History
Richmond Park is a good example of Agency policy to acquire land for development in conjunction with school playgrounds in action. The Richmond Urban Renewal Project required that park and open space land be acquired and developed somewhere within the project area. It seems feasible and logical to add to the small, inadequate playground at Richmond School.
The City of Salem purchased six residential lots east of the school playground and vacated a section of 24th Street to supplement the school land. A HUD Open Space grant reimbursed the city one-half of the acquisition and development cots.
Development includes walks, multi-purpose court, landscaping, lighting, automatic irrigation system, play equipment and a ball field/running area. The park was completed in September, 1974, and approximately 250 residents of the area turned out for the dedication ceremonies. Recreation games, the Mission Street Band and a tree planting ceremony highlighted the dedication program.
The residents of the area thoroughly enjoy Richmond Park and school officials have noted a decrease in vandalism of all types because youngsters and individuals living in the area take pride in "their park." In 1976, Block Grant funds were made available for a pilot recreation program in the SESNA area. A recreation leader was hired and programs for both youth and adults were available to the residents of the Richmond School-Park neighborhood.
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