Item 9 Draft 2035 PROS Master Plan
City of Southlake
Parks, Recreation &
Open Space Master
Plan
An Element of the Southlake 2035 Comprehensive Plan
Adopted by Southlake City Council
Ordinance No. 1242
June 15, 2021
Prepared by:
Southlake Planning & Development Services Department
Southlake Community Services Department
Special Thanks:
Parks & Recreation Board
Planning & Zoning Commission
Southlake Kids Interested in Leadership (SKIL)
Southlake Youth Action Commission (SYAC)
Senior Advisory Commission (SAC)
Carroll ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 2
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 3
Executive Summary
The City of Southlake is pleased to present the updated Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan, a
component of the Southlake 2035 Comprehensive Plan. This plan update represents many months of between
elected and appointed officials, and other community stakeholders. In February of 2018, the City adopted an
amendment to the 2030 Parks, Recreation & Open Space / Community Facilities Master Plan. While not a
complete update to the existing plan, it did include several deletions, revisions, and additions of
recommendations across a few specific parks. Given the recency of this amendment, a number of those
recommendations will be carried over in the Southlake 2035 Master Plan. Besides the amendment in 2018, the
latest holistic update to the Plan took place in March of 2013.
City Council appointed the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee to oversee the
development of this master plan update. In addition, staff held meetings with the Southlake Kids Interested in
Leadership (SKIL), the Southlake Youth Action Commission (SYAC), and the Senior Advisory Commission (SAC).
City staff also met with the Carroll ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) to provide them with an update
on the plan development process.
A key change was made during the development of the 2035 Plan update. Given the breadth of City parks and
facilities, staff decided to separate the Parks, Recreation & Open Space element from the Community Facilities
element. The Community Facilities Master Plan will be a distinct comprehensive plan element moving forward.
This decision gave staff and all stakeholders greater capacity to focus on the parks, recreation & open space
piece, and will do the same for community facilities. Part of the reason for this determination was that since
the last major update to the comprehensive plan, the City has added new facilities to its portfolio, perhaps
most importantly being The Marq Southlake and the DPS North Training Facility. Additionally, because with the
senior center moved from its previous location at 307 Parkwood Dr. to The Marq Southlake (Legends Hall),
there is now space at that facility for City programming.
Another adjustment to the preparation of this comprehensive plan update worth noting is the very way the
recommendations within the ensuing plan were prioritized for implementation. As will be further discussed in
a later section, rather than force-ranking each park in the Southlake system as had been done in previous
master plan updates, the Committee only ranked those where capital requests would be required. Specific
amenities were identified for each park; however, this does not mean that specific park was included in the
forced-ranking activity. Staff and the Committee felt it was important to document specific desired amenities
within each park, however some of the smaller items can be implemented in an annual work plan with SPDC
funds. That said, the identified amenities will help guide staff operational budgets moving forward be
delineating what items (such as water bottle refill stations) are needed and where.
Because the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan followed other adopted Southlake 2035
Comprehensive Plan elements, there were numerous existing policy recommendations to sort through with a
direct tie back to the City’s parks and open spaces. For example, staff pulled comments extensively from the
Youth Master Plan and the Health & Wellness Master Plan, given the attention those documents devoted to
physical health, the built environment, and the natural environment. Further staff combed through
recommendations from the Public Arts Master Plan, the Consolidated Future Land Use Plan, and previous
Parks, Recreation & Open Space / Community Facilities documents. Carefully analyzing and contemplation
these existing adopted recommendations ensures that all involved in the update to the 2035 Parks, Recreation
& Open Space Master Plan thoughtfully considered the strategic foundation put in place years prior.
Following is the table of contents and introduction of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 4
Table of Contents
Section 1 Introduction ##
1.1 Purpose of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan ##
1.2 Relationship to the Strategic Management System ##
1.3 Adoption Process ##
Section 2 Background ##
2.1 History ##
2.2 Demographics ##
2.3 Existing City Plans and Policy Documents ##
2.4 Public Input ##
Section 3 The Southlake Context ##
3.1 Park Classifications and their Functions ##
3.2 Inventory of Parks and Acreage ##
3.3 Joint Use Facilities and Partnerships ##
3.4 Matching Funds ##
3.5 Needs Assessment ##
Section 4 Evaluation, Prioritization, and Implementation ##
4.1 Plan Evaluation and Implementation ##
4.2 Prioritization Schedule ##
Section 5 Parks in Southlake ##
5.1 Recommendations Overview ##
5.2 Citywide Policy Recommendations ##
5.3 Recommendations for Prioritized Parks ##
5.4 Recommendations for Non-Prioritized Parks ##
5.5 Park Standards ##
Exhibit A Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Map ##
Exhibit B Public and Private Parks Map ##
Exhibit C Existing Related Comprehensive Plan Recommendations ##
Exhibit D Environmental Resource Protection Map ##
Exhibit E Parks Descriptions ##
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 5
Introduction
Southlake prides itself on its numerous parks and open spaces and its offering of recreation activities and
resources. Residents use the park and recreational services extensively for active and passive leisure pursuits.
As Southlake grows, these parks and recreation programs will continue to play a vital role in the lives of our
residents and visitors by providing areas for:
• Active recreational pursuits
• Passive enjoyment
• Enhanced quality of life
• Enhanced community image
• Increased tourism
Southlake's proximity to Grapevine Lake and
abundance of mature trees provides a visual backdrop
that greatly adds to the overall aesthetic value of the
City. Open spaces provide habitat and protection for
threatened and endangered species, unique natural
and cultural resources, and critical habitat linkages.
These open spaces also enable natural outdoor
experiences for residents near where they live.
Parks contribute to this network of open spaces and enhance the quality of life for Southlake residents in
numerous ways. Green spaces, healthy trees and plant life soften the impact of development and add visual
enhancements to the City. Park facilities enable residents to be active and engaged in many recreation
activities and outdoor pursuits, from senior citizen fitness classes to youth
soccer.
Parks can also reflect how a community regards itself and they can be
objects of community pride. Distinctive signature parks such as
Bicentennial Park, Bob Jones Park, North Park and Liberty Park at
Sheltonwood give Southlake character and a sense of place in the region.
Parks can also define neighborhoods throughout the City and serve as
buffer zones between new development and residential enclaves and
natural preserves. Parks, trails, and open space areas add value to the
community. For example, parks and especially open space preserves can
add to the assessed value of adjacent and nearby properties by making
these areas more desirable places to live. Visitation and tourism to City
events, which take place in public parks, such as Stars & Stripes, Art in the
Square and Oktoberfest encourage people to visit and stay in Southlake.
These visitors generate revenue by filling hotel rooms, dining out and
participating in other activities that support the local Southlake economy.
Caring for and preserving these resources, as well as adapting to the changing needs of the community is an
essential component of Southlake’s future health and sustainability. As the City changes and develops, the
community looks to maintain a balance between the built and natural environment where Southlake residents
can relax and recreate. The recommendations, objectives and policies in the Parks, Recreation & Open Space
Rustin Park
Stars & Stripes
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 6
component of the Southlake 2035 comprehensive plan focus on the enhancement and appropriate use of
Southlake's parks, open spaces, and programs to meet the changing needs of Southlake’s population.
Purpose of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan
The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan is a component of the Southlake 2035 Comprehensive Plan.
The comprehensive plan reflects the community’s values and serves as a blueprint for Southlake’s future.
More specifically, the comprehensive plan establishes a framework to coordinate the city’s activities and to
guide the city’s decision-making for the next several years. As such, the comprehensive plan and its
components are updated on a regular basis.
The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan was most recently amended in 2018. Before that, the last
comprehensive update to this plan document took place in 2013. The City has undergone significant growth
and improvements since that time, so it is necessary to address those changes with an update to the plan as a
part of the Southlake 2035 Comprehensive Plan. While there are numerous distinct adopted comprehensive
plan elements that consider parks, recreation, and open space in Southlake, the Parks, Recreation & Open
Space Master Plan is the primary tool that will guide decision-making when addressing changes to the City’s
parks, recreation facilities and open spaces. Recommendations developed in the Plan will also be incorporated
into other future elements as appropriate. In addition, the plan will be utilized in setting priorities in future
Capital Improvement Program (CIP) planning processes.
The Charter for the City of Southlake states that certain components of the City’s comprehensive plan, such as
the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan, shall address a planning horizon of at least ten years into the
future, and these components are to be updated to reflect changing City conditions and requirements every
four years. As noted, the latest amendment to the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan took place in
2018.
Relationship to the Strategic Management System
Strategic planning is an ongoing process where resources, critical concerns, community priorities and citizen
needs are combined to produce both a plan for the future and a measure for results. More specifically,
Southlake’s Strategic Management System links the City’s day-to-day activities to a comprehensive long-term
strategy for public policy and management decisions.
The Strategic Management
System identifies Strategic
Focus Areas and Objectives
to guide effective and
efficient resource allocation
and provides benchmarks to
assess performance. The
Strategic Focus Areas and
Objectives are driven by the
City’s Citizen Survey and are
outlined in City’s Strategy
Map.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 7
The Strategic Management System guided the development of the Southlake 2035 Vision, Goals and
Objectives (VGO), which define a desired direction for growth in the City. Adopted by Ordinance in June of
2017, all subsequent master plan elements developed will be linked back to this document.
All recommendations in the Southlake 2035 plans are tied to at least one Strategic Focus Area from the
Strategic Management System and at least one objective from the adopted Southlake Vision, Goals and
Objectives. The recommendations from the comprehensive plan elements guide the development of the
Capital Improvements Program (a five-year plan for the purchase, construction, or replacement of the City’s
physical assets) as well as departmental business plans. In turn, the Capital Improvements Program and
departmental business plans dictate the City’s day-today operations to ensure the City achieves the
community’s goals.
Further, the Southlake 2035 Comprehensive Plan assists the City Council, Boards, and Commissions in decision-
making by establishing a blueprint for the City’s future. For example, the recommendations adopted with this
plan element will provide the framework used to determine the parks, recreation, and open space initiatives
and programs that get pursued. Using the plan as a guide helps to secure the community’s vision for strong
programs that engage all residents of Southlake.
