The City of Orlando is asking the public for nominations of individuals to be honored posthumously as “luminaries” at Parramore’s new Luminary Green Park at Creative Village.
According to a press release from the city, construction of the new, 2.3-acre park, is expected to be complete by this spring, with a planned celebration and unveiling scheduled for this summer.
The city believes the park will be a “unique and special gathering space for residents, workers and students that will compliment Parramore and serve as a signature park in downtown for generations to come,” according to the release.
“When we began planning for the new public park at Creative Village, we wanted to ensure it paid tribute to and shined a light on the Holden-Parramore community’s rich history,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “The park provides a unique opportunity to honor late community Luminaries, those whose lives preceded ours and are exemplified by their service to our community.”
Each Luminary will be honored posthumously at the park with a permanent, eight-foot-tall, ground-mounted light fixture made of glass and laser-cut steel with multi-colored lights shining from within to “aluminate their legacy.”
Officials say luminaries will be selected based on outstanding contributions made during their lifetime to the Parramore-Holden Community in one or more of the following categories: Public safety and crime reduction, quality housing, entrepreneurship, business and job opportunities, care and education for children and families, community health or medical leadership, faith-based leadership, and sports civil rights.
Following the nomination period, the Luminary Selection Panel will meet in March to review the nominations and select the inaugural class of Luminaries (approximately 16). The city hopes to add more Luminaries over time for a total of up to 26 Luminaries honored in the park.
For more information, or to submit a nomination, visit the Orlando Luminary Green Park nomination page. The nomination period will remain open until March 4, 2022.