(Information from the Lawrence Parks and Rec. Dept.)

HISTORY

One of the first community parks in North Lawrence, the Parks and Recreation Department purchased the five acres of Lyons Park $4,500 in 1962. The park was expanded in 1977 with the addition of five more acres that were purchased from Mr. Lawrence Allison for $27,500.

The North Lawrence Neighborhood Association contributed $5,000 towards the land. The neighborhood community members also helped plan and develop the park by discussing their recreational needs at several public meetings hosted by Parks and Recreation.

To help support the park's construction, the City issued park bonds, which paid for half of the construction cost on the expansion of the park. The City applied for and received a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant, administered by the Kansas Park and Resource Authority (now the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.)

The 50-50 matching grant assisted the city with the park development by contributing approximately $101,346 to install an irrigation system and two lighted ball diamonds, restrooms, play equipment, parking, lighted tennis and basketball courts, walkways and landscaping.

DESCRIPTION OF PARK

The 10 acres of park land is at the center of activity in the North Lawrence neighborhood.

Easily accessible to community members, Lyon Street Park provides a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. The landscape and walkways allow Lawrence citizens and visitors the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll, hold a picnic or enjoy watching their children in the play area.

There are several venues to choose from for those who enjoy athletics. Lyons Park hosts two softball/baseball fields, tennis courts and a basketball court. All of these playing areas are lighted, allowing for night activities.

The amenities of the park include:

• Playground equipment
• Tennis court
• Basketball court
• Softball fields (lighted)

SHELTERS

There are one shelter located in Lyon Street Park. It accommodates 60 to 65 individuals.

Its amenities include:

• Lights
• Electricity
• Drinking fountain
• Restrooms
• Picnic tables
• Barbecue grill