A new park called Polina Gardens is underway at the intersection of 13th and Jones Street. The park will extend one block east to 12th Street and one block south to Leavenworth Street. It will incorporate two historic buildings, including the Anheuser-Busch Depot and the McCord-Brady building, now home to the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts.
The plans call for a park that features gardens, trails, public art, play space, fire pits, a stage or performance area, and possibly a small cafe. The two hands sculpture by Sophie Ryder, known for her monumental wire sculptures, is an attention getter. Lauritzen Gardens will operate Polina Gardens as its first satellite location.
Named for Polina and Bob Schlott, the park is being designed by Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf, whose other work includes the High Line in New York City and Lurie Garden in Chicago’s Millennium Park.
While I’m excited about a park located in the Old Market, I’m most excited that the old Anheuser-Busch depot is being incorporated into the design, perhaps as a cafe. Built in 1887, it is the only building still standing of the complex that once included a stable, bottling department, and combination beer vault and ice house.
The president of the Old Market Association believes the new park will build connectivity within the neighborhood in addition to providing green space for neighbors and visitors to enjoy. It will offer a variety of recreational activities such as community performances and outdoor movies.
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