Two parks in Austin, Texas, are undergoing significant improvements through the efforts of the Austin Parks Foundation (APF) and the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD). The focus is on enhancing Little Walnut Creek Greenbelt and Walnut Creek Metro Park.
The project at Little Walnut Creek Greenbelt began in 2018 when the Pecan Springs/Springdale Neighborhood Association collaborated with PARD. Their aim was to develop a vision plan for the undeveloped 206-acre space. This effort involved the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program and local design firm Asakura Robinson. Community input played a crucial role in identifying priority projects such as access improvements, trail development, and a play space. In 2019, APF initiated work on the first trailhead on Springdale Road with support from St. David’s Foundation.
By 2020, APF had granted design services to help create preliminary designs for trails and play areas. From 2021 to 2023, virtual community meetings were held to finalize designs and secure funding for Phase I construction. Trail improvements continue with funding from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The new play space is expected to be completed by spring 2025.
At Walnut Creek Metro Park, APF has focused on trail enhancements, basketball court resurfacing, and restoration projects. A $2,500 grant was awarded in 2023 to address damage from an ice storm using mulch spread by volunteers. The San Antonio Spurs "Play ATX" initiative led to basketball court renovations completed in March 2024.
Efforts at Walnut Creek Metro Park are ongoing with the introduction of the Unified Stewardship Plan in collaboration with PARD. This plan aims to enhance cooperation among community groups to improve park facilities for all visitors.