Central Village Park

Developed in the 1970s as an urban renewal project, Central Village Park has a rich yet complicated history of displacement, underinvestment, and racist urban planning paired with community resiliency, activism, and strong neighborhood ties. Nearly five decades after its original development, Trust for Public Land is partnering with residents, the City of St. Paul, and Springboard for the Arts to write the next chapter in the park’s story.

Cherished by residents of the Summit-University and Frogtown neighborhoods, the park has untapped opportunities to reflect the surrounding community’s multiculturalism and resilient history. Through a community-based planning process, residents are voicing their ideas to unlock this 7-acre park and trail system’s potential to enhance community health, increase recreational opportunities, and create a vibrant gathering space for all.

Within the planning process, an artist organizer will guide community conversations, community building and engagement through art activities and programs—ensuring residents have a place outdoors to connect and call their own. In an early success, fifty-year-old lighting has been replaced as a result of neighborhood advocacy, TPL, and support from city park staff.

This work is possible because of the tireless advocacy and commitment of the neighbors of Central Village Park. Funding is provided by the Doris Duke Charitable Fund, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Arts, St. Paul and Minnesota Foundation, the American Immigrant Council, and the City of St. Paul.