Road Repaving Begins at Oakland

If you’ve been to Oakland Cemetery lately, you may have noticed that its asphalt roads are in need of repair, with potholes and uneven gutters causing safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. That’s about to change. With over $2.4 million from the 2022 Move Atlanta Forward infrastructure bond, the City of Atlanta is repaving nearly two miles of roads at Oakland, replacing failing water lines, installing irrigation for Oakland’s gardens, improving drainage and soil stability, and repairing gutters.

The repaving work will take place in three phases. Phase one started this week and will focus on roads in the western half of the cemetery on Bell Tower Ridge. The Cemetery will remain open to visitors while the work is happening, though visitors should be aware that vehicle access to the cemetery will be limited. Families visiting loved ones should contact the Cemetery sexton, Sam Reed, at 404-658-6019 to inquire about accessibility.

Phases two and three will focus on the historic African American Grounds near Potter’s Field, East Hill, and Oakland’s Original Six Acres just inside the main gate.

This major accessibility improvement at Oakland would not be possible without the support of our partners in the Department of Parks and Recreation and the City Council, in recognition of the Cemetery’s importance as a vibrant place for visitors and neighbors alike.

Stay up-to-date with repaving progress and how it might impact your visit to Oakland Cemetery on our website, Facebook, and Instagram.