Pioneer Park Gets Renamed April 7

The legacy of Dunedin's longest serving city manager lives on in Pioneer Park's new name. 

It is being dedicated the "John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park" today, April 7, during a ceremony starting at 2:30 p.m. 

A historical marker commemorating his service will be placed at the park. His wife and son, Andy, are in town from out of state for the dedication.

The late John Lawrence, who endeared himself to residents and employees for 21 years as city manager, passed away at age 66 in August 2012 after a three-year battle with liver disease.

Lawrence is credited with leading Dunedin through a time of struggling downtown development and outdated wastewater and water treatment plant. He also helped bring about the purchase of Pioneer Park decades ago.

He is also remembered by longtime city employees for his outstanding leadership and character.

Lawrence was the type of leader that would roll up his sleeves and work alongside the employees, said former human resources director Nancy Duggan.

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Related Coverage:

• John Lawrence Legacy Lives in New Pioneer Park Name
• Colleagues Remember Late City Manager John Lawrence
• Former City Manager John Lawrence Dies