MEDIA ADVISORY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 23, 2026
Community-Selected Park of the Year Announced at Cheney Lake Park with Artwork Reveal
The Anchorage Park Foundation invites members of the media to celebrate the announcement of the 2026 Park of the Year and the unveiling of a custom artwork created by local artist Sarah Glasser.
What: 2026 Park of the Year Announcement & Artwork Reveal
When: Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Where: Cheney Lake Park, 2245 Baxter Road, Anchorage
Why: The announcement connects community pride with real impact, highlighting upcoming youth-led habitat restoration efforts and continued investment in Anchorage’s parks.
Who:
- Suzanne LaFrance, Mayor of Anchorage
- Sarah Glasser, Artist (available for interviews)
- George Martinez, East Anchorage Assembly Member
- Representatives from the Anchorage Park Foundation
- Representatives from Anchorage Parks & Recreation
DETAILS: Anchorage residents have spoken: Cheney Lake Park has been selected as the 2026 Park of the Year. Join us at Cheney Lake Park for the unveiling of an original artwork inspired by the park, created by local artist Sarah Glasser.
Media will have the opportunity to:
- Capture the artwork reveal
- Interview the artist and project partners
- Hear remarks from the Mayor on the importance of Anchorage’s public spaces
- Learn about upcoming investments in habitat restoration and youth employment
This summer, the Anchorage Park Foundation and Anchorage Parks & Recreation will partner on a shoreline stabilization and revegetation project at Cheney Lake Park. The effort will improve habitat for migratory birds while engaging local youth through the Youth Employment in Parks program.
BACKGROUND: Each year, Anchorage residents vote for their favorite park through APF’s online survey for Park of the Year. This year’s finalists included Potter Marsh Watershed Park, Cheney Lake Park, and Jewel Lake Park—a standout group representing the diversity of Anchorage’s park system.
With strong community support, Cheney Lake Park rose to the top as the 2026 Park of the Year, a vibrant, well-loved destination where birders, anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts gather in every season. A series of community events will be held at the park throughout the year. Learn more at www.anchorageparkfoundation.org
CONTACT: Michelle LeBeau, Deputy Director, michelle@anchorageparkfoundation.org, (707) 972-7776
