Norcross was honored at the Atlanta Regional Commission’s January board meeting for upgrading to the platinum level in ARC’s Green Communities program for leadership in implementing policies and practices that contribute to the efficient and sustainable use of resources.
Norcross, which first earned gold certification in 2011, becomes the second city in the region to be certified platinum. Douglasville and Milton were also recognized for recertifying or upgrading their certification in the program in 2016.
The steps Norcross took to reach platinum certification include building the Norcross Community Garden at Discovery Garden Park, providing community access to raised gardening beds, cooking equipment, a community pavilion and educational materials. In addition, the city installed a level II electric vehicle recharging station at city hall and utilized innovative measures to capture excess stormwater, including the construction of a large rain garden, installing bioswales along neighborhood streets and restoring a streambank that runs through downtown.
The city was also recognized for promoting smart growth through its Conservation Subdivision Ordinance, its Livable Centers Initiative plans, and earning designation as a Tree City USA Community for the past 12 years.
Information: www.atlantaregional.com/greencommunities.
