Parks, programs and public art: how residents say Sandy Springs built community

Residents highlighted parks, recreational programs and a public-art fundraising project as examples of community-building since Sandy Springs became a city.

Irene Schweiger, who said she has lived in Sandy Springs for 40 years, named Abernathy Greenway and Morgan Falls as favorite parks developed since incorporation and described increased recreational opportunities such as kayaking at Morgan Falls.

Jan Collins, a longtime resident and member of the Sandy Springs Society, discussed the 'town turtles' project — artist-painted turtle sculptures placed around town to raise funds. Collins said about 75 turtles were displayed on street corners during the project and emphasized the way such events bring neighbors together and support local charitable work.

Those interviewed framed parks, arts and volunteer-led projects as part of the social fabric that followed incorporation. No formal city actions were proposed or taken during the interviews.