Downtown Parks Nonprofit to Launch Friends of the Downtown Greenway

SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 -- Greensboro Downtown Parks, Inc. (GDPI), Greensboro Parks and Recreation, and Action Greensboro today announced that GDPI will assume leadership of the new Friends of the Downtown Greenway program. With the completion of the four-mile loop, GDPI will lead fundraising, donor engagement, and philanthropic support for the Downtown Greenway’s next chapter.

Greensboro Parks and Recreation will continue to oversee the Downtown Greenway’s public programming, operations, maintenance, and volunteer coordination. Action Greensboro will remain closely involved throughout the transition.

The expansion of GDPI’s role comes as the organization celebrates two key milestones, the 10th anniversary of LeBauer Park and the 20th anniversary of Center City Park. GDPI assumed a similar stewardship role for both parks when public ownership was established in 2016, making the organization a natural fit to carry forward the Downtown Greenway’s philanthropic foundation and community engagement.

“The Downtown Greenway has been shaped by people who believe in the power of public spaces,” said Jack Garvey, Jr., executive director and chief development officer of Greensboro Downtown Parks, Inc. “We look forward to building on that support and helping ensure the greenway continues to connect people, neighborhoods, art, and nature for years to come.”

“The Downtown Greenway is a vital asset and key connector for our city,” said Phil Fleischmann, director of Greensboro Parks and Recreation. “We have full confidence that this expanded public-private partnership will help to ensure the greenway remains a well-maintained, active and welcoming space for Greensboro residents and visitors.”

"GDPI is uniquely positioned to lead the Friends program," said Cecelia Thompson, executive director of Action Greensboro. "This transition ensures that the community-led spirit and philanthropic support that built the Downtown Greenway will continue to flourish for generations to come."

About Greensboro Downtown Parks, Inc. Greensboro Downtown Parks, Inc. (GDPI) is a nonprofit organization that champions downtown Greensboro’s public spaces. GDPI raises vital philanthropic and community support to operate, maintain, and program Center City Park and LeBauer Park, while also helping build support for Friends of the Downtown Greenway. Through these efforts, GDPI creates welcoming places for the whole community to gather, play, and connect.

About Greensboro Parks and Recreation The Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department provides professional and diverse leisure opportunities through inclusive programs, facilities, parks, and open space, ensuring Greensboro is a desirable place to live, work, and play.

About Action Greensboro Action Greensboro is a collaborative initiative of 10 local foundations working to strengthen Greensboro’s economy and community through strategic investments, partnerships, and civic leadership. Since 2001, the organization has helped drive major civic projects, talent initiatives, and cross-sector collaborations that support long-term growth and quality of life.