NEWS

Houston Parks Board is excited to announce its first annual luncheon to be held on October 20, 2009, 11:30 - 1:00.  Mark your calendars to join the Board of Directors, The Honorable Mayor Bill White, and a broad business and social audience at Hermann Square in front of City Hall for a lively and interesting program.  

Trails for Brays Greenway Phase I, from Broadway Avenue at the Ship Channel to Mason Park, are under construction. Completion is anticipated by the end of June, 2009.  Check back for more information on the Grand Opening Dedication.

The Sunnyside neighborhood in South Houston will soon have a new park thanks to a $100,000 gift from The Baxter Trust.  This 1.5-acre property was donated to the Houston Parks Board in 2005 by the Dabney/Moriniere family to become Sunflower Park when funding for development could be found.  Now the park will finally get the attention it deserves.  Plans call for the construction of walking trails, installation of new playground equipment, installation of benches and picnic tables, and the addition of trees, landscaping and grass in selected areas. With a little effort this park will be a lovely amenity for the neighborhood.

Mason Park is a vital, much-loved park used by thousands of residents of the East End.  The majority of Mason Park is programmed for active uses such as jogging, ball-field sports and community center activities for youth and adults.  The “Plaza Viva” project is focused on the western-most parcel of Mason Park at 75^th and Tipps Street - across 75^th Street from the actively-used majority of Mason Park.  Plans for this part of the park are passive in nature and focus on the leisurely enjoyment of the outdoors; a place for birthday parties, Quinceañera celebrations and where grandparents can walk with their grandchildren or pets.  A perimeter path, benches to sit and linger, bubbling fountains, and a gazebo for small gatherings and cultural events will serve to fulfill this vision.

The Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark continues to be a big hit, and continues to receive national praise. In early April, total attendance passed 51,000.  Total daily average attendance is approximately 177 visitors.  For up-to-the-minute information call the skatepark directly at 713-222-5500.  For more information on Houston skatepark happenings and workshops go to http://www.pushhouston.com.