Showing up for Franklin Gateway
When decisions are being made about land, development, and the future of a community, the voices of those who live there matter most, especially the voices of young people who will grow up with the outcomes of those decisions. That belief was put into action recently as YELLS youth and teens showed up, spoke up, and advocated for the Franklin Gateway community at two City of Marietta Council Meetings.
In December, the City of Marietta purchased a 34-acre vacant plot of land in the Franklin Gateway neighborhood. While the site has been discussed as a possible location for a new professional women’s soccer training facility, no final decisions have been made about its future use. As plans develop, YELLS youth recognized the importance of ensuring community voices are not only included, but prioritized. When the City held council meetings to discuss the property, YELLS youth and teens took swift action. They attended two separate City Council Meetings to learn, listen, and advocate for their neighborhood.
At the first meeting, youth and teens had the opportunity to meet directly with Mayor Tumlin and City Council members and share their ideas for how the land could best serve the Franklin Gateway community. They spoke thoughtfully about the need for spaces that bring neighbors together, including a community garden, a public playground, and welcoming gathering spaces where families could connect. Youth also shared their vision for a recreation center and a community amphitheater, places that would promote recreation, creativity, safety, and opportunity for everyone who calls Franklin Gateway home.
At the second council meeting, a YELLS teen and a parent both spoke during public comment, sharing their perspectives and emphasizing the importance of community-centered planning. Speaking before city leaders, they advocated for development that reflects the needs, hopes, and voices of the people who live in the neighborhood every day.
As plans continue to develop, community input remains essential. Franklin Gateway residents are encouraged to take the Community Input Survey: Franklin Gateway Land Use, which gathers public input to inform development plans for a property with major implications for housing, access, and quality of life on Franklin Gateway. YELLS youth will share the feedback with Mayor Tumlin, City Council, and other decision makers. We’re fortunate to have City leaders who listen to our youth, and we’re looking forward to working with them and other stakeholders. This survey is a powerful way for residents to lift up their ideas, priorities, and concerns, and to ensure that community voices help guide decisions that will impact Franklin Gateway for years to come.
YELLS youth have shown what’s possible when people speak up for their community. Now, we invite you to join them.
Take the Community Input Survey, share your voice, and be part of shaping the future of Franklin Gateway.
