PARK REVITALIZATION UPDATES
Overview
Construction is concluding on several exciting enhancements to the north side of the Centennial Park. The new Croquet Cafe is now open and offering food, refreshments, and public restrooms. A new Event Pavilion along Lake Watauga has replaced the former event shelter and is now a venue for a variety of programs, including Big Band Dances. Also, upgraded pedestrian pathways, vehicular entrances, and parking have improved accessibility for all. These revitalization improvements are anticipated to be complete by the fall of 2026.
Road & Pathway Closures
The north side of Centennial Park is now open to the public.
27th Avenue North now directly leads into Park Plaza past the new Croquet Cafe.
The former entrance closer to the Centennial Art Center is now EXIT only.
And access to the Art Center remains available via 25th Avenue North.
There are new pathways around Lake Watauga that connect the west to the east parts of the park past the new Event Pavilion, Croquet Cafe, Sunken Garden and toward the intersection of Park Plaza and 31st Ave North.
What is Being Added to the Park?
The Park’s historic 1963 Croquet Clubhouse structure will be transformed into a new dining destination called the Croquet Cafe.
A brand new, world-class space for entertainment and events is coming soon to the north bank of Lake Watauga.
New vehicular entrance and enhanced pathways
A new Park Plaza entrance on the north side will offer a sense of arrival as grand as West End and streamline traffic flow. New pathways will be created or enhanced for bike and pedestrian use with more connectivity to the 440 greenway and surface sidewalks.