Freedom Island Glows After Facelift

By Kizzy Howell,

Months of hard work has paid off. Liberty Garden at Freedom Island, dedicated in remembrance of the events of Sept. 11, has received a facelift.  

“The island is an entry way into downtown Douglasville, and Keep Douglasville Beautiful (KDB) felt it needed to really say 'welcome' and to be an eye-catching focal point,” said KDB Executive Director Chan Weeks. “With it being the tenth anniversary for 9/11, this was the perfect time to do the makeover.”

The renovation project included a complete overhaul of the landscape and lighting at Freedom Island and the adjacent grounds displaying the city's reader board. A platform was also built to support an art structure that will double as a banner display. “The banners will help announce and increase awareness of Douglasville happenings, events and holidays. We are currently looking for an architect to help complete the structure,” said Weeks.

The renovation project was a joint effort of the , Keep Douglasville Beautiful and the West Georgia Green Association. From designing the landscape—created by Craig McManus of McPlants—to organizing the workforce and gardening, the project took nearly six months to complete.

The dedication of Freedom Island took place on Sept. 11, 2002 at the City of Douglasville's first 9/11 observance. In 2003, the city hosted a second event to dedicate seven Liberty Elm trees planted around the perimeter of the island. A plaque was placed under each tree recognizing the five branches of the U.S. military and fire and police departments. The 45,000 sq. ft. island produces a year-round garden that contributes to the island's atmosphere of freedom and remembrance.

The city will host its third memorial for the tenth anniversary of Sept. 11 at Freedom Island, located at the intersection of Campbellton Street and Hospital Drive, Sunday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. The ceremony is free and open to the public. Call 770-947-5920 for more information.

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