Walkability, citizen engagement, and downtown patronage – all qualities that are often desired by any community hoping to attract people and business. As part of an exciting downtown revitalization plan, the City of Flowery Branch recently kicked off a project to do just that, while also reinforcing support for their treasured local farmers and artisans.
CPL was engaged to develop design concepts that would highlight the City’s rich agrarian heritage, meet their goal of providing support for local growers and crafts culture, and help cultivate a regional destination. The vision included a vibrant walkway that would draw patrons to a large market pavilion as well as a flexible-use pocket park.
“The walkway and market designs are more than just an outdoor grocery store and plaza,” explained CPL Landscape Architect and Project Manager, Mack Cain, RLA, LEED AP. “Both support a hub of activity that encourages people to come together.”
The proposed walkway leads the community to the Market Pavilion through artfully arranged brick pavers, past charming shops and historic structures. Lined with new landscape, as well as tables and chairs for alfresco meals or gathering, it beckons visitors in to gather and socialize.
The Market Pavilion concept features a wooden, open-air structure offering shade as well as lighting and ceiling fans. There is plenty of planned vendor and patron space throughout, and adjacent parking for easy access.
The final component of this revitalization effort includes a versatile, multi-use pocket park. Easily accessed by the public and spanning an entire block in the City’s historic district, the park is adjacent to a popular restaurant and can offer patrons an enjoyable space to wait or linger, in addition to hosting other downtown events.
“We saw the opportunity to transform an unused corner parcel of land across from the City Hall into a flexible city park and arboriculture garden for the community to enjoy,” said CPL Landscape Architect, Joe Powell, RLA. “The park design resonates hospitality and features native plants labeled for educational purposes, as well as an open-air pavilion and outdoor amphitheater.”
The City of Flowery Branch has always embraced its humble farming heritage, while supporting its citizens and modern progress. Plans for revitalization create a vibrant downtown that will draw resident and regional interest. These plans also pay homage to and support the City’s treasured farmers and artisans. Where they once marketed on the City Hall lawn, this group will get to enjoy a modern, attractive, revenue-boosting venue to offer crops and wares among the progress and history of Flowery Branch.
