The Greenprint: How Community Imagination Is Shaping Durham’s Next 10 Years of Public Space

Durham is growing—and so must its central public space.

The Greenprint is Durham Central Park’s 10-year roadmap for improving accessibility, comfort, connectivity, shade, gathering spaces, and event infrastructure. It is the first major update to the park’s master plan in over a decade, and it is built directly from community input.

How We Got Here

Over two years, DCP worked with McAdams and Durham Parks and Recreation to gather public feedback through:

  • Surveys
  • Workshops
  • Walk-throughs
  • Vendor meetings
  • Accessibility consultations
  • Focus groups

Hundreds of comments shaped the final plan.

What’s Coming First

Three early-phase projects are already in design:

1. Creekside Gateway

A safe, welcoming entrance connecting the park to the Greenway and the Durham Athletic Park.

2. Forest Seating & Terraces

A shaded, terraced landscape for gathering, resting, meeting, playing, and storytelling.

3. The Memorial Garden

A reflective space honoring loved ones, offering solace and beauty in equal measure.

Learn more about the Westside Phase here.

Is Anything Being Removed?

No.
The skate park stays.
The Pavilion stays.
The Farmers’ Market stays.
We’re building around beloved features—not replacing them.

A Community-Built Future

The Greenprint is about more than projects—it’s about belonging.

It makes DCP more accessible, more comfortable, more connected, and more resilient as our city grows. And every step of the way, community voices will lead the process.

Your support turns the vision into reality. Donate to the Greenprint today!