Major Overhaul Planned for Downtown Anchorage’s Town Square Park

May 25—Once envisioned as a “haven of peace and beauty,” Town Square Park in downtown Anchorage has seen a significant decline in safety and community enjoyment over the years. Officials and residents alike report rampant public drinking, drug use, and unsightly littering, leading many to feel unwelcome in the space.

Municipal leaders, including manager Becky Windt Pearson, recognize the park’s deteriorating conditions and have announced plans for a multimillion-dollar renovation starting this summer. The initiative aims to redesign the park and increase safety through enhanced law enforcement, including the installation of surveillance cameras.

A recent voter-approved $2.9 million park bond will help fund the initial phase, which includes demolition and landscaping improvements slated for 2026. Additional features like children’s play structures and public artwork are also in development.

Local business owners, such as Nina Bonito Romine from The Kobuk coffee shop, have faced challenges due to illicit activities spilling over from the park, leading to confrontations and even assaults on staff. Anchorage Police Chief Sean Case noted that police are called to the park over 140 times this year alone, dealing with issues like trespassing and substance abuse.

As the city embarks on this renovation journey, Windt Pearson emphasizes a dual approach, enhancing public spaces while addressing homelessness in the area. This includes deploying mobile crisis teams and increasing shelter beds.

This summer, several events—including concerts and markets—aim to activate the park and draw positive crowds. With artists like Vanessa Carlton and Nelly set to perform, officials hope to restore Town Square Park as a vibrant centerpiece of Anchorage.