AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) - Auburn families are in for a treat. Hickory Dickory Park officially reopened Monday, October 6, after a $250,000 renovation that blends environmental science with pure playground joy.
The project — a collaboration between the City of Auburn, Auburn University, and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) — transformed the park into a model of "green infrastructure," combining stormwater improvements with lush landscaping and a full playground refresh.
Science meets play
"This park was designed to take care of a few environmental issues while also giving families something beautiful to enjoy," said Wes Donald, a University Research Fellow with Auburn University. "The streambank was in really bad shape, so we restored it, added stormwater treatment systems, and created educational areas where families can learn how it all works."
Crews installed five bioretention systems — areas designed to collect and naturally filter rainwater through sand, rock, and native vegetation. These systems help prevent pollutants like heavy metals and oil from washing into local waterways.
"We replaced failing grass with shade-tolerant native plants from a local nursery," Donald explained. "They're drought-resistant, they belong in this ecosystem, and they'll thrive here without heavy maintenance."
The park also features stormwater cisterns connected to the building's gutters, allowing captured rainwater to be reused for irrigation — a hands-on teaching example of sustainable water management.
Blooming beauty
What was once a simple grassy area is now alive with hundreds of new native plants and flowers, all carefully chosen to attract pollinators and enhance water quality. The park's butterfly garden, filled with perennials donated by The Potting Shed, is already buzzing with bees and butterflies.
"You can actually see the ecosystem coming to life," said Donald. "It's beautiful and functional — that's the goal of low-impact development."
A family favorite reborn
Beyond the science, Hickory Dickory Park got a full playground makeover. Crews pressure-washed, repainted, and repaired all equipment, added fresh mulch, and ensured ADA compliance for accessibility. The walls and murals were refreshed with bright new paint, and new benches and natural stone seating now give families places to relax near the creek.
"It looks brand new," said Marla Smith with the City of Auburn's Water Resource Management team. "We are thrilled with how it turned out. This shows that stormwater projects don't have to be dull — they can be beautiful, educational, and fun."
Grant-powered collaboration
The work was funded through ADEM's Section 319 Grant Program, which helps communities improve water quality through targeted local projects.
Shannon McGlynn, a senior environmental scientist with ADEM, said Auburn's effort stood out for its speed and impact.
"This project came together in just two months," McGlynn said. "It's a perfect example of how local collaboration can make a real difference in water quality and community spaces."
A stunning transformation
The result: a park that's not only cleaner and greener, but also smarter — a place where kids can play, families can relax, and everyone can learn a little about how nature and engineering can work hand in hand.
"It's beautiful," Smith said. "I can't wait for our citizens to come out and see it. Hickory Dickory Park has never looked better."
📍Hickory Dickory Park is now open to the public off Shug Jordan Parkway: 1399 Hickory Ln
More information about Auburn parks and facilities is available at auburnal.gov/parks/facilities.
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