Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) will be entering the design stage this summer for the second phase of Boulevard Crossing Park. ABI, in collaboration with the City of Atlanta, selected Cambridge-based Agency Landscape + Planning and Atlanta-based Perkins+Will to lead the planning and design of this 25-acre park on the southeast side. Park improvements will be defined as part of an engaged public process and will expand recreational opportunities, neighborhood connectivity, and ecological health for park users.
 
The first phase of Boulevard Crossing Park opened in 2011 with two large, multiuse activity fields across five acres. Phase two will incorporate the initial five acres into the broader, 25-acre park design. It will also link the park directly to the Southside Trail.
 
The Atlanta BeltLine is an ambitious transportation and economic development effort that will provide a network of public parks, multi-use trails, jobs and transit along a former 22-mile railroad corridor. The implementation of the BeltLine will be driven by equity, affordability, inclusiveness, and sustainability – honoring and protecting the unique history of the neighborhoods that it connects. ABI is the entity tasked with planning and executing the implementation of the Atlanta BeltLine in partnership with other public and private organizations, including City of Atlanta departments and the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership.
 
“Boulevard Crossing Park has been a much-loved asset to the southeast Atlanta community since its inception in 2011,” said Clyde Higgs, President and CEO of ABI. “This next phase will build on this momentum, bringing more park space and amenities to the neighborhoods along the Atlanta BeltLine’s Southside Trail.”
 
Gina Ford, lead designer for Agency Landscape + Planning says, “This is an incredible opportunity to write a lasting and exciting new chapter for the evolving story of the BeltLine. We are thrilled to work with ABI, the City, and the community to imagine a place that meets today’s needs while also providing an inclusive forward-looking park for future generations.”
 
Valdis Zusmanis of Perkins + Will, who led previous work with ABI including the Eastside and Westside Trails says, “Boulevard Crossing Park is a major addition to the constellation of new parks that will be connected by the BeltLine.  It represents a unique opportunity to re-envision this part of Atlanta in a way that will engage the surrounding community and welcome visitors alike.”