Title
Resolution to Rename 2570 Dexter Avenue Park to Dr. George Henry Jewett II Park
Memorandum
Attached for your review and action is a resolution to approve the renaming of 2570 Dexter Avenue Park to Dr. George Henry Jewett II Park.
In July 2021, the City acquired the property at 2570 Dexter Avenue in partnership with the Ann Arbor Housing Commission for the development of a new park. The current park name is 2570 Dexter Avenue Park, a generic name based on the default naming convention for all new parks added to the City of Ann Arbor park system.
Budgeting and capital planning efforts are complete, and staff anticipate construction efforts to be completed by Spring 2027. New amenities include a basketball court, pavilion, grills, picnic table, water fountain, and bioswale.
In February 2026, staff released a community survey requesting nominations for park names. The survey closed in late March 2026, with 29 nominations submitted. After review, staff recommended to the Park Advisory Commission that the park be renamed in honor of Dr. George Henry Jewett II.
Dr. George Henry Jewett II was born and raised in Ann Arbor. He was the captain of the Ann Arbor High School (now Pioneer High School) debate, football, and baseball teams, as well as the 1889 valedictorian. He went on to be the first African-American football player at both the University of Michigan and Northwestern University. After graduation, he became a doctor in Chicago before returning to Ann Arbor in 1899.
Staff support the renaming and rededication of this park to the Dr. George Henry Jewett II Park because of the academic and athletic achievements and legacy of Dr. George Henry Jewett II. Staff have confirmed that this nomination conforms to the Parks & Recreation naming guidelines.
...Staff
Prepared by: Remy Long, Deputy Manager, Parks & Recreation Services
Reviewed by: Josh Landefeld, Manager, Parks & Recreation Services
Derek Delacourt, Community Services Area Administrator
Approve...
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