Newly Formed Coalition Concerned About Future Of Old Atlanta Prison Farm

Years back, the Old Atlanta Prison Farm was the city’s largest vacant property.

The future of the dilapidated structure has been the center of controversy for several years.

Earlier this year, the Atlanta Police Foundation released drawings for what could be a new public safety training academy.

But many are in opposition, including Defend the Atlanta Forest, a newly created coalition of people and organizations trying to prevent the largest remaining segment of the forest from being destroyed.

On Monday’s edition of “Closer Look,” ecologist Nissa Sylvatica, a member of Defend the Atlanta Forest, told show host Rose Scott that Atlanta’s tree canopy is in danger and that developing the property into a police training center during the height of calls for police reform throughout the nation is not the correct path forward.

Ecologist Nissa Sylvatica joins "Closer Look" to discuss Atlanta’s tree canopy and her views on proposed development of Old Atlanta Prison Farm property.
Ecologist Nissa Sylvatica joins “Closer Look” to discuss Atlanta’s tree canopy and her views on proposed development of the Old Atlanta Prison Farm property.

To listen to the full conversation, click the audio player below.