Downtown St. Louis has Citygarden, Kiener Plaza and the new Arch grounds but what haven is there for the residents and office workers in Downtown Clayton? Well now there is Chapman Plaza in Shaw Park. The ribbon cutting for the $4 million project was made possible by the generous donations from the Chapman Family, the Clayton Century Foundation and Barry – Wehmiller. Another $3 million has been set aside for future upkeep and maintenance. The new Chapman Plaza successfully takes a steep hill barrier that separated Shaw Park from downtown Clayton and replaces it with a welcoming entrance inviting visitors to enter and explore the park.
New cross walks and pedestrian push buttons were installed at the intersection of Forsyth and Brentwood. New sidewalks and boulevard trees extend south and west along the boarders of Shaw Park. Visitors are greeted by a lighted infinity water feature, benches and half moon shaped wooden pergola. As one continues into the park they’re surrounded by extensively landscaped grounds as they follow the cascading falls down to the serene pavilion perched overlooking the reflection pond and fountains.
The pedestrian experience is heightened by benches, platforms, drinking fountains and paved trails. Moneta Garden, just south of the plaza, features native grasses and a metal sculpture by Clayton High Alum, Ernest Trova, on loan from St. Louis County Parks. To the west of the plaza, and overlooking the Treetop Playground, is the whimsical bronze statue “One of us On a Tricycle” by artist Steven Gregory. Next time you’re in the neighborhood, stop by and check out the new Chapman Plaza. You won’t be disappointed.
Over the next few months I’ll be checking in on more of the new developments around Clayton and mid county. I hope you enjoy the updates.
