ROCHESTER, NY – Steps from The Strong National Museum of Play, a long-anticipated transformation is bringing new life to one of Rochester’s most historic public spaces. Our team joined City officials, neighbors, and project partners on October 29 to celebrate the grand opening of the revitalized MLK Jr. Memorial Park Playground, a vibrant space designed to welcome visitors of all ages and abilities.
Located at 353 Court St., the half-acre space reopened as a destination for activity and everyday connection. Developed in close partnership with the City, the project reflects shared community priorities and reinforces the park’s role within Rochester’s growing “Neighborhood of Play.”
Originally created in the 1960s as part of an urban renewal effort, the park (formerly Manhattan Square Park) was a key component of a larger vision that never fully materialized. Over time, aging infrastructure, safety concerns, and limited use underscored the need for reinvestment.
This latest phase builds on decades of planning and a resident-driven master plan initiated in 1999. The contemporary redesign was also guided by extensive public engagement, with our team facilitating hands-on workshops where children shared ideas for their “dream playground,” directly informing the final outcome.
Features include accessible play equipment, expanded interactive water elements, and bold, colorful surfaces. Improved sightlines and security enhancements augment usability and bolster cohesion with the broader park, its iconic amphitheater, and The Strong’s nearby expansion.
The project also aligns with continued investment in the area, including additional programming and ongoing development along the Inner Loop East, positioning the playground as a hub for local families.
“By centering inclusion, we’ve cultivated a space where everyone feels they belong, and where joyful play can thrive for generations,” said SWBR Landscape Architecture Manager Marlee Beers, PLA.
As Landscape Architect, SWBR worked alongside Genesee Building Restoration (Contractor) to deliver the $2.4M project.