PILLAR: Vibrant
AGENDA DATE: September 23, 2026
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 2
DEPARTMENT: Park & Recreation Department
PRIORITY: N/A
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize an application for the National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program competitive grant in the amount of $15,000,000.00 from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the Texas Trees Foundation Park Project within the Southwestern Medical District - Financing: This action has no cost consideration to the City (see Fiscal Information)
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BACKGROUND
This action will authorize an application for the National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) in the amount of $15,000,000.00 for the Texas Trees Foundation Park Project within the Southwestern Medical District.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) administers the National Park Service Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program. Funding for this program comes from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund.
The scoring criteria for this grant program include development or the extension of parks, a locally adopted and department-approved park master plan, reduction of the threat to the public availability of a conservation or recreation opportunity, location in an underserved area, involvement of public or private cooperation, and alignment with TPWD land and water resources conservation and recreation goals.
The Park & Recreation Department is partnering with Texas Trees Foundation (TTF), with TTF providing the required matching funds through donations from its contributors. The Texas Trees Foundation Southwestern Medical District Park Project is designed as an eight-acre park within the boundaries of the Southwestern Medical District. The property is currently within the public right-of-way and will be developed into park space as part of the Harry Hines/Inwood interchange redesign. The project is intended to transform a cloverleaf interchange into a vibrant green space that promotes sustainability and health.
Once constructed, the property will be dedicated as park land, with the Southwestern Medical District serving as the managing partner.
The park will feature native trees, outdoor green spaces and recreation areas, walking paths, and educational components focused on environmental stewardship. The project seeks to improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and provide a green space for residents, workers, and visitors in the district. The project aligns with the City and Foundation's missions to enhance the urban landscape, promote wellness, and foster stronger connections within the community.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On September 17, 2026, the Park and Recreation Board authorized an application for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program competitive grant in the amount of $15,000,000.00 for the Texas Trees Foundation Park Project within the Southwestern Medical District.
FISCAL INFORMATION
This action has no cost consideration to the City. The Texas Trees Foundation Southwestern Medical District Park Project will utilize grant funds received as a result of a successful application to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in partnership with the National Park Service Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program and the matching funds required by the grant program. The match will be provided through contributions to the Texas Trees Foundation.
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