Gwinnett approves makeover for field at Shorty Howell Park in Duluth

Gwinnett Commissioners voted recently to renovate and upgrade the multipurpose field at Shorty Howell Park in Duluth. (Courtesy Gwinnett County)

Gwinnett Commissioners voted recently to renovate and upgrade the multipurpose field at Shorty Howell Park in Duluth. (Courtesy Gwinnett County)

Gwinnett Commissioners voted recently to renovate and upgrade the multipurpose field at Shorty Howell Park, 2750 Pleasant Hill Road in Duluth.

The $1.65 million project will make the park more sustainable by replacing existing Bermuda grass with low-maintenance, more-durable synthetic turf, and replacing existing field lights with brighter and more energy-efficient LED fixtures.

“The improvements to the Shorty Howell multipurpose field will allow it to be used more,” said District 1 Commissioner Jace Brooks. “With grass you have to let it rest and recuperate but artificial turf can withstand more use and doesn’t require daily maintenance. And the new light fixtures are brighter, last longer and use less electricity.”

The renovation project also includes adding more LED fixtures to light previously unlit practice areas. The project will also include drainage improvements, new concrete bleacher pads and walkways, new picnic tables, team benches, and soccer and football goals.

The project construction is expected to begin in April and should be finished in the fall. The improvements are being paid using 2017 SPLOST funds.