The City of Austin has announced the opening of several new parks during the 2025 fiscal year, as part of an ongoing effort to ensure that every resident lives within a ten-minute walk of a park. The new developments are intended to increase access to green spaces and enhance amenities across various neighborhoods.
Brownie Neighborhood Park opened in January 2025, featuring upgrades such as a picnic pavilion, expanded irrigation system, loop walking trail, solar security lighting, benches, picnic tables, a playground, drinking fountain, basketball court and thirty newly planted shade trees. The project also includes ADA-accessible parking spaces. Funding came from the 2018 General Obligation Bond along with support from Austin Parks Foundation and the City’s Urban Forestry Grant program.
Little Walnut Creek Greenbelt Trailhead debuted its new playground in summer 2025 following a community-driven planning process that began in 2018. This initiative prioritized trails and play areas based on local input. The project included partnership with Austin Parks Foundation and received additional grants from Texas Parks and Wildlife and St. David’s Foundation. Further trail improvements are scheduled for later in the year.
Scenic Brook Pocket Park was officially opened to the public in September 2025 after being deeded to the city by the Scenic Brook Neighborhood Association in 2016. A design grant from Austin Parks Foundation supported development plans approved in 2020; construction began in summer 2024. The nearly one-acre park now offers accessible walkways, seating areas, trails, shaded picnic space and playscape facilities along a tributary of Williamson Creek.
Oertli Neighborhood Park held its ribbon cutting on November 22, 2024. Spanning six acres, it features a loop trail between two entrances, shade trees, playground with pavilion, fitness equipment and a fenced dog area alongside open recreational space. Additional shade pavilions were funded by Austin Parks Foundation. The site formerly served as pastureland for the Oertli family dairy farms operating locally from 1923 until 2001; its legacy is commemorated with an on-site Texas Historical Marker.
Each new park aims “to inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places,” according to officials. “We’re grateful for the partnerships and public support that made these projects possible and we look forward to expanding Austin’s parkland for future generations to enjoy!”
