Community Corner
Marietta Wins National Award For Park That Honors Black Community
The City of Marietta has won a national honor for its Elizabeth Porter Park, which pays tribute to the African American community.
MARIETTA, GA — Marietta has won a national honor for its historic park. The park, which opened in 2018, pays tribute to the African American community and the woman who operated the community’s recreation center.
Marietta was recognized by the National Civic League with its All-America City Hall of Fame Award for community engagement efforts surrounding the creation of Elizabeth Porter Park.
The 4.76-acre park is located near the intersection of North Marietta Parkway and Allgood Road. Marietta’s 2009 parks bond funded its creation.
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“The purpose of the Elizabeth Porter Park project was to honor and memorialize the significance the original site holds to the African American community, while at the same time, creating an active recreation space for all to enjoy,” is written on the website. “In its first full season of operation, the Elizabeth Porter Park spray ground saw over 46,000 visitors come through its gates. These visitors not only enjoyed the spray ground but were also edified to the meaningful history of the site.”
The League’s Hall of Fame Award recognizes cities that display “an outstanding civic engagement initiative since winning the All-America City Award.”
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The park includes a playground, walking track, a spray ground for children and more. There’s also a 130-foot mural that showcases the neighborhood history and a bronze statue of Porter.
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