Simpsonville dedicates Gracely Park, unveils new public art installation
Simpsonville city leaders and staff, community members and local government representatives gathered June 26 to celebrate the dedication of Gracely Park, the reimagined Simpsonville City Park that was named in honor of outgoing City Administrator Dianna Gracely.
The event marks the completion of phase two of the city’s municipal complex project, which included demolishing the old police and fire headquarters buildings, developing the great lawn and adding a water wall.
“This is a marvelous place for our children to play, for us and our friends to come and listen to music on the great lawn,” said Simpsonville Mayor Paul Shewmaker. “It is a place is just a place that reflects the heart of our community and brings us together.”
Related – Dianna Gracely: A look back at over 30 years of public service
During the ceremony, the city also unveiled “Ki No Te (Tree of Hands in Japanese),” a stainless steel statue by Mike Shewmaker, an artist based in Hawaii. The piece, which was donated to Simpsonville, has been installed near the water wall in Gracely Park.
“I know that this does not speak to everybody, but I hope you will accept that it will speak to some,” said Mike Shewmaker. “My fondest dream is that some young boy or girl from Simpsonville will come upon it sometime and it will speak to them.”
Simpsonville’s municipal complex project broke ground in February 2023 and the combined City Hall and Police Department, Fire Department, and Circuit and Summary Courthouse were completed and occupied in late 2024.
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