News Release

National Park Service Issues Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for Paces Mill Rehabilitation Environmental Assessment

Date: October 7, 2022
Contact: Beth Wheeler, 404-803-7641

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – The National Park Service (NPS) today announced the availability of the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Paces Mill Unit Rehabilitation Environmental Assessment (EA). Alternative 2, the preferred alternative, was selected. The FONSI, EA, and related documents are available on the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website.

Under the selected alternative, Paces Mill would undergo a full-scale site rehabilitation and reconfiguration, which would include upgrades to the site’s physical design, appearance, and infrastructure to address current deficiencies. The rehabilitated site would create a strong NPS identity, improve the safety and circulation of the site, and foster an enjoyable visitor experience.

“We are pleased to reach this major milestone and conclude the planning process for this project,” said Superintendent Ann Honious. “Our team looks forward to continuing our partnership with the Cumberland Community Improvement District to implement this plan and revitalize Paces Mill for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future visitors.”

Paces Mill, in the Palisades unit, is the southernmost and farthest downstream facility of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. This makes it the last “take-out” point for casual rafters and kayakers. Paces Mill is used most often for river access, picnicking, jogging and hiking. It is a key destination with an estimated 270,000 annual visitors.

www.nps.gov

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 423 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.