Architectural Design Drawing of Lamar Park Master Plan (PDF)

The Lamar Park Project is an exciting project for the citizens and visitors of Oxford that adds several new features to the park and improves many of the park's existing facilities.  The Park Project will be broken down into two distinct phases.  Phase I and Phase II represent substantial phases of improvements in accordance with the Lamar Park Master Plan. The construction value is $1.5 million dollars and work will be completed in September of this year (2008). Improvements are consistent with the themes of passive recreation and  environmental enhancement that were priorities in the Master Plan.

Though the improvements will be an inconvenience while construction is underway, the City requests park visitors abide by the changes in parking areas and signs and fencing of off-limits areas.  The City will keep as much of the park facilities open to the public as possible without compromising visitor safety.

Phase I includes an improved park entrance, more accessible parking, and an arrival terrace with new walks radiating to various park features. Work includes removal of the existing bathroom building and construction of a new restroom, and a picnic pavilion, with an adjacent terrace providing a nice overlook of the park. Phase I also includes a new picnic area in the northwest side of the park, and a new walking trail that ties into the current walking path.  New benches, litter receptacles and a drinking fountain at key locations are also part of Phase I.

Phase II includes a new outdoor classroom and play area near the center of the park, as well as various park-wide improvements. The outdoor classroom is a terraced, grassy amphitheater that takes advantage of the topography of a north facing slope in the park. The play area is unique in using only natural materials, versus manufactured equipment. It includes five grass mounds of varying heights (one wheelchair accessible) along with weathered boulders and a wood boardwalk. There are several stone seating circles, a picnic area, and extensive native tree plantings.

Park-wide improvements that are part of Phase II include new asphalt and concrete trails, benches, litter receptacles, improvements to an existing sand ditch, picnic areas at the east and west ends of the park, conversion of several lawn areas to wildflower meadow, and new trees.

In total, over 4,400 feet of new trails and walks will be added and 268 trees will be planted. Trees include canopy and understory species, almost all of which are native. An irrigation system utilizing water from the lake will cover the more intensively planted areas. At the park perimeter, posts and chains will be replaced by more durable and
attractive timber rails to keep cars from venturing into the park. A connection between the new College Hill bikeway and the park will be provided, and two new signs will enhance the park identity. All improvements are intended to maintain the Lamar Park atmosphere of passive, enjoyable recreation in a serene and natural environment.

For more information on this project, call the Public Works Department, 662-232-2306.

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