Chickasaw Park pond is getting a $2.5 million upgrade

That’s one expensive pond.

person walking across bridge over a river

The pedestrian bridge at Chickasaw Park is part of the current renovation.

Photo by Olmsted Parks Conservancy

Metro Council allocated $2.5 million from the American Rescue Plan to revamp the Chickasaw Park pond — and those funds are now being put to use.

After an extensive public input process for the 61-acre Olmsted Park, contractors with Riverside Paving have started draining the one-acre pond and setting up erosion control measures — aka dredging.

Other improvements will include:

  • New walking paths
  • A revamped pedestrian bridge
  • A one-acre pollinator meadow dedicated to Muhammad Ali
  • Canoe + kayak access
  • Fishing opportunities
  • Improved water quality

In addition to the pond renovation, the 1951 lodge — which is usually available for rent as an event venue — is also being remodeled. All work is expected to be finished by early 2024.

Read about 4 other park projects underway in LOU.