Residents press for transparency on Grove Park renovation and reopening of viaduct; city says lawsuit seeks access

Several residents raised concerns about Grove Park renovations and a nearby viaduct that has been closed for roughly 10 years during the Jackson City Council’s public-comment period on March 18.

Larry Loper, who identified himself as a resident of the Grove Park/Shady Grove area for more than 60 years, praised the planned $1.3 million park renovation but said the city should post signage and timelines and be transparent with the neighborhood. “It would be nice if you guys would be transparent and let the community know, put some signage up … say, hey, you know, this is what we're doing,” Loper said.

Loper’s primary concern was access: the viaduct that once connected the park with Livingston Road remains closed and forces visitors to approach through neighborhood streets. “If we're gonna do that park, we need access from the main road, which is Livingston Road,” he said, describing the closure as a “choke point” for first responders and park visitors.

City staff responded that a press conference and community meeting previously discussed Grove Park improvements and that signs could be posted to keep residents informed. On the viaduct, city officials said the city has filed a lawsuit seeking to reopen the roadway; the official noted the matter involves more than the city wished to discuss in detail at the meeting. Councilman Kenneth Stokes said the closure has hurt the surrounding area and urged action.

Residents requested a public timeline for the park work and clearer communication from Parks and Recreation. City staff agreed to coordinate signage and community outreach, and to follow up on the legal process regarding the viaduct’s reopening.