The ULI Atlanta District Council Development of Excellence Award recognizes outstanding development projects that exhibit a superior level of design and execution while also making a positive impact on their communities. Recently, Duluth’s Parsons Alley was recognized with this prestigious award, and TSW’s Landscape Architecture Studio is proud to have been involved in developing the concept plan and landscape architecture construction documents for the project.

Parsons Alley is a vibrant, mixed-use development that represents the rebirth of Duluth’s historic downtown. The project combines new construction with preservation and adaptive reuse to create a unique atmosphere that pays homage to the city’s local flare. With over 30,000 SF of carefully selected shops and restaurants, the project anchors Duluth’s new Village Green, a plaza that gathers the local community through festivals, concerts, and public art.

Parsons Alley is a key element in the City of Duluth’s plan to redevelop its downtown area. The development represents a public and private collaboration that embraces the history of the city while counterbalancing future economic and demographic trends. By focusing on walkability and community engagement, the development is helping to complete downtown Duluth as a great, walkable community and represents the next generation of Atlanta’s walkable town centers.

The development includes a range of businesses that reflect the local heritage and Duluth’s future. Dreamland Barbecue, Simply Done Donuts, Personify, and The Chocolaterie Luxury Chocolates are just a few of the establishments that call Parsons Alley home. Good Word Brew Pub, Noona Korean restaurant, and Maple Street Biscuit Company are set to open soon, further adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the development.

The project’s success is due in no small part to TSW’s involvement in the project. As a leader in landscape architecture and urban design, TSW has a wealth of experience in helping communities create thriving, walkable town centers. TSW’s work on Parsons Alley included developing the concept plan and landscape architecture construction documents for the project. By creating a vision for the development that balances preservation, adaptive reuse, and new construction, TSW was able to help create a unique atmosphere that has become a destination for locals and visitors alike.

Parsons Alley is a great example of what can be achieved when public and private entities collaborate to create thriving, walkable communities. By focusing on community engagement and walkability, the development has become a hub for local businesses and a gathering place for the community. As Duluth’s downtown continues to evolve, Parsons Alley will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the city’s future.

For a look at this year’s winners, check out the ULI Atlanta website and for the write-up on the Gwinnett Daily Post, click here.

Click here for the TSW’s Parsons Alley Cutsheet.