Brady PieperThe City of Tyler, Texas, is announcing an updated parks and recreation plan to enhance facilities, create more trails and develop new sports fields and courts.
The new Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan for 2025-2035, approved by the city council last week, will guide the city’s investments for parks and recreation over the next 10 years. Developed through rounds of community collaboration, the new plan will address resident feedback by reinforcing diverse recreational opportunities and quality open spaces.
“Our mission is to improve the quality of life for our residents and guests by providing superior parks, cemeteries, recreational and tourism opportunities,” Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Facilities Leanne Robinette said. “Our vision is to provide our residents with attractive outdoor spaces that are well-maintained while continuing to be fiscally responsible.”
Currently, the Tyler Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for and manages 32 parks, two cemeteries, more than a dozen walking and biking trails, five splash pads, a pool and 45 athletic fields throughout the city.
Over the next 10 years, the new master plan will encompass several projects focused on maintaining, improving and expanding these facilities.
A construction project, already underway at Stewart Park, will be included in the updated master plan. In the second phase of construction, this priority project seeks to expand the city’s trail system, develop a new trailhead at Stewart Park and connect several parks across Tyler.
In addition to this active project, the plan notes ongoing renovation efforts at Winters Park. Focusing on accessibility and providing modern amenities, the project will upgrade play areas, facilities and landscaping prior to the end of the fiscal year.
As one of residents’ priorities, the master plan will propose the development of new parks in underserved areas of the city that feature green spaces, sports facilities, playgrounds and other community amenities. Additionally, this initiative would develop more sports complexes and recreation centers, including the potential construction of multi-purpose fields, courts and gymnasiums.
The plan will also include the possibility of adding or improving aquatic facilities, such as pools and splash pads, to provide residents with more options for water-based recreation during the warmer months.
Tyler’s City Council evaluates the parks and recreation facilities master plan periodically to ensure existing initiatives align with up-to-date information, public input and the requirements of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Additional information on the updated Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan for 2025-2035 can be found on the City of Tyler’s website.
Image by LaterJay Photography from Pixabay
