The Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta would get an additional performance ring, an expansion of existing rings, and replaced and increased barn stalls, according to conceptual master plans for the facility recently approved by the City Council.

The council approved two plans: "Concept A," with a competition focus, and "Concept B," with a community focus. The documents, developed over several months through public meetings, on-site interviews, focus groups and online surveys, also call for improved parking and more community space for the center. Information: https://bit.ly/2Ui2prb

City officials said they next will prioritize the improvements and additions so a phasing plan can be developed, and then secure construction cost estimates. The work will be funded by a combination of public and private funds.

Equestrian enthusiasts have formed a Wills Park Equestrian Foundation to organize volunteers and assist in funding, officials said. The council has earmarked up to $250,000 to match dollars raised by the organization.

Council member Jason Binder called the facility “a regional draw that has positive economic impacts on businesses and organizations throughout Alpharetta and surrounding communities. … We look forward to working in cooperation with those partners to bring this project to fruition so that the Equestrian Center continues to be a draw.”

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

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