Chamblee, Georgia – Dresden Park in DeKalb County will be closed for a significant renovation that will last over a year. The City of Chamblee has planned a 14-month project to completely upgrade the 24-acre park. The new features will include soccer fields with artificial turf, a versatile sports field, tennis courts, a dog area, an expansive playground, and a new walking trail. Additionally, the park will have a new concessions stand, modern restrooms, a community center, a pavilion, improved parking facilities, enhanced lighting, and terraced seating.
The construction contract was awarded to Integrated Construction and Nobility, Inc. During the park’s closure, Chamblee officials are suggesting that residents visit other local parks for outdoor activities like fresh air, exercise, and family picnics.
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The renovation funding began with an allocation of nearly $11 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, approved by the Chamblee City Council in early 2022. Later, in 2024, the council approved an additional $2 million for a larger community building at the park, raising the total investment in the project to $12.8 million.
“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.”
The city said the projected project timeline is:
- February- Approval of construction contract
- March- Groundbreaking and demolition
- April 2024-April 2025- Construction
- May 2025- Ribbon cutting/grand opening
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“ARPA funding was likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Mayor Brian Mock said. “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.”
