Love Grows Here: Lori’s Garden Begins Its Transformation in Downtown Watertown
- Steve Jurrens
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - A long-envisioned revitalization of Lori’s Garden on Downtown Watertown’s Kemp Avenue is officially underway as the H2O‑50 Arts & Recreation Committee launches Love Grows Here, a community-driven effort to remake the downtown pocket park into a welcoming, accessible public space.
Early work is already visible. According to the committee, the aging pine trees and deteriorated perimeter fence that once framed the site have now been removed, opening the space for a full rebuild. The group has submitted a major grant application to support the project and is awaiting a decision expected in May.
A Park Rooted in Love
Lori’s Garden carries a deeply personal history. The park was donated to the City of Watertown by Mike Luken in memory of his wife, Lori, who died in a car accident when their daughter Jennifer was just four years old.
“She loved this community. She would have wanted something here that brought people together — something alive, something full of hope,” said Jill Makepeace.
The Love Grows Here initiative aims to honor that legacy by creating a space where families, visitors, and neighbors can gather, reflect, and connect.
What the Reimagined Park Will Include
If grant funding is approved, the full redesign will feature:
· Perennial Gardens: ADA-accessible raised beds with native, four-season plantings
· Picnic & Pergola Area: Shaded seating for lunches, breaks, and community gatherings
· Adult Swings: An ADA-accessible swing designed for all ages
· Art Wall & Memorial Mosaic: A permanent installation honoring Lori with opportunities for community contributions
· Interactive Displays: Digital kiosks sharing plant information, the park’s story, and community messages
“This refresh of Lori’s Garden is an investment in both our present and our future,” said H2O‑50 Committee member Elliot Kinnander. “It will continue to be a welcoming space where our community can gather, connect, and grow for years to come.”
Where the Project Stands Now
City crews have completed the removal of the old trees and fencing, leaving the site open and ready for the next phase. H2O‑50, working in partnership with Visit Watertown, has applied for a grant that would cover roughly half of the project’s estimated $100,000 cost.
Lindsey Stangl of Visit Watertown said projects like this strengthen both community identity and visitor experience.
“Visitors are looking for places that feel welcoming, authentic, and connected to the community,” Stangl said. “Thoughtfully designed public spaces play a critical role in that.”
How the Community Can Support the Project
Donations will help ensure the full vision is realized. Named giving opportunities are available to individuals and businesses seeking recognition as founding contributors.
Checks may be made payable to the Watertown Area Community Foundation with “Lori’s Garden” noted in the memo line. Online gifts should include “Lori’s Garden” in the comment box to ensure proper designation. Donors contributing $1,000 or more will be recognized on a donor wall within the garden.
Questions about the project may be directed to info@h20-50.org.
About H2O‑50
H2O‑50 is Watertown’s long-range, community-driven strategic action plan guiding growth and development through 2050. Built on extensive public input, the plan focuses on quality of life, housing, workforce, recreation, and collaboration.
