News Summary
Fair Park First announced a $3 million allocation from Texas state funds to support the Community Park project at Fair Park. The park, part of a larger master plan, will feature diverse amenities including gathering spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails. Input from over 1,100 South Dallas residents has guided the park’s design, emphasizing community engagement. With a total estimated cost of $39 million, the project aims to enhance equity and health in Dallas and is set to break ground in August 2026.
Dallas, Texas – In a significant boost for community development, Fair Park First has announced that the State of Texas has allocated $3 million to support the Community Park project at Fair Park. This funding was secured during the 2025 Legislative Session through the collaborative efforts of Representative Venton Jones and Senator Royce West. The funding is expected to accelerate progress on the Community Park, a vital part of the larger Fair Park Master Plan.
The Community Park will cover an area of 10.5 acres and is designed to offer a range of amenities aimed at enhancing community well-being and access to recreational resources. Planned features for the park include shaded gathering spaces, playgrounds, walking trails, and a market grove, alongside a fitness hub, native landscaping, a community pavilion, and a stage for events.
Senator Royce West emphasized the importance of Fair Park to the local community and acknowledged the need for ongoing support from residents. Representative Venton Jones highlighted that the park will enhance equity in Dallas while improving health outcomes through expanded access to nature and recreational activities. In shaping the park’s design, input was sought from more than 1,100 residents of South Dallas, reflecting a strong community engagement component in the project.
Jason Brown, Vice Chair of the Fair Park First Board, expressed appreciation for the support from legislators and noted that community input has been crucial throughout the planning process. The $3 million funding is part of a larger initiative to revitalize Fair Park, which also includes contributions from private donors, philanthropic foundations, and public grants. The park is envisioned as a safe, picturesque, and accessible public space available to all residents, regardless of their zip code.
Council Member Adam Bazaldua welcomed the state funding as a proactive step to address the community’s needs for enhanced safety and aesthetics. Evelyn Amaya, Director of Community Engagement, characterized the funding as a milestone for the local community, recognizing the collaborative effort behind the project. Heather Stevens, Campaign Advisor, stated that this financial support brings the park project closer to completion and underscores the focus on enhancing health and recreational facilities for neighboring communities.
With this recent allocation, the Community Park project requires less than $6 million more to reach its total estimated cost of $39 million. Groundbreaking is slated for August 2026, with hopes that the park will be completed by the end of 2027. The completion of the project will serve as a symbol of resilience and unity for South Dallas.
So far, Fair Park First has successfully raised approximately $33 million, aided by an $8 million grant received in December. The project has faced previous challenges, including mismanagement of funds by the Oak View Group, which prompted a restructuring of the management approach for Fair Park. Fair Park First is now focused on securing future fundraising and development agreements to sustain the momentum of the project.
The Community Park has garnered long-standing support from local residents who recognize its potential to promote local businesses and strengthen social connections within the community. As work progresses, the Community Park at Fair Park is anticipated to not only enhance the area’s landscape but also play a critical role in fostering a sense of community and collective identity in South Dallas.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 4 News
- Wikipedia: Fair Park
- NBC DFW
- Google Search: Community Park Fair Park Dallas
- WFAA
- Google Scholar: Community Park Fair Park
- Dallas Morning News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Parks
- Focus Daily News
- Google News: Community Park Fair Park
