If the COVID-19 pandemic taught us anything, it’s that metro Atlanta’s parks—even pint-sized ones tucked in neighborhoods—can be therapeutic, if not emotional godsends.
Consistent with that thinking, the City of Chamblee has purchased woodsy acreage near the ITP city’s southern border to help alleviate what’s been classified as a “park desert,” where access to greenspace is challenged.
The land buy involves 2.4 acres at 2335 Woodacres Road in South Chamblee, a tucked-away site located between Buford Highway’s international commercial strips and Interstate 85.
According to city officials, the area was pinpointed as a park desert in the Chamblee Parks and Recreation 10 Year Master Plan created in 2017.
The future Woodacres Park location in relation to Interstate 85 and, at top left, Buford Highway and Plaza Fiesta. Google Maps
Jodie Gilfillan, Chamblee’s Parks and Recreation director, said in an announcement the Woodacres Road park will bring "more balanced access to parks and facilities to those living on the south side of town.”
The city’s ultimate goal is to “close gaps” in park access for all residents, specifically by creating smaller parks on the north and south ends of the city, per officials.
The MARTA-connected city of 30,000, located about 14 miles from downtown Atlanta, has grown to encompass more than seven square miles since its founding as a rail town in 1908.
Southeast view across the future park site. Google Maps
Jon Walker, Chamblee’s City Manager, said the city will tear down an existing structure at the Woodacres Road site and create a passive park that could include recreational uses such as gardens, trails, and other features.
As a next step, the city expects to host public input meetings soon to help inform the park’s planning process.
Courtesy of City of Chamblee
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