The Atlanta City Council has officially approved the renaming of a major street and park in honor of former Mayor Shirley Franklin, recognizing her lasting impact on the city.
Effective February 5, Central Avenue will be renamed “Shirley Clarke Franklin Boulevard”, and Westside Reservoir Park will become “Shirley Clarke Franklin Park.”
The move commemorates Franklin’s tenure as Atlanta’s first woman and first Black woman mayor, as well as her leadership in advancing infrastructure, sustainability, and urban development.
“Renaming Central Avenue and Westside Reservoir Park after former Mayor Shirley Franklin is a testament to her enduring legacy and profound impact on Atlanta,” said District 10 Council member Andrea Boone.
Serving as Atlanta’s 58th mayor from 2002 to 2010, Franklin played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s landscape. She spearheaded the Atlanta Beltline project, led the revitalization of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, and championed environmental initiatives, including the Clean Water Atlanta program to modernize the city’s aging sewer system. Under her leadership, Atlanta also saw a significant increase in LEED-certified green buildings.
Although born in Philadelphia, Franklin has been a central figure in Atlanta politics since the administration of former Mayor Maynard Jackson. Her visionary leadership earned her nationwide recognition and a landslide reelection victory.
District 9 Council member Dustin Hillis stressed Franklin’s foresight in acquiring land for what is now Westside Park, calling it “a testament to Mayor Franklin’s leadership, her commitment to our city’s future, and the resilience of the people she served.”
With these renamings, Franklin’s dedication to Atlanta will be permanently woven into the city’s landscape, ensuring her contributions continue to inspire future generations.
