Marietta Approves Polk Street Beautification Project

The 0.37-acre lot, located at 760 Polk St., has been a passion project for Councilman Johnny Walker. In February, Walker began the discussion about a potential project to improve the lot, which has sat vacant for years.

“I think it’s nice to have dedicated green space throughout the city for the community to enjoy,” Walker said. “I think this will be a great addition to this area, and I believe in creating green space areas.”

The city purchased the land over a decade ago after previous property owners Price and Willavee Weaver died, according to Rich Buss, the city’s parks director. After purchasing the property, the city tore down the former Weaver house in 2023.

The project includes planting more trees and installing a hardscaped seating area on the corner of the property next to the intersection. The seating area will include flower beds and a planter in the center that will rotate throughout the year.

Buss and Walker said they could see a partnership with the Marietta Arts Council to provide artwork, but Walker said more discussions need to be had.

Buss said the city hopes to complete the project by May of 2025.

The city estimates the enhancement project to cost $95,418. This does not include the cost of planting the trees, Buss said, which will be paid for with the city’s Tree Replacement Fund and planted by the Marietta Treekeepers.

Walker said funding comes from the remaining $75,000 in his American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds budget.

“The city manager (Bill Bruton) has told me they would be able to find the remaining money to finalize funding this,” he said.

Councilman Grif Chalfant told the MDJ the surviving Weaver family members will also purchase park benches for the lot in dedication to their deceased family members.

Walker said he hopes the area can be a relaxing place where people can stop and take a break while walking.

“I am excited to be able to help this little corner for the citizens of Marietta to be able to enjoy,” he said.