Howard School Park Reopens After Major Upgrades

Published on June 26, 2025

After nearly a year of construction, Howard School Park has officially reopened—offering families a place to beat the heat, play with their pups, or relax in the shade.

The upgrades, which started in July 2024, include a large splash pad, an enclosed dog run, shade structures, picnic tables and benches, two pickleball courts, and a small basketball court. A new Portland Loo restroom is expected to be installed this fall.

A standout feature of the park’s transformation is the city’s first Lappset interactive playground equipment, designed to create a unique and engaging experience for kids.

The “Sona” is an interactive dance and play arch that uses motion-sensing technology to launch a variety of games at the press of a button, encouraging movement and social play.

The “Memo” features interactive play pillars equipped with 360-degree LED touch screens, combining physical activity with memory challenges in a structure designed to educate through play.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, June 26, with City officials, Councilors Garrett West and Kevin Stine, and project partners in attendance to celebrate the park’s reopening.

With a total cost of $2.3 million, the project was funded through a combination of a $714,300 Local Government Grant, $925,800 in American Rescue Plan Act funds, and contributions from the Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department’s Capital Improvement Fund. The work was carried out by Adroit Construction Co.

Located at 286 Mace Road, the 9.2-acre neighborhood park serves approximately 871 households and nearly 3,000 residents within a half-mile radius.