Anchorage officials are overhauling Town Square Park to restore its safety and public appeal. Originally envisioned as a peaceful refuge in the 1980s, Town Square Park today feels anything but that for many residents. Downtown business owners and city leaders agree the park has become unsafe, plagued by public intoxication, drug use, and daily police activity.
“I think we’re all aware that it’s become a place that feels not as comfortable,” said municipal manager Becky Windt Pearson, speaking on the city’s growing concern. In response, the municipality will spend millions over two years transforming the park into a more secure and welcoming civic hub. Changes include physical redesigns, increased police presence, and surveillance cameras to deter crime and gather evidence.
Anchorage voters approved a $2.9 million bond in April, which will fund site work like demolition, lighting improvements, and ground leveling, expected to begin in 2026. Additional design plans include a public art installation and a children’s play area. Local shop owners, like Nina Bonito Romine from The Kobuk, say their staff faces regular harassment from intoxicated individuals. Assaults have included a concussion and burn injuries.
Anchorage Police Chief Sean Case confirmed police have responded to 544 W. Fifth Ave. more than 140 times this year. The city plans to increase shelter space, expand housing options, and deploy crisis response teams near the park to assist in long-term change.
While law enforcement cannot constantly monitor the park, new surveillance cameras costing over $57,000 will support evidence collection when witnesses refuse to testify. To attract tourists this summer, officials plan to flood the park with activities, including concerts, kid-friendly events, and even reindeer.
Music acts like Vanessa Carlton and Nelly are expected to perform in July. Officials believe activating the park with positive activity will discourage negative behavior and make it feel safe again.
