August 29, 2017
CONTACT: Lindsey Wiles
Communications Manager
lwiles@mariettaga.gov
770.794.5509
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MARIETTA – On Thursday, August 24, 2017, the City of Marietta held a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the City’s new Franklin Gateway Sports Complex located at 1034 Franklin Gateway, Marietta, Georgia.
With the backdrop of teams practicing on the new state of the art fields, Mayor Steve Tumlin, City Council, staff, business leaders, and citizens cut the ribbon to signify that the fields are officially now open for business. These fields will host many different types of sports for practice and tournaments including soccer, lacrosse, and flag football.
“Franklin Gateway Sports Complex is a total community visionary Marietta enhancement with its exceptional athletic fields and facilities combined with a welcoming family friendly, neighborhood park for the enjoyment and community pride of all for years to come,” said Mayor Steve Tumlin.
The City of Marietta would like to thank the citizens who helped the vision of a revitalized Franklin Gateway become a reality. In November 2013, Mayor Tumlin and City Council placed a $68 million redevelopment bond on the ballot during an election year. The majority of that bond was used to purchase dilapidated apartment complexes along what was then Franklin Road, demolish the outdated buildings and then market that greenspace to business. When the City placed the available properties on the market, growth, new businesses, and opportunity came knocking. Since the passage of the 2013 Redevelopment Bond, the City has seen a 40% reduction in crime along Franklin Gateway
“I couldn't be more excited to see this new sports complex come to full fruition,” said Parks, Recreation and Tourism Chairperson, Councilwoman Michelle Cooper Kelly. “Franklin Gateway Sports Complex is a great location to host youth soccer and lacrosse games and tournaments; thus bringing thousands of new visitors annually to the City of Marietta.”
The Franklin Gateway Sports Complex now sits on over 13 acres which was previously home to a run down and derelict apartment complex. The space includes three multi-use state of the art fields, a playground, a 1/3 mile walk track, and a concession stand with a variety of meals and snacks.