Durham Central Park concept plan proposes flexible festival street, expanded lawn and new playground

Durham Parks and Recreation staff and design consultants presented a concept plan on April 24 to redesign Durham Central Park with a Festival Street that can close for events, a larger level “great lawn,” an expanded Mount Merril playground, a canopy plaza and improved storm‑resilient landscaping.

Wade Walcott of Durham Parks and Recreation introduced the concept plan and said the design grew from the department’s comprehensive system planning and close collaboration with Durham Central Park Inc. Sweta, a designer from McAdams, summarized an extensive public engagement program that included a three‑day design charrette, pop‑ups at the park, two open houses and focused stakeholder meetings.

Plan highlights and intent: - Festival Street: designers said the street would remain accessible to vehicles most of the week but be equipped with collapsible bollards and other…