Rodney Cook Sr. Park in Historic Vine City

Rodney Cook Sr. Park is a 16-acre public park located in the Historic Vine City neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. Opened in 2021, the park serves multiple purposes as both a recreational space and an innovative stormwater management system.

The park was developed on the site of a former residential area that experienced severe flooding in 2002, leading to the displacement of many residents. In response, the City of Atlanta partnered with various organizations, including the Trust for Public Land, to create a park that would address flooding issues while providing much-needed green space for the community.

At the heart of the park is a large retention pond capable of storing up to 10 million gallons of stormwater during intense rainstorms. Surrounding the pond are constructed wetlands, native stormwater plantings, and rain gardens that further absorb and filter water, helping to minimize flood risk and improve water quality in the area.

Beyond its flood mitigation capabilities, Rodney Cook Sr. Park offers a variety of recreational amenities for visitors of all ages. The park features walking paths, a playground, sports courts, and a great lawn with an amphitheater for community gatherings and events. It also includes educational signage about the park's stormwater management functions, helping visitors understand the dual purpose of the space.

The park pays homage to the neighborhood's civil rights history, with plans to include statues of notable figures such as John Lewis and Martin Luther King Jr., who once resided in Vine City. The park's name honors Rodney Cook Sr., a former Atlanta alderman, state representative, and civil rights advocate.

Rodney Cook Sr. Park represents a significant investment in Atlanta's Westside neighborhoods, providing both environmental benefits and recreational opportunities for the local community.