Work on Grant Park’s Milledge Triangle Begins

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By Sarah Hicks
The Grant Park Conservancy (GPC), which began with a small number of concerned community members, is growing – and the positive impact it is having on the Park is readily apparent.
Here are just a few examples of what’s possible when we pull together:
Work on the Milledge Triangle inside the park is well underway. The first stage of the project was the demolition of the pavement in front of the fountain to make way for the installation of a new welcome plaza, which will be visible when people visit the Grant Park Farmers Market on Sundays.
The next stage includes cleaning the masonry work around the fountain itself, creating a refurbished and welcoming entryway to the park. The Conservancy received a $95,000 grant from Park Pride to facilitate this work. GPC is also trying to raise the matching $95,000 to complete the project; donations are welcome.
Many organizations have contributed help and support to the Milledge Triangle initiative, including the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation, Georgia Power, Park Pride, Waterfall Foundation, Surfaces Group, Jacobs, Nick Walloch & Piedmont Commercial Pools & Fountains, Mooney Design Studio and GPC members.
The Cherokee entrance to Grant Park is not the only renovation planned. We’re also improving picnic areas in the park. Thanks to a grant from the Waterfall Foundation and GPC supporters, the Conservancy is planning to improve the picnic areas inside the park, updating these popular gathering spots with new tables, new trashcans, and a landscaped surface that will be easier to use and maintain.
GPC has also hired a horticultural contractor, Anna Hauser of Fine Pruning, to help tend to the park, including long-term management of the gardens and landscapes.
New trashcans will also be placed throughout the park – perfect timing as festival season kicks into high gear. Many residents and community members have already attended festivals earlier this year, including the Food-O-Rama Grant Park Food Truck Extravaganza, Atlanta Streets Alive and Pick’n in Grant Park BBQ and Music Festival. Visit the Grant Park Conservancy website for full details about upcoming events and more at www.gpconservancy.org.
More people than ever are discovering what the park has to offer.  Community support or volunteer work can make the park better for all.
Feedback is welcome. Contact the Conservancy at info@gpconservancy.org.