ORDINANCE approving and authorizing the submission of a grant application to the TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT FOR THE URBAN OUTDOOR RECREATION GRANT (the “Grant”) for improvements at Charlton Park; declaring the City’s eligibility for such Grant; authorizing the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department to act as the City’s representative in the application process, with the authority to accept and expend such Grant Funds, as awarded, and to apply for, extend the budget period for, and accept all subsequent awards, if any, pertaining to the Grant - DISTRICT I - GALLEGOS

The Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) requests Council approval authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD); also, authorizing the HPARD Director or designee to act as the city's representative in the application process, with authority to accept and expend such grant funds, as awarded, and to apply for and accept all subsequent awards, if any, pertaining to the grant; not to exceed five years. HPARD also requests City Council authorize the Mayor to execute all related contracts, agreements, and documents with the approval as to form of the City Attorney in connection with this grant award without further City Council action. HPARD is requesting $1,250,000.00 in grant assistance to partner with Gulfgate Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 8) to improve Charlton Park, located at 8200 Park Place Blvd. Houston, TX 77017. The total proposed grant project cost estimate is $2,500,000.00. TIRZ 8 commits to providing $1 million in matching funds required for this grant. If awarded, HPARD will return to Council for approval of an Interlocal Agreement with TIRZ 8 and an appropriation of funds from the Park Consolidated Construction Fund (4502). HPARD must submit the grant application to TPWD by October 1, 2021. 

The Charlton Park, located at 8200 Park Place Blvd. Houston, TX 77017, is an 8.7-acre acquired by the City of Houston in 1926. The property is located in the Park Place Super Neighborhood. The neighboring community has been involved in determining the needs for the park and will be included during the design phase of the project. Proposed Charlton Park improvements include new playground, spray ground, sidewalks and walking trails, shade structure, exercise stations, open lawn area, fencing, detention and drainage improvements, native tree plantings, as well as installation of benches, picnic tables, game table, and bike racks.

Fiscal Note: No Fiscal Note is required on grant items.

Director's Signature:

_______________________________

Kenneth Allen, Director

Houston Parks and Recreation Department

$1,250,000.00

State-Grant Fund

Fund 5010