Two options emerge for Piedmont Park’s grand overhaul

After more than 30 public engagement events and 1,500 contributions of 2 cents from Atlantans, the clearest picture to date for Piedmont Park’s proposed future has emerged. But a choice still has to be made. 

Piedmont Park’s first Comprehensive Plan in 25 years has been boiled down to two options: one that emphasizes play, with a new grand entrance and sweeping boardwalks over Lake Clara Meer; the other with a focus on nature and enhancing existing scenic views. 

Both options would introduce pickleball to Piedmont Park. 

Both choices would also implement new basketball courts, build a concessions and restroom area near the park’s expanded northernmost tip, and bring the natural asset that is Clear Creek more to the forefront of the park experience. 

Without further ado, here’s a look at both options, with finer differences explained and drawn: 

OPTION A 

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OPTION B

Chances to weigh in on what becomes of Piedmont Park are dwindling.

In-person meetings have concluded, but two virtual community input sessions (from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, and 6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26) do remain. 

Otherwise, the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s interactive online platform will be open through March 8 for anyone unable to attend a session.

It’s all leading up to “The Big Reveal”—the April 24 Landmark Luncheon at the park’s Promenade where finalized, official plans for the park’s first overhaul in a quarter-century will be unveiled. (Donations/tickets to the 28th annual luncheon start at $175.)

Last year, the nonprofit launched the Piedmont Park Conservancy 35th Anniversary Appeal, a campaign to raise $3 million for a masterplan to add new greenspace and acreage, implement enhancements and needed improvements, and generally help reimagine the park. Smaller beautification efforts, including upgraded entries, have already begun. 

Below is another new visual showing more standard upgrades that would be implemented around the park. Those would include fixes (yes, please) for drainage issues around the main meadow that often leave pathways swamped with mud puddles, sometimes for days. 

Other changes would include enhanced Beltline entrances and oodles of new seating: 

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