O'Brien Park is getting its biggest upgrade in 15 years. The South Bend Redevelopment Commission just approved $1.7 million in Tax Increment Financing to completely overhaul the aging park with a new splash pad, playground, restroom, and sidewalk improvements.
This isn't just a fresh coat of paint. The current splash pad hasn't been updated since the park's last major renovation, and the experimental composting toilet installed in 2008 has been a problem without running water. The whole setup needs to meet current Indiana pool codes.
What's Getting Built
The centerpiece is a brand-new 15-feature splash pad replacing the current aging system. City project engineer Zak Tebell said they're designing separate playground areas for different age groups: one for kids 5-7 and another for ages 7-13.
The bathroom situation gets a complete do-over too. The new unisex restroom will have actual running water and meet the state requirement of being within 300 feet of the splash pad. Right now, the experimental waste system from 2008 doesn't work properly.
They're also repaving the sidewalk along Walter Street, which connects Michigan and Fellow Streets, and linking it better to the O'Brien Center.
The most expensive piece? The restroom costs 20% more than both the splash pad and playground combined, according to Tebell. These three elements make up 75% of the total project cost.
Built for the Community
John Martinez from South Bend Venues, Parks & Arts says they've been working closely with residents to understand what the neighborhood actually wants. "We're being very intentional with our customer base, who they are and what they would like to see for their recreational activities," Martinez explained.
There's even talk of adding two ziplines specifically for older teenagers, expanding the park's appeal beyond young kids.
The redevelopment commission's secretary, Eli Wax, called it a "wonderful revitalization to that part of town" and said the playground investment is "something that's been long needed."
Timeline and Funding
The $1.7 million comes from the South Side Tax Increment Financing district, which funds local infrastructure and public facility improvements. The commission already spent $150,000 in March 2025 on design and construction documents.
Construction is planned for this year, though specific start dates weren't announced.
Getting There
O'Brien Park sits in South Bend at the intersection of Walter Street with Michigan and Fellow Streets. From Indianapolis, it's about a 2.5-hour drive north.
If you're exploring the area, check out our complete South Bend travel guide for other attractions worth visiting while you're in town.
This upgrade represents a significant investment in outdoor activities for South Bend families. After 15 years without major improvements, O'Brien Park will finally have modern amenities that meet current safety standards and community needs.
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