One of Fairburn's communities

is starting to take back the streets.

In the small neighborhood of

Lightning, shotgun houses offer a glimpse into the past, but the residents

hope to have a brighter future.

"We've had several arrests

in the area for loitering and drug trafficking," said Police Chief

Mackie Carson.

The neighborhood was often

filled with residents who rented property and used the location for illegal

activities.

But in the last few years,

more than 22 Habitat for Humanity homes have been built in the area, and

the owners want the neighborhood cleaned up and crime-free.

"These new owners are

really taking pride in their neighborhood and we're glad to help them,"

Carson said.

On a stormy Tuesday, residents

gathered to erect Neighborhood Watch signs to show visitors that they

are serious about taking back the streets.

So far, the Neighborhood Watch

organization has been cleaning up the area and targeting residents who

don't take care of their property. The organization is actively seeking

the city's expertise and has already had code enforcement officer Danny

Dodson and Fairburn Housing Authority director Andre Netterville speak

at their meetings.

The group stages activities

at the park every second Saturday and holds meetings on the last Thursday

of every month.