The Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) requests Council approval authorizing the submission of a Park Access grant application to the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA). The grant application must be submitted to NRPA by April 23, 2021. HPARD also requests City Council to authorize the HPARD Director or his designee to act as the City's representative in the application process with the authority to apply for, accept and expend the grant funds as awarded; to apply for and accept subsequent awards, if any; to extend the budget period; and to authorize the Mayor to execute all related agreements with the approval of the City Attorney in connection with the grant, not to exceed five years. Matching funds are not required.
HPARD is requesting $500,000 in grant assistance to develop a new Houston Parks Master Plan – a comprehensive plan for the City of Houston parks system that addressed the communities' present and future needs within the planning region. The development of the Master Plan must provide for equitable access and community-driven quality strategies, at a system-level, equity-focused, provide for park access, environmental resilience, and community health.
Houston Parks Master Plan will enhance the quality and diversity of programming and recreation opportunities offered by obtaining community input; assessing socio-economic data, demographics on ethnicity, age, and income; current and projected population figures and their source; growth or non-growth patterns; and the City's role in providing parks and recreation opportunities. The plan also includes parks and amenities, prioritizing their creation, renovation, redevelopment, and repairs and maintenance.
Fiscal Note: No fiscal note required on grant items
Director's Signature:
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Kenneth Allen, Interim Director
Houston Parks and Recreation Department