Commissioners Approve Green Makeover At Gwinnett County Park

DULUTH, GA—Shorty Howell Park is becoming a little greener following a vote by the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners on Feb. 18 to renovate and upgrade the park’s multipurpose field.

The $1.65 million project includes replacing existing Bermuda grass with low-maintenance, more-durable synthetic turf, and replacing existing field lights with brighter and more energy-efficient LED fixtures.

“The improvements to the Shorty Howell multipurpose field will allow it to be used more,” said District 1 Commissioner Jace Brooks. “With grass you have to let it rest and recuperate but artificial turf can withstand more use and doesn’t require daily maintenance. And the new light fixtures are brighter, last longer and use less electricity.”

Brooks noted the improvements are being paid for through the 2017 SPLOST approved by the voters.

“SPLOST pays for so many of the quality-of-life projects that help make Gwinnett a great place to live and play and raise a family,” Brooks said. “I want to thank the voters for being willing to fund these kinds of improvements.”

The multipurpose field renovation project also includes adding more LED fixtures to light previously unlit practice areas. It also has drainage improvements, new concrete bleacher pads and walkways, new picnic tables, team benches, and soccer and football goals.

The project construction is expected to begin in April and is planned to be finished in the fall.