Adoption Process
As will be further highlighted later in the section on Public Input, City Council appointed the Southlake 2035
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee (Parks & Recreation Board) to oversee the
development of the master plan. Based on recommendations from the Youth Master Plan and the Health &
Wellness Master Plan, City staff also sought comment from the community’s youth through meetings with the
Southlake Youth Action Commission (SYAC) and the Southlake Kids Interested in Leadership (SKIL). Staff also
met with the Southlake Senior Advisory Commission (SAC) to ensure the City included the senior perspective
and took steps to ensure Southlake is an age-friendly community. To further encourage the synergy between
the City and school district, staff met with was the Carroll ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC).
One of the first steps in the update to the Southlake 2035 Comprehensive Plan was to revisit the existing goals
and objectives. In June of 2017, City Council replaced the Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals & Objectives with the
Southlake 2035 Vision, Goals & Objectives (VGO) (Ordinance No. 1173). This critical document establishes the
foundation for the recommendations within not only the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan, but
each adopted master plan element. The VGO document reflects changes in the Southlake community since the
Southlake 2030 iteration was adopted previously. The Southlake 2035 Vision, Goals & Objectives also address
new and future elements that will be included in the master plan. The goals and objectives for this plan are
illustrated on pages 9 and 10. Using this as a foundation, as well as incorporating other critical comprehensive
planning steps such as surveys and table top exercises, the Committee then developed the recommendations
for the plan.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 8
Between meetings with the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee, SYAC, SKIL, SAC, and
SHAC, the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan was either discussed or presented at twenty (20)
committee and group meetings.
All City meetings were open to the public and advertised on the City’s website. Once the plan was ready to
continue moving through the process, the Committee made a recommendation to forward the Southlake 2035
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan to the Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) for consideration,
public hearing, and recommendation in accordance with the City’s charter. After P&Z made their
recommendation to approve the Master Plan, this element proceeded to City Council for public hearing and
final approval. On June 15, 2021, City Council adopted the Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation & Open Space
Master Plan as Ordinance No. 1242.
A Southlake Program for the Involvement of Neighborhoods (SPIN) Town Hall Forum and open house was also
held on May 25, 2021 to present the plan publicly before the City Council meetings to gather additional public
input.
The forum fosters open and timely communication between the citizens and city government regarding
programs and issues affecting the quality of life in the community, encouraging positive relations and a
stronger sense of community.
In summary, the approval process for the Health & Wellness Master Plan was as follows:
1) Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee Meetings – September 2019 – May 2021
2) Planning & Zoning Commission recommendation – May 20, 2021
3) SPIN Town Hall Forum and Open House – May 25, 2021
4) City Council 1st reading – June 1, 2021
5) City Council 2nd reading (final plan approval) – June 15, 2021
Following is an overview of the goals and objectives used in the development of the
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 9
Southlake 2035 Vision, Goals & Objectives
Goal 1: Quality Development
Promote quality development that is consistent with the Urban Design Plan and existing development patterns,
well- maintained, attractive, pedestrian-friendly, safe, contributes to an overall sense of place and meet the
needs of a vibrant and diverse community.
Objective 1.1 Encourage the maintenance and enhancement of existing neighborhoods, features and
amenities in order to preserve property values and a unique sense of place
Objective 1.2 Create and preserve attractive pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways to encourage
transportation alternatives to the automobile.
Objective 1.5 Promote unique community character through a cohesive theme by emphasizing urban design
detail and performance standards for structures, streets, street lighting, landscaping, entry
features, wayfinding signs, open spaces, amenities, pedestrian/automobile orientation and
transition to adjacent uses.
Goal 3: Mobility
Develop an innovative mobility system that provides for the safe, convenient, efficient movement of people and
goods, reduces traffic congestion, promotes energy and transportation efficiency and promotes expanded
opportunities for citizens to meet some routine needs by walking or bicycling.
Objective 3.3 In accordance with a need identified by the Citizen Survey, provide and promote a continuous
pedestrian pathways system that is user-friendly, efficient, safe, economical, and connect parks,
shopping, schools, work and residential areas.
Objective 3.4 Pursue opportunities to link Southlake’s pathways to systems in adjacent cities and trails on the
Corps of Engineers property.
Goal 4: Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Support a comprehensive integrated parks, recreation and open space system for all ages that creates value
and preserves natural assets of the City.
Objective 4.1 Ensure that new development incorporates usable open space.
Objective 4.2 Ensure that parkland and open spaces include an integrated mix of developed and natural areas
with consideration of protecting the City’s ecosystem and wildlife corridors.
Objective 4.3 Promote water conservation and reuse in the design of parks and open spaces.
Objective 4.4 Utilize partnerships to create open space and recreation facilities.
Objective 4.5 Ensure an even geographic distribution of park facilities and recreation activities—both active
and passive—for citizens of all ages.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 10
Objective 4.6 Provide a full range of park facilities and linear linkages that will accommodate the current and
future needs of the City’s residents and visitors.
Objective 4.7 Integrate passive recreational opportunities into preserved natural and drainage areas.
Objective 4.8 Incorporate feedback received from the Parks and Recreation Citizen Survey into recreation
activities and park facilities.
Objective 4.9 Acknowledge the City’s rich natural history, heritage and historical landmarks.
Objective 4.10 Determine parkland desirable for dedication as part of the development process based on
classification, location and maintenance cost.
Objective 4.11 Prioritize investments in existing and established parks understanding that there will be
strategic opportunities for land acquisition.
Objective 4.12 Incorporate educational and learning opportunities within parks and related facilities.
Objective 4.13 Pursue recreational and educational opportunities on Corps of Engineers property compatible
with the goal of protecting and preserving the existing ecosystem for future generations.
Goal 7: Sustainability
Encourage the conservation, protection, enhancement and proper management of the natural and built
environment.
Objective 7.2 Promote public awareness and education on such sustainability issues as public health, energy
and water conservation and overall environmental stewardship.
Goal 11: Tourism
Enhance the quality of life for residents and the sustainability of City businesses through the use and promotion
of the tourism, convention and hotel industry as a tool for the local economy in the City.
Objective 11.2 Support programs enriching experiences for residents and visitors.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 11
Background
The citizens of Southlake, city staff, and the development community take long-range planning and consider it
to be one of the most intrinsic functions undertaken by elected and appointed officials in this municipality. The
Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan has undergone some significant iterations in the past decade or
more, and like any good plan, it has evolved and become more relevant with each examination. In the History
section below is a brief outline of the significant plan adoptions and updates of the Parks, Recreation and Open
Space Master Plan. This is a long range (20-year) planning document that is frequently updated to reflect
changing needs and priorities. The Community Services Department will make periodic reviews and make
minor revisions as needed.
The Southlake 2025 Plan was the city’s first comprehensive master
plan that integrated all the City’s master plans together. As a part of
that comprehensive plan the Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Master Plan was an element of that plan that since then has
contributed to many improvements to the City’s park system. This
master plan laid a foundation to the improvements done to the
City’s parks and even eventually led to the creation of master plans
for Bicentennial Park and the Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve.
Since the Southlake 2025 Plan and Southlake 2030 Plan, the City’s
needs have continued to evolve due to changes in the population.
This and other factors have led to necessary adaptations within the
City’s park system. The Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation & Open
Space Master Plan will continue the legacy adjusting to meet the community’s current needs, while also
anticipating the needs of the future.
History
The 1992 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan was the City’s first attempt to look at park and
recreation resources in a comprehensive manner. At that time, the city’s population was around 8,000, and
the city owned 14 acres of park land, all in Bicentennial Park. The City’s build-out population was projected to
be more than 48,000, one-third more than the current projection. The recommended park acreage was six to
ten acres per 1,000 residents, which would have yielded 289 to 483 acres at build-out. Schrickel, Rollins and
Associates, Inc. of Arlington prepared the plan.
The 1996 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan updated land and facility inventory, planning and
design criteria, plan recommendations and implementation sections of the original plan. The focus of the
update was “on the preservation, development or enhancement of attributes important to reflect the native
condition of the North Texas landscape that attracted residents to the community.” By this time, Bicentennial
Park had been expanded to forty-one acres and two neighborhood parks, Koalaty (5 acres) and Lonesome
Dove (8 acres), had been acquired. Purchase of 131 acres of land for Bob Jones Park was contemplated. A park
and recreation citizen’s survey was designed and administered by Glass & Associates. The park and open space
standard was raised to 21 acres per 1,000 residents, almost double the regional standard. The update was
prepared by the City of Southlake staff.
The 2001 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan update reflected the most comprehensive analysis
of the Southlake park system and its potential for orderly development to date. The most important result to
emerge from this study was 100% compliance with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) standards for
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 12
parks master plans, which assured the maximum points available in that category would be available on any
TPWD-sponsored grant submittals. All subsequent plans will conform to TPWD guidelines at a minimum in the
future. This plan saw increases in the number of parks, park acreages, park inventories, comprehensive
mapping, individual park conceptual planning, and prioritization of projects.
The 2005 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan was adopted and prepared as a part of the
Southlake 2025 comprehensive master plan and also met the guidelines for park and recreation system master
plans set forth by the TPWD. TPWD provides a variety of matching grant programs, and approved plans
enhance an applicant’s chances of qualifying for matching grants for the implementation of projects. This plan
also included a new component that would focus on promoting environmental sustainability and open space
preservation within the park system. The Environmental Resource Protection component of the plan
addressed areas of concern such as floodplains, wetlands, streams, trees, topography and view sheds, water
quality, rural character, air quality and solid waste. This component also led to the creation of the
Environmental Resource Protection (ERP) Map.
In terms of the Community Facilities portion of the Southlake 2025 Parks plan, the architectural firm Brinkley
Sargent Architects was selected to formulate the projected future space needs for all city departments. The
firm was also charged with the evaluation of existing city facilities and their potential adaptive reuse. The
report produced by Brinkley Sargent, The Comprehensive Facilities Master Plan, was the final product of an in-
depth study into the present and future needs of the various departments of The City of Southlake. Planning
horizons for this study were the years 2016 and 2026 with respective population projections of 33,500 and
36,000. The components of this report, adopted in 2008, were integrated into this Parks, Recreation & Open
Space / Community Facilities Master Plan and constitute the Community Facilities section of this plan. As
previously noted, the Community Facilities Master Plan will be updated as a standalone comprehensive plan
element in the future. Community Facilities were not contemplated as part of the update to the Southlake
2035 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan.
