Lyons Park
700 North Lyon StreetHISTORY
One of the first community parks in North Lawrence, the Parks and Recreation Department
purchased the five acres of Lyons Park $4,500 in 1962. The park was expanded in 1977 with
the addition of five more acres that were purchased from Mr. Lawrence Allison for $27,500.
The North Lawrence Neighborhood Association contributed $5,000 towards the land.
The neighborhood community members also helped plan and develop the park by discussing
their recreational needs at several public meetings hosted by Parks and Recreation.
To help support the park's construction, the City issued park bonds, which paid for half
of the construction cost on the expansion of the park. The City applied for and received a
Land and Water Conservation Fund grant, administered by the Kansas Park and Resource Authority
(now the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.)
The 50-50 matching grant assisted the city with the park development by contributing
approximately $101,346 to install an irrigation system and two lighted ball diamonds,
restrooms, play equipment, parking, lighted tennis and basketball courts, walkways and landscaping.
DESCRIPTION OF PARK
The 10 acres of park land is at the center of activity in the North Lawrence neighborhood.
Easily accessible to community members, Lyon Street Park provides a variety of activities
for everyone to enjoy. The landscape and walkways allow Lawrence citizens and visitors
the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll, hold a picnic or enjoy watching
their children in the play area.
There are several venues to choose from for those who enjoy athletics. Lyons Park hosts
two softball/baseball fields, tennis courts, a horseshoe competition area
and a basketball court. All of these playing areas are lighted, allowing for
night activities.
The amenities of the park include:
- Playground equipment
- Tennis court
- Basketball court
- Softball fields (lighted)
- Horseshoe competition area
Shelters
There are one shelter located in Lyon Street Park. It accommodates 60 to 65 individuals.
Its amenities include:
- Lights
- Electricity
- Drinking fountain
- Restrooms
- Picnic tables
- Barbecue grill
Reservations for outdoor shelters and indoor facilities are taken at any of the
community recreation centers including the Community Building, 115 West 11th St.;
East Lawrence Recreation Center, 1245 East 15th St.; Holcom Park Recreation Center,
2700 West 27th St.; Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center,
4706 Overland Drive and South Park Recreation Center, 1141 Massachusetts St.
See our shelter rentals page
for more information on renting these facilites or call 832-7920.
