Last week on my talk show I had some people call in complaining about the tradition in Metro Atlanta about re-naming roads and bridges after local dignitaries. The callers pointed out the costs associated with these changes and the fact that most people don't know who these roads and bridges are named for.
I understood their concerns, but I just think we are going about the naming process the wrong way. We need to start naming places, roads and bridges with memorable names. Names that will stand the test of time. Names that will carry-on from generation to generation. Names, that perhaps will put a smile on your face and ease your commute. Below you will find five of my suggested name changes. If you can think of any more, I'd love to hear from you.
My suggestions:
The Mother Teresa I-85 HOT-Express Lane: Maybe people would be more reluctant to criticize the HOT lanes if they were named after a modern day saint. I know my job would be more interesting and enjoyable if I could say every morning "it's only two dollars right now if you take the Mother Teresa Lane from Old Peachtree to Shallowford Road."
The Sonny Corleone Memorial Toll Plaza: Named in honor of eldest Corleone son who lost his life at a New York toll plaza in perhaps the greatest movie of all time. Paying 50 cents would be seen less painful when people are reminded of Sonny's demise. No one has ever had a worse time paying a toll than Sonny Corleone did.
Clark Howard Camp Creek Parkway: Honoring a man who has provided the metro area with cheap airfares for decades. Camp Creek Parkway is a great way to get to the airport, and as such would be a nice tribute to Atlanta's favorite cheapskate. Plus, Clark would approve of the low-cost off airport parking options along Camp Creek Parkway.
Turner-Marcus Boulevard: This would rename Marietta Boulevard in honor of two men who have added much to the culture and landscape of Downtown Atlanta, Ted Turner and Bernie Marcus. Turner's CNN complex put Atlanta on the international map, and Marcus' generous donation of the Georgia Aquarium has brought millions of visitors to our city. Marietta Boulevard is a great way to get to CNN and the Georgia Aquarium and would be a fitting tribute. Plus, no one uses Marietta Boulevard to go to Marietta anymore.
Sid Bream Street: This would rename Fulton Street a popular exit off of the Downtown Connector as folks head to Turner Field for Braves games. You can trace the Braves massive success through the '90s and early 2000's to Sid's slide. While other former Braves will soon be honored with induction into the Baseball Hall Of Fame, this would be a great tribute to a man that helped kicked off the greatest run in Braves history.
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