Nancy Harris Pavilion Officially Opens in Downtown Duluth, Honoring City’s Rail Legacy

The City of Duluth proudly celebrated the ribbon-cutting and dedication of the Nancy Harris Pavilion and Train Observation Deck on March 31, 2026, marking an exciting new addition to Downtown Duluth.

The open-air pavilion pays tribute to Duluth’s origins as a rail stop dating back to 1876, while also recognizing the shared history of communities along Buford Highway and the Norfolk Southern Railway. The project was inspired by Former Mayor Nancy Harris, who noticed the growing number of visitors gathering along the downtown trackside to watch passing trains. After learning about the nationwide community of rail enthusiasts, she envisioned a dedicated space that would both honor Duluth’s heritage and serve as a unique destination for residents and visitors.

That vision is now a reality.

Designed by local architects Rob and Carmen Ponder, the pavilion reflects both professional expertise and personal passion. Their son, P.J., is an avid train enthusiast, adding a meaningful connection to the project’s purpose and design.

The Nancy Harris Pavilion is located next to the Duluth Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library and in front of the historic 1908 Calaboose. The ADA-accessible structure incorporates architectural elements inspired by train depots and stations from across the country, creating a distinctive and welcoming environment for all.

Mayor Greg Whitlock, Former Mayor Nancy Harris and her family, City Council members Sarah Park, Manfred Graeder, Shenée Johnson-Cummings, and Marline Thomas, along with other city leaders, partners, and community members, gathered to commemorate the occasion.

The pavilion now stands as both a tribute to Duluth’s past and a new gathering place for the future. Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring their families, experience the space, and enjoy watching trains pass through the heart of Downtown Duluth.

Duluth and Good Word Brewing Raise a Glass to Community at Little Beer VI

This past Saturday, the Duluth Town Green came alive as residents and visitors gathered for one of the city’s most anticipated spring traditions…Good Word Brewing’s Little Beer VI.

With more than 80 breweries from across the country, the event offered attendees a chance to experience an impressive variety of craft beers, from fan favorites to rare and limited pours. Guests enjoyed a full afternoon of live music, explored a vibrant artist market featuring local makers, and connected with friends and neighbors in the heart of downtown Duluth.

Beyond the beer, Little Beer VI showcased the spirit that makes Duluth special. From the curated experiences to the welcoming atmosphere, the event highlighted the strength of our local partnerships and the continued growth of our downtown as a destination for community-driven events.

The City of Duluth extends a heartfelt thank you to Good Word Brewing, participating breweries, performers, vendors, and everyone who attended and helped make the day a success. Events like Little Beer continue to bring people together and create lasting memories for our community.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back again next year. Cheers to Duluth! 🍻

 

 

 

 

 

City of Duluth Celebrates Groundbreaking for Bunten Road Park Walking Trail Improvements

 

The City of Duluth proudly marked an exciting milestone on Wednesday, March 25, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the groundbreaking of the Bunten Road Park Walking Trail Improvements project.

Mayor Greg Whitlock was joined by Council Members Sarah Park, Manfred Graeder, and Shenée Johnson-Cummings, along with city staff and project partners, to officially kick off this important enhancement to one of Duluth’s most beloved parks. The project represents a significant investment in improving connectivity, accessibility, and overall park experience for residents and visitors.

The Bunten Road Park Improvements project will include repairs and replacement of the existing walking trail, expanded trail connections, ADA-compliant accessibility upgrades, and improvements to park infrastructure to enhance safety, sustainability, and long-term usability. While construction is underway, the park will remain open, with some temporary closures in select areas.

Community members can look forward to a revitalized park experience, with the project currently on track for completion in spring 2027.

Groundbreaking Ceremony Participants (left to right):
Annette McIntosh, Jane Yang, Kim Kelkenberg, Alexis Server, Erin White, Margie Pozin, Manfred Graeder, Mayor Greg Whitlock, Sarah Park, Steven Calkins, Shenée Johnson-Cummings, Sharon Parris, Brady Rounds, Mark Carter, Kathy Marelle, Tyler Mathis, Craig Corley, and John Keating.

For more information and project updates, please visit the City of Duluth website.

Sarah Park Makes History as Duluth’s First Immigrant Woman Elected to City Council

The City of Duluth is proud to share national recognition of a historic milestone in our community. Sarah Park has made history as the first immigrant woman elected to serve on the Duluth City Council, an achievement featured by CBS News Atlanta.

Park, who moved to Duluth from South Korea over two decades ago, credits her success to the city’s welcoming spirit and the support of residents across our community.

Her campaign, which launched last August, drew on her extensive experience in local government and her role as a co-owner of Alchemist On the Divide. Park’s leadership has been shaped by years of public service and community engagement.

Park’s inauguration also coincided with a proclamation recognizing Korean American Day, an observance that will also be recognized at the Georgia State Capitol.

As Duluth continues to grow and evolve, Councilmember Park’s historic achievement underscores the city’s commitment to representation and opportunity for all who call Duluth home.

