South Canton Park

Details:

  • City of Canton

  • Canton, Georgia

Highlights:

  • South Canton Park is a 6-acre, $8 million project designed by TSW for the City of Canton, featuring amenities such as an amphitheater, playgrounds, dog parks, and public art spaces.
  • TSW's design emphasizes sustainability, incorporating bioswales, permeable parking, a rainwater cistern, native plants, and tree preservation to minimize environmental impact.

Description:

TSW was retained by the City of Canton to design and prepare construction documents for the 6-acre South Canton Park, a new community destination intended to provide a wide range of recreational and cultural opportunities. TSW's scope included both landscape architecture and architecture services for the $8 million project, which features a variety of amenities to serve residents of all ages. Key program elements include a small amphitheater and pavilion for performances and community gatherings, an expansive open lawn for flexible use, multiple playgrounds, an elevated boardwalk offering scenic views, dedicated dog parks, and designated areas for food trucks. Additional features include restrooms, solar shade structures, and thoughtfully planned spaces for future public art installations.

From the outset, sustainability and environmental sensitivity were central to the design approach. The team incorporated roadside bioswales, permeable gravel parking lots with underground retention, and a rainwater cistern system to reduce stormwater runoff. These strategies minimized the size of the required on-site detention pond while also improving water quality and contributing to the overall ecological health of the site. Preservation of the existing natural environment was a shared priority between the City and the design team, resulting in the protection and retention of as many mature trees as possible.

To further support the site's environmental goals, TSW committed to specifying a 100% native plant palette throughout South Canton Park. This approach not only reinforces the park's regional identity but also provides year-round food and habitat for pollinators, birds, and other local wildlife.

When complete, the park will stand as a signature public space for Canton—combining high-quality recreational amenities, environmentally responsible design, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the community's character and values—ensuring it remains a vibrant gathering place for years to come.