Jackson–Darden Park name clears City Council, 10–0

Atlanta City Council voted 10–0 on November 2 to adopt the Jackson–Darden Park naming measure for park space associated with the Custer Avenue Multi-Benefit Capacity Relief Project, according to the council’s draft action minutes.⁠[1]

The vote moves ordinance 26-O-1603 beyond the October 27 committee recommendation we previously reported. Councilmembers Jason H. Winston and Jason Dozier sponsored the measure.⁠[1][2]

The name honors Mattie King Ansley Jackson and the Darden family. The ordinance describes Jackson, a longtime Peoplestown and Summerhill resident known as the “Mayor of Summerhill,” as an organizer who devoted decades to civic engagement and advocacy.⁠[2]

It recognizes Bertha Darden’s advocacy for Black homeowners and preservation of Peoplestown. Bertha and Robert Darden raised four children in their neighborhood home, where they lived for more than three decades; Robert worked for the city for 29 years, according to the ordinance.⁠[2]

The measure also waives naming-process advertising, hearing and notice requirements, Urban Design Commission review, and placement on the affected Neighborhood Planning Unit’s agenda. Those exceptions apply only to this ordinance—not to park naming citywide.⁠[2]

The ordinance authorizes city agencies to fabricate and install signs and says the name takes effect upon “adoption and approval.” The records reviewed establish council adoption, but not a subsequent approval date, completed sign installation or a park-opening date.⁠[1][2]