Huntsville’s new Legacy Park opens to tremendous fanfare

Huntsville’s newest public park opened officially Wednesday afternoon to resounding approval from the hundreds of people on hand to enjoy the new space.

Legacy Park, located adjacent to the Johnson Legacy Rec Center, is just the latest in the city’s commitment to “fun and fitness.”

The re-imagining of the former J.O. Johnson High School

The $4.6 million park, located near 6000 Cecil Fain Drive, completes what city leaders have referred to as the “re-imagining” of the former J.O. Johnson High School, which closed in 2016.

Designed by Bostick Landscape Architects, Legacy Park is more than an urban green space. Check out some of the perks of the park, so to speak:

• Two pavilions, including an entertainment pavilion with terraced seating
• A large, modern playground
• A plaza
• Walking trails
• 132-space parking lot.
• Fitness space

‘Celebrating the future‘

Hundreds of residents and Johnson alumni turned out to  participate in the grand opening festivities Wednesday. Many of them wore Legacy Park T-shirts, enjoyed free ice cream, music, a performance by the Johnson High Alumni Jazz Band, fitness court demonstrations and played on the new playground equipment. 

“Legacy Park was designed with the community in mind. We can see multiple generations using this space for years to come. Whether it’s an afternoon at the playground, an after-dinner walk, or a get-together with family and friends, Legacy Park is a place where memories will be made.” 

James Gossett, Huntsville Parks & Recreation

City leaders praised the design and layout of the park as a fitting tribute a long and proud history of the school that once stood on the property.

“From the start, our goal has been to honor the legacy of the J.O. Johnson Jaguars, while creating a neighborhood where people want to live, play, and raise their families. Legacy Park, in conjunction with Johnson Legacy Center, achieves that. It is a crowning jewel for Northwest Huntsville.”

Mayor Tommy Battle

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