Highland School Park

2160 Broadway NE

Highland School Park consists of 3.27 acres and is adjacent to Highland School.

Facilities:

Ball Field
Play Equipment
Multi-Purpose Courts
Drinking Fountains

History

Highland Park is divided into two sections. The 1.90 - acre area across Broadway Street from Highland School was set aside for park in 1952. This portion of the park was developed in the late 50's and includes two tennis courts, a ball field and restroom building. The tennis courts were refurbished and lighted in 1974.

Urban Renewal's North Salem Project area required that land be identified for park. This, coupled with the City policy that where feasible, park land be acquired adjacent to school sites, led to a decision to acquire land and develop a park adjacent to Highland School. With the aid of a HUD Open Space grant, approximately 23 residential lots were acquired by the Urban Renewal Agency in the mid-70's. This land, along with the school land and vacated Columbia, Highland and 5th Streets, brought the total area for park development to 5.10 acres.

Development of Phase I and II have been completed. Features include picnic areas, tot lot, creative play area with Timberform play equipment, hard court game area, large open play area and a bicycle trail along the railroad right-of-way for easy access to the park. Over 160 new trees were added to the park. They include Norway Maple, Vine Maple, Shore Pine and Flowering Cherry. There will be approximately 2 3/4 acres of lawn area when development is completed.

In 1976, the City acquired an additional half-acre of land south of the school which is used for open play.

Through the cooperative efforts of City, School and residents of the neighborhood, the drab Highland School grounds have been transformed into a pleasant, attractive, enjoyable place for youngsters to play and an asset to the entire community.