ATLANTA — Chastain Park is moving closer to transforming about 30 acres into a new public green space after another fundraising event this weekend.

The Chastain Park Conservancy says it has raised more than $12 million toward its Palisades Project, leaving $1 million remaining toward its fundraising goal.

The project will transform underutilized land between the 16th hole of the golf course and Nancy Creek into a distinct and usable public green space.

Plans include a one-mile trail system, lawn space for gatherings, a natural playground, native gardens and a native tree arboretum designed to support Georgia’s native species.

The Conservancy says residents repeatedly expressed a desire for more places to walk and connect with nature while planning the project with the Atlanta City Council.

The expansion will also include a pedestrian bridge spanning Nancy Creek, along with a new entrance drive and parking area that will provide access to Farm Chastain and the new trail system.

Construction is expected to begin Nov. 1 and last between 12 and 16 months.

WSB Radio’s MaryRyan Howarth contributed to this story.