The folks behind the Woodall Rodgers Park just announced that the Meadows Foundation is writing a $500,000 check to help ensure that the park opens as planned in 2012. (And today CNN runs a story titled “Americans Rebuild for the ‘New Urban Century’,” in which the park is mentioned.) The full release follows after the jump. Zac and I have already made plans to hang out there at lunch, get high, and play Hacky Sack.
The Meadows Foundation Donates $500,000 to The Park
Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation Capital Campaign Gains Momentum
DALLAS (April 1, 2010) – The Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation officially announces a $500,000 donation from The Meadows Foundation to help ensure that the Park is completed in 2012, and to support visual and performing arts programs for DISD students and the general public free of charge.
“The Meadows Foundation sees the many benefits The Park will provide our community,” said Chairman Jody Grant. “It is estimated that each year, during school days alone, over 150,000 children visiting our museums will be able to eat their lunch in the park instead of returning to the bus. That is just one small example of the many great things a central city park will bring to Dallas.”
“The Meadows Foundation is pleased to support the Woodall Rodgers Park,” said Foundation President and CEO Linda Perryman Evans. “This beautiful open space will be enjoyed by all, and will contribute to the ‘greening’ of our city.”
With the momentum of a $3 million donation from Chase in February and The Meadows Foundation in March, the Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation continues to aggressively raise funds towards the current $27 million capital campaign. The effort is focused on completing the special design features that will enrich the park experience for visitors and the neighboring Arts District. The Foundation is also working to make sure The Park will be maintained and managed at the highest level, while still providing free educational, cultural and recreational activities.
“The Park is a reality. With the support of a few more civic-minded donors, we can take this project from an urban green space to a truly vibrant heart of our city,” said Grant. “We want The Park to be a point of pride for Dallas, a hub, a place where people come together. We need your support.”
The Foundation has had tremendous success to date, raising more than $83 million in public and private funds. Key naming opportunities are still available, including the park’s overall name, the Children’s Garden, the Groves and Olive Plaza.
Construction for The Park is well underway. TxDOT contractor Archer Western is currently constructing the center support wall between the east and westbound lanes of Woodall Rodgers Freeway. For more information, visit www.theparkdallas.org.
