The decision was emblematic of progress and practicality. The Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat reported the city council’s approval of a sale to the State Highway Department, a transaction that would pave the way for future development. The council had agreed to sell a parcel of city property, measuring 50 by 100 feet, for the nominal sum of one dollar. This tract of land, situated at the entrance of the Negro Park on Highway 24, was destined for a new purpose.

The decision to sell the land was driven by the need to accommodate the right-of-way for the Highway 24 shortcut. As the town of Moberly continued to grow and evolve, so too did its infrastructure requirements. The planned expansion of Highway 24 promised to enhance connectivity and facilitate smoother travel, benefiting the broader community.

While the sale price of one dollar might seem symbolic, it underscored a commitment to public good over monetary gain. The council’s decision reflected a strategic move to support infrastructure improvements that would serve Moberly’s residents for years to come.

For the community, the sale marked the beginning of a significant transformation. The Negro Park, a place imbued with social and cultural importance, would now contribute to a larger vision of progress and modernization. This shift, while practical, also carried a touch of nostalgia for those who cherished the park’s past.

The article, detailing the council’s decision, captured a pivotal moment in Moberly’s history. It highlighted the intersection of community needs, strategic planning, and the ever-present march of progress. The sale of the land was not just a transaction; it was a step toward a more connected and accessible future for all residents.

This historical narrative, chronicling the sale of park land for highway expansion, was reported in the Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat on Tuesday, August 6, 1935. The article, made available courtesy of The State Historical Society of Missouri, reflects a moment of transition and forward-thinking in the city’s development.