The Southlake 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan, adopted in 2013, updated the Southlake 2025 Parks,
Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. One of the most significant additions to this plan was the inclusion of
the Community Facilities element. As mentioned in the introduction, it was determined that the significance of
a community recreation center within an existing park was great enough and a critical component of the Parks,
Recreation & Open Space Master Plan that a Community Facilities Master Plan
component should be included, and as a result the Parks, Recreation & Open Space /
Community Facilities Master Plan was created. In addition, the Environmental
Resource Protection component, which was included in the 2005 Parks, Recreation
and Open Space Master Plan, was been removed and integrated into the
Sustainability Master Plan, adopted in 2015. A recommendation from the
Sustainability Master Plan was to update the environmental resource protection map
every two (2) years (BNE3). That said, as part of the update to the Southlake 2035
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan this map was been reviewed, updated,
and adopted.
The Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan updates the Southlake 2030 document. Many
of the recommendations for specific parks are being carried over from this previous plan to the current
iteration. The updated Plan contemplates numerous recommendations across various other adopted plan
elements, as well as the changing needs of the community as demonstrated in the 2019 Citizen Satisfaction
Survey, and input from community stakeholders.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 13
Location, Character, and Resources
Southlake is located in North Central Texas, situated 23 miles
northeast of Fort Worth and 25 miles northwest of Dallas. Dallas-
Fort Worth International Airport is only a few short miles to the
southeast, and Lake Grapevine borders the city to the north. State
Highway 114 runs diagonally through the middle of the city,
heading east through Las Colinas and into downtown Dallas and
west toward the Alliance Airport corridor. The topography is
comprised of mostly gently rolling, heavily treed hills and woodland
areas, and the area in the north part of the city around the lake is
comprised of some of the most prime native Cross Timbers habitat
in the region. A ridgeline running just south of S.H. 114 divides the
main watersheds of the city south toward Bear Creek and north to
Kirkwood Branch of Denton Creek.
Southlake can also be characterized by its abundant natural resources in the Lake Grapevine vicinity and within
walking distance of many neighborhoods. The City has made a very strong commitment to both natural
resource protection and preservation of natural open space. The City of Southlake is also firmly committed to
protecting environmental assets in potential private development areas with both existing and proposed
ordinances that require developers to design with nature in mind. The enforcement of the city’s Tree
Preservation Ordinance, widely recognized statewide as a model ordinance, has resulted in creative
development practices and the protection of existing resources. As such, Southlake has been awarded the
“Tree City USA” designation for 24 consecutive years by the National Arbor
Day Foundation (NADF). NADF awards the designation only to cities who
have demonstrated exceptional local regulations and instructional
community outreach and volunteer opportunities in the name of protecting
trees and the environment. Additionally, in 2017 the City was awarded with
Platinum Certification (the highest certification level available of the Scenic
City Certification Program) and is one of only nineteen cities across the
state to currently have this designation. The Scenic City Certification
Program is a project of Scenic Texas. Scenic Texas has identified a direct
correlation between the success of a city’s economic development efforts and the visual appearance of its
public spaces. In recognition of this link, Scenic Texas has developed the Scenic City Certification Program to
support and recognize municipalities, such as Southlake, that implement high-quality scenic standards for
public roadways and public spaces. The program recognizes Texas cities which already have strong scenic
standards and will provide an incentive to others to adopt and implement the kind of stringent criteria that has
been proven to enhance economic development, improve quality of life and foster a sense of place.
Demographics
Southlake experienced rapid population growth between 1990 and 2000 with a 205 percent increase in
population during that period, among the highest in Texas. With economic recession and less land available for
residential development, this trend slowed significantly between 2000 and 2010. As a result, the city has
developed more slowly in recent years and with less intensity than previously estimated. The ultimate build-
out population, estimated at 34,188, could be reached as late as 2050.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 14
Demographic characteristics can help the city assess current and future needs for parks and recreational
facilities. Demographic profiles depicting age, race, and income provide snapshots of Southlake’s current
population, illustrate change over the past decade, and suggest trends for the future.
Historical Population (1990 – 2019)
Year Population 5-Year Growth Rate
1990 7,065 --
1995 13,350 89%
2000 21,519 61%
2005 24,900 16%
2010 26,575 7%
2015 27,710 4%
2020 30,370* 9%
Source: NCTCOG Regional Data Center and US Census Bureau
(2000 US Census, 2010 US Census, American Community Survey)
*Estimate
Projected Population (2020 – Build-out)
Year Population 5-Year Growth Rate
2020 30,370 --
2025 33,075 8%
2030 (Build-out) 34,188 3%
Source: City of Southlake Water System Master Plan and Water Conservation Plan
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 15
Population by Age (2000 – 2010)
2000
Population
2000
% of Total Population
2010
Population
2010
% of Total Population
% Growth
2000-2010
Total 21,519 100% 26,575 100% 23.5%
Sex
Male 10,792 50.2% 13,313 50.1% 23.4%
Female 10,727 49.8% 13,262 49.9% 23.6%
Age
Under 5 1,632 8% 1,383 5% -15%
5 to 9 2,523 12% 2,511 9% -0.5%
10 to 14 2,512 12% 3,186 12% 27%
15 to 19 1,761 8% 2,670 10% 52%
20 to 24 390 2% 625 2% 60%
25 to 34 1,310 6% 963 4% -27%
35 to 44 5,198 24% 4,029 15% -23%
45 to 54 4,209 20% 6,352 24% 51%
55 to 64 1320 6% 3,296 12% 150%
65 to 74 417 2% 1023 4% 145%
75 to 84 205 1% 375 1% 83%
85 + 42 0.2% 162 0.6% 286%
Under 18 7,978 37% 7,080 27% 14%
65 + 664 3% 1,560 6% 135%
Source: US Census Bureau (2000 US Census, 2010 US Census)
The 2010 census identifies 35-44- and 45–54-year-olds as predominant age groups in the city of Southlake,
while nearly one-third of the population is less than 18 years old. Between 2000 and 2010, the City saw a
1,383
2,511
3,186
2,670
625
963
4,029
6,352
3,296
1023
375
162
1,632
2,523
2,512
1,761
390
1,310
5,198
4,209
1320
417
205
42
Under 5
5 to 9
10 to 14
15 to 19
20 to 24
25 to 34
35 to 44
45 to 54
55 to 64
65 to 74
75 to 84
85 +
Population by Age (2000-2010)
2000 Population
2010 Population
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 16
decrease in the population of children under 10-, 25-34- and 35–44-year-olds, and an increase in youth 15-19-,
45-54- and 55–64-year-olds. Both the youth and the adult populations in Southlake are generally older than
they were a decade ago. Below is a comparative matrix that includes the latest age as a percentage of
population information in Southlake. Without question the age 65 and older demographic is growing in in this
community. Reference the City’s Health & Wellness Master Plan for more specifics on Southlake striving to be
a community for all ages
Source: City of Southlake FY 2021 Adopted Budget
135
128
152
83
174
426
386
1,354
1,521
3,337
91
47
152
182
220
660
721
1,691
1,129
1,529
Less than $10,000
$10,000 to $14,999
$15,000 to $24,999
$25,000 to $34,999
$35,000 to $49,999
$50,000 to $74,999
$75,000 to $99,999
$100,000 to $149,999
$150,000 to $199,999
$200,000 or more
Household Income (2000-2010)
2000 Households
2010 Households
Age as a Percentage of Population
2000 % of City
population
2010 % of
City
population
FY 2021 % of City
population
Under 18 years 37% 27% 26%
19-64 years 60% 67% 63%
65 years and
older 3% 6% 11%
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 17
Household Income (2000-2010)
2000
Households
2000
% of Total
Households
2010
Households
2010
% of Total
Households
% Change
2000-2010
Less than $10,000 91 1% 135 2% 48%
$10,000 to $14,999 47 0.7% 128 2% 172%
$15,000 to $24,999 152 2% 152 2% 0%
$25,000 to $34,999 182 3% 83 1% -54%
$35,000 to $49,999 220 3% 174 2% -21%
$50,000 to $74,999 660 10% 426 6% -36%
$75,000 to $99,999 721 11% 386 5% -47%
$100,000 to $149,999 1,691 26% 1,354 18% -20%
$150,000 to $199,999 1,129 18% 1,521 20% 35%
$200,000 or more 1,529 24% 3,337 43% 118%
Median Household
Income $131,549 $182,237 39%
Source: US Census Bureau (2000 US Census, 2010 US Census)
FY
2
0
2
1
D
e
m
o
g
r
a
p
h
i
c
Pr
o
f
i
l
e
Average people per household of 3.25
2020 median household income of $233,051
2020 average home sales price of $734,088
71% of residents 25 years and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher
Source: City of Southlake FY 2021 Adopted Budget
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 18
Population by Race (2010 – 2010)
2000
Population
2000
% of Total
Population
2010
Population
2010
% of Total
Population
% Growth
2000-2010
White 20,345 95% 23,454 88% 15%
Black or African American 299 1% 548 2% 83%
American Indian and Alaska
Native 53 0.2% 92 0.3% 74%
Asian 386 2% 1,655 6% 329%
Native Hawaiian and Other
Pacific Islander 2 0% 9 0% 350%
Other Race 175 0.8% 253 1% 45%
More than One Race 259 1% 564 2% 118%
Hispanic Origin (of any race) 789 4% 1,458 6% 85%
Source: US Census Bureau (2010 US Census, 2010 US Census)
Source: US Census Bureau (2019 Quick Facts)
Population by Race (2019)
2019 % of Total Population
White alone 78.9%
Black or African American
alone 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska
Native alone 0.4%
Asian alone 15.9%
Native Hawaiian and Other
Pacific Islander alone 0%
Two or More Races 2.5%
Hispanic or Latino 6.4%
White alone, not Hispanic or
Latino 73.6%
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 19
2.4 Existing City Plans and Policy Documents
The City of Southlake has a robust comprehensive plan with elements ranging from a Tourism Master Plan to a
Youth Master Plan, and even a Health & Wellness Master Plan. One of the early steps in the development
process for the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan included combing through these and other
adopted plan documents to evaluate existing recommendations as a foundation. It was critical avoid
unnecessary redundancy across plan elements, which could result in complications related to implementation
the adopted recommendations and measuring those results. The recommendations adopted with each master
plan element provide guidance and policy direction for the City, into the future.
