Cedar Grove Park project advances with community support for indoor pool and recreation center

In a recent South Fulton City Council meeting, community engagement and park development took center stage as officials discussed the Cedar Grove Park project. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as council members and residents alike expressed their desire for enhanced recreational facilities in the area.

The meeting began with a proposal for a community pride initiative, where residents could vote on the best-kept homes and yards in their neighborhoods. This idea aimed to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among homeowners, encouraging them to maintain clean and vibrant surroundings.

As the discussion shifted to the Cedar Grove Park project, Tannar Turner, the director of Parks and Recreation, and Carlos Perez from Perez Planning and Design presented updates on the park's conceptual master plan. They highlighted the importance of equitable access to recreational facilities, particularly in District 4, which has been identified as lacking essential amenities.

The presentation outlined three conceptual designs for the park, with the community showing a clear preference for a plan that includes an indoor pool, a splash pad, and a playground. The estimated cost for this preferred option is around $11 million, with a total projected budget of approximately $17 million when factoring in contingencies.

Council members voiced their support for the project, emphasizing the need for multi-generational facilities that cater to families and individuals of all ages. District 3 Councilwoman Helen Z. Lewis stressed the urgency of moving forward with the design and construction phases, citing the community's long-standing need for recreational spaces.

The conversation also touched on funding strategies for the parks master plan, with the city manager confirming that $2.9 million has been allocated for design and site development in the current budget. Council members discussed the potential for utilizing sales tax mechanisms to finance the project, ensuring that the financial burden does not fall solely on homeowners.

As the meeting concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism among council members and residents. The Cedar Grove Park project represents not just a physical space for recreation, but a commitment to enhancing community well-being and fostering connections among residents. The council's next steps will be crucial in bringing this vision to life, as they work to finalize designs and secure funding for the much-anticipated park.