Watkins Park is one of the City’s two neighborhood parks. Located just a few blocks from Main Street, at the intersection of West and 10th streets, Watkins Park features a picnic shelter, small basketball court with goal, a small oval paved walking trail, a swing and an area for horseshoes. The shelter cannot be reserved, but may be used on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The park land was donated on behalf of the Watkins family in honor of Bruce Watkins, a prominent citizen and former Kansas City council member. It was originally named Greenway Park, but in 1995, it was renamed Bruce Watkins Park.
The Phase 1 improvements, funded with Park Sales tax revenue and a Platte County Outreach Grant, included:
- Parking lot closer to West Street
- Fencing to better define the park
- Small playground
- Loop trail around the perimeter
- New shelter closer to parking area
- Stream bank enhancements
Watkins Park after Phase 1 improvements completed (stream bank and loop trail work completed later)