The City goes to great lengths to not only develop the comprehensive plan documents, but also implement the
plan. Recommendations from master plan documents have come into fruition throughout the City, such as the
City’s community recreation center, Champions Club at The Marq Southlake, the widening of FM 1938, and
public art installations within the City’s various roundabouts. At the end of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space
Master Plan is an appendix featuring many of the previously adopted plan elements related to topics such as
parks, recreation, and open space. In many cases, recommendations may start in one plan and be further
vetted within another plan. An example of this approach can be seen in the Parks, Recreation & Open Space
Master Plan in terms of pedestrian crosswalks; the Parks Plan identifies opportunities for consideration, and
these opportunities would be further evaluated and possibly prioritized as part of the next update to the
Mobility Master Plan and Master Pathways Plan. Some of those items have been implemented.
Recommendations from master plan elements stay active until they are replaced by a plan update. In
Southlake, this cycle is repeated about every 4-5 years depending on the plan element.
2.5 Public Input
On August 6, 2019, Southlake City Council appointed the Parks & Recreation board to oversee the
development of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan (Resolution No. 19-025). Altogether, the
committee held 15 public meetings between August 2019 and May 2021 to discuss, review, and develop park
recommendations for different park and open space areas in Southlake. This section highlights the public input
that was gathered in the development of this plan.
Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee (Parks & Recreation Board)
September 9, 2019 – Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Kickoff Meeting
October 14, 2019 – Southlake Sports Complex
November 11, 2019 – Noble Oaks, Haven, Koalaty Parks
December 9, 2019 – Lonesome Dove, Royal & Annie Smith, Cheasapeake Parks
January 13, 2020 – Discuss upcoming community survey, SPOT Matrix activity
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 20
February 10, 2020 – Winding Creek, Watermere, Johnson Parks
June 8, 2020 – Review of community parks survey results
September 14, 2020 – Review of draft recommendations
October 12, 2020 – Liberty Park at Sheltonwood, North, Oak Pointe Parks
November 9, 2020 – The Cliffs, Kirkwood/Sabre Linear, Coker Hike & Bike, Carillon Parks
December 14, 2020 – Bicentennial, Central, Town Square Parks
February 8, 2021 – Bob Jones Park
March 8, 2021 – Discussion of outstanding items
April 12, 2021 – Review of draft recommendations
May 10, 2021 – Final Committee Meeting
In addition to meeting with the appointed Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee, staff also
engaged two separate youth organizations to obtain perspective on these topics from the high-school student
perspective, as recommended by the Southlake 2035 Youth Master Plan (YP9)
Southlake Youth Action Commission (SYAC)
February 11, 2019
Southlake Kids Interested in Leadership (SKIL)
January 27, 2020
January 25, 2021
The Southlake 2035 Health & Wellness Master Plan included recommendations for considering the addition of
new parks and recreation equipment facilities from the pespective of not only youth, but also seniors (HW4).
Additionally, this same plan included recommendations about working with groups such as the Senior Advisory
Commission (SAC) to ensure Southlake is an age-friendly community (HW22), seeking the input of seniors
regarding interests in terms of recreational program offerings (HW23), and engaging Southlake’s senior
community on projects being developed by the City (HW26). With those recommendations in mind, City staff
made sure to meet with SAC during the development of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan.
Senior Advisory Commission (SAC)
March 9, 2021
Another recommendation from the Health & Wellness Master Plan was to maintain a relationship with the
Carroll ISD School Health Advisory Council to identify opportunities to partner and create synergy regarding
health and wellness topics in the community. That said, City staff made it a point to present to SHAC during the
development of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan.
Carroll ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)
January 21, 2021
Youth Involvement
Given the level of engagement with the community’s youth it is worth going into a bit more detail into the
involvement of SYAC and SKIL. The SYAC students participated in a strengths and opportunities table-top
activity in the context of parks in the City. Some of the identified strengths included a varierty of activities,
clean parks, scenic places, and the programming in the parks. Some of the identified opportunities included
outdoor percussion, reading nooks, wildlife awareness signs, public art, and bike trails. It is worth noting that
the SYAC and SKIL students also participated in the community parks survey. The responses from these two
groups were captured separately from the overall citywide results.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 21
The timeline for developing the master
plan allowed for two separate SKIL
cohorts to provide feedback on the plan.
The first SKIL cohort participated in an
activity where the students split up into
two separate groups, and designed their
perfect active and passive parks; these
were each presented to City staff
following the completion of the activity.
The second SKIL cohort focused on public art within two City Parks. The students were given a project to split
up into four separate groups of five people each. Then, two groups were assigned to come up with a public art
installment within Southlake Sports Complex, and two groups were assigned to come up with a public art
installment within North Park. Each of the four groups were provided with background information from
existing master plan elements to inform their proposals. Students were asked to consider whether the art
piece created a unique sense of place, or interest for the community. Some of the proposals are highlighted in
this plan. Due to the pandemic, each presentation took place virtually.
What follows are a couple examples of the proposals from the students. One group proposed a sculpture
within North Park that featured a mural on the inside of the art piece. Another group proposed a few different
elements to be incorporated into Southlake Sports Complex, including an uplifting crosswalk along Crooked
Lane into the park, an interactive public chalkboard, and a life-size chessboard. Recommendations were
incorporated into the master plan for staff to reference SKIL feedback when considering what art, if any, to add
to each of these parks.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 22
Community Parks Survey
Surveys have become a key element in Southlake’s comprehensive planning process. City staff and the Parks
Master Plan Committee reviewed the most recent Citizen Satisfaction Survey from 2019 to inform discussions
about the park system. Additionally, a community survey was opened for residents to provide more specific
comments about the future of Southlake parks. The survey contained five separated prompts, all of which
were open-ended.
The information from the survey was valuable in assisting in the identification of community preferences with
regard to the City’s park system. All together there were 105 total respones to the survey. The survey, open
from February 7, 2020 through February 28, 2020 was promoted through the City’s weekly e-blast, with links
also shared to City social media accounts. The results of the survey were presented to the Master Plan
Committee on June 8, 2020. Word clouds for each question were exported, and the Committee also received
the verbatim comments. Word clouds for each question appear later in the Needs Assessment section of this
plan.
Question 1: What is the primary reason that you use parks in the City of Southlake?
Question 2: In your opinion, what strengths exist in Southlake regarding parks, recreation, and open
space?
Question 3: In your opinion, what is the biggest need in Southlake regarding parks, recreation, and
open space?
Question 4: If any, what barriers prevent you from using parks in the City of Southlake?
Question 5: If you woke up tomorrow and five (5) years had passed, and it was suddenly the year 2025
in Southlake, what are a couple things you hope are offered regarding parks, recreation, and open
space that may not be offered today? This could include programs, facilities, amenities, etc.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 23
Promoting the Plan Update
Signs were placed near the parks that were to be discussed in order to promote these public meetings.
Additionally, the City posted on social media regarding the signs around town to provide additional context.
Event signs were also placed at key locations around town promoting the update to this plan element, with a
weblink to learn more.
Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Feedback Form
Recognizing that not everyone can attend a public meeting, staff created a form that enabled residents to send
their comments virtually via the City’s website. The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Feedback
form was linked to the webpage for this plan so that a member of the public could send their input to staff any
time. These forms were included in the meeting packets for the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan
Committee, ensuring all feedback was seen.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 24
The Southlake Context
This Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan is evidence of the City of Southlake’s long-standing
commitment to provide area residents with high quality park facilities and recreation programs. The City’s
commitment has resulted in an outstanding system of much loved parks and well-attended programs that
serve to enrich the lives of the community. The focus of this section of the Plan is to provide additional context
into the City of Southlake park system by defining terms, speaking to existing amenities, highlighting identified
needs, and partnerships.
The City’s parks, recreation programs and open spaces
contribute significantly to the quality of life in
Southlake. With its high-quality park facilities, hiking
and riding trails adjacent to Grapevine Lake, and
comprehensive recreational programs, Southlake offers
many leisure activities and healthy lifestyle choices for
residents and visitors. Parks and community-serving
facilities enhance the quality of life for residents and are
an important component of complete and sustainable
neighborhoods. Accessible parks provide a place to play,
exercise, spend time with friends and neighbors, or to
just relax and recuperate. Trails serve an important
recreational function while also creating opportunities
for connections throughout the community. These
walking, hiking, running, biking, and equestrian trails connect neighborhoods, parks, schools, places of
employment, and activity centers, and create mobility opportunities for residents of all ages. Recreational
programs provide opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in recreational, educational, and sports-
related classes and activities. Public health benefits accrue in neighborhoods that have access to parks,
community facilities, and trails. Access to recreational amenities leads to improved levels of physical activity
that have associated physical and mental health benefits on a community-wide basis. Such access also
increases opportunities for interaction among all members of the community, which can lead to stronger
community ties and an improved sense of connectedness.
Park Classifications and Their Functions
In order to provide the parks, recreation, and open space
facilities needed by the City’s residents, a set of standards
and criteria should be followed. In the Southlake 2025
Comprehensive Plan, parks were categorized and classified
based on park design concepts and standards identified by
the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA -
http://www.nrpa.org/). After further evaluating the
demographics and specific needs of the City and its
residents it became evident that many parks exceeded or
did not fit within these standard categories. For the
purposes of addressing classification and functions of
parks within the City, this master plan will categorize parks
on how they function specifically within Southlake.
