ABC co-founder and longtime Executive Director died July 15 of complications from a brain tumor. He was remembered fondly at a well-attended memorial at Southface, another Atlanta organization where he made a big impact. 

On my way to the service, I biked down the short stretch of bike lane on Peachtree Street and was reminded of a black and white photo in our office depicting Dennis biking down Peachtree Street. In the photo he's leading a advocacy ride and carrying a sign reading "Bike Lanes Now!"

Getting the bike lane on Peachtree Street had been a goal of ABC since the early days, both for its utility and the statement it makes. 

Why not honor Dennis by naming the first section of bike lane on Peachtree Street after him?

We mentioned the idea at the memorial and people liked it, so we asked Councilmember Kwanza Hall, who represents the area, to help make it happen.

Hall and his staff quickly introduced legislation to create the Dennis Hoffarth Memorial Bike Lane that is now making its way through the Neighborhood Planning Unit and City Council. Assuming it is approved, we'll host a gathering to rededicate the bike lane later this fall. The Department of Public Works has been supportive as well - even offering to split the cost of the signs with us. 

The bike lane may be just a short stretch now - between Ralph McGill and Pine Street - but you have to start somewhere.

Dennis knew this, and he started many good things during his lifetime that are gaining more momentum everyday.

You can read more about his many accomplishments here, or read about the memorial bike lane in the AJC.