THOMASVILLE- Exciting changes are coming to Paradise Park in 2025! The City of Thomasville is excited to announce the launch of Phase I of the Paradise Park Renovation Project, a transformative effort to enhance one of the city’s most treasured green spaces. This project not only preserves the park’s rich history but also provides an excellent opportunity to highlight an old-growth Longleaf Pine forest—a vital natural resource located within walking distance of Thomasville’s award-winning historic downtown.

The original vision for Paradise Park came out of a public design charrette from 2018 that was used to successfully apply for a $200,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. This grant, along with City funds, will be used to construct the first phase of the Paradise Park Project. Phase I will include restoration of the historic carriageways, restoration of the historic bandstand, a ¼ mile oval walkway centered around the renovated bandstand, accessible walking paths throughout the park, six-acre Longleaf Pine/wiregrass restoration, new pedestrian scale lighting, parking enhancements, and new park benches and trash cans.

The City of Thomasville has partnered with Thomasville Landmarks for the restoration of the historic bandstand, with work expected to take approximately 6-8 weeks.

The City is also working closely with Tall Timbers on the Longleaf Pine/wiregrass restoration. While the park design is sensitive to the existing trees, there are areas where the proposed park improvements are in direct conflict with mature trees, which will need to be removed. Longleaf Pines will be salvaged and preserved by Tall Timbers for use in regional historic projects, a long-term vision to create a living laboratory for community education on the importance of the Red Hills and Longleaf Pine ecosystem.

While Paradise Park is not anticipated to be closed to the public during construction, citizens are advised to stay clear of all active construction zones.

“We’re excited for the changes coming to Paradise Park,” noted Mike Owens, Manager of Parks/Recreation and Golf. “We do want to remind the community that there will be times when construction may limit access to some park areas and lighting will be temporarily removed to make way for new and improved lighting throughout the park. Beginning the week of January 8, Paradise Park will be darker than normal as utility pole removal begins.”

Safety remains the top priority, and visitors are encouraged to exercise caution when enjoying the park throughout the construction period.

“We understand that Paradise Park holds a special place in the hearts of our community,” said Kenny Thompson, City Planner. “These changes are part of our long-term vision to enhance the park while preserving its unique history and charm. We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we embark on this important project.”

The City will provide regular updates on the project via email, social media, and the City’s website. Residents and visitors can look forward to a revitalized park that balances historic preservation, recreational opportunities, and environmental conservation.

Phase I of the Paradise Park Renovation Project is expected to begin in early January and last three to four months. This is the first project that is a part of the City’s Parks Master Plan, with work on Cassidy Pond Park and Balfour Park to follow.

For more information, visit thomasville.org or email planning@thomasville.org. Follow the City of Thomasville on social media for updates and progress photos.