Johnson Park Trail
Chesapeake Park
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 25
For this Parks, Recreation & Open Space / Community Facilities Master Plan, the following park categories are
being used:
• Neighborhood Parks
• Community Parks
• Natural Areas and/or Open Space
Neighborhood Parks
The neighborhood park is to be one of the most important features of a park system because of its ability to
define the character of neighborhoods through its design. Its primary function is the provision of recreational
space for the neighborhood that surrounds it. When it is possible to combine an elementary school with this
type of park, the two features further enhance the identity of the neighborhood by providing a central location
for recreation and education, and by providing a significant open space feature within the neighborhood. A
neighborhood park would be preferably located near the center of the neighborhood, but also around the
periphery of the neighborhood or as a buffer between major roadways and the neighborhood is also
preferable. Safe and convenient pedestrian access (sidewalks or hike-and-bike trails) is important to a
neighborhood park location. Facilities normally provided at a neighborhood park may consist of the following:
• Playground structures
• Open space for both active & passive uses
• Pavilion with picnic tables
• Park amenities such as drinking fountains, benches,
signage, grills, trash cans, trees and landscaping
• Hike/bike trails
Neighborhood parks are typically designed to serve a small
population area. The most critical aspect of acquiring,
sizing, locating, and constructing neighborhood parks is
that the park is easily accessible from the surrounding
neighborhoods. Therefore, trail linkages and family-
friendly amenities take priority.
Community Parks
A community park is a large and much more versatile type of park developed to serve the community. These
parks can be oriented to provide both active and passive recreational facilities for all ages. A community park
can serve several neighborhood areas and can typically be conveniently accessed by automobile. These parks
are diverse in nature and may include many different amenities including but not limited to the following:
• Athletic complexes/field space for
baseball, football, lacrosse, soccer, and
softball games and practices (lighted and
non-lighted)
• Sports courts (such as tennis & basketball)
• Playground structures
• Internal park road system & parking
• Open space for both active & passive uses
• Areas for community events • Hike/bike trails
• Pavilions/community gathering spaces
with picnic tables • Nature trails and interpretative areas
• Ponds and water features
• Park restroom facilities • Viewpoints or overlooks
Noble Oaks Park
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 26
• Park amenities such as drinking fountains,
benches, signage, grills, trash cans, trees
and landscaping
Bicentennial Park North Park
Natural Areas and/or Open Space
These areas are natural and are generally left undisturbed but are not necessarily characterized as land
preservations. No organized, active recreational uses are usually accommodated in these areas; they are
primarily intended for passive recreational use. The US Army Corps of Engineers lease area is considered
natural areas for the purpose of the plan update.
Bob Jones Park Oak Pointe Park
Public and Private Parks
It is important to note that many public parks are dedicated to the City as part of a developer’s agreement. In
many cases, these parks continue to be maintained by the developer or Home Owner’s Association (HOA) per
this approved agreement. Some of the parks identified below are owned by the City but maintained by an
HOA. For a complete list of public and private parks, see Exhibit B at the end of this plan.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 27
Inventory of Parks and Acreage
The following exhibits contain a listing of public parks in Southlake and their acreages as well as the
classification type based on the criteria mentioned earlier. Private residential parks and open space areas are
not included in these calculations.
PUBLIC PARKS INVENTORY
PARK PARK CLASSIFICATION TYPE ACREAGE
Bicentennial Park Community Park 81.5
Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve Natural Area/Open Space 115
Bob Jones Park Community Park 137.7
Chesapeake Park Neighborhood Park 11.4
Coker Hike & Bike Park Natural Area/Open Space 3.3
The Cliffs Park Neighborhood Park 15.2
East Haven Park Neighborhood Park 1.1
Estancia Park (Cotswold) Neighborhood Park 2.7
Gateway Lakes Park Natural Area/Open
Space/Neighborhood Park 13.2
Johnson Park Neighborhood Park 7.3
Kirkwood/Sabre Linear Park Natural Area/Open Space 12.9
Koalaty Park Neighborhood Park 5.8
Liberty Park at Sheltonwood Community Park 20.5
Lonesome Dove Park Neighborhood Park 8.0
Noble Oaks Park Neighborhood Park 4.6
North Park Community Park 19.6
Oak Pointe Park Neighborhood Park 8.4
Royal and Annie Smith Park Neighborhood Park 13.1
Southlake Sports Complex Community Park 16.1
Watermere Parks / Park at Verandas Neighborhood Park 6.1
Winding Creek Park (portion public) Neighborhood Park 2.1
Carillon Parks
• Enclave Park
• Villa Park North
• Villa Park South
• Village Green
• The Preserve
• Corporate Park
• Lake Carillon Park
• Linear Parks
Neighborhood Parks 47.3
Town Square Parks
• Frank Edgar
Cornish, IV Park
• Rustin Park
• Family Park
• McPherson Park
• Summit Park
• Central Park
Community Parks 8.4
US Army Corps of Engineers Lease Area Natural Area/Open Space 577.7
Total Acreage: 1,139
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 28
Joint Use Facilities and Partnerships
The City of Southlake has a partnership with the Carroll Independent School District (CISD) that enables the use
of public park facilities by CISD and the use of school facilities such as auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums,
and fields by the City for public parks and recreation programs. School facilities are built and maintained with
local tax dollars principally for the use of students and they are utilized extensively for the schools’
extracurricular activities and maintenance during non-school hours. However, at times when the buildings or
fields are not occupied for school-purposes, the community has been able to enjoy the use of these public
facilities. Likewise, park amenities are public investments which can be shared by local schools to make more
efficient use of public funds and reduce the need to build redundant facilities.
The City of Southlake should continue to consider future joint use partnerships with neighboring communities
such as Keller, Grapevine, Colleyville, Westlake, or Trophy Club, as appropriate to meet community needs.
When pursuing joint use opportunities, it is important to discuss all considerations including, but not limited to
the following:
Maintenance: How can we ensure that joint use facilities are respected and maintained? Who is
responsible for maintenance, repairs, and long-term capital improvements?
Operations: Who will unlock the gate? Who will run the programs? Who has priority?
Liability: What if someone gets hurt? Does the property have sufficient liability insurance to
cover any issues associated with joint use?
Ownership: How does joint use affect how decisions are made about the property? Are partners
involved in decisions made relative to the improvement, change, or sale of a joint
use property? How can the partnership be mutually beneficial?
Cost/Revenue: What costs might be associated with the joint use partnership? How much should
each partner contribute? How will revenues be split?
Matching Funds
The Southlake Parks Development Corporation (SPDC) Matching Funds Program enables the City to leverage its
capital funding to assist with the ongoing advancement of the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan,
and implementing the City’s strategic vision. The purpose of this program is to provide a process for
considering requests by petitioning individuals or organizations for SPDC Matching Funds projects.
The City has partnered with various community
groups over the years to fund significant park
improvements through the Matching Funds
Program. Examples of projects completed under
the Matching Funds Program include completing
sidewalks at The Cliffs Park, adding a shade
structure for Softball batting cages at Bob Jones
Park, softball soft toss stations at Bob Jones Park,
and switching infield Number 9 in Bicentennial Park
from a dirt field to a synthetic field.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 29
Needs Assessment
According to the 2019 Citizens Survey, 92% of those surveyed responded that providing sidewalks, trails and a
variety of parks was either very important or somewhat important. With this is mind, during the development
of this master plan the views and recreation preferences of Southlake residents played an important role in
developing the direction of the plan and the amenities needed within the parks and recreation system of the
City. An effort was made during the review of the parks of the City to ensure there is connectivity between and
within the park system in addition to connections to adjacent neighborhoods and schools.
The parks and recreational facilities the City offers its residents should generally be in accordance with the
current needs of Southlake, as well as with the anticipated or expected needs and demands that may arise in
the future. Anticipated needs can be forecasted based on standards and development guidelines that are
related to the population to be served and the trends in demand. With the City being at a point in time where
the population increase is not expected to increase substantially, it is critical that the City take into
considerations the demands of the population. Expectation of needs is usually determined through the
analysis of material and data furnished by persons actively engaged in some type of recreational activity, as
such was the case in the development of this master plan. The following section below describes the approach
taken into accounting for and assessing the needs of the City.
Demand Based Needs
The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee
contemplated the existing landscape of parks in Southlake
against the results of the community parks survey, input forms
sent in by members of the public, feedback from various
stakeholders, and factored in their own perspectives. The City of
Southlake fortunately has a variety of parks and recreational
facilities and programs. The focus of the 2035 plan update was
not as much about adding new parks, but rather building upon
and improving what exists today. Some notable park
redevelopment projects were prioritized as part of this planning
effort. Additionally, the Committee felt the need to add a second dog park in Southlake. It is important to note
that the demands of the community may change over time. For example, during the evaluation of the current
conditions and inventory of the City’s parks, the desire for additional pickleball courts was a recurring theme.
Enclave Park (Carillon)
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 30
The next pages features word clouds pulled from the community parks survey. The word cloud summarizes the
verbatim comments from each question of the survey. Since there were five questions in the survey, there are
five corresponding word clouds.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 31
Conclusions from the Needs Assessment
The overall Parks Inventory Evaluation (Needs Assessment) for the Southlake park system is shown below. As
far as park acquisition is concerned, the city currently owns or leases adequate total acreage for a build-out
scenario. The community would be open to new opportunities for recreational uses, whether they are active
or passive, to accommodate and meet the demands of the City’s residents.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 32
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 33
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 34
Evaluation, Prioritization, Implementation
Plan Evaluation and Implementation
After finishing the initial draft of parks recommendations, it was necessary to formulate a way to prioritize the
recommendations of the parks. The committee conducted a forced ranking exercise in which each park was
“packaged” together and ranked based on the level of importance as voted on by the committee. The results
of the forced-ranking activity are listed below along with the packaged recommendations that they were
grouped in. The recommendations that were not in the “package” by park were excluded from this exercise
due to no capital costs being associated with the recommendations. These recommendations could be
prioritized at the staff level and placed on city department business plans. These parks are listed below under
“non-prioritized parks.”
Forced-Ranking Survey Results
Park Package Priority Rank
Southlake Sports Complex 1
Bob Jones Park (does not include the Nature Center and Preserve) 2
Liberty Park at Sheltonwood 3
North Park 4
Koalaty Park 5
Central Park 6
Town Square Parks (Family Park, Frank Edgar Cornish IV Park, McPherson Park,
Rustin Park, Summit Park) 7
Chesapeake Park 8
Lonesome Dove Park 9
Royal & Annie Smith Park 10
Carillon Parks (Corporate Park, Enclave Park, Lake Park, the Preserve Park, Villa
Park North, Villa Park South) 11
Noble Oaks Park 12
Oak Pointe Park 13
The Cliffs Park 14
The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee conducted a separate forced-ranking survey
based on certain amenities that were brought up throughout the plan development process. In some cases,
the amenities below are referenced within the recommendation for a specific park, such as pickleball at
Southlake Sports Complex. The four amenities below were brought up, but not necessarily recommended to
be incorporated into a recommendation package for a specific park. However, if funds become available, this
amenity prioritization list can help provide guidance based on the Committee’s sentiment during plan
development.
