Community Shapes Park Future at Open House
In reflection and celebration of our 150th year anniversary approaching in 2022, Tower Grove Park invited members of the community to take part in the development of the Park's master plan, which will shape the vision of the Park for the next 20 years.
In January 2017, more than 250 participants came to an open house at the Piper Palm House. In all, 1,280 participants responded to surveys and open-ended feedback on the community's top priorities for the Park and suggestions for improvement in the future.
Among the top responses from our participants was simply that the Park's natural beauty should be preserved as-is, though concerns of overcrowding from popular attractions like Food Truck Fridays and the Farmer's Market were cited. "Missing" features that people wanted to see in the future included bicycle paths, food stands, basketball courts, more bathrooms, more lighting, more speed bumps, improved sports fields, and playgrounds.
Survey highlights include:
History. Our participants said they were aware of the Park's history, felt that the Park did a good job of preserving the history, and would visit an exhibit featuring the Park's history.
Safety & Accessibility. Respondents felt that the Kingshighway Boulevard, Arsenal Street, and Magnolia Avenue entrances were more difficult to access, and that Center Cross had the highest risk of pedestrian and vehicular conflict.
Existing Programming. Among the most popular existing programming included the Farmers' Market and music events. A wide majority of respondents have not used our carriage service, noting that they didn't realize it was available.
Requested Programming. "Missing" features that attendants wanted to see in the future included bicycle paths, food stands, basketball courts, more bathrooms, more lighting, gentler speed bumps, improved sports fields, and playgrounds. Improved bicycle amenities, disc golf, a dog park, and community gardens were also mentioned by some respondents.
Park leadership would like to thank all those who participated in our open house. We look forward to using the input gathered to develop future plans in park improvement!
