Founded in 1872 by formerly enslaved leaders Richard Allen, Richard Brock, Jack Yates, and Elias Dibble, Emancipation Park was purchased to commemorate the end of slavery and, during segregation, served as one of the few public spaces open to Black residents. Today, the park remains a vital cultural landmark in Houston.
Project Highlights
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Outdoor Performance Stage: A new 5,000-square-foot stage next to the Eldorado Ballroom will include green rooms, climate-controlled storage, and an advanced AV tech suite.
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Cultural Center Renovation: The 11,000-square-foot center will feature digital storytelling, upgraded AV, a gift shop, and landscaped exhibition spaces tracing the park’s history.
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Timeline: Construction is expected to finish by June 2026, just in time for the annual Juneteenth celebration.
Leadership and Design
The project is led by Perkins & Will, the same architecture firm behind the park’s 2017 $33 million redesign. The Kinder Foundation is the primary funder, with additional fundraising ongoing to close the remaining financial gap. Most park facilities, including playgrounds and sports courts, will remain open during construction, though the cultural center and adjacent lawn will close temporarily.
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