Ida M. Cotten Park

Community Legacy

Ida M. Cotten Park serves the Liberty Wells neighborhood in Salt Lake City, Utah, and it was recently selected for improvements as part of the Reimagine Neighborhood Parks initiative. Funding comes from the Parks, Trails, & Open Space General Obligation Bond (GO Bond) that locals approved back in November 2022.

The goal? Transform those underused green spaces into vibrant community spots that everyone can enjoy.

Historical Background

Behind the park's name is a story worth telling. Ida Margaret Cotten, born on April 8, 1875, in Reese River, Nevada, wasn't just any resident - she was the heart and soul of the Liberty Wells neighborhood, pouring her energy into local affairs and community building.

When fire claimed Ida's home, something beautiful emerged from the ashes. The community banded together to turn the empty lot into a park, officially dedicating it on October 31, 1992. It stands today as a living tribute to Ida's legacy and her deep connection to Liberty Wells.

Park Features

Despite its compact size, the park has several amenities for children. The playground comes equipped with a swing set, jungle gym, and slides that accommodate both toddlers and older kids alike.

The park's shade trees are particularly noteworthy. During hot summer days, they provide much-needed shade over the play areas, offering relief from Utah's high temperatures.

Renovation Plans

In 2024, the Salt Lake City Public Lands Department took time to hear what the community actually wanted from their park. Through public input sessions, they gathered feedback on current usage patterns and wishlist items for improvements.

The final renovation design honors what matters most to locals - keeping the swings, preserving the popular trees, and ensuring there's plenty of shade. Safety considerations include maintaining clear sight lines across the park and adding appropriate fencing around the new playground. These thoughtful updates will modernize the equipment while preserving the intimate, neighborhood feel that makes Ida M. Cotten Park special.

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Environmental Initiatives

Beyond serving the human community, the park plays a role in a larger environmental story. It's part of efforts to support monarch butterfly populations, which have been steadily declining over recent decades. As of 2025, these iconic orange and black butterflies have federal protection and may soon join the threatened species list - making green spaces like this one all the more important.