An embattled vision to bring a $1.5 million carousel to Stevenson Park has been put to rest, the Friends of Downtown Friendswood Association announced Thursday. "Unfortunately, the Carousel Park Project has become a far too divisive issue, which has undermined our mission and vision and placed undue burden on those who serve, work and volunteer in this great city," FDFA President Brett Banfield wrote in a statement published on Facebook Oct. 4. Banfield and other planners had been seeking a partnership with the city of Friendswood to build the carousel at no initial cost to the city, but it would have required the use of a section of Stevenson Park. Several residents spoke against the proposal at the Sept. 10 City Council meeting. "We hope Friendswood finds a new permanent purpose for the concrete pad—something truly beautiful that will enhance Stevenson Park and the surrounding area," Banfield wrote. Banfield said previously that the project had good support and momentum, with $700,000 committed from donors. "We are truly grateful to those who joined us at the drawing board to foster and implement revitalization ideas and have helped us craft what would have been a stunning piece of artistry, a larger than life addition to Stevenson Park that would have reminded all, that Friendswood is a place focused on family," Banfield wrote. The carousel project was initially pitched a year ago but was put on hold after Hurricane Harvey.