Union City’s commitment to recreation, community wellness, and innovative public spaces is receiving statewide recognition.
The Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) has awarded the Eagles Nest Sports Complex “Best Capital Project (Over $500,000)” during the organization’s annual state conference, recognizing the facility as one of Georgia’s leading examples of community-focused recreational development.
Re-opened in April 2025, the Eagles Nest Sports Complex has quickly become one of the centerpiece projects within Union City’s R3 Master Plan:
Reclaim. Renew. Reimagine.
City leaders say the recognition reflects Union City’s broader vision of creating spaces that strengthen neighborhoods, improve quality of life, and bring residents together through recreation, culture, and community engagement.
Mayor Vince Williams said the award represents more than recognition for a facility — it represents the city’s continued investment in its people.
“This award reflects the heart of who we are as a City,” Mayor Williams said. “The City Council and I are incredibly proud of the Eagles Nest Sports Complex, not only as a facility but as a symbol of Union City’s growth, unity, and investment in our residents’ quality of life.”
Designed as a year-round destination for residents of all ages, the complex features a state-of-the-art artificial turf field supporting:
- youth baseball,
- softball,
- soccer,
- football,
- and adult recreation programming.
But city officials say Eagles Nest was intentionally designed to become much more than an athletic complex.
Today, the site also serves as a gathering place for:
- concerts and festivals,
- summer camps,
- youth sports events,
- community celebrations,
- fitness programming,
- and citywide activities.
The complex includes:
- a walking trail,
- a Kaboom! community-built playground,
- outdoor fitness equipment,
- volleyball courts,
- ping pong tables,
- a community garden,
- a skatepark,
- and life-size chess installations.
The project was made possible through city leadership, strategic investment, and community partnerships, including support from the The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and KABOOM!, which helped construct the community playground through a volunteer-led community build initiative.
Union City leaders say the project demonstrates how public spaces can become catalysts for connection, health, and civic pride.
City Manager Sonia Fillingame and city leadership have consistently emphasized the importance of investing in spaces that strengthen community identity while supporting the city’s continued growth.
Under the leadership of Parks and Recreation Director Lee Blitch, Eagles Nest has continued expanding its role as a major recreational and cultural hub within South Fulton County.
The facility regularly hosts:
- Opening Day youth sports events,
- Juneteenth celebrations,
- Kids to Parks Day,
- employee appreciation events,
- and GHSA high school athletic competitions.
“Every corner of Eagles Nest was designed with the community in mind,” Director Blitch said. “It’s more than a field — it’s a home for memories, growth, and community pride.”
City leaders say the recognition further positions Union City as a community focused on health, inclusivity, recreation, and long-term quality-of-life investment.
As Union City continues growing, officials say projects like Eagles Nest demonstrate the city’s commitment to building spaces that support both physical wellness and stronger community connection.
Today, Eagles Nest Sports Complex stands not only as an award-winning recreational destination, but as a visible reflection of Union City’s continued transformation and investment in its future.
