Mary and Paul Walker take the first steps into the newly renovated Paul S. Walker Park, in Downtown, as Commissioner Marc Sarnoff (left) and Commissioner Joe Sanchez (right) follow closely behind. Commissioner Joe Sanchez, Paul Walker, his granddaughter Wendy Wills, wife Mary Walker, step- daughter Silvia Pardo, and Commissioner Marc Sarnoff, gather with other members of Mr. Walker’s family in honor of the grand re-opening of Paul Walker Park. Photos: Jorge R. Perez/City of Miami.

(Miami, FL.)—City of Miami Commission and Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Chairman Joe Sanchez, and Commissioner Marc Sarnoff today joined DDA Board members and downtown merchants for the grand re-opening of the Paul S. Walker Mini-Park, located at 46 W Flagler Street. The event also celebrated the completion of two additional pocket parks in downtown that are part of the DDA’s beautification program. 

“Parks are where communities and neighborhoods are built,” said Mayor Manny Diaz. “The re-opening of the Paul S. Walker Mini-Park is another example of how the City of Miami is investing in our parks, our neighborhoods, our residents and our children.”

Also joining officials was Mr. Paul Walker who 32 years ago was recognized by the City for his contributions to downtown with the naming of the park. Mr. Walker was instrumental in bringing Miami Dade College to downtown, was the President of Richard’s Department Store, and the head of a Grand Jury for a term. Upon hearing that renovations of the park were near completion, Mr. Walker’s daughter emailed Mayor Diaz and Commissioner Sarnoff to express gratitude for bringing this beautiful park back to life. 

“Restoring Paul Walker Park to its past glory was my very first initiative when I was elected Commissioner. I am extremely proud to see that it has now become a reality,” said Commissioner Sarnoff.

Following the dedication ceremony, attendees and downtown workers enjoyed live entertainment at each of the three downtown mini-parks during their lunch breaks. 

“The addition of these pocket parks is a step in the right direction and shows our commitment to creating green space,” said Chairman Sanchez. “I’m excited about the increasing enthusiasm of individuals who work to beautify Miami through sustainable initiatives such as these.  As Chairman of the DDA, I thank everyone involved in working towards a more enjoyable and more beautiful Downtown. “

The scope of Paul S. Walker Mini-park includes: demolition of existing restaurant facility, as well as the creation of a waterfall and fountain, walkways, landscaping with ornamental and shade trees, seating-eating areas, art expo, a musician stage, lighting, drainage, signage and a designer gate. The Mini-Park has area of approximately 4200 SQ.FT. and will serve primarily the downtown office crowd and tourists during daytime hours. The cost for the project is $284,993, with funds coming from the DDA & Homeland Defense Neighborhood Improvement Bond. 

The park will be open to the public Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.