Wednesday, February 27, 2002
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Wednesday, February 27, 2002 |
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New Fayetteville park now open By MONROE
ROARK
A taste of the country is now available to the public just a mile from downtown Fayetteville. A portion of land on Hood Avenue is being transformed into a park for local residents and commuters who need a break from that stressful ride down Ga. Highway 85. "I just want to give something back to the community," said Brett Davis, who is transforming his family's property for the project. The 30-acre site, which includes 13 acres that make up Pye's Lake, is what remains in the Davis family from an original 100 acres that was purchased for less than $500. The current Fayette County Administrative Complex sits on what used to be park land, Davis said, and another park was supposed to be created to replace it, but never was. "There's nothing this close to town," he said. Davis opened the lake to the public for fishing last year and got a good response, he said. "Everybody said there was a lot of fish." He also keeps horses on the property, adding to the country feel, and plans to sell bait this year to help attract more fishermen while opening the area in general as a pay park. The 2002 season has already begun, and about six fishermen came out two weekends ago, Davis said. His plans are long-term, as he expects this to be his full-time business. Between his house and the one next door, where his brother lives, the Davises grow fruits and vegetables. Their children operate the vegetable stand during the summer months, he said. Growing up in Fayette County, where he said his father was one of the biggest cattle farmers around in the 1970s and '80s, Davis has high hopes for his new venture and what it can offer the community. "I've been in Fayette County all my life," he said. "It means a lot to me."
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