Page 2 – Piedmont Park Conservancy, Inc.

Olmsted and Piedmont Park History

February 22, 2022/in History of the Park/by Piedmont Park

Here are five fun facts about the Olmsted family and its influence on Piedmont Park.

Frederick Law Olmsted was the co-designer and builder of Central Park. He was the foremost Landscape Architect of the last half of the 1800’s and did many major commissions including the grounds of the US Capitol, the 1893 Columbian Expo in Chicago (setting of Devil in the White City) and the grounds of Biltmore House in Asheville. Other prominent projects include Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, Boston’s Emerald Necklace, and the campuses of Wellesley, Smith, and Stanford. He was an early voice for conservation and contributed to the plans for Niagara Falls and Yosemite.
Olmsted designed the Druid Hills neighborhood in Atlanta and the Linear Parks along Ponce still maintain his plan. While in Atlanta in 1894, Olmsted consulted with the planners of the Cotton States Expo. (Landscape Architect Grant Wilkins is credited with the design as built.)
The city of Atlanta purchased the derelict Expo grounds for a city park in 1904. In 1911, the city hired Olmsted’s sons to draw up a master plan for Piedmont Park. Their firm wasn’t hired to build the plan, but much of the Olmsted Brothers’ design was implemented through the years, including the Park Drive Bridge of 1916, and it heavily influenced the Master Plan approved in 1993.

Olmsted Brothers’ 1912 Piedmont Park Master Plan

Olmsted principles of park design can be seen in Piedmont Park’s meandering roads and paths which curve and cross each other, making triangles. The winding walks and changes of elevation provide interest with ever-changing views. Wide open fields are interspersed with trees, lakes and natural plantings. Different areas of the park host varieties of activities. Olmsted’s ideas continue to be highly influential. He has been called the Father of Landscape Architecture.
Olmsted’s scenic, relaxed pastoral style made the enjoyment of nature a benefit available to everyone and a respite from the stresses of city life. Olmsted believed in parks as a social good providing relaxation and improved health for people of all levels of education and income. (Compare to parks with straight paths and formal gardens, originally available only to the wealthy, showing dominance over nature.)

Parks are the only places where vast numbers of persons are brought closely together, poor and rich, young and old, each individual adding by his mere presence to the pleasure of others.
– Frederick Law Olmsted, 1870

This quote is engraved in one of the blocks in the horseshoe-shaped donor monument in front of Dockside (historically known as the Visitor Center, Ladies’ Comfort Station).

Author: Ginny Connelly, Piedmont Park Conservancy Docent

Want to learn more about Piedmont Park’s history? Join us for a tour which features Olmsted’s influence and many other stories along the years. Tour Webpage

In March and April of 2022, Piedmont Park Conservancy is a proud partner of the #Olmsted200 Celebration and will be offering guided history tours focused on Olmsted’s influence. Learn more at Olmsted200.org.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Welcomes 2022 New Board Members

January 24, 2022/in Press Releases/by Piedmont Park

The Piedmont Park Conservancy welcomes four new members to their board of directors: Louisa Basarrate, Chris Buettner of Cox Enterprises, Allen Roberson of Sage and James A. Squires of Norfolk Southern Corporation.

The Conservancy looks forward to working with these new board members to keep Piedmont Park thriving for the Atlanta community.

Biographies:

Louisa Basarrate

After a 20+ year career in non-profit development, marketing and management, followed by time as a stay-at-home mom, Louisa Basarrate currently volunteers and enjoys living in both Atlanta and San Francisco. She is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. Louisa is married to Armando Basarrate and the mother of Sophie Basarrate (23).

Louisa achieved designation as a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) for accomplishments in professional practice, education and community service. Her previous organizations included Atlanta Speech School, Shepherd Center, Jerusalem House, AID Atlanta and SunTrust Bank.

She is engaged in her local communities including cultural organizations such as: Open Hand Atlanta, San Francisco Ballet, High Museum, Metropolitan Museum, DeYoung/Legion of Honor, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Atlanta Ballet.

