School district, neighborhood to partner to find use for central Sioux Falls land

A green space in central Sioux Falls will get some sort of additional use through a partnership between the neighborhood and the Sioux Falls School District.

The district, which owns the former Lincoln Elementary land at Ninth Street and Grange Avenue, said in a statement that it plans to work with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department and area residents in developing a plan for what it’s calling Lincoln Commons.

For years, the district has allowed the space to be used as a community garden, where residents in the historic Cathedral and Pettigrew Heights areas can grow fresh produce.

After hearing from residents and speaking with city officials, Superintendent Jane Stavem “began exploring opportunities to retain the space as a district property while also allowing for enhancements that benefit the neighborhood,” the district said.

The outcome is a new collaborative partnership among the Sioux Falls School District, Axtell Park students, neighborhood residents and the city of Sioux Falls.

“This project will enhance the existing space, creating a unique learning opportunity for students while also fostering positive relationships among neighbors,” Stavem said. “We know this space may be needed at a future time as open space becomes more scarce in our fast-growing city. In the meantime, this is a collaborative effort that benefits everyone and will now include students as they connect with the community.”

No additional plans were shared, but a steering committee has started to meet “to discuss the unique features of the Lincoln Commons project and the timeline for bringing these innovative ideas to life,” the district said.

Neighbors have pushed for more development of the area with park features for at least the past couple of years. A gathering was held there last summer to show the potential to host additional amenities and activities.

In 2022, there was talk of a potential housing development there, but nothing was brought forward.

North-end neighborhood group: ‘We need this to be an official park’