Earlier this fiscal year, the City Council approved a series of transformative park improvement projects, investing $3.7 million dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. These projects will revitalize community recreational spaces and amenities, paving the way for more vibrant and accessible environments.
Joe Skiles Park
The much-awaited improvements at Joe Skiles Park are slated for this Fall. The $520,000 ARPA allocation will finance the construction of a loop trail, a new pavilion, and irrigation systems. Additional enhancements include shade trees, a play structure for children aged 2-5, and a replacement of existing tennis court fencing. The project, due to complete by late spring/early summer 2024, will also lay the groundwork for future illumination, an amenity desired by the community.
Carl Young Park Phase 2
In response to community engagement efforts since December 2022, the park planning staff are set to commence construction this fall on a $700,000 expansion project for the Carl Young Sr. Splash Pad. Using an ARPA allocation of $150,000, additional parkland dedication and development fees, the project will introduce four vertical components, additional ground sprayers, expanded equipment and pump room, benches, and shade opportunities, enhancing the aquatic experience for the community.
Denia Park
At Denia Park, improvements include the completion of a loop trail, a connection to the Eagle Creek neighborhood, irrigation installation, tree planting, softball field enhancements, and adherence to ADA accessibility requirements. The project, funded by $1.3 million from the ARPA and parkland dedication fees, follows public engagement sessions in February and March. Construction is scheduled to commence in late fall or early winter.
Trail Projects: Expanding Pathways, Enhancing Connectivity
In a major move toward enhancing urban connectivity, the park planning staff has submitted a detailed grant application for $13,714,880.00 to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to fund the Pecan Creek Regional Trail. The project will develop 3.1 miles of crucial segments as per the recently approved master plan.
Under this program, the City’s responsibility is a 20% match, amounting to $2,742,976.00, which will be covered by an ARPA allocation of $1,430,000.00 and remaining parkland dedication and development fees. The remaining 80%, a substantial $10,971,904, will be reimbursed by TxDOT upon successful implementation. This trail project aims to revolutionize mobility within the city. Grant awards will be announced in October.
Overall, these initiatives symbolize a significant stride in enhancing the city’s recreational infrastructure, shaping vibrant, accessible, and engaging environments for the community to enjoy.
