Changes are on the horizon for a little slice of Edgewater Drive, as the City prepares to begin some unexpected renovations at Albert and Dartmouth Parks.
City officials announced that they would be carrying out some overdue improvements to both parks to enhance them for future generations. Albert Park’s old gazebo will soon be replaced by a new 20×30-foot pavilion at the center of the greenspace, as well as a designated viewing space, new seating options, improved lighting and fresh landscaping.
The park’s recognition bricks, that were placed there during a past renovation, recognizing individuals and families that contributed funds to the project, will be reused in the updated design, according to Commissioner Robert Stuart.
The iconic oak tree in the park, that was toppled in a 2020 storm, will be removed. According to Commissioner Stuart, the tree’s roots are intertwined with the base of an old 1960’s era fountain, which actually supports the current gazebo. In order to remove the gazebo and make way for the new pavilion, the tree will be removed. Parts of the gazebo may be salvaged and moved to the western side of Dartmouth Park.
“It’s surviving, but it’s just not thriving. It probably only has another 5-10 years of life left.”
– Commissioner Robert Stuart, City of Orlando
The City’s Parks Division has taken acorns from the tree and is cultivating 100 seedlings from the tree to hand out to residents at a ribbon-cutting ceremony being planned for sometime this fall, so they can plant them in their own yards. The property will be replanted with 19 new trees, including winged elms, high-rise oaks, and a golden trumpet tree.
The park property was given to the City of Orlando 45 years ago by First Federal Bank, after a home that was on the site was demolished.
Dartmouth Park will be receiving new playground equipment, including climbing structures, spinning things, seesaws, and swings, based on input from College Park residents.
More details about the ribbon-cutting events for both Albert and Dartmouth Parks will be shared in the coming months.
