Gwinnett County Parks and Rec celebrates 40th anniversary, boasts growing network of over 50 parks

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA– The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners recently celebrated the 40^thanniversary of Gwinnett Parks with a proclamation, marking four decades of protecting natural spaces, expanding recreational opportunities and enriching the quality of life for residents across the region.

In 1986, voters approved a referendum with a collective mission to preserve green spaces and provide accessible recreation for all. 

Today, Gwinnett Parks and Recreation has grown into a vibrant network of more than 50 parks, with more than 145 miles of multiuse trails, community centers, athletic fields, aquatic centers, facilities, playgrounds and nature preserves that welcome millions of visitors each year. The work continues with the County’s newest park, Discovery Park, slated to open to the public in December.

“For 40 years, our parks have been the heart of this community — places where loved ones gather, children play and nature thrives,” said Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “The growth of our park system over the past four decades reflects the County’s commitment to strategic investments that build healthier, more connected and more resilient neighborhoods.”

Four decades of expansion have allowed Gwinnett Parks and Recreation to protect more natural areas, serve more residents and achieve major milestones like earning national recognition for excellence, including CAPRA accreditation and the prestigious NRPA Gold Medal Award. These honors underscore the department’s long-standing dedication to delivering safe, accessible and enriching parks and recreation experiences for residents.

“Our parks system is one of our community’s greatest public assets,” said Parks and Recreation Department Director Chris Minor. “This anniversary honors the generations of residents, volunteers, staff and leaders whose dedication has helped shape a nationally recognized system that sets the standard for excellence in parks, recreation and community engagement.”

Photo credit: Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation