News Flash

March 2, 2020 - Work to improve Air Power Park continues this week, with the removal of two overgrown trees that are threatening the iconic geodesic dome. The trees, which were planted in the 1970s, are not native species, and one is diseased.

A new landscaping plan is being developed, in conjunction with a drainage study, which suggests that new plantings closer to Newmarket Creek will add much-needed shade and enhance creek bank retention. The plan in being developed in conjunction with Resilient Hampton.

The trees being removed are much closer to the building, and roots are growing under the foundation, sidewalks and entryway, and also could soon damage one of the park’s aeronautical artifacts, the experimental NASA Hawker Siddeley XV-6A Kestrel.

Earlier work on the park included the cleaning and painting of all 18 aircraft displayed that are on loan from the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the National Museum of Naval Aviation and NASA Langley. The old fence was replaced with bollards. Activities in process now include designing and installing new interpretive panels that share the history of the planes and rockets on display.

“Air Power Park is one of Hampton’s many treasures. The planes, jets, rockets and missiles are an integral part of our past and tangible reminders of role NASA and Langley Air Force Base have played in taking us from the sea to the stars. Generations of Hamptonians and visitors have enjoyed the park, and this work will help ensure that it will be here for years to come,” says David J. McCauley, director of Hampton Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services.