West Lafayette, IND. — Purdue Research Foundation (PRF) on Thursday (June 11) celebrated the next chapter of the Discovery Park District’s Squirrel Park with a ribbon cutting to officially welcome a series of park enhancements.
Located at 1451 Mitch Daniels Boulevard on the corner of Mitch Daniels Boulevard and Airport Road, Squirrel Park has been thoughtfully revitalized with expanded green space, upgraded walkways, interactive play areas, and new gathering spaces designed to support relaxation and connection for those who live, work, and play in the area.
“From the beginning, Squirrel Park was envisioned as an intentional space for connection within the district,” said PRF President & CEO Chad Pittman. “This update to the park is just one way PRF is advancing our long-term vision for the district, reinforcing the importance of thoughtfully designed spaces and demonstrating what’s possible when strong partnerships shape environments purpose built for community engagement.”
These improvements reflect the shared vision of the City of West Lafayette and PRF to continue shaping the district into a vibrant, community-focus development that also supports business attraction, retention, and expansion programs.
“The newly updated Squirrel Park reflects the collaborative spirit that continues to shape the future of West Lafayette,” said City of West Lafayette Mayor Erin Easter. “Investments in public-private projects like this allow the city of West Lafayette and the district to evolve together, strengthening our quality-of-life amenities and continuing to develop a shared vision of long-term growth.”
Initial site planning for Beck Bark and Squirrel Park was presented in 2016. In spring 2023, PRF presented a refreshed vision to transform Squirrel Park into a more useable, community-focused greenspace. The West Lafayette City Council approved that plan, paving the way for the park’s newest upgrades.
“With the recent addition of Beck Barn and The Lawrence, Squirrel Park has become a vibrant hub for activity and community connection,” said Jeremy Slater, PRF’s vice president of real estate and partnerships. “Each development within the district is a reminder of our commitment to fostering growth that benefits the entire Greater Lafayette community for years to come.”
The reimagined Squirrel Park strengthens its role as a neighborhood anchor within the district, welcoming all to find their fit next door to Purdue University in the heart of the U.S.
Updates and upcoming events for Squirrel Park will continue to be shared. To learn more, visit the Discovery Park District website.
About Purdue Research Foundation
Purdue Research Foundation is a private, nonprofit foundation created to advance the mission of Purdue University. Established in 1930, the foundation accepts gifts; administers trusts; funds scholarships and grants; acquires and sells property; protects and licenses Purdue’s intellectual property; and supports creating Purdue-connected startups on behalf of Purdue. The foundation operates Purdue Innovates, which includes the Office of Technology Commercialization, Incubator and Ventures. The foundation manages Purdue Research Park, Discovery Park District, Purdue Technology Centers and Purdue for Life Foundation.
Media contact: Polly Barks, phbarks@prf.org
