Veramendi Plaza Park is a stunning gem that provides a tree-covered park on the river to be enjoyed by all visitors. Although the city owns the park, the Heritage Association members have been stewards of the property, structures and buildings for over four decades. To know the story of Veramendia Plaza Park is to understand the driving forces behind this nonprofit and the extent of their financial support endorsing preservation. Here are some pivotal dates to know: 1972 — Preservation efforts were dedicated to Veramendi Park when the Federal Urban Renewal Agency transferred this undeveloped area to the City Bicentennial Commission which soon became the Heritage Association. Thus began the drive to protect and preserve these three acres as the historic centerpiece of the town.
1986 — The Imperial Bronzelight Corporation completely rebuilt the fountain at a cost of $10,000 in observance of the Texas Sesquicentennial. In addition, Bronzelight and private donors provided the installation of long-delayed lights for greater security along the Riverwalk in 1993.
2006 — The fountain was named for Gwen K. Smith and in 2011 through a gift from the Smith estate, the fountain was rebuilt a second time. Improvements were made including new plumbing and electrical systems. A well-house nearby shelters the controls to the fountain’s motor which uses recycled water.
