Stephenson Park Receives ASLA Oklahoma’s Highest Honor
The City of Edmond’s Stephenson Park received the Award of Excellence from the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), the highest honor the organization gives. The award recognizes the very best in landscape architecture, celebrating projects that demonstrate innovation, professional mastery and meaningful community impact.
To receive this honor, a project must show exceptional accomplishment, a deep understanding of the profession and a lasting positive influence on both the public and the practice of landscape architecture. Stephenson Park achieved this recognition by combining historic preservation, sustainable design and community collaboration in a way that defines the purpose of public spaces.
The award also highlights the City of Edmond’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life through thoughtful design and planning. Freese and Nichols partnered with the City to lead the design of the park, creating a space that reflects Edmond’s identity while preparing it for future generations.
A New Chapter for a Historic Park
Located near downtown Edmond, Stephenson Park has been a community gathering place since 1892. Its recent renovation, the first major update since the 1930s, brought new energy and purpose to the city’s oldest park while preserving its historic character.
Freese and Nichols worked closely with city staff and residents to create a master plan that balanced modern amenities with the park’s legacy. The design team engaged the public throughout the process, ensuring that the improvements reflected the needs and values of Edmond’s citizens.
The renewed park features a large arched pavilion and stage surrounded by café seating, a boardwalk and an open lawn area that supports concerts, festivals and community events. Upgrades to surrounding streets, lighting and sidewalks improve safety and accessibility. The playground now includes traditional swings as well as unique features such as a musical play area and a space-themed climbing structure.
Beneath the surface, an underground rainwater detention system manages stormwater efficiently while conserving valuable open space for recreation. The system eliminates the need for above-ground ponds, creating more usable green areas and improving flood control for nearby properties.
Freese and Nichols and the City of Edmond also prioritized preserving the park’s historic elements. Crews restored the 1930s rock bridges and the original stone park sign. The park’s iconic rocket ship slide, a favorite of generations, now serves as a monument feature that honors its legacy as “Rocket Ship Park.”
The design strengthens connections to nearby landmarks such as the Edmond Historical Museum, the VFW building and the Rodkey House. A new Centennial Plaza features a walkway with engraved donor bricks leading to a memorial honoring Edmond residents who served in the military.
Mature trees were protected during construction, and new trees were added to provide additional shade and support long-term sustainability.
Stephenson Park now serves as a vibrant public space where Edmond’s past and present come together. The park’s transformation shows how thoughtful design can enhance community life, preserve local history and strengthen civic identity. With this recognition from ASLA Oklahoma, the City of Edmond has set a new standard for excellence in public space design.
Watch the VIDEO below for a better look at the Stephenson Park upgrades.
