Coleman shares his experiences in rejuvenating Meridian Hill Park, and in guiding a regional network of parks support groups.
- How do you draw a community in to reclaim a neighborhood park, even a troubled park, and keep it vital?
- How do you promote the park to new and old constituencies?
Background
In Washington D.C.'s Meridian Hill Park (also known as Malcolm X Park), once known as the "most violent park in the region," perception had become reality: the out-of-control, undesirable uses of some people had frightened away other neighborhood residents in this diverse, changing area. But Steve Coleman and other concerned neighbors acted on their belief that "every park has a community," and started saying hello to every single person there - people, in their view, being the pivotal asset needed to rebuild the park. They discovered an important core of dedicated park "regulars" who were, in a sense, waiting for the opportunity to serve as the park's "eyes and ears" by discouraging truly detrimental or violent uses. The non-profit Friends of Meridian Hill (FOMH) was formed, and codified a strategy for reclaiming the park. By providing services and referrals to needy existing users, arranging for community policing, encouraging positive park users and adding new users through numerous efforts, crime fell by 90%. The park became, in the words of President Clinton, "a shining example for the nation."
FOMH promotes the park ceaselessly, through programming for local residents (performances, tours, classes and clean-ups), and also to former residents and suburbanites who are potential regional users. FOMH has formed alliances with more than 200 area non-profits, and uses statistics to bolster their case when speaking with area journalists, who are invited to all events. Friends' meetings are all held in the park itself.
