STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Vibrant
AGENDA DATE: May 14, 2025
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 2
DEPARTMENT: Park & Recreation Department
EXECUTIVE: John D. Jenkins
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize an application for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department National Parks Service Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) competitive grant up to an amount of $15,000,000.00 for the Texas Trees Foundation Southwestern Medical District Green 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 Parks Service LWCF Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program up to an amount of $15,00,000.00 for the Texas Trees Foundation Southwestern Medical District Green Park Project within The Southwestern Medical District.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) administers the National Parks 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 includes 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, and involvement of public or private cooperation and meets the goals of TPWD land and water resources conservation and recreation plan.
The Park & Recreation Department is partnering with Texas Trees Foundation (TTF) with TTF providing the required matching funds through donations from its contributors and will become a public asset to the City of Dallas. Texas Trees Foundation Southwestern Medical District Green Park Project is designed as an eight-acre park within the boundaries of the Southwestern Medical District. This innovative project is aimed at transforming a cloverleaf interchange into a vibrant green space that promotes sustainability and health. Situated in the heart of the Southwestern Medical District, this park will feature native trees, outdoor greenspaces and recreation areas, walking paths, and educational components focused on environmental stewardship. By creating this park, the Texas Trees Foundation seeks to improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and provide a much-needed green oasis for residents, workers, and visitors in the district. The project aligns with the City and Foundation's mission to enhance the urban landscape, promote wellness, and foster stronger connections within the community.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On April 17, 2025, the Park and Recreation Board approved an application for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department National Parks Service Land and Water Conservation Fund Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program up to an amount of $15,000,000.00 for the Texas Trees Foundation Southwestern Medical District Green 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 Green Park Project will utilize grant funds received as a result of a successful application to Texas Parks and Wildlife Departments Partnership with the National Parks Service Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program, and the matching funds as required by the grant program. The match is being provided by contributions to Texas Trees Foundation.
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