Independence, Mo. – The Truman Library Institute and Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum are launching a year-long project to reimagine and transform the historic grounds of the Truman Library in Independence.

The first phase of the $13 million initiative begins July 6. Former Missouri Senator Roy Blunt secured $11.5 million in dedicated funding for the project in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.

“The Truman Library’s landscape transformation reimagines and reconfigures this beautiful property to create a more engaging national heritage site,” said Alex Burden, executive director of the Truman Library Institute, the non-profit partner of the Truman Library. “Sen. Blunt’s support of this project, a great example of bipartisan governance, will have a long-term impact for the Library, the Independence community and everyone who visits.”

Construction will begin in the coming days on the three major elements of the Truman Library Landscape Transformation:

Exterior Monument Sign – Bold, visible signage will welcome visitors from the highway, surrounded by native plantings and wildflowers to provide seasonal color. New lighting will showcase the Library at night.

Walk with Truman Trail – A paved trail will circle the grounds, joining the landscape’s memorials and gathering spaces. It includes a memorial commemorating Truman’s life and military service as well as an outdoor classroom, picnic area and new display area for the Liberty Bell replica. It will also connect to the City of Independence trail system.

Memorial Courtyard – Beautification of the Courtyard will include the addition of walkways and improvements to the Flame of Memory.

Added Mark Adams, director of the Truman Library, “Visitors will discover a vibrant new way to experience the Truman Library. Our reimagined landscape will invite them to step into history, connecting them with the community through winding walking paths, interactive signage and immersive nature trails. The “Walk with Truman Trail” will challenge them to match their stride to the President’s famous pace. From quiet reflection to active discovery, the grounds are being transformed into a living tribute to history and Truman’s legacy.”

These new recreational resources will enhance the Library as a beacon of community pride while making the grounds more sustainable, more livable and more engaging. The new landscape will connect the history inside the museum with experiences outside on the grounds while expanding public programming opportunities with performances, events and festivals.

The Truman Library’s landscape transformation is scheduled for completion in summer 2027 with a dedication of the project tentatively set for July 6, 2027, the 70th anniversary of the Library’s opening.

The landscape architect is OLIN, selected after a nationwide search. A.L. Huber, based in Overland Park, KS, is the general contractor for the project.

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