Unity Park, Greenville's new crown jewel, opens today west of downtown
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Good morning!
I'm Macon Atkinson, and I cover City Hall and downtown development for The Greenville News.
Today is a big day. Unity Park, the city's most ambitious civic project since Falls Park was completed in 2004, opens at 10 a.m. off South Hudson Street in west Greenville.
More: Unity Park opens in Greenville: Here's what to know before you go
The city has spent millions in public money and private donations to restore the Reedy River and historic Mayberry Field, installing pedestrian bridges, building playgrounds and a splash pad, cultivating acres of grassy space and building affordable housing nearby.
For subscribers: How Greenville spent $66 million to build the new Unity Park, which opens this week
Recent reporting: Greenville plans $5.5 million for Unity Park observation tower to fast-track funding
This 60-acre project is transforming the surrounding neighborhoods of Southernside and West Greenville. For decades, these neighborhoods were abused and neglected by the officials intended to serve them, rendering them vulnerable to gentrification today.
To remember as Unity Park opens: 3 Black leaders who fought for west Greenville
The city presents Unity Park as a symbol of healing and unity in light of this history. But not everyone feels like the park is for them.
More: Tension builds as Greenville looks to fund parks with limited resources
The Greenville News has written about this project extensively, from breaking down the sprawling budget to telling the stories of the people nearby.
More: Greenville honors Southernside missionary Lila Mae Brock with statue in Unity Park
As the downtown reporter, I've spent countless hours in Unity Park budget talks, poured over construction contracts and spoken to dozens of sources, including the people who live and work in Southernside and West Greenville. All of that work has shaped my reporting.
Unity Park opens with a special ceremony at 320 S. Hudson Street. I'll be covering the opening; if you see me there, be sure to say hello.
Macon Atkinson is the city watchdog reporter for The Greenville News. She's powered by long runs and strong coffee. Follow her on Twitter @maconatkinson.
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Unity Park opens today in west Greenville SC
