Ground broken for new Highland Park Town Hall

DALLAS (SMU) – Highland Park looked to the future and celebrated the past when it broke ground on Tuesday, March 5, for construction of its new Town Hall.

Speakers at the event at 4700 Drexel Drive included Highland Park Mayor Joel Williams III, SMU President R. Gerald Turner, Highland Park Methodist Church Rev. Paul Rasmussen, and Highland Park Centennial Chair Pierce Allman. 

The ceremony also included revealing items placed 90 years ago in the cornerstone of Highland Park’s first Town Hall and Community Center. Highland Park is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its incorporation this year.

In addition, the event recognized Highland Park’s 100-year partnership with SMU, which is celebrating the centennial of its founding in 1911 and opening in 1915. Highland Park’s ties to SMU began by donation of land for the University by Alice Armstrong, widow of John Armstrong, Highland Park founder. 

SMU officials spoke at the 1923 Town Hall and Community Center groundbreaking and faculty members played an important role in the intellectual life of the growing community. In turn, Highland Park residents have supported SMU with service, gifts and students.

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