest Park as the place they grew up in, but they also see the benefits of modernizing infrastructure and amenities. Lloyd adds that the city’s “ONE Light” initiative is a key part of this modernization effort. Through a partnership with Georgia Power, the city is replacing outdated HID light fixtures with energy-efficient LED lights. 145 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11 FOREST PARK, GA
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx