Dr. Steven Flynt, Recreation Authority Chair, said their unanimous recommendation is that all of the estimated $24 million allocated for parks projects should be used to renovate and improve existing facilities. The nine-member volunteer authority gathered public input and updated the Parks and Recreation capital improvements plan between 2012 and 2013.
Recommended projects include ADA-compliance improvements; major renovations to aquatic centers, athletic fields and other facilities; energy conservation projects; playground equipment replacements; and resurfacing roads and trails. Existing park renovation and development projects include Alexander Park and Club Drive Park and historic and cultural assets such as the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse and the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center.
“We greatly appreciate the recreation authority’s work to update the master plan and involve the public in the process,” said Board Chairman Charlotte Nash, “And I agree that our top priority should be to maintain the quality of our existing park system.”