Lynn Wyatt Square, formerly known as Jones Plaza, opened Thursday in downtown's theater district after the project was delayed for several years by Hurricane Harvey.
The 1.5-acre park sits across from Jones Hall and the Alley Theater and now includes a performance lawn with lighting and sound elements, accessible entries and public seating.
The greenspace upgrade cost $26.5 million and was funded by Houston First Corporation, the Downtown Redevelopment Authority and the park's namesake, local philanthropist Lynn Wyatt.
"Our performing arts groups can play an essential role in activating this park, and in turn, this park will expand and improve the experiences of theatergoers," said Chris Larson, president of the Downtown Redevelopment Authority.
Wyatt herself attended the grand opening, where she said she hopes the park can be a welcoming space to the thousands of people who attend performances downtown each year.
"It is my fervent wish that this square for the performing arts is enjoyed by all people for generations to come, long after I'm gone," she said.
Houston First Corporation will oversee the operation and maintenance of the park, where it will host free performances throughout the year.
