News

For Immediate Release
February 7, 2022

RICHMOND, IN. – Richmond Parks and Recreation had the pleasure of working with students at Purdue Polytechnic on their Senior Capstone project this year. The Computer Graphic Technology Class researched all parks and decided a special need was just down the street at the Pass Through Park. This .15 acre mini-park is maintained by the Parks Department located in the 600 block of East Main Street in downtown Richmond between La Petite Pastry Shop and Chase Bank Building and across from Sweet Blessings.

“We were beyond excited to have this opportunity to collaborate and offer our expertise to the community. I had no doubt the students were ready to tackle such an advanced project.” stated Professor George.

“We saw a need in Richmond and we were excited to combine our talents to improve the city, and influence the space in a positive way.” said Purdue University student Kaitlyn Jurgens.

All four students presented to the City Team on January 31st. The presentation consisted of the statement of need. Referencing the 2020 Park Comprehensive Plan on several occasions. They stated that the Park was both a strength and a weakness as the Master Plan consultants identified. They highlighted that the park is tucked away, impacted by safety, lighting and accessibility concerns. They presented a unique way to mitigate these weaknesses but also play on the strengths of the park. The students supplied pricing options for their items in the design, proposed landscaping and plant life, suggested art focal points and provided conceptual virtual designs. 

“I was both proud and blown away by their finished designs. They really understood the need to bring people from Elstro to Main Street and vice versa. My favorite part was the modern aspects incorporated in the designs. The cascade lighting and gateway arches will definitely be items on the list to implement.” stated Denise Retz, Park Superintendent, Richmond Parks and Recreation.

Working with students on capstone projects is not anything new for Richmond Parks and Recreation. This marks the third Senior Capstone project and seventh time the parks team has been able to work with a local college to plan park projects. The Parks Department loves to partner with local organizations, businesses, and educational institutions to do more for this community.  If you are interested in partnering with Richmond Parks and Recreation, feel free to reach out to their facebook page, www.richmondindiana.gov, or contact Denise Retz directly at deniseretz@richmondindiana.gov. 

“I really enjoyed the use of hardscape and softscape in every design and appreciate their work on this project. Even if we can only do a few things right now, it is very exciting to have students invested in projects in our great city.” - Mayor Dave Snow

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The mission of the Richmond Parks and Recreation Department is to provide for the positive development and well-being of the Richmond community through the provision of parks, greenways, trails and recreational programming and facilities while working in cooperation with other service providers and partners in the community to maximize all available resources.

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Additional information pertaining to the news release, please contact Denise Retz: Deniseretz@richmondindiana.gov, 765-983-7276.