McDonough has approved the install of new landscaping for its historic square. The city started work on the project in 2023.
McDonough Square Landscaping
The city approved Crabapple Turf Management, Inc. of Alpharetta, GA to handle the McDonough Square landscaping. The price includes plants, uplighting and irrigation. The vendor will also handle maintenance of the plantings for one year. Lastly, benches and planters are part of the project.
Crabapple was the highest-scoring proposal from three responsive proposals. Three other proposals the city deemed not responsive. The landscaping will cost $268,655.12. City funds are paying for it. The company will have 90 days to complete the work.
The city hired landscape designer and Georgia native Carmen Johnston of BeSpoke Garden Service to design the square landscape plan. The council approved her design services in June 2023. The design cost was $10,000. The city later approved soliciting proposals to install the new landscaping at their September 2024 meeting.
Mayor Vincent thanked city staff for their due diligence to bring this project to fruition. “It is amazing that our designer is a professional well-known [landscape designer].”
Councilman Reeves made the motion to approve the contract, seconded by Councilman Burt. The motion passed unanimously.
No Fountain (for now)
The landscaping plan proposes a new fountain within the center of the square. An interesting fact many may not realize is the town square is owned by Henry County. Meanwhile, McDonough maintains it. Any new permanent structure, such as a fountain, requires the county’s approval. The board of commissioners have not considered in their meetings whether to approve such installation.
Featured image shows the McDonough Square landscaping plan. McDonough presentation slide.
