Atlanta is moving forward with flood-control efforts in Vine City, with plans to create a pond and other amenities in Historic Mims Park modeled on the acclaimed Historic Fourth Ward Park.
The City Council recently authorized the mayor’s office to conduct surveys, order appraisals and acquire property for the Upper Proctor Creek Capacity Relief-Mims Park Pond Project. The project’s boundaries are Joseph E. Boone Boulevard and Walnut, Thurmond and Elm streets.
To complete the work, the city must acquire four parcels in the block bounded by Boone and Walnut, Tyler and Vine streets. The Council authorized paying up to 20 percent above “established just compensation,” and condemnation proceedings if good-faith negotiations fail.
“The project is intended to provide a means of collecting surface water runoff, storing within a capacity-relief facility, and slowly releasing into the combined sewer to provide relief during peak events,” according to a staff report.
Plans calls for a pond, “green infrastructure” including stormwater planters, rainwater harvesting cisterns and soil restoration, and aerating water features and separate storm drain pipelines. New sidewalks and street improvements also are envisioned.
Watershed Management is working with the Trust for Public Land, National Monuments Foundation, Atlanta Parks and Recreation and mayor’s office “to seamlessly integrate the project into surrounding park landscapes,” the report says.
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