At the park’s future site, there’s evidence of ground work, with sections of corrugated underground pipes piled near the fence.
Beyond the crushed limestone construction area, The Vault on Main building is largely complete, with underground parking and residential courtyard.
Construction of the park was delayed because apartment construction was delayed.
Once work began on the park, serious problems were presented when crews uncovered underground structures and unstable soil.
“And then problem solving — How do we move forward without scrapping the project and or a huge financial implication,” City Parks Executive Director Danielle Crook said. “And first and foremost, how do we move forward, making sure that this space will be safe for the community and not subject to sinkholes or anything that could happen if the foundation wasn't stable.”
The solution — additional stone base and mesh layers for stability.
"That took some time and collaboration with several different entities to try to figure that out," Crook said.
The city-owned 4th and Main Park will be more of an event space and a place for downtown workers and visitors to relax, meet and hang out, than a playground for kids.
There will be a public restroom, large umbrellas, planters, tree cover and a performance stage. Crook said it will fill the need for an event space downtown.
“Music events can take place, plays can take place, kids can come see Santa Claus, just a variety of things. And that open turfed area is meant for just hanging out with one another. There's food trucks will be able to pull up to this area as well.”
The stage will be under construction after excavation is complete — potentially mid-August.
The $3.5 million project is funded through the 2024 park bond and $1 million from the CenterPoint Energy foundation.
Visible construction should resume in mid August. The multi-use space is expected to be done in November.
The Vault on Main broke ground May of 2024. It features 161 apartments with retail space below. A large portion of the footprint is reserved for the park.
The park and apartment building is located at the former 420 Main Building demolished in 2021.
Support independent journalism today. You rely on WNIN to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Give to grow our local reporting today. Donate
