ADA playground, more sidewalks, mall update

(Lawrenceville, Ga., Jan. 23, 2023) – The Board of Commissioners gave the greenlight to several County initiatives. And it’s all funded by SPLOST. Here are some highlights:

ADA bleachers at Shorty Howell Park
There’s been a nationwide push to address ADA needs. The American with Disabilities Act law bans discrimination against those with disabilities. To remain inclusive and diverse, the County will install new bleachers with elevated and accessible seating and ramps at the Shorty Howell Park multi-purpose field. The old bleachers will be demolished. The cost of the project is $235,000 and is funded by the 2014 SPLOST program.

Bay Creek Park to get new playground
It’s been nearly 20 years since the playground at Bay Creek Park was built, now faithful parkgoers will soon see major upgrades. The play area will include an obstacle course and circular ramp system to name a few improvements. The equipment will cost $979,443 and is funded by the 2017 SPLOST.

Mobility upgrades funded by SPLOST
To encourage pedestrian safety, James Road and Lawrenceville Highway will get new sidewalks. The sidewalks will connect neighborhoods to nearby businesses. The upgrade also includes curb, gutter and drainage improvements. Various SPLOST programs will foot the bill at a cost of $1,047,467.

Meanwhile, a proposed traffic and mobility study will review ways to travel around the Gwinnett Place Mall area. The County will split the cost of the study with the Gwinnett Place Community Improvement District, with the county’s contribution of $37,500 coming from the 2017 SPLOST program.