Over the past decade, Forest Park Southeast has seen a substantial amount of investment. The neighborhood’s housing stock has been strengthened by the arrival of historically renovated and newly constructed homes. Additionally, new restaurants, bars, retail and offices span now span the stretch of Manchester Avenue that had once been desolate.
Along with investment in the buildings in FPSE, a great amount of work has taken place to improve the physical infrastructure and aesthetic characteristics of the neighborhood. Projects aimed at beautifying the area have expanded over the past 10 years and more than ever are taking place right now!
Murals, neon signs, gardens, painted fire hydrants, street markers and sculptures all aid in visually improving the area. These projects are successful because groups like WUMCRC, the Grove CID and Park Central Development, along with private property owners and businesses collaborate together. There is a shared understanding throughout Forest Park Southeast that public art projects help foster a creative, unique and beautiful area for people to live, work and play.
So next time you are in the neighborhood, slow down, and take a look at all the little things that make FPSE so unique! If you need some help locating the pieces of art, here is a brochure containing a map with all the spots you need to visit. And if you’re dying to learn a little more about each piece, then download our FPSE Public Art Guide!
