Historic McKennan Park in Sioux Falls has secured a city grant to install a new crosswalk on the busy 26th Street corridor, a move aimed at protecting pedestrians during the neighborhood’s frequent events and everyday foot traffic.
According to Dakota News Now, the McKennan Park Neighborhood Association, co‑presided over by Anne Mantz, describes the park as “the city’s best neighborhood” and an “anchor” for community life. The area, which includes sunken gardens and a bandshell, draws large crowds for plays, concerts and seasonal activities such as Halloween, when “thousands of kids” wander the streets.
Safety was a primary concern, Mantz explained, noting that limited parking and heavy vehicle flow often leave walkers “having an issue coming across” the street. City Neighborhood and Preservation Planner Diane Dekoeyer recalled crossing nearby Pendar Lane twenty years ago, saying she “had to race between cars to avoid getting hit,” underscoring the need for a dedicated crossing.
The grant, part of the city’s annual budget for registered neighborhoods to build, beautify or host social events, will fund the crosswalk’s construction. While the striped markings have not yet been painted, residents have already reported positive feedback. “[We’ve had] good feedback from neighbors about how much this was needed and how much they appreciate it,” Mantz said.
Dekoeyer, who works with all 24 neighborhood associations in Sioux Falls, highlighted the broader impact of such projects. She noted that four neighborhoods registered for city funding in the past year and that associations have successfully added other improvements, including traffic circles, basketball courts, historic plaques, tree planting after storms, and signage marking neighborhood boundaries. Social events like National Night Out, she added, further strengthen neighborly bonds.
Looking ahead, the city has released the 2027 neighborhood project grant application, inviting communities to propose new enhancements. The McKennan Park Neighborhood plans to seek additional funds for a sculpture in the sunken gardens, inspired by a longtime Hansel and Gretel piece that once occupied the space.
What’s next: Neighborhood associations have until the filing deadline later this year to submit proposals for the 2027 grant. Residents can expect the crosswalk to be fully marked in the coming weeks, and the sculpture project will be detailed in upcoming association meetings.
Sources: dakotanewsnow.com
