Southside Park’s proposed second try: smaller scope after contributions fell short

An earlier effort to build a feature field at Southside Park could not launch because contributions fell short, according to a proposed city ordinance. Atlanta is proposing a smaller relaunch: upgrading the baseball fields, incorporating multiuse fields and renovating the concessions building.⁠[1]

Ordinance 26-O-1644 says the city previously authorized agreements with the Atlanta Braves Foundation, Morehouse College and the Atlanta Fulton County Recreational Authority for the feature-field project. The new proposal describes facilities intended to support baseball, softball, football and soccer at the city-owned park, at 3460 Jonesboro Road SE.⁠[1][2]

As we reported in our earlier funding account, Atlanta would provide up to $7.75 million while the recreation authority would manage design and construction. The authority would contribute at least $2.25 million in funds and in-kind services.⁠[1][2]

That authority contribution would not be transferred to the city. The proposed ordinance instead calls for it to remain in an authority-established account dedicated to designing and building the improvements.⁠[1]

In return, the authority would receive sponsorship benefits under a separate agreement. The ordinance lists possibilities—not guaranteed terms—including its name or logo in project press releases, on park signs or windscreens, and space at selected events.⁠[1]

The proposal appeared under ordinances for first reading on the Community Development/Human Services Committee’s November 10 agenda. The materials reviewed do not establish the committee’s action or final council approval. Under the proposed terms, the agreements would not bind the city until signed by the mayor or a designee, attested by the clerk, approved as to form by the city attorney or a designee, and delivered to the authority.⁠[1][2]