The planned improvements for Perry Harvey Park are poised to celebrate the history of Central Avenue, its community leaders and cultural influences.
“Central Avenue has a special place in Tampa’s history, particularly for the African American community, and this park will be a place where generations can come together to share in that history and enjoy,” said Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn.
"Hopefully our vision, this place will become a vibrant place for people to come and visit to renew old friendships and rekindle others," said Hazel Harvey, Perry Harvey Senior's daughter-in-law.
The area was settled after the Civil War, when freed slaves were relocated to an area northeast of downtown Tampa called "The Scrub."
Over time, the area grew to become a successful African American residential and commercial district. The cultural attractions became legendary, bringing nationally known artists to Tampa, including: Ray Charles, Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Hank Ballard, and many others.
"We have a moral obligation to these young people behind me to remember and to highlight our history," said Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. "Some parts of that history is not good but it is important that we remember."
In fact, the dance "The Twist" was invented at an entertainment establishment along Central Avenue, inspiring the song created by Hank Ballard, which was later made famous by Chubby Checker.
The community’s history will be commemorated in the form of custom artwork, including am engaging “History Walk” located along Central Avenue, large scale statue commemorating Perry Harvey, Sr., and Leader’s Row featuring the community leaders, including Lee Davis, Robert Saunders, Christina Meacham, Moses White, Henry Joyner, Georgette Gardner, and GD Rogers.
"I think it’s wonderful because everyone can come here not just African-Americans,” said the grandson of GD Rogers, James Ransom.
The new park will feature an interactive fountain and great lawn space capable of hosting large concerts, festivals, and a variety of other special events.
Additional improvements for the park include basketball courts, picnic shelters, and a skate park at the north end. All the new amenities will be connected by walkways and lighting, providing views of downtown Tampa’s skyline and Encore throughout.
Park renovations are being funded by the Choice Neighborhoods grant award in the amount of $6.95 million for construction. Site preparations began in spring 2015, and construction is anticipated to be complete in winter 2016, or in approximately seven months.