Talk about a community event - Paul McCartney performs this Saturday in Piedmont Park. Not only is this a big concert in its own right, but the proceeds help support a 53-acre expansion of Piedmont Park. And it isn't everyday you have a former Beatle playing in your back yard, literally for some who live in the surrounding area. Be advised too that part of 10th Street is already closed and all of it near the park may be closed Saturday. Plus, all lanes of the Southbound Connector, with the exception of the HOV lane, will be closed Saturday.
This concert is the second green concert, with Dave Matthew having performed in the park two years ago. The green concert means that there will be no parking and concert-goers are asked to do an alternative commute - walk, bike or take MARTA (see MARTA directions and updates on getting to the Green Concert). I'm thrilled that there may be many new riders exploring the transit system, which while not perfect, does work well in certain cases, especially for getting to the airport or an event in midtown or downtown.
So what is the expansion that the park conservancy is hoping to implement with funds from this mega concert? Park space will be developed north of the dog park heading up near Ansley Mall and up and around the Atlanta Botanical Garden. A skate park and basketball courts are on the master plan along with creek restoration, a community garden, a carousel and more (see the park expansion PDF plan).
Currently plenty of events are hosted in the park and you can find everything from comedy improv, concerts, festivals, tango, a green market, community kickball leagues and even a drum circle. The Piedmont Park Conservancy, along with other area non-profits, is a great place to become a member and support this great city resource. And, one membership perk would have been an early option to sign up to volunteer for the Green Concert and see McCartney for free.