From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for Jan. 25, 1990:

Lawrence’s Central Park was to undergo a name change this week as the city renamed it “Buford M. Watson Jr. Park” in honor of the former city manager. Mayor Bob Schumm, flanked by members of Watson’s widow and family, read from a proclamation at a brief ceremony this week stating the name change and describing Watson’s many accomplishments. During his career, which had ended with his unexpected death on Oct. 25, Watson had been active in the beautification and revitalization of downtown and the construction of a new city hall, two new recreational centers, several public parks, a business park, a research park, and the Kansas Riverfront Plaza. “Buford’s love for his community will live on as citizens of all ages enjoy the beauty of Watson Park into the 21st century,” Schumm said in presenting the proclamation.