Special to the Herald

SPRINGFIELD – The Effingham County Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting Nov. 19 approved an application for an $80,000 Coastal Incentive Grant (CIG) for the Atlas Park Project. The move is in line with the board’s focus on environmental sustainability, conservation and resilience goals.

Through the CIG Cycle 28 offered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division, Effingham County seeks $80,000 to fund improvements to Atlas Park.

Still in the planning stages, Atlas Park is a recreation area to be developed on the site of the former Atlas Sand Mine near the intersection of Sand Hill Road and GA Hwy 80. It is a critical initiative for Effingham County, aiming to enhance public access to coastal resources, improve environmental stewardship, and promote recreational opportunities in the region.

The park will feature numerous amenities, including a 138-acre lake for swimming, boating, and fishing; as well as areas for camping, walking trails, a playground, a pavilion and more.

The project will include coastal habitat restoration, enhanced water quality, and community education on sustainable practices.