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Roswell council awards $12.3 million contract to remake Riverside Park after debate over trees and cost
Summary
Council approved a $12,299,378 contract (project budget $13.84M) for comprehensive Riverside Park renovations drawn from the 2016 river parks master plan; public commenters expressed strong views about specimen tree removals and project cost, while proponents cited long public process and voter bond support.
The Roswell City Council on Dec. 8 authorized a $12,299,378 construction contract (total project budget $13,841,187) with MAP to renovate Riverside Park, one of the city’s busiest riverfront parks. The project implements elements of the 2016 River Parks master plan (with a 2022 addendum) and includes a new open‑air pavilion, nature‑inspired play features, improved sight lines and lighting, green infrastructure to reduce impervious surface, and upgraded event and restroom facilities.
Director of Recreation and Parks Stephen Malone and city consultants explained project design and a certified arborist discussed tree impacts: staff identified 221 trees proposed for removal but said a net gain of 86 trees would result after replanting; 14 specimen trees were listed for removal, with three specimen‑caliber trees scheduled for immediate replacement and many smaller (4‑inch caliper) trees to be planted to mature over time. Malone said certified arborists and city reviewers vetted removals and mitigation.
The presentation drew four rounds of public comment. Opponents questioned the scale and cost. Resident Jason Yao called the plan "unnecessary and gratuitous," criticized removal of mature trees and said, "You don't need to spend that much money to refresh this park." Supporters, including volunteer parks advocates, said the plan was the product of years of public input, reminded council that bond funding and planning preceded the current council and that 74% of voters approved the parks bond that supports the work.
Council members and staff emphasized the procurement history (solicitation posted July 3, 2025; MAP the lowest responsive, price negotiated and held for 120 days) and said delaying the contract would risk higher costs. After extensive public comment and council discussion, Council approved the contract 5–0.
Why it matters: Riverside Park sees roughly 130,000 annual visitors, and the project is a major element of the city's river corridor revitalization. The vote moves a high‑profile, bond‑funded project into construction while prompting public scrutiny over tree removals, specimen replacement strategy and project cost and timing.
Next steps: If approved, staff will sign the contract in early January, begin construction in February 2026 and target substantial completion in July 2027; staff will provide schedule and tree mitigation details during construction permitting.
