During the past three years, Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy and The Decherd Foundation have been acquiring the land for Harwood Park, located in the Harwood Historic District, to create a space that will serve the fast-growing Dallas Farmers Market area and connect downtown with Deep Ellum. The site is already a storied one, containing several buildings of historical significance that will be incorporated into the park’s design.
When it’s finished, Harwood Park will provide more than grass and trees. For starters, children will have a space all their own, with a large play area that includes a water play. Adults get a place to play, too, in the form of a ping-pong alley and a covered sports pavilion. And don’t forget about the pups! They can romp and explore a brand-new dog park.
Everyone can gather at one of Harwood Park’s events. The plans include an event lawn and stage, as well as an event venue and pavilion. Spots for outdoor dining will make it easy to stick around for mealtimes, as will the food trucks, which will have designated parking areas.
Sustainability is also an integral part of this park’s design. Ten Eyck Landscape Architects and Quimby McCoy Preservation Architecture have created plans that keep the environment at the forefront while promoting fun and natural beauty. The inclusion of a linear rain garden is just one example of how form meets function here.
If you have specific things you’d like to see in this park, make your voice heard. Check in with Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy on Facebook and Twitter, and sign up for our newsletter for updates and more information on our plans.