Forced-Ranking Survey Results
Amenities Priority Rank
Pickleball 1
Dog Park 2
Wheel-friendly Park (skate, bike, scooter park) 3
Sand Volleyball 4
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 35
Prioritization Schedule
For each specific recommendation, a relative tier ranking has been established to articulate the expected
implementation timeframe for that recommendation. Given that some recommendations require inclusion in
the City’s budget, Capital Improvements Program (CIP), or even a departmental work plan, the priority tier for
all recommendations cannot be the same. The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Committee
confirmed the tier rankings for all the recommendations during prioritization activities which were held for the
various sections of the Master Plan. The tiers are divided into three different categories based on timeframe to
implement:
• Tier 1: 1 to 3 Years (short-term)
• Tier 2: 4 to 7 Years (medium-term)
• Tier 3: 8 Years and beyond (long-term)
It is important to state within this section that recommendation packages will likely be addressed as one.
There are several capital costs associated with the identified improvements, and therefore many years of CIP
budgeting are often required. That said, there are few identified short-term park recommendation packages
given the reality of funding available each year. As noted, the recommendations have been prioritized based
on the results of the forced-ranking survey and therefore recommendation packages will be addressed
comprehensively as the funding is available. Given the high priority of the Southlake Sports Complex (forced-
rank #1) the likelihood of this park being completely redeveloped is much greater than Royal & Annie Smith
Park (forced-rank #10) within the Southlake 2035 planning window. That said, it would be possible for staff to
address identified park amenity or maintenance items on an as-needed basis as necessary.
For the Southlake 2035 plan update, staff created distinctive tier categories to simplify the process of
differentiating between recommendations in prioritized parks and non-prioritized parks. This method will
provide additional clarity when identifying individual line-item recommendations or projects to accomplish as
part of an annual work plan. That said, items ranked 1A, 1B, or 1C (prioritized parks) represent higher priority
line items, where those given a tier of 2A, 2B, or 2C (non-prioritized parks) are a lower priority.
The tier rankings are used in the development of department work plans as well as the Capital Improvements
Program. In fact, the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) planning process begins and ends with projects
recommended by all master plans in the City’s comprehensive plan. Annually, as part of the City’s budget
process, city staff analyzes the adopted master plans and develops a comprehensive list of projects with
preliminary cost estimates for inclusion in the proposed departmental budgets and the CIP.
The proposed departmental budgets and CIP are submitted to the City Manager’s Office and the CIP Technical
Committee who evaluate requests based on several City Council priorities including this master plan. The
priority tiers that were developed during this master plan will help guide future members of the City’s boards
and City Council when making decisions related to the adoption of the City’s annual operating budget and the
CIP.
While these tiers provide the ideal order of implementation and desired priority for the Parks, Recreation &
Open Space Master Plan recommendations, all recommendations are subject to available funding during the
given budget year.
What follows is the complete list of recommendations in the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan. The
recommendations are listed in order of how they were prioritized by the Committee during the forced-ranking
activity. This prioritization is predicated on months of planning, discussion, review, and analysis with regard to
parks in Southlake.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 36
Parks in Southlake
Recommendations Overview
The following pages delve into the specific recommendations within the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan. Recommendations are divided
into three (3) categories:
• Citywide recommendations (Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3)
• Recommendations for prioritized parks (Tier 1A, Tier 1B, Tier 2C)
• Recommendations for non-prioritized parks (Tier 2A, Tier 2B, Tier 2C)
These three categories are different in scope and should therefore not be weighed in the same manner. For this reason, the 2035 iteration of the
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan divided these items to allow for a more streamlined implementation process. In the case of Citywide
policy recommendations, these items generally speak to guidance as related to future park development. In many cases, there is not a direct cost
associated with the policy recommendations in the same manner of the other two categories. Staff wanted to make it simpler for anyone reviewing
this plan element to understand what the higher priority park recommendations were, thus these were split into two-separate groupings.
Perhaps the most important aspect of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan updates are the changes to the individual park concept
plans. Anyone interested about future park development along with the Parks & Recreation Board, Southlake Parks Development Corporation,
Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council and City Staff will rely directly on these plans for guidance. This makes the concept plans a critical part of
the plan document and necessary of careful consideration when evaluating park improvements. It should be noted however that these plans are
guidelines and are subject to changing conditions and evolution. The actual development of the park may differ from the concept plans.
In addition to the individual park concept plans, recommendations have also been drafted to reflect the considerations of the Parks, Recreation &
Open Space Master Plan Committee. The recommendations are intended to be more descriptive and provide supplemental information of the intent of
the individual park concept plans of the City’s parks and should be considered when looking at the graphic illustrations of the concept plans developed
by the committee.
Citywide Policy Recommendations
Many park-specific issues arose during the development of this master plan update. However, there were some recommendations that seemed to be
consistent throughout more than one City park. These recommendations were developed during the many meetings of the Parks, Recreation & Open
Space Master Plan Committee. Together, they shape the city-wide recommendations of this plan and are not specific to any one park rather are to be
applied throughout the City’s park system as appropriate.
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 37
Draft Citywide Policy Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
PROS1
Provide guidance to HOA’s regarding
the maintenance of dedicated public
park land maintained by HOA’s.
PROS1.1 Inform HOA’s they may request water credits when utilizing City water to
maintain dedicated public park land maintained by the HOA. 1
PDS Quality
Development B1 4.1 PROS1.2 Explore opportunities to file a legal document of record with
Denton/Tarrant County that would show up on a title search that would better
inform the homeowner of their maintenance obligations (similar to an easement).
1
PROS2
Analyze the future needs of public
park land to be dedicated to the City
of Southlake.
PROS2.1 The City preference is for developers to pay the Park Dedication Fee rather
than dedicating park land with each residential development. Be selective in terms of
allowing park dedication in residential developments.
1
CS,
PDS
Quality
Development C3 4.1 PROS2.2 Evaluate incorporating the dedication of park land into new
retail/commercial developments and re-developing retail/commercial properties.
Specifically look for opportunities to increase the amount of open space and public
space in retail/commercial developments during the plan review process.
1
PROS3
Provide guidance to HOA’s and
developers on the maintenance of
dedicated public park land.
PROS3.1 Revise developer's agreement to clearly identify the role of the developer
and/or HOA in the future maintenance of the residential/commercial subdivision in
perpetuity.
1 PW,
PDS,
CS
Quality
Development C3 4.1 PROS3.2 During the development process clearly articulate the expectations and
requirements for dedicated public park maintenance to all involved in the process,
such as developers, builders, lot owners, etc. (Ongoing)
1
PROS4
Ensure all parks meet the City's park
standards regarding signage and park
amenities.
PROS4.1 Inventory all parks and determine where amenities need to be added in all
City parks. Amenities to include dog waste stations, signage, trash cans, water
fountains, water bottle refill stations, benches, picnic tables, lighting, etc. Park
amenities and signage should be continually maintained and replaced as appropriate
as per the Park Standards identified within the master plan.
1
CS Quality
Development C3 4.11
PROS4.2 Include water bottle refilling stations as a standard amenity in this policy.
Add these stations when parks are being updated. 1
PROS5 Prioritize passive development of the
City’s greenbelt.
PROS5.1 Update the Mobility Master Plan to contain a component of the trail system
plan specifically addressing and planning for the interconnectivity of sidewalks and
trail systems, particularly those in greenbelt or flood areas, as well as the overall
accessibility to parks from these trails.
1
PW,
CS,
PDS
Mobility C2, C3 4.6 PROS5.2 Greenbelt and floodplain areas should be prioritized for recreation centered
around health and wellness activities. Consider development and redevelopment
proposals comprehensively, looking for opportunities to add to and expand the City’s
trail system.
1
PROS6 Ensure that dedicated park land is
deeded to the City upon acceptance.
PROS6.1 Revise existing policy documents to ensure that park land that is dedicated
to the City is deeded to the City upon final acceptance. 1
CS,
PW,
PDS
Quality
Development C3 4.1
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 38
Draft Citywide Policy Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
PROS7
Prioritize the development of a
public park in areas currently
underserved by parks.
PROS7.1 There are currently no public parks between Randol Mill Ave (FM 1938)., W.
Dove Rd., Shady Oaks Dr., and W. Southlake Blvd. (FM 1709) During the next land use
plan update, consider locating a park in this area.
3
PDS,
CS
Quality
Development C3 4.5
PROS7.2 Aside from the parks within Watermere, there are currently no public parks
between Watermere Dr., Byron Nelson Pkwy., Southlake Blvd. (FM 1709) and W.
Continental Blvd. During the next land use plan update, consider locating a park in
this area.
3
PROS7.3 There are currently no public parks between Taylor St./Emerald Cir., N.
Carroll Ave., E. Highland St. and N. Kimball Ave. During the next land use plan update,
consider locating a park in this area.
3
PROS7.4 Plan for and develop a dog park in Southlake south of SH 114. 3
PROS7.5 Execute a right of first refusal on the Jordan Dr. and Randol Mill Ave.
properties as identified in the Southlake 2035 Consolidated Future Land Use Plan
(2035 Land Use Plan recommendations W-LU1 and C-LU1).
3
PROS8
Use the City’s parks system to
educate residents and visitors about
the City’s history.
PROS8.1 Work with the Southlake Historical Society to evaluate parks with historical
significance. 1
CS
Partnerships
&
Volunteerism
B2 4.4,
4.9 PROS8.2 Work with the Southlake Historical Society to develop amenities such as
plaques, interactive installments, or other commemorative features to tell the story
of identified areas.
1
PROS9
Assess the need for additional
bollards or other safety barriers that
align with the City's urban design
guidelines to improve the security of
the parks in Southlake.
