A primary goal in building LeBauer Park was to provide a cornerstone for a revitalized downtown cultural district and promote economic and infrastructure development in a much-needed area. Credit: Google Maps

The park provides a desperately needed community gathering place, centrally located in the heart of downtown, and anchors an emerging cultural district. Generous sidewalks and reconfigured access points create a primary axis with the great lawn, and porous edges welcome visitors from every side of the site. Credit: Epic Drone Images

Located in the heart of downtown Greensboro, the 4.5-acre park acts as a keystone to the cultural heart of the city. A diverse landscape serves a multitude of purposes. The centerpiece of the park is a great lawn, surrounded by a grand plaza and splash pad, play area, dog park, games area, and reading room. Credit: OJB Landscape Architecture

The creation of LeBauer Park was a direct investment in equity and access for the Greensboro community through its physical location, universal design, and free community programming. Over 400 free programs and events are held annually, and the park is a permanent community asset that serves all populations. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

The park’s innovative design is dedicated to activity and play and draws people from a range of ages, races, ethnicities and cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, abilities, and life experiences. Generous pathways encourage park visitors to comfortably move between the rooms and the vibrant activities of the park. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

Park infrastructure supports varied year-round programming. A curving tree canopy offers shade protection and sensory/seasonal interest during the day, as well as enclosure during an evening market. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

Walkability and access are paramount to the idea of equity and engagement. The streetscape and pathways were designed with wide sidewalks and plenty of shade, improving the pedestrian experience. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

Two F&B kiosks with moveable furnishings flank the entrance to the great lawn. Additional revenues to support the park’s annual operating budget are generated from F&B, corporate and community partners, park rentals, private donations, and grant funding. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

Food trucks turn N. Davie Street, a perimeter street, into an extension of the park. Generous street trees create a sensory canopy that welcomes visitors throughout all seasons. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

A grand seasonal plaza and interactive water feature welcome kids of all ages to safely enjoy the water. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

For the past 5+ years, LeBauer Park has brought together people from diverse backgrounds within the Greensboro community to the park’s spaces to connect with others, commune with nature, and make meaningful experiences. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

The children’s garden promotes imaginative and interactive play. Play features include climbing spears, roller slides, a spin-a-round, and climbing walls. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

The inclusive and ADA-accessible children’s garden provides play spaces for all ages, developmental stages, and abilities, from slides and climbing features to ropes and berms. This area also includes a sensory wall that serves children with sensory processing needs. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

In honor of Mrs. LeBauer’s gift, a garden planted with her favorite plants and perennials denotes a calming oasis in a busy and vibrant urban park. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

LeBauer Pak has a comprehensive Artist in Residence Program. Utilizing LeBauer Park as a studio, medium, performance venue, and ultimate collaborator, Artists in Residence spend time building a relationship with these community spaces and the people they bring together to explore a central creative vision. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

LeBauer Park regularly hosts daily and weekly events to promote healthy living and healthy lifestyles. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

As part of the park’s commitment to placemaking, over 400 free community programs are offered each year that focus on a celebration of diversity, equity, and civic socialization. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

Places have the power to shape our identities in the ways they encode power structures through access, exclusivity/inclusion, and sociability. In collaboration with organizers for racial justice, LeBauer Park hosted the BlackOut NC Rally, bringing the community together, centering justice for Black Lives, and demanding equality. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

A performance pavilion acts as an event space and accommodates various recreational needs and gatherings, from concerts and movie nights to kid’s programs. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

Soaring above the great lawn is the spectacular fiber arts installation, “Where We Met”. It is both a protective canopy and magical crown that denotes the special destination for all of Greensboro. Credit: Jennifer Scheib

LeBauer Park has become an urban commons for all hours of the day. Integrated park lighting creates a comfortable, safe environment for users after dark. Credit: Jennifer Scheib