Chris Buettner

After a career on the digital agency side that spanned 20+ years, Chris Buettner now leads the Marketing and Brand team at Cox Enterprises, working on a broad range of initiatives from employment brand efforts to attract top talent to the company’s diverse family of brands to marketing strategy for new business focus areas like Cox Cleantech.

In his current role, he is also helping to bring Cox’s social impact vision to life of positively impacting 34 million lives by 2034, an initiative that allows him to combine many of his personal passions in areas such as education and environmental stewardship.

Prior to Cox, he led an international network of top digital marketing agencies focused on the future of marketing and digital experiences, expanding the international reach of the organization from 15 to 42 countries in five years. Chris lives in Decatur with his wife and two daughters – both of whom are proud alums of the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s summer camps.

Allen Roberson

Allen Roberson recently joined Sage as the Finance Director in November of 2021. Prior to Sage, Allen worked at International Hotel Group (IHG) for 15 years where he served as Head of Finance & Business Partnering; Commercial & Technology Products and Platforms. Allen also worked with IBM as a Corporate Internal Auditor and Sales & Distribution Financial Analyst.

Mr. Roberson possesses demonstrated passion for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) through Community Partnership Committee leadership with the Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) and active member of the Out & Open LGBTQ+ ERG. He implemented blind resume reviews and diverse interview panels into the function’s recruiting process to improve the diversity of candidate interview slates.

Mr. Roberson currently serves as a valued member of Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Finance Committee.

James A. Squires

Jim Squires is chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC), a FORTUNE 500 transportation company whose railroad operates across 19,500 miles in 22 states, connecting businesses and communities to the marketplaces of the world.

Jim joined Norfolk Southern’s Law Department in 1992 and has held roles of increasing responsibility. They include vice president law; senior vice president law; senior vice president financial planning; executive vice president finance and chief financial officer; and executive vice president administration. Jim became president of the company in 2013 and was named chairman and CEO in 2015.

A native of Hollis, New Hampshire, Jim is a 1983 graduate of Amherst College and was an Amherst-Doshisha Fellow at Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan. He earned his J.D. degree from the University of Chicago Law School, where he has served as a member of the Visiting Committee. He is a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.

Currently serving as chair of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, Jim also has served as chair of the Association of American Railroads, as a board member of the board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as a trustee of the Sentara Healthcare System, and as chairman of Virginia’s Transportation Accountability Commission.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: arisher@piedmontpark.org
P: (404) 480-3758

Top Benefits of Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Environmental Education

October 30, 2021/in Power of Parks/by Piedmont Park

Over 650 Dogs Make a Splash to Support Piedmont Park Dog Parks

October 6, 2021/in Press Releases/by Piedmont Park

On October 2 and 3, dogs and their owners filled the Piedmont Park Pool during the return of the 12^th annual Splish Splash Doggie Bash. The Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted this special fundraiser that directly supports the maintenance of Piedmont Park Dog Parks. A great time was had by all as local dog owners and dog lovers gathered together for a weekend of fun to kick off the Fall season!

This event took place at the end of pool season, allowing the dogs to run free and let out all their energy in the Piedmont Park Pool. This made for some amusing photo opportunities and adorable moments between many different kinds of pups! Canine owners also had a great time as they were allowed to take their pets off-leash and witness the doggy party.

Various vendors added to the excitement by giving away free treats, toys and merchandise for participants. Park visitors observed from outside the pool and many took advantage of the walk-up registration. Splish Splash Doggie Bash 2021 was a huge success, registering over 660 dogs and raising over $20,000 for the Piedmont Park Dog Parks.

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Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: arisher@piedmontpark.org
P: (404) 480-3758

Press Release - Over 650 Dogs Make a Splash to Support Piedmont Park Dog Parks A

Dogs were spoiled with pool toys and tennis balls during Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Splish Splash Doggie Bash 2021.

Press Release - Over 650 Dogs Make a Splash to Support Piedmont Park Dog Parks B

Owners created some lasting memories with pets, while supporting the maintenance of Piedmont Park Dog Parks.