PROS9.1 Conduct a safety analysis of all parks and install bollards at pedestrian
entrances to parks for increased safety and to eliminate vehicular conflicts. 1 CS,
PW
Safety &
Security C1 3.3
PROS10 Park Accessibility
PROS10.1 As improvements are made to City parks, ensure they meet the minimum
standards of accessibility per ADA requirements with regard to play structures,
sidewalks, seating, shade elements, etc.
1
CS Quality
Development C2, C3 4.6 PROS10.2 As sidewalks are installed or improved in City parks, they should be no less
than 8’ wide, but preferably would be at least 10’ wide. 1
PROS10.3 As playground structures are replaced in community parks, ensure that
they are replaced with accessible play structures that exceed ADA requirements that
are inclusive to those with disabilities and consider that the needs of those more
vulnerable and features elements of universal design.
1
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 39
Draft Citywide Policy Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
PROS11
Consider developing opportunities to
expand parks and recreation
offerings related to learning,
technology, and e-sports type
recreational programming for all
ages.
PROS11.1 Increase the breadth of offerings to appeal to a broad range of interests in
the City's parks and recreation program offerings. Explore unique and creative ways
to incorporate educational and technological elements into City parks, such as virtual
or augmented reality experiences for all ages and abilities.
1
CS Quality
Development C3 4.11
PROS12.1 Research and determine a path forward for incorporating e-sports into City
recreational programming. 1
PROS12 Improve park signage and trail
guidance.
PROS12.1 Install plaques in parks dedicated to the City of Southlake demonstrating
elected and appointed officials as well as City staff involved in the process. Ensure
that this standard is applied at any newly dedicated park.
1
CS,
OPx,
OMC
Mobility C3 3.3
PROS12.2 Create a brochure of trails in Southlake that can be found online in a digital
format. This guide should contain information such as but not limited to the length of
the trail, the difficulty, the name, and any relevant notes such as whether the trail is
accessible strollers, wheel chairs, etc. Work with DPS to incorporate safety measures
into the signs corresponding to a geographic location, such as unique identifying
labels, that can help first responders locate people in need of help while on the trails.
1
PROS12.3 Establish a standard policy for the installation of physical trail markers that
shows segment distance and other relevant information. Begin placing the trail
markers in accordance with this policy in City parks. Ensure that these trail signs are
consistent throughout the City.
1
PROS12.4 For those parks that have more robust trail systems, consider the
installation of more permanent trail signage in the form of a large map at the
beginning of a trailhead that illustrates the various trail segments within that park.
Ensure that connections between various parks are demonstrated.
1
PROS12.5 Develop City-branded signage to be placed at facilities that can be
reserved (i.e., pavilion at Liberty Park at Sheltonwood, etc.). Use a QR code on the
sign directing those wishing to reserve a facility to the reservation webpage. Ensure
that available as well as non-available dates are clearly visible on the website.
1
PROS13 Trail System / Pathways Master Plan
Update.
PROS13.1 As the City updates the Pathways Master Plan as part of the Southlake
2035 update to the Mobility Master Plan, ensure the trail, sidewalk, and pedestrian
connectivity recommendations identified in and near the various parks are
incorporated as segments.
1
PW,
CS,
PDS
Mobility C2, C3 3.3,
4.6
PROS14 USACE Leases PROS14.1 The current land leases with the USACE are set to expire in 2036. Work
with the USACE to extend these leases further into the future 2 CS Quality
Development C3 4.13
PROS15
Jordan Dr. Properties (The City owns
Lots 7-12, Block 3R of Cimmarron
Acres along Jordan Dr)
PROS15.1 Leave the City-owned properties in a passive open space configuration,
while ensuring the City maintains clear access to the above-ground storage tanks on
property addressed as 3200 W. Southlake Blvd.
3 CS,
PW
Quality
Development C2, C3 4.6
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 40
Draft Citywide Policy Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
PROS15.2 There is currently no sidewalk within this subdivision. Construct a sidewalk
from the southwest corner of Lot 12 along N Pearson Ln., all the way to the property
line of Lot 7, Block 3R and Lot 4, Block 3 along Harrell Dr.
3
PROS15.3 Consider adding a crushed granite (or other low impact) path that
meanders through the City-owned properties. 3
PROS15.4 Consider adding a few parking spaces (on-street or off-street) to the City-
owned properties, so users have vehicular access to the open space area. 3
PROS16 Randol Mill Avenue Properties (755
and 635 Randol Mill)
PROS16.1 Continue evaluating the potential use of these properties as future park
land per recommendation C-LU1 from the Land Use Sector Plan 1
CS Quality
Development C3 4.2 PROS16.2 If ever deemed appropriate as park land or open space, consider executing
a right of first refusal on the purchase of these properties. 1
PROS17
There is currently a disconnect
between the following parks and
open space areas: North Park, Oak
Pointe Park, Liberty Park at
Sheltonwood, Kirkwood/Sabre Linear
Park, Bob Jones Park, The Cliffs Park,
and the equestrian/hiking trails on
the USACE property east of Loch
Meadow Estates.
PROS17.1 Given the proximity of these parks to one another, prioritize a trail
network that safely connects these park and open space areas such that there is a
network of trails making a safe and continuous loop between these areas.
3
CS,
PW,
PDS
Mobility C2, C3 3.3,
4.6
PROS18.2 Require that sidewalks be constructed in this area at the time of any
residential or commercial development or redevelopment. 3
PROS17.3 Consider applying Capital Improvements Program funding towards the safe
connectivity of these park and open space areas. 3
PROS18 CISD Admin Tennis Courts PROS18.1 Consider working with CISD on the potential of resurfacing the tennis
courts at the CISD administration building. 1 CS Quality
Development C3 4.6
Recommendations for Prioritized Parks
As referenced previously, the Committee took a unique approach in prioritizing recommendations for this plan, versus how recommendations have
been captured in the past. Rather than forced-ranking each park in the system, the Committee only ranked those where capital requests would be
necessary because smaller, non-capital items can be addressed annually through the SPDC Fund as an operational item. Put differently, specific
amenities were identified for each park, however these do not mean that park was included in the forced-ranking activity. There is ultimately an
important distinction between capital and non-capital parks for the sake of prioritizing recommendations. What follows are the identified
recommendations for the parks in Southlake in order of priority. Specific amenities within non-capital parks are addressed next. It is also worth noting
that the Committee did participate in a separate forced-ranking survey for the purpose of prioritizing specific amenities in the City. By have a prioritize
list, staff can point back to the master plan when making decisions about which amenities to pursue in the community based upon this list.
Draft Southlake Sports Complex Recommendations
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 41
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
SSC1
Redevelop the current Southlake
Sports Complex into a new community
park
SSC1.1 Redevelop the current SSC into a new community park as per the concept
plan. The community park should prioritize the following park elements into the final
design: synthetic turf at expanded large field, synthetic turf on baseball fields, demo
of existing metal building, concession/restroom building, pavilions and shade
structures, parks maintenance and storage building, playground, trail development
and connectivity, fitness stations, batting cages, entry feature, field and common
area improvements, parking, two park entrances, drop off zone, fencing, landscape &
irrigation enhancements, public art, and appropriate community park amenities.
1A
CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
SSC1.2 Include the redevelopment of the current Public Works Service Center site
into the new community park. The community park should also prioritize the
following elements into the final design: a pickleball facility, drainage enhancements,
pond and pond amenities, playground, trails, pavilion and shade structures, and park
amenities.
1A
SSC1.3 Provide additional tree and landscape screening around the perimeter of the
park. 1A
SSC1.4 Install crosswalks for pedestrians where appropriate. 1A
SSC1.5 Prioritize the installation of synthetic turf and utilize multi use field markings
to maximize use and flexibility. 1A
SSC1.6 Explore the opportunity to provide pedestrian connectivity to nearby
neighborhoods. 1A
SSC1.7 Execute a Traffic Impact Analysis based on the final design of the new
community park. 1A
SSC1.8 Evaluate the need for a water well at the park for irrigation. 1A
SSC1.9 Incorporate Public Art into the redevelopment of the community park as per
the Public Arts Master Plan which identifies goals such as "interactive, experiential,
educational, and entertaining." When considering what art to include in this park
reference the proposals from SKIL from their 2021 session.
1A
Draft Bob Jones Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
BJP1 Interactive Public Art
BJP1.1 Incorporate Public Art into the revised concept plan for this Park per the Public
Arts Master Plan which states to "Install art or artistic features at parks such as Bob Jones
Park and North Park that will engage youth and encourage interaction with the arts."
(PA9)
1C CS Quality
Development C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 42
Draft Bob Jones Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
BJP2 Parking Areas
BJP2.1 Replace parking areas in the park, so they are concrete instead of asphalt (not
including the equestrian parking area), enhance parking lot lighting. 1C
BJP2.2 Provide additional parking on the south end of the park adjacent to the south pond
and existing parking. 1C
BJP2.3 Install lighting and additional landscaping within the parking lots of the park. 1C
BJP3 Fencing BJP3.1 Replace chain fences around park and on fields with non-residential quality
product 1C
BJP4 Cross Country
BJP4.1 Add trail markers and signage to the existing jogging path entrance 1A
BJP4.2 Consider creating an additional 5K running loop within the park, not to be used by
equestrian riders 1C
BJP5 Internal Wayfinding Signage
BJP5.1 Add wayfinding signs on trails that provide directions to key destinations within the
park such as the dog park, nature center, day camp, etc. 1A
BJP5.2 Improve the internal wayfinding to provide clear trail guidance for those using the
hike and equestrian trails 1A
BJP6 Equestrian Area
BJP6.1 Consider enhancing the entrance off Equestrian Dr. to create a sense of place
when arriving at this parking area 1C
BJP6.2 Consider expanding the existing equestrian parking area to account for the
demand 1C
BJP6.3 Consider the addition of a compost bin for horse manure to be located near the
equestrian parking area 1C
BJP6.4 Reconfigure the equestrian parking area to direct loading and unloading of horses
on the north side. 1C
BJP6.5 Improve the parking lot adjacent to the equestrian area by ensuring separation
from the equestrian parking area and the practice fields by way of landscaping and fencing
as a buffer.
1C
BJP6.6 Provide a watering hole in the equestrian area in the north. 1C
BJP6.7 Add practice fields adjacent to the equestrian area on the north side of the park.
