Even after a few months since the park’s official ribbon cutting, there is still a buzz of excitement and engagement for the newly opened Davidson Park at Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee headquarters. Among the many events the park has hosted since its opening, Greenfire was proud to sponsor an AEC-focused tour of Davidson Park, also hosted by The Harley-Davidson Foundation, HGA and the United Performing Arts Fund.
The transformative public space was on full display for guests, as what was once an underutilized corporate parking lot now stands a stunning topographical space that hopes to revitalize not only Harley-Davidson’s use of their historic Juneau Avenue headquarters, but also Milwaukee’s near west side as well. The park’s spacious and varying levels allowed for groups to peruse the park at their leisure and stop at sponsored stations. There were live performances by members of UPAF, delicious fare from Tots on the Street, Mazorca Tacos, and refreshments served from 1903, the permanent bar sponsored by MolsonCoors. As the construction managers of the project, Greenfire was honored to take part in the event and offer our insight into the project to patrons of the tour. Greenfire’s own Simmi Urbanek, Director of Marketing, greeted tour guests at the park’s Potawatomi Serenity Garden.
Developed in collaboration with the Forest County Potawatomi Community, the Harley-Davidson Foundation wanted to devote a portion of the park that incorporated influence from the Tribe’s heritage, who used to reside where the park stands now. A traditional Serenity Garden was designed and implemented with help from the Tribe, and incorporated elements of a symbolic medicine wheel. Surrounding the central grandfather stone are traditional plantings synonymous with elements of healing. To the east will be tobacco, to the south is cedar, to the west is sage, and to the north is sweetgrass.
The Serenity Garden offers a tranquil space for park goers to engage in peaceful meditation and reflection. Adjacent to the Garden is a time capsule that will be opened in 30 years. The contents include various trinkets, as well as written notes from neighbors about hopes and aspirations for the park that hope to be realized by the capsule’s opening.
Greenfire is proud of our efforts at Davidson Park and look to continue to help share our stories and insight into the park with the community for years to come.
