St. Joseph, Missouri, is set to enhance its cultural scene with a significant upgrade to Coleman Hawkins Park, as plans for a new stage and park remodel have been finalized. The project, funded by a $900,000 parks tax, aims to improve the venue for concerts and community events, with construction scheduled to commence in spring 2024.
New Stage and Enhanced Design
The renovation will focus on relocating the existing gazebo and constructing a large new stage that will face north towards Francis Street, rather than its current orientation towards Felix Street. This redesign is intended to maximize viewing space for audiences and improve sound quality for performers. Parks Director Jeff Atkins noted that the project is currently out for bid and is expected to gain council approval by late November or early December 2023.
“We’re kind of hoping for a late July, August completion date,” Atkins stated, emphasizing the importance of community feedback in shaping the project. The new layout will include landscaped terraces on the adjacent hillside, creating an amphitheater-like atmosphere that enhances the audience experience.
The iconic Coleman Hawkins statue will also be relocated to a position adjacent to the new stage, ensuring it remains a focal point in the park. Atkins described the design as open and accessible, allowing bands to connect more easily with the crowd, and featuring a large cantilever roof for improved visibility.
Community Impact and Upcoming Events
Despite the ongoing renovations, the St. Joseph Downtown Association confirmed that the popular Sounds of Summer Concert Series will continue as planned for 2024. However, participants should expect some disruptions during the construction phase. Jeff Waggoner, president of the Downtown Association Board of Directors, expressed confidence that the community will continue to support local events.
“We will still have bands. We will still have events down here. It’ll look a little bit different, but I’m convinced that people will still come down to support and enjoy what we have to offer,” Waggoner said.
This project reflects St. Joseph’s commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering community engagement through arts and culture. As the city prepares for this exciting transformation, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a revitalized Coleman Hawkins Park that better accommodates a variety of events and performances.
News-Press NOW will provide updates as the project progresses.
