Despite a much-prized location in the center of downtown, Manhattan Square Park is still unknown to many people.

The five-acre site, which was designed by modernist architect Lawrence Halprin and opened to the public in 1974, has recently been recognized by the Cultural Landscape Foundation. Halprin's design has received the organization's Marvels of Modernism Award. The award highlights modernist landscapes, parks, plazas, and playgrounds - some in need of public attention and major restoration.

Manhattan Square Park is at less risk than the others parks being recognized, says the Landmark Society's Katie Comeau.

"The city and the Landmark Society have been good stewards of the park," she says.

Manhattan Square Park is one of 12 "marvels" the foundation recognized throughout the US. The Boston City Hall Plaza, the Pacific Science Center Courtyard in Seattle, and Peavey Plaza in Minneapolis were among the others.

The park is entering the third phase of a multimillion-dollar restoration. It was part of the city's 1970's urban renewal plan and Halprin's experimental design was intended to be a focal point.But the park never realized its full potential because the public didn't warm to its futuristic design.

The city is planning to restorethe park's waterfalls, which haven't operated for decades. The plans also call for restoration of the park's gardens and renovations to Chestnut Street over the next two years, says JoAnn Beck, a senior landscape architect with the city.

The foundation's Marvels of Modernism photographic exhibit is on display at the George Eastman House through January 5, 2009.