Local elected officials, city staff, Piedmont Beautification Foundation members, and the family of Denny McLeod celebrated the completion of the Highland-Guildford steps project at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday evening.
The city recently completed renovations of the steps, transforming what had been originally envisioned as an informal pedestrian pathway into a grand entrance to the Piedmont Park Cherry Walk and Tea House. After being closed for construction since December, the steps re-opened on June 2.
(Read more about the project in the story at the end of this article.)
Ruthie McLeod (center, with corsage) surrounded by Piedmont Beautification Foundation members, city staff, and Piedmont City Council members pose for a photo following the ceremony 
PBF President Karen Sullivan acknowledges the support of the city and private donors who helped ensure the completion of the project 
Mayor Jen Cavanaugh with councilmembers Jennifer Long, Betsy Smegal Andersen, and Conna McCarthy 
Posters of the new plantings and design elements 
The Highland/Guilford steps leading up to the street 
Celebrating the new steps into the park after the ribbon cutting
The ribbon cutting was followed by a reception recognizing outgoing city volunteers from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at Community Hall. (Exedra photos to come Friday.)
This project turned out well. It would be wonderful if we could next turn our attention to the large area behind the pre-school just above the pathway. It is used for weddings, is badly in need of renovation, and would greatly enhance the beauty and funcaltiy of the area.