Grounds Master Plan

Over the last several years, the Atlanta Public School (APS) System has expended considerable resources to renovate and add to the Garden Hills School. Now that this work is complete, the Grounds Committee, along with the Local School Council, wants our campus to complement the beautiful historic building. Most obvious in need of sprucing up is the green playing field and parking lot right in front.

The preliminary Master Plan encompasses more than this. Our vision is to enhance the entire environment and create a “Green” green space. APS has completed a design for a soccer field and parking lot. Recently the Special Purposes Local Option Sales Tax referendum passed, and this project is on the list to secure funding. The Local School Council is in the process of setting up a non-profit Foundation to facilitate fundraising and grant funding for all aspects of the Master Plan.

• Creation of a natural habitat and outdoor learning opportunities in the northwest corner of the campus. This will include removal of invasive, non-native plants and stream restoration activities. Also, construction of pathways and bridges along with interpretive plaques or panels.
• Amphitheater in the northeast corner of the field can be used for various school functions and will also serve as erosion control.
• Enhanced access and erosion control in playground areas.
• Construction of a new “eco-friendly” Scout Hut with state of the art green building techniques
• Raised crosswalk at the front of the school for safety
• Angled parking on road between school and the Atlanta International School.
• Low-maintenance native plant landscaping in various areas around the campus.
• Walkways with engraved bricks (fundraising).

Parent Nelson Brackin (nbracitect@mindspring.com) has volunteered his time to produce the Master Plan with input from the Grounds Committee and Local School Council. Former parent David Burge has offered to do the legal legwork involved in setting up the Foundation. Local School Council representatives and business partners Trent Collins of Publix and Laura Rawls with the Bank of North Georgia have been assisting with project coordination and Foundation groundwork.

Many more volunteers are needed to help with fundraising efforts and grant writing, as well as project(s) administration.

If you have questions, contact Melissa Lawson (PTA Co-President, 404-842-0296, melissalawson@comcast.net), Laura Toth (PTA Co-President, 404-8123960, thetoths@mindspring.com), or Ann Monroe.