How will the park benefit the community?
The anticipated Spring 2020 opening of the $26.5 million Westside Park at Bellwood Quarry will change the surrounding landscape by transforming the area into the city’s largest greenspace while spurring development for nearby neighborhoods and providing a critical emergency water reserve for Atlanta.
How large is the park?
Once completed, the park will encompass a total of 280 acres, almost one hundred acres larger than Piedmont Park. It will connect the Proctor Creek Greenway and the Chattahoochee River corridor with the Atlanta BeltLine.
Will the Westside Park at Bellwood Quarry be ADA-accessible?
Yes, ADA compliant trails will lead park visitors to the grand overlook for breathtaking views of the reservoir and the Atlanta skyline.
How long has the Bellwood Quarry been under construction?
The City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management (DWM) began construction in September 2016 to transform the quarry into a 2.4-billion-gallon reservoir to increase the City’s emergency drinking water supply from the current three days to more than 30 days. Work also included the construction of an approximate five-mile underground tunnel connecting the new reservoir, the Chattahoochee River and the Hemphill Water Treatment Plant.
Will residents have an opportunity to provide input into the parks design?
Yes, the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has convened an advisory committee specifically for the Westside Park at Bellwood Park project to provide feedback and assist with the direction of the City’s master plan for the park. The Advisory Committee consists of members representing diverse stakeholder groups including residents, business owners, community, civic and faith-based leaders, and environmental and technical experts. In addition, DPR will host a series of public information meetings to provide continual updates on the progress of the project.
What type of public amenities will the park provide?
The park may include walking and bicycle trails, playgrounds, educational facilities, and pavilions for special events such as picnics and weddings. Parking areas and restrooms will also be available.
Will the quarry be open for water recreation (swimming, kayaking, etc.)?
Due to safety and security concerns, water activities are prohibited in the quarry.