Nearly there!

The Friends toured Needham Park with DeKalb RPCA on July 16, 2026, and we are happy to share that the county’s renovations are nearly complete!

If you have walked or driven by Needham Park lately, you have undoubtedly noticed that the area looks much different! As we shared last September, DeKalb has implemented a significant renovation inspired by the community vision plan developed in 2019. In the months since, both Phase 1 (paths and amenities) and Phase 2 (stream bank restoration) have been executed.

Visible highlights of the renovation include:

A restored stream that is much better protected from stormwater runoff
Pervious concrete paths for entering the park from McLendon Drive, walking around the eastern side of the park, and visiting benches and a picnic table
A new bridge for crossing the stream
Interpretive signage (to be filled in soon) on either side of the stream
A gravel/chip nature trail circling the formerly-inaccessible western side of the park
Open space to picnic and play amidst the nature trail
Multiple benches, picnic tables, and waste receptacles throughout the park

In the coming days/weeks, the park entrance will be finalized, additional signage will be installed, and the new crosswalk (across McLendon near Tanner Dr.) will be completed.

You may also notice that a number of trees have been re-planted throughout the park. We are happy to share that Trees Atlanta may supplement the park with additional plantings, as well!

Timeline

“Heavy” construction in Needham should be completed within the next couple of weeks (ideally by the end of July 2026), dependent on DeKalb County’s review of the final work. If things go well, the park may officially re-open in late August to early September.

Stay tuned for details of a Friends community celebration of the park’s re-opening.