Verizon campus entrance sign beside a curved driveway and trees — The entrance to Three Verizon Place on the former Verizon campus in South Deerfield. Milton is considering a cash purchase of the property as part of a larger recreation and development plan.

Milton plans to pay cash for the former Verizon campus in South Deerfield if it completes a proposed $26.25 million purchase, with a City Council decision likely in mid-to-late November.

The purchase would give the city control of approximately 75.74 acres when combined with 24.42 acres it already owns nearby, opening the way for a larger recreation project alongside potential private investment.

No final purchase decision has been made. The 60-day due-diligence period began with the council’s September 21 vote and ends November 20, Communications Director Greg Botelho told North Atlanta Star in written answers.

The council could decide at any point during that window, though a vote is more likely toward its end. If the city proceeds, closing could follow in early December.

Recreation and private investment

The property at One, Two and Three Verizon Place covers more than 51 acres. Its three buildings are unoccupied, Botelho said, so a purchase would not displace existing tenants or operations.

A calm lake bordered by trees under a clear blue sky — The campus lake is among the features Milton is weighing as it considers what public uses could fit on the former Verizon property.

Milton is evaluating a recreation-centered destination that could combine athletic fields and other public recreation with trails, open space and compatible private investment.

Controlling the campus and the nearby city-owned land would allow Milton to plan access, parking and infrastructure across the larger area, rather than addressing separate development proposals as they arise.

Sidewalk running beside a wooden fence along a road next to a pond and trees — A sidewalk along Morris Road borders the former Verizon campus, where the city is evaluating access and infrastructure needs.

“Milton has a documented need for additional athletic fields and recreation space,” the city said in its response.

Deerfield is also Milton’s principal commercial district. The city sees investment there as a way to support economic activity while helping preserve rural areas elsewhere in Milton.

The specific public uses and layout remain under evaluation.

Funding details still being worked out

“The current plan is to pay cash rather than issue debt,” the city said.

The exact cash funding source will be finalized before the next council vote. Milton is also evaluating potential revenue from selling portions of the property as part of its financial strategy.

The city’s response did not provide estimates for renovation, demolition or ongoing maintenance. Those costs would come in addition to the purchase price.

Residents can share their views at public meetings, including City Council meetings before a final decision. A November vote is possible, but a specific meeting date has not been confirmed.

The proposed purchase and sale agreement and the September 21 agenda report provide background on the proposal.