Roswell is submitting an application for a $2 million loan from the state to fund a “green infrastructure and urban reforestation project” using plantings and other solutions to handle stormwater on Mimosa Boulevard in the city’s historic district.
The City Council on recently passed a resolution to apply for the funds out of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority’s Stormwater Loan Program. Possible improvements include “bioretention areas” or gardens to handle runoff, as well as sidewalk planters, tree boxes, pervious pavers and a restored urban tree canopy with new trees.
The 15-year loan would be repaid out of the Stormwater Utility Fund. GEFA 15-year loans had an interest rate of 0.65 percent as of August. Once the loan application process is completed, a final project proposal and budget are expected in 2017 to seek loan approval.
“Mimosa Boulevard is in the heart of the city’s historic district and has the potential to expand the city’s vision of livable, walkable pedestrian areas in the district and connect Canton Street to the (Roswell Historic) Square,” according to a staff report.
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