Campagnone Common

Submitted by Kathryn on Fri, 2011-07-08 12:38

The Campagnone Common, also called the North Common, is an important centerpiece of the City of Lawrence. Campagnone Common is named for the three Campagnone brothers of Lawrence who gave their lives during World War II. Also, the North Common is one of the most used, recognized and loved of the City’s parks. It provides quiet respite from the urban streetscape, unstructured play lawns, magnificent trees, a traditional playground and formal baseball field. Certain parts of the Common are also adopted by certain residents such as the northeast corner that sees locals playing dominoes all hours of the day when the weather is nice. Currently the North Common is the site for Semana Hispana and the Bread and Roses Festival, two festivals with high turnout celebrating the rich culture and history of the city.

The North Common is many things to many Lawrencians: a front yard, a beautiful view, a place to find sun and shade, and a place to play but most of all a place of pride. Seventeen acres of open space were deeded to the City by its founders and through many years and many threats of development and despair, the Common has remained.

The city has received a grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to make some improvements on this important community space. Please join us in revitalization of the Common and keep up to date on the progress!



Process and Meetings to date

  • May 19, 2011 Advisory Group Meeting
  • June 4, 2011Community Meeting and Workshop
  • June 25, 2011 Community Meeting and Workshop (Download the presentation)

Feedback from the community thus far (June 25 Meeting):

  • On the Entrances
    • Plants would provide color
    • Maintenance is a concern
    • Visibility (site lines) into park is important
  • On the Playground
    • More equipment is needed!
    • Playground equipment should be safe and accessible to children with disabilities
    • Benches for the parents to supervise are important
    • Playground should be enclosed, but visibility into it necessary
  • On the Bandstand Area
    • This location is great for festivals and performances
    • The current stage is poorly designed for performance (too much hardscape, hot, bad acoustics)
    • More performances and programming would make this space better
  • On the "Main Ingredients" (benches, trees, pathways, lawns, lighting)
    • Maintenance of and overall condition of lawns, paving, and trees
    • Concern about accessibility and condition of walking paths
    • Desire for more amenities like benches, game tables, lighting, and trash receptacles