Going Green With Golf Carts

A Peachtree City family enjoys a ride on a golf cart.

Peachtree City in Georgia is also known as “Golf Cart City.” The community, just south of Atlanta, has received several awards for its quality of living, including a “Tree City USA” designation by the Arbor Day Foundation in 2001.

“Many experts come to study our city even though we’re considered much older than other communities,” says Mayor Vanessa Fleisch. “We have a great reputation for being a strong and healthy community.”

An environmentally friendly golf cart system is one reason that Peachtree City is a great place to live. More than 9,000 households own electric golf carts. The carts cut down on gasoline emissions and allow residents a convenient way to get around. The city even allows kids ages 12 and over to drive their own golf cart with an adult.

There are more than 90 miles of paved, tree-lined paths for golf carts, bicyclists, and pedestrians. The paths lead through parks, community gardens, and nature trails. Lakes and an outdoor amphitheater are also accessible.

PRESERVING NATURE

The parking lot at McIntosh High School in Peachtree City

“There is a conscious effort to try and have things remain natural,” says Al Yougel, a volunteer for “Keep Peachtree City Beautiful,” an organization that encourages residents to recycle, cut down on litter, and preserve green spaces.

The city, Yougel explains, tries to interfere with nature as infrequently as possible. “If a tree falls without creating a safety hazard,” he says, “it’s left to complete its natural decaying process.”

In recent years, Peachtree City has also become home to a growing film industry. Spotting a celebrity at a local restaurant or a camera crew in the neighborhood is becoming routine. So beware: Your next golf cart ride could lead you to a beautiful sunset on the lake—or to the taping of a zombie apocalypse movie!