Anson Nixon Park to Get Major Upgrade in Kennett Square

Kennett Area Park Authority plans $7.2 million revamp of old waterworks complex to create new educational and community spaces.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Kennett Area Park Authority (KAPA) is launching a $7.2 million capital campaign to transform the old waterworks complex at Anson B. Nixon Park in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. The plans include converting several historic buildings into indoor/outdoor classrooms, offices, and a workshop to support educational programs focused on horticulture, agriculture, and ecology.

Why it matters

The park upgrade aims to turn the former waterworks site into a vibrant community asset and educational hub, providing new resources for local schools and residents. With more apartment development in the area, the project will also create opportunities for community gardening and outdoor recreation.

The details

KAPA's renovation plans include repurposing the old water intake, filtration, and pumping buildings into flexible classroom and community spaces. One building will become an indoor/outdoor classroom for teaching about water ecology, horticulture, and the environment. There are also plans for a splash pad, open plaza areas, and potential private gardening plots for nearby apartment dwellers.

  • KAPA has already raised $2 million in grants for the $7.2 million project.
  • Construction is not expected to begin for at least another two years as the organization continues fundraising efforts.

The players

Kennett Area Park Authority (KAPA)

The local government agency responsible for managing and improving Anson B. Nixon Park.

Richard Lyon

Past chairman of KAPA who is overseeing the park upgrade plans.

Sharon Cullen

The capital campaign assistant helping to raise funds for the project.

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What they’re saying

“What we've been trying make this a wonderful community asset and also make it a safe place for our staff to work and store our equipment. We're really trying to professionalize this operation.”

— Richard Lyon, Past Chairman, Kennett Area Park Authority (chaddsfordlive.com)

“The buildings had been used for many purposes, and what we're trying to do now is bring them back to life.”

— Richard Lyon, Past Chairman, Kennett Area Park Authority (chaddsfordlive.com)

What’s next

KAPA plans to continue its fundraising efforts over the next two years before beginning construction on the park upgrades.

The takeaway

This project represents an innovative approach to revitalizing a historic site and transforming it into an educational and recreational hub that will benefit the entire Kennett Square community for years to come.