Colonial Lake: Rutledge Avenue Update
In response to feedback from neighbors and the Harleston Village Neighborhood Association, and in partnership with the City Parks Department, we will be replacing the existing plantings and mulch in the narrow strip between Rutledge Avenue and the park walkway with Bermuda Grass at the end of September 2026. Small areas of mulch will remain around each palm tree to protect the roots and Peggy Martin Roses planted at their base, in accordance with best practices.
This adjustment will serve multiple purposes:
- Reduce potential for mulch to clog storm drains during flooding events.
- Reduce washout from rain.
- Provide a soft entry and evergreen edge for those parking along Rutledge Ave.
- Allow the Conservancy to relocate the 50 native ‘Mrs. Schiller’s Delight’ Viburnum that are currently located along Rutledge Ave to other locations within Colonial Lake and other public parks where they will be better suited. The Conservancy will also be collecting and repurposing the mulch that was applied during the spring.
- Reducing weed pressure and maintenance costs for that section of the park.
Site clearing and plant relocation began the week of September 21 and sod will be laid by September 30. Bermuda grass has high traffic tolerance, is drought, heat and saltwater resistant, establishes quickly and has been very successful at Colonial Lake in the island beds. We do not anticipate any disruptions to traffic or park usage as we complete this work.
Are you interested in joining our team and your neighbors to help make the swap? Meet us at Colonial Lake every Wednesday from 9am-11am for our weekly Garden in the Parks volunteer opportunity. Stay tuned for additional meet ups and opportunities to lend a hand in the parks.
We appreciate the community’s thoughtful feedback and support as we work together to ensure Colonial Lake remains beautiful, welcoming, and well cared for.