We, the undersigned residents and concerned citizens of the Buckhead community and beyond, are writing to express our deep concern and opposition to the proposed utilization of the lower Bagley Park for parking needs by Buckhead Baseball. Lower Bagley Park, nestled in the heart of Buckhead Atlanta, is a vital green space that encompasses nearly 7 acres of land, housing century-old trees that provide habitat for abundant wildlife, community gardens and essential protection for the stream, as well as important African American history.

Our community is united in its dedication to preserving this unique and irreplaceable urban greenspace for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the land and its trees significantly contribute to the preservation of the ever-shrinking tree canopy within the urban core of Atlanta. Protecting this canopy and adding to it would enhance the current public greenspace in the Buckhead community substantially. Secondly, Bagley Park is a monument to Buckhead’s rich historic black communities and once housed 400 families on this land, we are committed to preserving this historical legacy.

Furthermore, the land plays a crucial role in mitigating urban heat-island effects and processing stormwater runoff. It serves as a significant wildlife habitat, providing essential ecological functions. The aesthetic values of Bagley Park enrich the quality of life for the community, offering a tranquil retreat and historical value amid urban development.

We acknowledge the importance of youth baseball however 75% of the land within this 25-acre park is leased for youth baseball from the City of Atlanta. Buckhead Baseball has 2,000 members to Buckhead's 108,000 residences this land should remain for the community use only.  While we support their mission and space within the park, we strongly oppose the proposed use of the remaining 7 acres for any parking.

We urge Atlanta Parks, City Council and our NPU’s to consider using the ample space on the property to find a development plan that can coexist with the community needs, to include the tennis community,  and utilize the resources available to construct a parking structure within the park, ensuring the preservation of this green space for the benefit and wellness of the entire community. We believe that alternative solutions can be explored that allow for the coexistence of Buckhead Baseball's activities and the preservation of Bagley Park's unique ecological and historical attributes.

By signing this petition, we demonstrate our collective voice in support of saving Bagley Park's Wildlife and Pedestrian Preserve. We implore Buckhead Baseball to work collaboratively with the community and seek a more suitable location for their parking needs, allowing Bagley Park to remain an invaluable asset for generations to come.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to a positive resolution that prioritizes the preservation of lower Bagley Park wildlife preserve.

Sincerely, Friends of Bagley Park