Doraville Transforms Land Into Pollinator Meadow

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Doraville, Georgia has partnered with environmental non-profit The Ray to convert a piece of land near Interstate 285 into a pollinator meadow. The project replaced traditional turf grass with native wildflowers and grasses, with the goals of reducing maintenance costs, improving soil quality and stormwater management, and creating a natural buffer to catch particulates before reaching local waterways.

Why it matters

This project demonstrates how cities can transform underutilized land into functional 'living infrastructure' that provides environmental benefits. By showcasing the value of pollinator meadows in high-traffic areas, Doraville hopes to inspire similar initiatives across the region to scale these nature-based solutions.

The details

The Ray worked with Doraville to install the pollinator meadow at the intersection of I-285 and Buford Highway. The deep-rooted native plants were chosen to reduce maintenance needs, improve soil quality, and help manage rainfall and runoff. The strategic location of the meadow also allows it to serve as a natural buffer, catching particulates before they reach local water systems.

• The project was completed in March 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The meadow will now enter an establishment phase where the planted seeds will grow into mature plants and become fully integrated into the local ecosystem.