By Ceci Villanueva
Throughout the winter, the Grant Park Conservancy (GPC) has continued working on two major restoration projects on the south side of the park: the Abana Courtyard and the Southeast Quadrant.
The long-awaited iron rail for the Abana Courtyard has arrived and will be installed atop the courtyard’s intricate brickwork. This striking custom-made feature will enhance the beauty and safety of the area, complementing the design. In addition to the rail installation, the Conservancy has introduced a rain garden and planted a selection of trees, bushes, and plants, adding greenspace on both sides of the courtyard pathway. The new additions include sweet bay magnolia, azalea, osmanthus, oakleaf hydrangea, itea (also known as sweetspire) river oats, and juncus.
It the Southeast Quadrant, construction of a new entrance at the corner of Boulevard and Atlanta Avenue is in progress. This enhanced entryway prioritizes pedestrian safety with wider sidewalks and increased separation from vehicle traffic. Along the main pathway, long-standing drainage issues have been addressed by fixing stormwater inlets that were previously clogged. The curb lines have been brought in to make the pathway more pedestrian scale, and more greenspace has been added. Another highlight is the nearly complete Educational and Gathering Plaza at the base of Fort Walker. Once finished, this space will feature native plantings and interpretive signage that celebrates the rich history of Grant Park, creating a welcoming spot for learning and community events.
These restoration projects reflect the GPC’s dedication to preserving and enhancing Grant Park for generations to come. A large part of the Conservancy’s funding is provided by individual donations, grants, and fundraising events. Please consider supporting their efforts by becoming a member today! Visit www.gpconservancy.org/donate.
Canopy Soirée, anyone? If you are reading this in February, there’s still time to get your tickets for the 5th Annual Canopy Soirée on February 28 at Zoo Atlanta. Enjoy a fun night out with your friends and neighbors while raising money for your favorite park! Funds raised at this year’s Soirée will be used to support the Southeast Quadrant renovation, care for the park’s tree canopy through structural pruning and invasive plant removal and bring the Summer Shade Festival back in 2025. This event is for ages 21 and up only. Don’t miss out on the fun! Get your tickets at www.gpconservancy.org/canopy.soiree.
Individual tickets are $128.75 each and do not include reserved seating. Reserved tables are $1,235 and include eight tickets at a reserved table for you and your friends. Host Committee tickets and tables are also available and include VIP seating, recognition, food and beverage perks, and more. Host Committee ticket prices are $515 per couple and $1,855 per table for eight. This event is for ages 21 and up only.
Dreaming of Spring? Get some fresh air and help the park. Do you want to be part of something great and help the park? Join us for a PROJECT G.R.A.N.T. volunteer workday. Project G.R.A.N.T. stands for “Greenspace Restoration and Neighborhood Teamwork,” so mark your calendars and join your neighbors and friends as we help the park get ready for spring! Learn more and sign up here: www.gpconservancy.org/volunteer. Upcoming dates: Saturday, March 8, 9:00am-11:00am; Friday, March 14, 9:00am-11:00am; Saturday, April 5, 9:00am-11:00am; Friday, April 11, 9:00am-11:00am.
