Written for The Newnan Times-Herald.

At their meeting on Tuesday, the council members approved a maximum of $1.28 million for the Greenville Street Park improvements and $2.54 million for the creation of Bicentennial Park.

It was the culmination of a year’s worth of planning after the council chose Goodwin Mills and Cawood as the design firm and New South Construction as the construction manager for the projects in October 2024. At the time, the council members set a $4 million construction budget.

“As you see in your packet, the guaranteed maximum price numbers are under the budget,” said Assistant City Manager Hasco Craver.

The projects will be funded with special purpose local option sales tax proceeds, Craver said.

The plans include removing the current fountain and pergola in Greenville Street Park. The stage will be enlarges and enhanced to accommodate larger events. The electrical service and audio/visual system will be improved along with stormwater control and new landscaping.

At Bicentennial Park, water, sewer, electric and stormwater control systems will be created. The hardscape will include art walls, pedestals for sculptures, walking paths, a pavilion and parking.

Landscaping will include integration with the LINC. The park will also include restrooms.

In addition to the parks, the council members approved a $51,000 contract for community engagement and design of an arboretum planned for a 30-are property near Newnan Utilities.

Five companies submitted proposals, and staff recommended a contract with WLA Studio, although it was not the low bidder.

The low bidder for the project was Kimley-Horn at $19,500. The highest bid was from Pond & Company at $68,445.

Scott Berta of Plant Newnan, a partner in the project, reviewed the proposals and also recommended WLA Studio, said Assistant City Manager Meg Kelsey.

“If you look at WLA’s proposal, you will see that they actually have someone on staff who has designed, planned and actually ran an arboretum project,” Kelsey said. “That’s kind of why we feel very strongly about their proposal.”