Hightower Park opens with community celebration

Five years in the making, new amphitheater finally opens on East Broadway

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The long-awaited Hightower Park Amphitheater _nally opened last week in West Memphis, much to the delight of residents who have been eagerly anticipating its completion. Originally scheduled to open in 2022, the project was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic but _nally came to fruition with an of_cial groundbreaking ceremony just over a year ago held in April of 2023.

Part of a $9 million renovation project approved by voters in 2019, Hightower Park boasts state-of-the-art amenities including an amphitheater, basketball court, picnic shelter, play area, and restrooms. City of_cials and community members gathered on Friday, September 6th at 4 p.m. to celebrate the grand opening of this beautiful new space.

Mayor McClendon expressed his excitement about the park, stating, “Hightower Park Amphitheater promises to become a central hub for entertainment and events in West Memphis. This project is a testament to our ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life spaces and provide our residents with more opportunities for recreation and entertainment.”

The opening event featured musical performances by local artists including Kyia Buckingham, Bruce Clay, Ribbon in the Sky Violinist, and Dancers, among others. The community came together to enjoy the new park and celebrate the hard work and dedication that went into making Hightower Park a reality.

Located next to the Roberta Jackson Center, Hightower Park is sure to be a popular spot for residents to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors for years to come. The city of West Memphis invites everyone to come and experience the beauty of Hightower Park and all it has to offer.

City officials celebrated the long-awaited opening of Hightower Park last Friday.

Photos by City of West Memphis

The park is part of Mayor McClendon’s promise to revitalize older areas of the city.