Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1546131
86 maconmagazine.com | August/September 2026 W h a t t ra n s p o r t a t i o n m e a n s fo r C e n t ra l G e o r g i a's f u t u r e T H E E N D O F T H E R O A D STORY BY WESTON STROUD | PHOTOS BY MATT ODOM O ver the past year, Central Georgia has experienced one of its strongest years of investment in walking, bicycling, and public transportation. Across Macon-Bibb County, new sidewalks have been built, bicycle facilities expanded, bus stops upgraded, and public spaces transformed. At first glance, these appear to be routine infrastructure projects, and they certainly don't always make the news. But they reflect a much larger conversation taking place across America about what transportation is for, who it serves, and ultimately, who should pay for it. This year, Macon-Bibb County completed nearly three miles of new sidewalks through three major projects. Barrington Hall added 14,402 feet (2.11 miles) of sidewalk, Hollingsworth Drive added 3,000 feet (0.57 miles), and Pine Hill Drive added 1,600 feet (0.30 miles). These sidewalks improve access to neighborhoods that previously lacked safe pedestrian infrastructure. At the same time, nearly 100 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant curb ramps were installed or upgraded through county and state projects, making streets more accessible for seniors, people with disabilities, parents pushing strollers, and anyone traveling on foot. Bicycling infrastructure also saw one of its largest expansions in recent years. The county added 0.6 miles of bike lanes on Montpelier Avenue between Pio Nono Avenue and Johnson Avenue, 0.9 miles on Roff Avenue between Bartlett Street and Brookdale Avenue, and 5.6 miles along Sardis Church Road from Frank Anderson Parkway to Avondale Mill Road. The Macon Transit Authority also incorporated approximately 600 feet of bicycle facilities as part of the new Spirit of Macon Park adjacent to the Transfer Station, strengthening the connection between downtown, public transit, and the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. Shared lane markings were also added along portions of College Street and Forsyth Road, continuing to build a more connected network for cyclists