The Historic Trust Breaks Ground On Sacred Heart Plaza At Ed Lynch Square (Photo) -06/06/25
On June 6, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. The Historic Trust held a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction phase for a new public gathering space at Providence Academy: the Sacred Heart Plaza at Ed Lynch Square at 400 E. Evergreen Boulevard in Vancouver, Washington.
This project is the culmination of a multi-year, $2.4 million effort by The Historic Trust, generous donors led by the Ed & Dollie Lynch Fund at the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, and project partners such as Bremik Construction, Ehlbeck Architecture & Design, Continuum Preservation Consulting, and Mackay Sposito, Inc.
“The Sacred Heart Plaza at Ed Lynch Square will revitalize this very visible space directly across from the Vancouver Community Library, creating a seamless transition from the heart of Downtown to the front doors of this historic architectural gem,” states President & CEO of The Historic Trust, Temple Lentz. “We are thrilled to finally break ground on this welcoming and contemplative space for the entire community to enjoy, and pay homage to Mother Joseph of the Sacred Heart’s work here in Vancouver.
The Academy’s southern frontage has had many uses over time, including formal and productive gardens; spaces for play, exercise, and sports; spiritual observances; parking; and a restaurant. Many of these activities are historically significant, but few physical remnants remain. Even the Sacred Heart Garden path, originally designed by Mother Joseph in c. 1875, has changed many times over the decades. No photos are known to exist from its earliest years. The new landscape design takes inspiration from the site’s overall history and physically flows from the outline of the Sacred Heart as it exists today, preserving it for future research and historical discovery.
As part of site evolution, the new plan adds to the historic Sacred Heart area paths, connecting them to the new public plaza and more intimate seated gathering and contemplative areas. Planted areas and trees are designed to maximize and frame views of the Academy. Interior pathways will incorporate principles of universal design, adding heightened accessibility to the site, making it more inviting and welcoming for all. Plant varieties were chosen to appeal to the senses with a variety of textures, colors, year-round seasonality, and scents and be durable and climate-hardy. Many of the plants selected represent those used by the Sisters of Providence over time.
The Historic Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to inspire civic pride and economic vitality through education, preservation, and celebration of our community’s history. The Historic Trust purchased Providence Academy in 2015, and has invested more than $16 million in rehabilitation, restoration and preservation of this important Vancouver landmark.
