Dresden Park to Undergo Major Renovation
A multi-million-dollar renovation will soon be underway at Dresden Park in the City of Chamblee. The park will be closed for at least 14 months while crews revitalize the 24-acre park with artificially turfed-rectangular fields and a multi-use field, tennis courts, dog park, a large playground, walking trail, new concessions building, restrooms, a community center, pavilion, parking lot, lighting, and terraced seating. The city has contracted Integrated Construction and Nobility, Inc. for construction. City officials are encouraging parkgoers to visit other Chamblee parks during this time to fulfill their outdoor dose of fresh air, exercise, and family picnics.
“Construction is expected to take 14 months, during which time contracted programming typically held at Dresden will be moved to Keswick Park and other privately owned field locations”, said Parks, Recreation and Arts Director, Jodie Gilfillan. “We understand this isn’t ideal but believe once the park re-opens citizens will be elated with the changes.”
In February 2022, Chamblee City council approved the use of $10.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to complete renovations at Dresden Park. The council approved another $2 million to be allocated in 2024, to be used for the larger community building in the park, bringing the total cost for renovations to roughly $12.8 million.
“ARPA funding was likely a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Mayor Brian Mock. “It was important to us to see these funds spent in a way that would improve the quality of life in an underserved area for decades to come. The park being closed will be an inconvenience in the short term, but it will reemerge as the crown jewel of the neighborhood. Our kids deserve the best, and we intend to deliver facilities second to none.”
The projected project timeline is as follows:
- February- Approval of construction contract
- March- Groundbreaking and demolition
- April 2024-April 2025- Construction
- May 2025- Ribbon cutting/grand opening
