Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Construction for Underwood Park

On Monday, Sept. 9, city leaders, community members, and park supporters gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of Underwood Park, Fayetteville’s fifth community park. Approximately 38 acres were generously donated by Craig and Laura Underwood in 2019, with an additional 20 acres leased at no cost to expand recreational opportunities.

Mayor Molly Rawn, Park Planning Superintendent Ted Jack, and Craig and Laura Underwood all spoke at the event, highlighting the significance of this new public space and the collective effort that made it possible. The project is partially funded through the Parks Bond approved by Fayetteville residents in 2019.

EDG’s Role in the Vision and Renovation
Ecological Design Group (EDG) developed the Underwood Park Master Plan, beginning with a thorough site analysis of hydrologic, ecological, and cultural conditions. With rapid development in the surrounding area, challenges such as flooding, impermeable surfaces, and non-point source pollution needed thoughtful solutions. The design incorporates green infrastructure: restored wetlands, vegetated meanders along Clabber Creek, permeable pavers, and bioswales to improve stormwater management.

Building on this foundation, EDG is now providing landscape architecture and civil engineering design services to renovate and bring Underwood Park to life. This includes enhancing trail systems, integrating stormwater solutions, and creating recreational amenities that reflect the community’s vision.

Community-Driven Design
Public engagement shaped every step of the process. Through three input sessions, Fayetteville residents shared ideas and refined the park’s vision. Top requests included trails, playgrounds, open green spaces, and ecological restoration. Ultimately, three themes — nature immersion, play and social connection, and active living — were merged into a comprehensive design.

Our very own Shannon Norman, who has been involved since day one and attended the groundbreaking, reflected:
“Multiple community input sessions illuminated how much the public already values Underwood Park and guided the design process to balance new improvements with preserving and enhancing the existing features people enjoy.”

Looking Ahead
Underwood Park’s first phase of construction is expected to be complete by summer 2026. Already, the project has been recognized with an ASLA Central States Merit Award and a Citation Award from the Fay Jones School of Architecture & Design.

EDG is proud to continue its involvement, providing both landscape and civil design services that will ensure Underwood Park becomes a resilient, community-driven space connecting people, nature, and play for generations to come.

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