East Side Park Design Honored with Award of Excellence

Out of 61 submissions across the region, 19 projects were recognized, and just three received this top distinction. East Side Park was the only unbuilt project to receive the Award of Excellence, underscoring the bold vision and transformative potential behind its design.

The award-winning landscape design was led by Hoerr Schaudt, a nationally recognized landscape architecture firm known for creating gardens that blend beauty, functionality, and ecological integrity. With a deep understanding of how greenspaces shape human experience, Hoerr Schaudt has designed the landscape with layered plantings and thoughtful circulation to create a space that is at once immersive, accessible, and uniquely Alabama.

One of the park’s most defining features is its commitment to universal design and ensuring that people of all abilities can experience full access to nature. Once complete, East Side Park will offer accessible trails, universally designed bathrooms and parking, and direct connection with Alabama’s native plant life and ecosystems.

“This award honors the thoughtful and inclusive approach that is at the heart of East Side Park,” said Janet Simpson, Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director at Jefferson County Greenways. “We’re creating a welcoming, restorative landscape where everyone can access, explore, and connect with nature. We are excited to provide a universally accessible nature space that whole families can enjoy together.”

Currently in the fundraising and design development stages, East Side Park is envisioned as a model for equitable access to nature in an urban setting, blending ecological restoration with meaningful human connection. The ASLA recognition reinforces its design excellence and its broader mission to serve the entire community—regardless of age, ability, or background.

We are deeply grateful to the design team, community partners, and advocates who continue to shape this effort and to the donors who are helping turn this award-winning vision into a real place of healing, learning, and connection.

Learn more about East Side Park or make a gift today

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