Redevelopment transforms Davis Park for future generations

 A great park offers more than a place to take a stroll. It can become a social and economic engine for an entire community. When the City of Rockford set out to redevelop Davis Park as a regional destination for concerts, recreation and entertainment, Fehr Graham joined SmithGroup's team to help transform the park into a modern public space where residents and visitors can gather, play and celebrate.

As a subconsultant to SmithGroup, Fehr Graham provided civil site design, grading, utility design and construction observation. The single-phase redevelopment required close coordination among architects, urban designers, interior designers, landscape architects, civil engineers and lighting designers. Fehr Graham also coordinated with the City of Rockford and Rockford Park District throughout the project.

Plans feature a custom playground, large skate park and contemporary concert venue with distinctive architecture. Sculptures, playground features and other design elements pay tribute to Rockford's culture and history while creating a destination for the City's future.

Challenging soil conditions limited redevelopment locations, requiring the team to carefully plan improvements within the areas suitable for construction. Fehr Graham's site, grading and utility designs supported the vision while responding to those constraints.

Fehr Graham also helped secure $6 million through two Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) tourism grants and four capital grants.

Construction is expected to be completed in late 2026.

Once complete, Davis Park will offer a flexible, welcoming place for residents and visitors to attend concerts, enjoy outdoor recreation and experience Rockford's culture. The redevelopment will position the park as a regional destination and community gathering place for decades to come.