Press Release - Over 650 Dogs Make a Splash to Support Piedmont Park Dog Parks C

Over 650 dogs of all shapes and sizes were free to play off-leash over a fun-filled weekend.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Launches Safe Haven Fund at Landmark Luncheon

September 15, 2021/in Press Releases/by Piedmont Park

At the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Landmark Luncheon on September 14, the Conservancy made an inaugural announcement of the Piedmont Park Safe Haven Fund. In response to increased concerns about safety, the fund will allow Piedmont Park Conservancy to financially support safety improvements recommended by the city of Atlanta and other public safety experts.

Themed “Together, We Grow,” Landmark Luncheon celebrated the strength of the Piedmont Park community and the park’s role as Atlanta’s green refuge. A socially-distant meal under individual tents allowed attendees to connect with the Conservancy’s mission while in comfort for their health and safety.

The 2021 Legacy Award Recipient is Penny McPhee for her work with the Arthur M. Blank Foundation. The Piedmont Park Conservancy gives thanks to the luncheon’s presenting sponsor, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, and reception sponsor, the Coca-Cola Company. The event was hosted by Channel 2’s Lori Wilson.

Landmark Luncheon attendees were the first to be invited to donate to the Safe Haven Fund. The fund was announced to the public on Wednesday, September 15. A generous donor will match all gifts to the Safe Haven Fund from September 15 through September 30, up to $100,000. You may learn more about the fund at piedmontpark.org.

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Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: arisher@piedmontpark.org
P: (404) 480-3758

Guests enjoy Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Landmark Luncheon under socially distant, individual tents in beautiful Piedmont Park. CREDIT: DV Photo Video

Penny McPhee was honored with the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s 2021 Legacy Award at this year’s Landmark Luncheon. Pictured (left to right): Piedmont Park Conservancy President and CEO Mark Banta, WSB-TV’s Lori Wilson, and Penny and Ray McPhee. CREDIT: DV Photo Video

Aerial view of Piedmont Park Conservancy’s signature fundraiser, Landmark Luncheon.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Fundraisers Return with Picnic for Piedmont Park

July 18, 2021/in Press Releases/by Piedmont Park

On July 14, over 400 guests came together with their picnic gear in support of the Piedmont Park Conservancy. After almost a year and a half without in-person events, Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted their first outdoor fundraiser in beautiful Piedmont Park. Picnic for Piedmont Park raised $70,000 to support the Conservancy’s mission to preserve and enhance the park, including landscaping, park beautification, offering free guided history tours, hosting a farmer’s market, maintenance of the dog parks and more.

From delicious catered food and craft cocktails to games and music, it was a fun summer evening in the green heart of Atlanta. Families, friends and pets all came together under the clear skies and setting sun to celebrate Piedmont Park.

You can learn more about the Piedmont Park Conservancy at piedmontpark.org. Following Picnic for Piedmont Park is the Conservancy’s annual Landmark Luncheon fundraiser on September 14, 2021. Tickets are now available.

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Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: arisher@piedmontpark.org
P: (404) 480-3758

Picnic for Piedmont Park guests enjoying their picnics in the greenery of Piedmont Park.

Guests of Picnic for Piedmont Park had over 200 acres of park space to spread out.

Giant family friendly games created a casual, fun vibe at Picnic for Piedmont Park.

Many furry friends were spotted at Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Picnic for Piedmont Park.

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is Rolling Up Its Sleeves

July 1, 2021/in Press Releases/by Piedmont Park

Now that summer is here, Piedmont Park is busier than ever, and keeping it clean and green for all Atlantans is quite the challenge. As more people are getting vaccinated and feeling safe to come outside, that means more events and more foot traffic, which makes keeping the Park clean that much harder. The Piedmont Park Conservancy’s biggest challenge is to maintain a flourishing landscape despite the unpredictable Georgia weather and the pressing pedestrian litter.

Everyone knows that Piedmont Park is the city of Atlanta’s backyard, where anyone can exercise with their dog, throw a birthday party or pack a picnic date. Who takes care of that backyard? A crew of less than 10 landscapers, engineers and technicians maintain 90% of Piedmont Park’s 200 acres. While they are responsible for cleaning up after us every day, the Piedmont Park Conservancy heavily relies on community participation to keep the greenspace safe, clean and beautiful. Donations and volunteer work are integral to keep the Park operating.

