Introduction
In 1998, DeKalb County purchased
Brook Run, a former hospital and nursing home for the mentally ill, from
the state. In January 2001, a $150,000 grant was awarded to the Dunwoody
Preservation Trust by DeKalb County to develop this master plan for the
102-acre property and the EDAW team (including Ursa International) was
awarded the contract.
An essential component of any
communityís quality of life is the opportunity for recreation and experiencing
the outdoors. Brook Run offers 102 acres of existing infrastructure and
buildings that can be transformed into a symbol for DeKalb Countyís vitality
and character. The purpose of this master plan is to guide Brook Run in
developing the property into a first class nature oriented and educational
facility. Like all plans, however, the master plan is only effective if
it is used. It is critical that the plan be a living document that reflects
and is able to adapt to discussions and decisions by policy-makers and
community stakeholders. The master plan, although very specific in many
aspects, must also be flexible in order to respond over time to community
and financial needs. Some of the proposed directions can be implemented
almost immediately; others may take many years. The master plan transforms
the 102 acres of greenspace, vacant buildings, and paved streets into an
urban oasis while focusing on education, nature, art, and recreation.
The specific goals of the master
plan are to 1) create a signature community park with passive recreational
and educational opportunities; 2) develop places for community interaction;
3) protect the environmental resources; and, 4) recommend financial resources. |
