Perry hires firm to design Heritage Park

PERRY -- The City Council voted 6-0 Tuesday to hire a planning firm to design concepts for the city's newest park.

TSW, based in Atlanta, will incorporate an amphitheater, dog park, walking paths and "other appropriate passive elements" into Heritage Park, according to the contract. The city agreed to pay the company $23,270 to hold public meetings and make plans for the 22 acres on Sam Nunn Boulevard.

Mayor Jimmy Faircloth said the concepts will be designed in conjunction with efforts by the James E. Worrall Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes recreational activities and serves as a way to gather contributions, gifts, grants and other donations to improve opportunities for young people in Perry, according to the city's website.

"It will be a gathering place for the community," Faircloth said.

TSW also is working with the city on other projects including designs for other passive parks.

In other business, a concept has been chosen for the city's new branding initiative, Director of Economic Development Robert Smith told the council Tuesday before the regular meeting.

"I can't tell you what it is right now, but the process is moving along and everyone involved is very encouraged and very excited about the approach we're taking," Smith said. "Due to some hiccups during the creative process ... we'll be looking at a January time frame for completion."

Also, Faircloth read a proclamation to mark the city's first Small Business Saturday on Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Trish Cossart, president of the Perry Merchants Association and owner of Cossart Design on Carroll Street, said 19 downtown businesses are expected to participate.

To contact writer Laura Corley, call 744-4334 or follow her on Twitter@Lauraecor.

This story was originally published November 17, 2015 at 7:41 PM with the headline "Perry hires firm to design Heritage Park ."