Chattahoochee River

The Chattahoochee River, runs 430 miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia through Alabama and Florida, is a crucial natural resource to the southeastern states. Historically, the Chattahoochee River gave traction to Atlanta's growth by providing water, transportation, and power for mills and factories (New Georgia Encyclopedia). Today, the river remains a vital source of  drinking water, recreation, and biodiversity (U.S. Geological Survey).

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

Bankhead

Bankhead, a neighborhood in Atlanta, was named after Bankhead Highway, an early 20th-century route honoring Alabama Congressman John H. Bankhead (GPB.org). By the mid-20th century, demographic shifts saw white residents move to the suburbs while Black families settled in Bankhead, facing economic challenges due to redlining and disinvestment (Storymaps.Arcgis.com). Despite hardships, Bankhead became a hip-hop, bringing up influential artists such as T.I. and bringing life to the Bankhead Bounce. Today, revitalization efforts like Microsoft's Westside campus, Westside Park, and the Bellwood Quarry bring new opportunities and access but also a rise in the impact of gentrification. (canopyatlanta.org).

Bellwood Quarry & Chattahoochee River Connection:

• Quarry transformed into a 2.4 billion-gallon reservoir, Atlanta's emergency water supply.
• Connected to the Chattahoochee River via a 5-mile tunnel system, ensuring water reserves for 30+ days.