Recently commissioners approved a major renovation and expansion project for one of Gwinnett County’s oldest and most centrally-located parks. Visitors to Rhodes Jordan Park will benefit from the addition of a one-mile paved multi-purpose trail and boardwalk around the perimeter of the existing lake, a new restroom building and new parking. In addition, the old picnic pavilions will be replaced and new soccer fields, outdoor basketball courts and horseshoe courts will be added to the park.

Rhodes Jordan Park is a partnership between the City of Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County that dates back to 1991 when the two groups entered into a long-term lease agreement. “This project fulfills Gwinnett County’s long-standing commitment to improve and expand the recreational opportunities at Rhodes Jordan Park,” said District 4 Commissioner Kevin Kenerly.

“Gwinnett County is dedicated to providing a better quality-of-life for our citizens while making every effort to reduce short- and long-term operational costs,” said Commission Chairman Charles Bannister. “This renovation will make Rhodes Jordan Park an even more attractive asset while lowering our long-term maintenance costs.” Bannister cited a few examples, including a new pump system that will use lake water to irrigate ball fields, replacement of older, deteriorating facilities that  require more upkeep, and a stream restoration project to reduce siltation and maintenance expense.

Park safety is another major consideration in the park renovation project and new routing for the park’s main drive will improve vehicular and pedestrian safety.

Gwinnett County awarded the project to the lowest of 13 bidders, CRS Building Corporation, for $7.3 million. Funding comes from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST).