Everyday we see more and more evidences of a declining economy.

Throughout Georgia districts are peppered with vacant buildings, rundown areas and seemingly forgotten residents – all victims of the recession. But Marietta, on a mission to slow deterioration and restore pride in the city, has made at least one step toward revitalization with its March 1 purchase of the Preston Chase apartment complex.

Upon reiterated requests from citizens, the Marietta City Council proceeded with the purchase of the apartment complex for $2.5 million in order to expand its park system over the course of the next year. The acquisition was a good investment on the part of the city considering the complex was originally foreclosed upon at $7.5 million.

The city has been looking to invest in its park system for a while. In November a $25 million parks and recreation bond was passed by voters. The Preston Chase purchase will be one of the first projects undertaken with the bonded funds.

Actual plans for the 13.19-acre property are still up in the air, said Parks and Recreation Director Rich Buss.

“There are no specific plans for the property at this time,” he said. “A citizens committee is at work to make recommendations as to how that [bond] money will be used. The use of that property will be somewhat determined by how we utilize other properties we own or may acquire.”

Initial thoughts on how the property should be used run the gamut. Since the property sits adjacent to another city-owned greenspace, it may be used as a trail to connect Kennesaw Mountain with the Chattahoochee River. City Attorney, Doug Haynie, has also mentioned that the city has the option to sell off a portion of the property for commercial use.

A running list of ideas on how improve the city’s park system can be found on the citizen’s advisory blog. Suggestions on how to use the bonded funds include the installation of a new recycling center, a community garden, a skateboard park and a new athletic facility. Some of those ideas may be feasible for the Preston Chase property.

According to City Manager Bill Bruton in a city press release, the city plans to demolish the existing complex sometime during the fall or winter. Work on the actual property is expected to begin during 2011 sometime.

Currently, 88 of the 200 units are occupied, Ray Buday, executive director of the Marietta Housing Authority, told Georgia.com in an e-mail.

“There are no new move-ins, of course,” he added.

The housing authority will manage the apartments until they are demolished.

To make suggestions on how the space should be used, visit the Citizen’s Advisory for Marietta Parks blog.

Georgia.com Staff Report