Plans to create a new public park will move forward on Athens’ West side.
Beech Haven Park has remained untouched for over 100 years but will be transformed into a public park that honors the area’s history. The current plan is to add a multi-use trail to connect Beech Haven Park to Ben Burton Park along with other structural improvements.
The 149-acre area features an Arts-and-Crafts style house, stone bridges, and garden walls. It was created in 1910 by businessman Charles Rowland II as a summer retreat for his wife Effie and is located along the Middle Oconee River.
The Athens-Clarke County Government is now pursuing the purchase of four acres at 4 Beech Haven Drive, where the historic home is located. The local government plans to use the house as the park’s office.
