Develop Edith Perchman Park into a beautiful community space that will honor the memory of this 12-year-old girl who was tragically killed while delivering newspapers in Highland Park on August 18, 1974.
Leader
Angela Lugo-Thomas
Location
John R and E. Buena Vista Highland Park, MI 48203
On August 18, 1974, twelve-year-old Edith Perchman was delivering newspapers in Highland Park and was shot to death. In 1975, the city re-named the park after her. In 1998, a Detroit Free Press article was written about her sister’s wishes and attempts to develop the park into a beautiful space for the community. It never happened. The sign at the park has been gone for many years. August 18, 2020, was the 46th anniversary of Edith’s death. It’s also been 45 years since the park was re-named in her memory. My hope is that the community of Highland Park and others will come together to develop Edith Perchman Park into a space that will honor her memory.
Community Planning Sessions
Hire Park Designer
Hire Contractors/Builders
Hire Landscape Architect
Consult City/Pull Permits
Begin Construction
Design and Build Signage
We do not currently have an outdoor community gathering space in Highland Park and haven't, for many years. The city of Highland Park has struggled financially for decades. There has not been any funding available for any community improvement projects. This year, it has become evident how important outdoor spaces are, to deal with life stresses, and allow for groups to gather. There are also no areas in Highland Park that are beautiful, with flowers and other amenities. People enjoy being out in nature. It is good for mental and physical health which will help to improve our entire community. Most importantly, this is for the younger generations and the generations to come. There need to be places that they can go and have fun, in a safe and clean environment. Residents and visitors to our city will benefit in the development of this park and we would be fulfilling the wishes of the family of Edith Perchman.