Volunteers and staff are constantly kept busy this summer planting new flowers, renovating park benches and taking care of trees. However, the biggest threat to the landscape, the wildlife and park guests is litter. As guests flood in to enjoy their summer in the Park, they often leave behind litter.

While the Piedmont Park Conservancy works tirelessly with the city to keep up with trash collection and staff address litter in highly trafficked areas, Piedmont Park is depending on the community to act. First, asking Atlanta residents to be mindful by packing trash in and out, doing their best to leave no trace. Then, if you can go a step further, volunteer in the Park, donate and become a keeper of one of Atlanta’s most iconic and beloved greenspaces.

Those interested in supporting the Piedmont Park Conservancy with donations or volunteering can visit piedmontpark.org/support for more information.

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Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: arisher@piedmontpark.org
P: (404) 480-3758

Blog - THE PIEDMONT PARK CONSERVANCY IS ROLLING UP ITS SLEEVES

Blog - THE PIEDMONT PARK CONSERVANCY IS ROLLING UP ITS SLEEVES 2

Blog - THE PIEDMONT PARK CONSERVANCY IS ROLLING UP ITS SLEEVES 3

Atlanta’s Piedmont Park Summer Camp Experience

June 28, 2021/in Activities & Seasonal Information/by Piedmont Park

It’s finally summer! Kids are out of school, the weather is great and there is lots to do. What better way for a child to spend it than in Atlanta’s beautiful Piedmont Park? Summer of STEAM offers a hands-on, fun environmental learning experience for everyone. From science experiments to afternoon fitness sessions, the Piedmont Park Conservancy gives an unforgettable camp experience instilling the importance of green space in future generations.

Mornings start with a group-wide activity and making sure everyone is ready for a day full of learning. This day of fun includes experiments, arts and crafts and other activities. Some of the campers’ favorite experiments from past camp sessions include building and launching a rocket and an exploding paint project. These experiments offer a great hands-on, visual learning experience that the kids love!

Arts and crafts time allows the campers and staff to interact even more. Sometimes the crafts are difficult and require camp staff to get down and help each kid understand the project and go through with them step-by-step.

Atlantas Piedmont Park Summer Camp Experience Blog (3)

Many campers state that their favorite part of the camp are all the new friends that they make throughout the sessions. There are many kids that do all the camps every year, and one told us she attends them annually as a family tradition. She also told us she still has friends from past years’ sessions! There are so many opportunities to make new friends during the camp, especially during the afternoon fitness sessions.

The afternoon fitness sessions are directed by NSCA certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Saidah Jones. These sessions typically begin with open playtime, where they can hold group jump-rope competitions or play four square. Then, it is time to go to the Active Oval! The best spot for fitness, campers can run around the half-mile track to get energy out then go and play various sports together. Our sand volleyball courts are always a favorite for all, as there is something for everyone. They can play a game of volleyball, or they can dig around in the sand and build sandcastles with each other.

Atlantas Piedmont Park Summer Camp Experience Blog (4)

From funny moments like bug mishaps to learning new things like bird flight patterns, Summer of STEAM offers fun for all. The campers are exposed to environmental education in real-life scenarios and are able to get active and play outside with each other, making so many new friends! Piedmont Park’s environmental education programs are so much more than just learning, it’s an opportunity for Atlanta’s youngest residents to connect, learn and become future stewards of our community.

Have young learners at home that love Piedmont Park? Check out some of our learning activity downloads.

Four Reasons to Promote Your Brand at Piedmont Park

June 25, 2021/in Celebrations & Occasions/by Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is filled with many opportunities to promote your brand. The Conservancy offers 3 venues and 2 lawn spaces for activations. The amazing views and greenspaces draw in visitors from all over the city of Atlanta and the Southeast region, making it the perfect place to promote your business. Reach thousands of potential customers by bringing your brand to Piedmont Park. Here are the top four reasons to bring your company to Atlanta’s favorite park.

