Park Projects

In Spring 2022, park planning and design consultants with Pond and Company worked with the Park Advisory Board and staff to create a Park Vision Plan for Blythe Island Regional Park.  The process included an evaluation of current amenities and operations, meetings with stakeholders, and gathering of public input from citizens garnered through a social engagement website.  With input from the Board of Commissioners, the Park Advisory Board recommended approval of the final draft plan to the BOC at their meeting on August 4, 2022.  The plan was unanimously approved and will serve as a guide for future park enhancements and development.

View the approved Park Vision Plan

In September 2022, the County entered into an agreement with a local forester to serve as a consultant to guide the process to harvest timber at the park.  Based on the Georgia Forestry Commission's Timber Management Plan for the park and a timber cruise completed by the consultant, local foresters were selected through an open, advertised bid process to harvest several tracts of timber.  Biomass removal and selective harvest of four tracts began in November 2022.  One tract that was harvested and re-planted in 1995 has been cleared and will be re-planted later this year..  Proceeds from sales of harvested timber can only be used for future park improvements and development.  

Selectively removing trees from undeveloped areas of the park will allow park patrons opportunities to access these areas for passive recreation.

Current park projects are focused on renovations, upgrades, and enhancements to existing facilities.  Funds from the District 1 Commissioner capital project allocation fund will be used to implement the projects.  The projects below were priority recommendations in the Park Vision Plan. 

BATHHOUSE/RESTROOM UPGRADES

Staff is has developed plans to renovate the bathhouse and restroom facilities that serve park patrons.  

PARK ENTRANCE/SECURITY GATE ENHANCEMENTS

Park staff and County engineers are evaluating options to relocate the park security gate and entrance further into the park.  The goal is to allow more room for motorhomes, boats, trailers, and vehicles to enter the park safely from Highway 303 and to improve the security gate system for guests.  Future plans include better signage and beautification of the park entrance.