Canton, October 18, 2025
The Canton City Council has approved a $7.6 million contract aimed at developing South Canton Park. The ambitious project encompasses the construction of new sports fields, trails, and playgrounds to enhance local recreational facilities. Despite some concerns regarding bid variations, the initiative is seen as vital to cater to the recreational needs of a growing population in the area.
Canton City Council Approves $7.6 Million Contract for South Canton Park Development
Canton, Georgia – The Canton City Council has approved a $7.6 million construction contract with Diversified Construction of Georgia for the development of South Canton Park. This decision aims to enhance local recreational facilities and address the needs of the growing community.
Project Details
The South Canton Park project encompasses the following major components:
- Site grading
- Water and sanitary sewer utilities
- Stormwater conveyance and detention, both above and below ground
- Site lighting
- Parking lot
- Restroom building
- Shade pavilion
- Small amphitheater and stage
- Dog parks with splash pads
- Playgrounds
- Walking paths/trails
- Elevated boardwalk
- Irrigation system with cistern
- Site furnishings
- Landscaping
Funding for the project will be sourced from a combination of a $2.2 million state grant, Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds, impact fees, and water and sewer funds allocated for related infrastructure improvements. Additionally, a 2% arts allocation, approximately $152,068, has been set aside for the project, which may be covered by a $500,000 owner’s allowance if necessary.
Council Deliberations
During the council meeting, members expressed concerns regarding the variance between the lowest and highest bids, which ranged from $7.6 million to approximately $12 million. Councilmember George voiced apprehension about potential change orders leading to increased costs. In response, city staff highlighted that contract language has been designed to minimize avoidable change orders, including requirements for written documentation and credits for built-in rain days. The engineering estimate submitted in March was about $7.9 million, placing the low bid within the original range. The construction management team will review monthly pay applications to ensure work and costs are in order before payments are made.
Additional Approvals
In a separate motion, the council approved a $101,000 amendment to TSW’s contract to provide construction administration services and oversight for the South Canton Park project. This team will monitor schedules, change orders, and monthly pay applications to ensure the project progresses as planned. The council has directed staff to provide ongoing updates, including cost and schedule tracking, in regular reports to allow for comparisons between forecasts and actuals during construction.
Background Context
The South Canton Park development is part of the city’s broader initiative to enhance recreational facilities and green spaces in response to community feedback and the needs of a growing population. The project aims to provide a state-of-the-art dog park, playgrounds, walking trails, and other amenities to improve the quality of life for residents. The development of South Canton Park is expected to play a significant role in enriching the local environment and providing new opportunities for outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the total cost of the South Canton Park development project?
The total cost of the South Canton Park development project is $7.6 million, with additional funding from a $2.2 million state grant, SPLOST funds, impact fees, and water and sewer funds allocated for related infrastructure improvements.
What amenities will be included in the South Canton Park?
The South Canton Park will feature site grading, water and sanitary sewer utilities, stormwater conveyance and detention, site lighting, a parking lot, restroom building, shade pavilion, small amphitheater and stage, dog parks with splash pads, playgrounds, walking paths/trails, elevated boardwalk, irrigation system with cistern, site furnishings, and landscaping.
How will the city ensure the project stays within budget?
The city has implemented contract language designed to minimize avoidable change orders, including requirements for written documentation and credits for built-in rain days. The construction management team will review monthly pay applications to ensure work and costs are in order before payments are made.
Who is responsible for overseeing the construction of the park?
TSW has been contracted to provide construction administration services and oversight for the South Canton Park project. This team will monitor schedules, change orders, and monthly pay applications to ensure the project progresses as planned.
When is the South Canton Park expected to be completed?
The project timeline has not been specified in the available information. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, it is recommended to consult official city communications or contact the Canton City Council directly.
Key Features of the South Canton Park Development
| Amenity | Description |
|---|---|
| Dog Parks with Splash Pads | Designated areas for large and small dogs, featuring splash pads for water play. |
| Playgrounds | Safe and engaging play areas for children of various age groups. |
| Walking Paths/Trails | Scenic routes for walking, jogging, and cycling throughout the park. |
| Elevated Boardwalk | A raised pathway offering unique views of the park’s natural surroundings. |
| Irrigation System with Cistern | A sustainable water management system to maintain landscaping and green spaces. |
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Author: Construction FL News
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