Georgia Conservancy to hold forum on Northern Arc

ATLANTA - Opponents of the Northern Arc are trying to garner support for their cause by turning their attention toward Atlanta.

The Georgia Conservancy is holding a forum Wednesday night to present differing opinions on the proposed Northern Arc, which would extend from Georgia 400 to I-75.

Proponents say the road will help relieve traffic congestion and smog north of Atlanta. Opponents say it will continue to hurt the economic conditions on the southside of Atlanta.

"The neighborhoods that need development and jobs the most have a stake in the Arc issue," Georgia State Senator Vincent Forte said. "They are mostly African-American."

Opponents also say the road would deplete monies that could go towards other projects they feel are more pressing.