A new park in Ola can now build after Henry County commissioners approved a design-build contract at their August meeting. The new passive park will provide access to the South River.
The property is located off Butler’s Bridge Road. The county received a state grant to help fund the park construction.
Butler’s Bridge Park
First, some background context: Henry County acquired the Butler’s Bridge property in 2004. At the time, they acquired it through the state green space program. The land consists of 44 acres. The county has made no improvements since purchasing it.
In November 2020, the county hired an Atlanta design firm to assist with the property. Their task was to design the wetland restoration and future trail network. Then in February 2022, the state selected Henry County to receive a Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program grant. The GOSP grant is providing $1.5 million towards construction costs for the new park.
Earlier this year, the county solicited proposals for two contractors. The proposals are two-fold: 1) design-build services for stream restoration, and 2) design-build services to construct the new park. Proposals closed in February and March 2023.
On August 1, Henry County commissioners approved contracts for both proposals. Contract award included the following:
- A contract for design-build services for the park to TriScape of Cumming, GA in the amount of $2,906,443, and
- A contract for design-build services for stream restoration to HGS, LLC dba RES Environmental Operating Company of Watkinsville, GA in the amount of $698,841.
The state grant amounts to $1.5 million towards the project costs. Other funds will come from stormwater funds, SPLOST V district III park improvement funds and impact fees.
Park Plans
The new park will provide passive recreation. This allows for trails and other low-impact construction while preserving much of the natural environment. Such features at Butler’s Bridge Park will include the following:
- 2.4 miles of new walking trail, to include a boardwalk and pedestrian bridge where needed,
- A parking lot and restrooms,
- 3 pavilions, each measuring 20’ x 20’,
- Kayak launch, to access the South River and South River Water Trail, and
- An outdoor classroom.
The park’s design and construction will last an estimated 18 months.
Featured image shows the South River. South River Watershed Alliance photo.
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