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The City of LaGrange was honored with the Visionary City Award by Georgia Trend and Georgia Municipal Association during the Cities United Summit over the weekend.

LaGrange was among eight other city recipients recognized for its actions and initiatives that have resulted in increased civic engagement and community partnerships, according to a press release from the city.

The city was recognized for its vision of creating diverse, unique recreational parks for its citizens.

Due to the city’s win, LaGrange will be featured in the next edition of Georgia Trend magazine.

“We are committed to providing high-quality park destinations for our citizens and guests,” said City Manager Meg Kelsey. “Our goal is to create unique spaces that serve a diverse group of all ages and abilities. To be recognized for our vision of the city parks is truly an honor.”

Mayor Pro-Tem Mark Mitchell said he feels this award is a reflection of the city’s commitment to providing the best quality of life for its citizens. 

“Our staff does a very good job in trying to provide amenities for the public,” Mitchell said.

Councilman Leon Childs said as a resident of LaGrange, he felt proud that the city won such a prestigious award.

“I think this is only going to shine more light on the city as a whole and all of the innovative things that LaGrange is doing,” Childs said. 

The city currently has four parks and one multi-use trail with more park projects to follow.

According to City of LaGrange Marketing and Communications Manager Katie Van Schoor, future projects include a bicycle playground across from a local elementary school, a 45-acre outdoor recreation facility featuring a 15-acre lake and special needs facilities called Ridley Lake, and renovation of Eastside Park in collaboration with the LaGrange Housing Authority and Twin Cedars.

“We recognize there is still much work to accomplish. We appreciate being honored for the hard work we have done and the vision we have for our community’s quality of life,” Kelsey said.