Alpharetta OKs concept plans for expanded equestrian center

A “Competition Focus” conceptual master plan was one of two approved by the Alpharetta City Council for the Wills Park Equestrian Center. CITY OF ALPHARETTA

A “Competition Focus” conceptual master plan was one of two approved by the Alpharetta City Council for the Wills Park Equestrian Center. CITY OF ALPHARETTA

The Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta would get an additional performance ring, an expansion of existing rings, and replaced and increased barn stalls, according to conceptual master plans for the facility recently approved by the City Council.

The council approved two plans: "Concept A," with a competition focus, and "Concept B," with a community focus. The documents, developed over several months through public meetings, on-site interviews, focus groups and online surveys, also call for improved parking and more community space for the center. Information: https://bit.ly/2Ui2prb

City officials said they next will prioritize the improvements and additions so a phasing plan can be developed, and then secure construction cost estimates. The work will be funded by a combination of public and private funds.

Equestrian enthusiasts have formed a Wills Park Equestrian Foundation to organize volunteers and assist in funding, officials said. The council has earmarked up to $250,000 to match dollars raised by the organization.

Council member Jason Binder called the facility “a regional draw that has positive economic impacts on businesses and organizations throughout Alpharetta and surrounding communities. … We look forward to working in cooperation with those partners to bring this project to fruition so that the Equestrian Center continues to be a draw.”