After months of planning, design, and hard work, Kennedy Park is ready to shine again! Join us on Saturday, November 1 at 1 p.m. for a joyful grand-opening celebration of this beloved West St. Paul neighborhood park at 774 Dodd Road.
Nestled in the historic “40 Acres” neighborhood along the border of Saint Paul’s West Side, Kennedy Park has long been a place where generations have gathered to play, picnic, and enjoy the outdoors. Now, thanks to an extraordinary collaboration among residents, donors, and city leaders, it has been reborn as a more inclusive, accessible, and nature-connected community destination. The renovation reimagines Kennedy Park while honoring its familiar spirit.
What’s New at Kennedy Park
Thanks to months of planning, community voice, design and construction, the renovation includes:
- A brand-new playground and nature-based play elements (including hillside slides that make use of the park’s topography).
- Accessible trails linking the four entry points of the park so folks of all ages and abilities can move through and enjoy the space.
- A shaded picnic shelter and gathering space located adjacent to the playground — making it a true gathering place for families and neighbors.
- Enhanced landscaping: roughly 40 new trees, pollinator prairie areas, and improved habitat elements to enhance beauty and ecological value.
- Preservation of the open lawn and sledding hill that neighbors love—so the park still keeps its character and fun traditions.
None of this would have been possible without community generosity. A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Kennedy family, whose $25,000 matching gift inspired residents and donors to join in support of the park’s renewal.
The Grand Re-Opening Celebration will begin at 1 p.m., with fun for all ages, light refreshments, and plenty of time to explore the new features. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place around 1:30 p.m., followed by informal tours and neighborly conversation.
Whether you’re a lifelong visitor or discovering Kennedy Park for the first time, this event is your chance to celebrate what community can achieve together. Come see the transformation, meet your neighbors, and enjoy the season’s beauty in a park built for everyone.
Kennedy Park Grand Re-Opening 🎉
📍 774 Dodd Road, West St. Paul
🗓️ Saturday, November 1 | 1:00 p.m. (ribbon cutting at 1:30 p.m.)
Let’s play, explore, and celebrate the next chapter of Kennedy Park — together.