Olmsted Linear park is situated along Ponce de Leon Avenue, was originally designed as a parkway by Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr., leading from Atlanta to Decatur and is now SR78.

This park links Atlanta / DeKalb County to the national Olmsted legacy in a unique way because it is the work of the father, Olmsted, Sr. which was subsequently carried out by his sons, John Charles Olmsted and Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. who carried on the Olmsted firm. This is the only work of Olmsted, Sr. in the Southeast except for the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. Proper stewardship calls for restoration and rehabilitation of this landscape. The Ponce de Leon Park and Parkway are listed on the National Register of Historic places.

The original design was to provide a unique experience for residents in the area as they pass through the almost 50 acres of green space. Originally, the Ponce de Leon trolley ran inside the park along main Ponce in the alley. While the trolley is no longer running and the MARTA transit has taken its place, the park is being restored to revitalize the original intent of Olmsted.

Planting plans for the project are based on the original plans of Olmsted. The park segments that are restored will be a living park that provides people with an experience particular to green, verdant, healthy and beautiful spaces whether they are riding by or walking through or sitting within.

Preservation of the Olmsted Linear Park is an undertaking of special historical significance.

Phase I (Oak Grove demonstration) included the paving of a walking and bike path, landscaping, benches, curbing, and lighting. Phase II is focused on park segments on both ends of the Phase I project. Phase II includes Dellwood and Shady Side to the east and Virgilee to the west. Phase II includes historically appropriate lighting, trees and flowering, benches, interpretative signage, and the continuation of the pedestrian path.