Paul Brown, president of the Friends of the Auburn Library, was recognized for his service to the community on Saturday, March 15, with a new road dedicated and named in his honor.

Paul Brown Lane, the road that runs between Auburn City BBQ and City Hall, is suitably parallel to the Auburn City Library and allows access to library parking.

Brown, a full-time firefighter and paramedic with DeKalb County, has lived in Auburn since 1993 and has served the community in a number of ways.

Former Mayor Harold Money and current Mayor Linda Blechinger spoke at the dedication.

Brown is president of Friends of the Auburn Library, the Auburn Historical Society and Citizens for a Better Auburn. He has served on the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Planning and Zoning Board, and is the Chair of the Charter Review Committee.

Brown is the executive director of Barrow County Habitat for Humanity, and has volunteered with the group since it began 13 years ago.

Brown has also served on the Barrow County Library Board and is a member of the Barrow County Chamber of Commerce (BOC).

In 2006 the BOC named Brown Volunteer of the Year for Barrow County.

Brown was a volunteer firefighter for the Auburn Fire Station for eight years. He also volunteers with Boy Scout Troop 774, the United Methodist Men's Group and the Knights of Columbus.

Blechinger said Brown is a prime example of "a good citizen."

David Hawthorne, director of Public Works, revealed one of the new signs which was next to the library, during the ceremony. About 20 people attended the road dedication at noon on Saturday and a reception followed the ceremony.

Brown said he was honored and thankful for the recognition.

Originally published Sunday, March 23, 2008