Harrison Park

Harrison Park is a vital community space located in the Harrison neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The park sits adjacent to Highway 55 on the north and North Irving Avenue on the east, covering an area of 6.9 acres. It has been serving the city's West End since 1909, providing a range of recreational facilities for residents and visitors alike.

The park's history dates back to 1959 when it was officially acquired by the Minneapolis Park Board. It was named after the Harrison School, which in turn was named for William Henry Harrison, the ninth president of the United States. Prior to its official acquisition, the park board had been developing a playground on the site since 1958.

Harrison Park features a modern community center that houses various facilities including a gymnasium and a kitchen. The center also serves as a hub for community activities and programs. In 2015, a new wading pool was added to the park, complete with colorful play features, enhancing its appeal for families with young children.

The park underwent significant improvements in the late 1990s and early 2000s. From 1997 to 1999, a new secondary school and neighborhood center were constructed to replace the old school and recreation shelter. The new building includes a gym, a park board neighborhood center, and offices for the Harrison Neighborhood Association. Further upgrades were made to the playground and other park areas in 2003-2004.

Harrison Park plays a crucial role in community life, offering a variety of programs and activities for all age groups. It participates in the summer meals program, providing free weekday snacks and meals for children under 18 years old. The park's facilities are also available for rent, making it a popular venue for birthday parties and other private events.