📺 Watch the CBS News Atlanta feature here: Sarah Park makes history as Duluth’s first immigrant woman elected to city council.

Duluth Makes History at First 2026 Mayor & Council Meeting

The City of Duluth officially opened 2026 with a powerful and historic Mayor & Council Meeting, marking new beginnings, cultural recognition, and the continued leadership of dedicated public servants.

Held in front of a packed Council Chambers, the meeting featured the swearing-in of three councilmembers and a milestone moment that reflected Duluth’s growing diversity, inclusiveness, and commitment to representation.

A Historic First for Duluth

Sarah Park was sworn in as Duluth’s first immigrant woman to serve on City Council, marking a historic milestone for the city. Park’s journey is deeply rooted in the Duluth community. Her family immigrated to Duluth, where she grew up as a student and later built her life as a working mother of two, government professional, small business owner, and community leader.

She and her husband co-own Alchemist on the Divide, a beloved downtown coffee shop that has become a gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

Honoring Korean American Day

Park’s swearing-in coincided with a proclamation recognizing Korean American Day, which commemorates the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States in 1903.

Mayor Greg Whitlock read the proclamation alongside Councilwoman Park, who also delivered the proclamation in Korean… a moving moment that highlighted Duluth’s appreciation for cultural heritage and community representation. The proclamation is also being recognized at the Georgia State Capitol, connecting Duluth’s celebration to a statewide observance.

Continuing Service and Leadership

Judge Barrett also swore in Marline Thomas, the first Latina woman to serve on Duluth City Council. Thomas, an Army veteran, was first appointed to Council in July 2020 and later elected to Post 2 in November 2021. She was sworn in on January 10, 2022, for a four-year term. She ran unopposed in 2025 and took office for a four-year term on January 12, 2026.

Lamar Doss was first elected to Post 3 in November 2021 and took the oath of office on January 10, 2022. He was elected to a second term in a December 2025 runoff election and took his oath of office on January 12, 2026, to serve a four-year term.

Looking Ahead

The evening marked more than the start of a new year… it marked a renewed commitment to leadership that reflects the people of Duluth. With continued service and historic new representation, the City of Duluth enters 2026 focused on progress, unity, and community-centered governance.

Downtown Duluth Rings in the New Year Early with Noon Year’s Eve Celebration

Parsons Alley came alive on December 31, 2025 as families gathered to celebrate the New Year in a bright, joyful, and kid-friendly way at Downtown Duluth’s Noon Year’s Eve event. The mid-day celebration featured a lively dance party, festive crafts, free face painting, a Kids New Year’s Resolution Station, and the highly anticipated Countdown to Noon.

Children and families filled the alley with laughter, music, and holiday cheer, creating a memorable way to close out the year together. Events like Noon Year’s Eve reflect Downtown Duluth’s commitment to providing meaningful, family-friendly experiences that bring the community together in fun and creative ways.

Downtown Duluth Turns Into a Winter Art Gallery at Frosty Chalk Art

Downtown Duluth received a colorful winter glow on December 28 as families, artists, and community members gathered for our Frosty Fun Frosty Chalk Art event. Sidewalks transformed into vibrant works of art as participants of all ages brought their creativity outdoors and filled the district with imagination, laughter, and winter cheer.

From whimsical snowflakes to bold, bright masterpieces, the artwork showcased the heart of our community and the joy of coming together during the holiday season. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped turn our streets into a festive outdoor gallery.

Thank You, Councilmember Harkness!

Last night, we gathered at City Hall to honor Councilmember Jamin Harkness ahead of his final Work Session of 2025. We’re grateful for his dedicated service to the Duluth community and wish him the very best as he steps into his next opportunity. Thank you, Jamin, for your leadership and commitment to our city.

Duluth Shines Bright at Deck the Hall

Downtown Duluth was glowing with holiday cheer this past Saturday as our community came together to celebrate Deck the Hall. From carolers and crafts to Santa sightings, snow play, and festive performances, the energy and excitement were felt across every corner of the event. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s celebration truly special. Your enthusiasm brings our city to life and sets the tone for a joyful winter season.

Duluth Dogs of the Month: Maximo

Can we hear a round of a-paws for November’s Dog of the Month: Maximo!

His humans said “Markissimo (aka Maximo) is the ultimate combination of a Chihuahua’s smarts, a Boston Terrier’s energy and a Pug’s charm. This part-time toy wrangler and full-time sweetheart has a love for life that is contagious. He’s always down to “paw-ty,” bringing just the right amount of sass, charm, chaos and cuddles!” Sounds like if you see this good boy around town, you should stop and give him a pet!

For his dedication to helping keep our waterways clean and local ecosystems intact, Tiger Tails Animal Hospital has partnered with us to offer a great prize pack to our Dog of the Month.

Take the pledge and your pup (or pups) may just be featured as our next Dog of the Month!

DuluthGA.net/PetWastePledge