The concept to create a neighborhood park was first suggested shortly after 1983, when this historic neighborhood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Local Historic Area.  After several attempts, the Herron-Morton Place Foundation, Inc. acquired three parcels of land in the heart of the neighborhood, just north of 19^th & Alabama Streets with the intent of developing a neighborhood park.

 

In 1998, a design Charette allowed the neighborhood to voice their aspirations for the park’s future. Local architects volunteered their time and created two schematic designs based on the residents’ wish list. Jacobs Pannicke Architects, Inc. now known as ARCHitecture trio, inc. refined the designs per the Board’s direction.  In the summer of 2001, a timber frame shelter structure was erected in the park. The rich history of Herron-Morton Place is incorporated into the park’s design. This area served as the first location for the Indiana State Fairgrounds and also as the Civil War-era Camp Morton. Elements of the neighborhood’s spirit and history can be discovered throughout the park.

 

Additional development continued per the final plans developed. Bidding for the various park projects was coordinated with Construction Administration activities were also provided. All time and labor was donated as a charitable contribution to the not-for-profit organization.

Project was carried out under ARCHitecture trio’s former company name Jacobs Pannicke Architects, Inc.

Awards:

■ A Monumental Affair - Excellence in Design & Development - Mayor's Neighborhood Awards

 Merit Award - 2001

 

Construction Completion:  Summer 2001 (pavilion)

                                             Summer 2004 (landscaping)

Construction Cost:  $ 85,000 (pavilion)

                           $ 250,000 (park)