Hurt Park

Hurt Park is a small urban park located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Situated in a triangular plot bordered by Edgewood Avenue, Courtland Street, and Gilmer Street, the park serves as a central green space adjacent to Georgia State University's campus.

Originally opened in 1940, Hurt Park holds the distinction of being the first public park in downtown Atlanta since the 1860s. It was named after Joel Hurt, a prominent civil engineer, real estate developer, and streetcar pioneer who played a significant role in shaping Atlanta's early development. The park's creation was considered a major achievement of Mayor William B. Hartsfield's first administration and was part of a larger initiative to transform the area surrounding the Municipal Auditorium into a civic center befitting Atlanta's growing status as a convention destination.

The park was designed by noted landscape architect William C. Pauley and partially funded by the Woodruff Foundation. During the 1940s and 1950s, Hurt Park was one of downtown Atlanta's principal attractions, drawing visitors with its appealing layout and central feature.

At the heart of Hurt Park lies the "Fountain of Light," an electric fountain that has been a focal point since the park's inception. Originally designed by Atlanta sculptor Julian Harris, the fountain featured 78 bulbs ranging from 100 to 1,500 watts, creating a spectacular display of changing patterns and colors. The fountain would operate for 20-minute intervals, showcasing a "rainbow symphony" before repeating its mesmerizing sequence.

In August 2022, Hurt Park reopened after undergoing extensive renovations over a two-year period. The revitalization project, led by landscape architecture firm HGOR and other partners, aimed to restore the park to its former glory while adapting it to modern needs. The renovation included a complete overhaul of the iconic fountain, with new mechanics, electrical systems, and updated LED lighting to recreate its original charm with contemporary technology.

Today, Hurt Park continues to serve as a vital green space in downtown Atlanta, offering a respite for city dwellers, students, and visitors alike. Its location near Georgia State University buildings makes it a popular spot for students and faculty to gather, relax, and create new traditions. The park's rich history, including its role as a platform where Martin Luther King Jr. once addressed civil rights activists, imbues it with cultural significance beyond its aesthetic appeal.