Inform, Entertain, Inspire
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Breaking Ground On A New And Improved Leeper Park In South Bend

Jennifer Weingart/WVPE

The ground was ceremoniously broken on renovations at Leeper Park in South Bend today, though construction in the park has already begun.

The Leeper Park overhaul is part of the My South Bend Parks and Trails program that will make upgrades at most of the city’s parks.

Leeper Park is getting a new path system, a renovated space for the restored Studebaker Fountain, a boardwalk and outlook along the river and an accessible playground.

Aaron Perri is the director of South Bend Venues, Parks and Arts. “This isn’t just about grass and swingsets. This is about economic impact, about social unity, about things like public safety and health
and wellness. We have a better community when we have quality shared spaces,” Perri says.

The park is losing its iconic duck pond. Perri says studies show for the health of the ducks and the park environment the pond was no longer a good idea.

Leeper Park is the most historic in the city. It was the first designated park in South Bend in the early 20th century.

Construction at Leeper Park is expected to cost about one and a half million dollars and be finished in September.