1. Raise Awareness About Your Business

Piedmont Park is a great place to raise awareness about your business. Many community members and visitors to the area come to Piedmont Park for a fun time outdoors. The Park gets heavy foot traffic, giving featured businesses ample opportunity to reach a large audience. Bring pamphlets and giveaways to share about your product or service. Your team can talk with people directly about your company. Pass out t-shirts, pictures and other items to raise awareness about your organization. Whether you’re a new business or simply trying to gain more customers, Piedmont Park is the spot for you.

Piedmont Park was a great location for the Costa Coffee Tour to stop because it saw high traffic and was a great area to set up and have a large presence. – Costa Coffee

2. Target New Customers

Looking to meet new customers? We’ve got you covered. Piedmont Park attracts over 6 million visitors each year, and is one of the most diverse places that people can visit for free in the city of Atlanta. According to mobile data, Piedmont Park’s visitors compare relatively similar to Atlanta’s general population. Interests also vary widely including dog walkers, families, couples, seniors, teens, children, roller-skaters, cyclists and more. There’s a niche for everyone. You are sure to meet and discover your new target audience here.

3. Get Your Product in Users’ Hands

Who doesn’t love free product? Get your products into the hands of your customers by bringing samples, small tokens and distributing your product straight from your truck or tent. You can also show off your services like free facials, massages, fitness classes and more. A brand activation in Piedmont Park also provides a great opportunity for gathering testimonials, feedback and photos from people that have used your product or service. On average, Piedmont Park receives 16,000+ visitors on a daily basis. Prepare to be busy, because Piedmont Park visitors love free stuff!

Our product flies off the truck while at Piedmont. – Bolt24

4. Create Some Buzz Around Your Company

Have a fun and creative idea for creating stories around your brand? Piedmont Park offers a lot of opportunity to host unique and exciting activations. The Promenade has plenty of space to do something unexpected and outdoors for your business. Dockside has a beautiful lake background that makes for stunning visuals and presentations. Other ideas include hosting pup festivals, setting up food stands or showing off teasers for your upcoming movies or films. The opportunities are endless! Let us help you get creative with your next activation.

We can’t wait to interact with you and your brand here at Piedmont Park. Click the link below to find out more about past activations, how they work, and how we can get your activation started.

Inquire about Your Brand Activation Today!

Ultimate Summer Bucket List: Top Things to Do in Piedmont Park

May 6, 2021/in Activities & Seasonal Information/by Piedmont Park

Summer in Piedmont Park is filled with picnics, bicycles, rollerblades, puppies and babies, all sights you would expect in a classic summer experience. Make the most of your summer by using our Ultimate Bucket List for Piedmont Park. Here are our top five recommendations for the season.

Visit the Piedmont Park Dog Parks

Whether you’re a fur family or just passing through, the off-leash dog parks are sure to bring you a smile. Stop by and take a few minutes to watch wagging tails, free running pups and more.

2. Hit Your Stride on the Track in the Active Oval

Whether you’re an early morning runner or afternoon jogger, the half-mile track in the Active Oval is great for reaching your running goals. The oval also features outdoor fitness equipment and a large staircase for toning and strength-training.

3. Make a Splash in the Pool

Cool off this summer at our resort-style pool. Grab your towel and have fun swimming laps, relaxing poolside and enjoying a lakefront view. The pool is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

4. Pitch in to Volunteer at the Park

Help your local community and make a difference by volunteering with the Piedmont Park Conservancy. Volunteers are needed for landscaping, beautification, helping with the Green Market and more!

5. Shop the Green Market

Start your Saturday mornings with coffee and pastries in beautiful Piedmont Park. Located at the 12th Street and Piedmont Avenue gate, Green Market offers access to local farmers, fresh produce, prepared foods, home goods and more!

If you are looking for even more things to do in Piedmont Park, consider taking a tour or visit our calendar to find special events.

Olmsted and Piedmont Park History

Piedmont Park Conservancy Welcomes 2022 New Board Members