Cole Park
Country Club Way & Carson St.
37 acres
Cole Park, built in 1969, is south of the US 60 and
adjacent to the Bustoz Elementary School. The park
was renovated in 2006 and now includes a shaded play
area along with a small climbing wall.
The park is named in honor of W.W. “Billie” Cole who
served as Tempe's mayor from 1937-1948. Billie served
during what is arguably one of the most trying times in
both Tempe and the United States during both the Great
Depression and World War II.
His family
came to Tempe from the Payson area in the early part of
the 20th Century. His father, Louis Pinkney
Cole, was a well known rancher in the Payson are before
moving the family to Tempe. The Cole’s purchased the
Woolf House, 105 E. 9th Street, in 1916
after the passing of the previous owner. The Cole
family lived in the house for over 50 years until it was
dismantled in 1972 and moved to Old Towne Square, 150 S.
Ash, just north of the Depot Cantina.
To date,
Cole’s 11 years as Tempe Mayor ranks as one of the
longest terms served. Considering the period served, it
stands as a significant accomplishment and so too, does
Cole Park in recognition of his past contributions to
our community.
