Albany named 2026 Visionary City Award honoree

Albany, GA – The City of Albany is honored to receive the 2026 Visionary City Award from the Georgia Municipal Association and Georgia Trend. This award celebrates cities that plan thoughtfully, build strong partnerships, and work to improve life for residents.

Albany was recognized in the Large Cities Category for reopening the Charles Driskell Park Community Center. The city worked with residents to turn the old facility into a modern, ADA-compliant space with programs and areas for youth, families, and seniors.

“Albany’s reinvestment in Driskell Park shows how listening to residents and prioritizing access can restore trust and strengthen neighborhoods. This project reflects a meaningful commitment to community-driven progress,” said Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of GMA.

“The City of Albany is delighted to receive the 2026 Visionary City Award for the Charles Driskell Park and Community Center. We have replaced a facility, constructed in the 1950s, which was outdated and inadequate for our programs and current needs. This project is a testament to our commitment to revitalize South Albany and better serve our citizens,” said Bo Dorough, Albany Mayor.

“We will, in the coming years, be submitting additional projects for consideration, as Charles Driskell Park and Community Center is the beginning of a new era for Albany Recreation and Parks Department,” continued Dorough.

“We are honored to receive this award and thrilled to see the Charles Driskell Park Community Center fostering positive change in the Southwest Albany community,” said Vilnis Gaines, Ward 3 Commissioner.

For more information about Albany and the Charles Driskell Park Community Center, please contact The Albany Recreation and Parks Department at (229) 430-5222.

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