Parking will be provided by the existing parking lot located to the south. 1C
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 43
Draft Bob Jones Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
BJP7 Bob Jones Trails and
Sidewalks
BJP7.1 Pave a sidewalk/trail connection between where the sidewalk currently ends near
the existing parking lot on the south side of the park to improve access to the dog park
area to the north.
1C
BJP7.2 Extend the pedestrian trail to circle the entire pond area on the north side of the
park near the pavilion. 1C
BJP7.3 Enhance the pathway to loop around the pond at the south end of the park, as well
as extending the trail around the future additional parking area shown on the concept
plan to make another connection to the trail enhancement shown in BJP7.1.
1C
BJP7.4 Add water bottle refill stations 1A
BJP7.5 Prioritize connectivity of the trail system. Install additional trails throughout the
park and adjacent to N. White Chapel Boulevard providing connectivity to The Cliffs Park
and the Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve area where appropriate.
1C
BJP8 Pickleball at Bob Jones Park
BJP8.1 Consider adding an area for pickleball to Bob Jones Park. Be sensitive to
surrounding residential areas, as well as existing and future equestrian areas. Consider as
a SPDC matching-funds project.
1C
BJP9 Boo Boo's Buddies Dog Park
BJP9.1 Add lighting and other amenities to make this dog park more accessible in the early
mornings and evenings when it is dark outside. 1C
BJP9.2 Explore the opportunity to add a water element/pond to the dog park area 1C
BJP10 Park Amenities BJP10.1 Provide additional amenities at the park such as benches, bike racks, shade
structures, restrooms. 1C
BJP11 Shade Structures and Trees
BJP11.1 Provide more shade in the form of trees and shade structures throughout the
park along walkways, paths, parking lots, sports fields, N. White Chapel Boulevard, and the
roadway to the Bob Jones Nature Center as appropriate.
1A
BJP11.2 Add shade structures and landscape improvements to the existing multipurpose
fields. 1C
BJP11.3 Provide shade structures, landscaping and trees around the perimeter of the
parking lots and sports fields within the park. 1C
BJP12 Synthetic Turf BJP12.1 Prioritize the installation of synthetic turf and utilize multi use field markings to
maximize use and flexibility. 1C
BJP13 Maintenance Facility BJP13.1 Expand Park maintenance facility and storage to meet the needs of the Parks
Division. 1C
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 44
Draft Bob Jones Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
BJP14 Soccer Complex
Improvements
BJP14.1 Consider the following improvements related to the soccer complex: Improve
drainage and irrigation, prioritize synthetic turf, add lights to the game fields, restrooms
closer to the fields, centrally located, smaller concession stand closer to the fields, online
field map and indoor facility.
1C
BJP15 Softball Complex
Improvements
BJP15.1 Consider the following improvements related to the softball complex: Aesthetic
improvements, replacement of the existing playground, spectator area improvements,
conversion of shade fabric to metal roof shade structures, Additional 50-100 parking
spaces, prioritize synthetic turf to the infields, add more shaded areas along the common
walkway from the concession stand to the four-plex, upgrade the restrooms to the
Southlake standard, address flooding issue related to rain events at the equipment room,
drainage, enlarge field #3 to accommodate older age groups, and install additional lighting
under the shade structure in the batting cages area.
1C
BJP15.2 Provide updated aesthetic improvements to the existing softball fields shade
structures and pavilion in the park. 1C
BJP16 Restroom/Concession
Building Improvements BJP16.1 Aesthetic and functional improvements at both concession/restroom facilities. 1C
BJP17 Pavilion Improvements BJP17.1 Aesthetic and infrastructure improvements at the bat wing pavilion. 1C
DRAFT Liberty Park at Sheltonwood Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
LPS1 Clearly demarcate what is
public vs. private space.
LPS1.1 The park property is adjacent to private property to the west and north of the
park, as well as in the southeast corner of the park. Provide signage or other visible
demarcation of where public property ends.
1C
CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11 LPS2
Amenitize the natural areas
of the park near the
proposed trails shown on the
conceptual master plan.
LPS2.1 Identify the creek area with signage 1C
LPS2.2 Maintain the natural areas by regularly clearing brush and maintaining the trail
system. Improve existing unofficial trails that have been created over time by use. 1A
LPS2.3 Install trail markers that show distances and named routes for easier navigation
for users (see PROS12.3). 1C
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 45
DRAFT Liberty Park at Sheltonwood Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
LPS2.4 Complete the trail loop (concrete/decomposed granite) and connect it to the
pavilion per the conceptual master plan. Add additional trail segments to the conceptual
master plan to increase the number of trails in the park area, including but not limited to
a segment connecting the trail in the natural areas from the west to the east just north of
the pavilion. Also consider adding more trails to the area currently identified on the
conceptual master plan as "expand parking."
1C
LPS3 Liberty Park at Sheltonwood
Improvements
LPS3.1 Add park amenities such as benches and a bike rack 1A
LPS3.2 Improve the existing volleyball court area. 1C
LPS3.3 Install a children’s playground (small/medium sized) adjacent to the pavilion. 1C
LPS3.4 Conduct a study to determine the optimal number of parking spaces needed to
support the use of the park. Construct new parking per the recommendations of the
study. Design the parking expansion such that it results in the minimal impact to quality
trees.
1C
LPS3.5 Provide pedestrian connectivity from the new expanded parking to the park trail
system. 1C
LPS3.6 Drill water well for the pond to serve as a year-round amenity. 1C
LPS3.7 Consider installation of exercise stations along the trail 1C
LPS3.8 Consider creation of an enhanced pedestrian corridor from the parking lot to the
center of the park. 1C
LPS3.9 Consider opportunities to add informational and historic markers throughout the
park. See recommendations PROS8 for guidance. 1C
DRAFT North Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
NP1
Update certain amenities
within the park to improve
the field use experience.
Consider the ability for the
fields to be revenue
generating when making
decisions about upgrading
amenities.
NP1.1 Replace the scoreboards on the three existing lacrosse fields when appropriate.
1C
CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
4.6,
4.11
NP1.2 Conduct an analysis to determine whether the number of fields is adequate for the
City of Southlake. Consider expanding to add a fourth field if warranted. 1C
1.5,
4.6,
4.11
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 46
DRAFT North Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corporate
Objective
VGO
Link
NP2
Improve the walking
connection to the Oak Pointe
subdivision at the north side
of the park.
NP2.1 There is an opening from the Oak Pointe subdivision into the park. Consider making
improvements to this area to make the connection between this park and Oak Pointe.
Endeavor to make this an accessible connection between these parks if possible,
considering there is a plan for accessible connectivity from the future pathway along
Ridgecrest Dr.
1C CS,
PW C2, C3 3.3
NP3 Park amenities.
NP3.1 Add distance markers to this park for runners and walkers (see PROS12.3). 1A
CS C3
1.5,
4.6,
4.11
NP3.2 Add benches, water bottle refill stations, and dog water bowls around the
pedestrian pathway to encourage use of this trail. 1A
NP4 Consider Interactive Public
Art
NP4.1 Consider incorporating additional public art into the revised concept plan for this
Park per the Public Arts Master Plan which states to "Install art or artistic features at parks
such as Bob Jones Park and North Park that will engage youth and encourage interaction
with the arts." (PA9)
1C
NP4.2 When considering what art to include in this park reference the proposals from SKIL
from their 2021 session. 1C
NP5 North Park Improvements
NP5.1 Consider paving the overflow parking on the DPS North property. 1C
NP5.2 Consider the purchasing of properties to the east for future expansion of the park
facility to Ridgecrest Drive. Develop right of first refusal for the properties. 1A
NP5.3 Provide the installation of a shade structure by the pond where it will not interfere
with the area where a potential fourth field may be added. 1C
NP5.4 Explore opportunities for connectivity in the form of pathways to the west to N.
White Chapel Blvd. 1C
Draft Koalaty Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
K1 Park Amenities K1.1 Add restrooms and seating areas at the park. Consider the impact to
surrounding properties when determining the best location for park amenities. 1C CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.11
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 47
Draft Koalaty Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
K2
Add features to prevent cars from
being parked inside the park and near
the ballfields.
K2.1 Add decorative bollards with lighting to prevent people from parking near the
ball fields. 1C
K3 Koalaty Park Improvements
K3.1 Provide additional amenities at the park such as shade structures, benches, bike
racks, picnic area and restrooms at various locations in the park 1C
K3.2 Consider the addition of lighting to the park where appropriate. 1C
Draft Central Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
CP1 Ice Skating Rink
CP1.1 Consider incorporating recommendation FM-P1 from the Southlake 2035
Consolidated Future Land Use Plan which speaks to Central Park "add an ice-skating
rink during the holiday season"
1C EDT,
CS
Quality
Development
C3
11.2
CP2 Public Art CP2.1 Add a public art piece per the Public Arts Master Plan (PA6 - "Activate Central
Park through public art") 1C
CS
1.5,
4.6,
4.11
CP3 Central Park Improvements
CP3.1 Work with the adjacent property owner (Shops of Southlake) to create new
arched central entrance into the park from the south parking area that results in
improved accessibility and makes the park area more inviting to the public.
1C
CP3.2 As part of the development of the park concept plan evaluate the addition of
an interactive water feature around the fountain. 1C
CP3.3 Install shade trees around the fountain area. 1C
CP3.4 Add hedges along the iron fence to the north. 1C
CP3.5 Consider allowing vendor kiosks within the park. Work with property
management at the Shops of Southlake. 1C
CP3.6 Evaluate the feasibility of a pedestrian bridge across FM1709 from Central Park
to Rustin Park. 1C
PW,
CS,
PDS
C2, C3 3.3
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 48
DRAFT Town Square Parks Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
TS1 Outdoor collaborative workspace
TS1.1 Incorporate a public shared outdoor working or collaboration space (or similar
facility) into the conceptual master plan for one of the Town Square parks (see
Health & Wellness Recommendation HW28).
1B CS,
FIN
Quality
Development
C3 4.6
TS-F1 Family Park redevelopment TS-F1.1 Consider redevelopment of Family Park that enhances the space making it an
even more dynamic park suitable for community events and daily use. 1B CS C3 3.3,
11.2
TS-F2 Bollards at Fountain Place TS-F2.1 Add aesthetically designed temporary bollards to this cross-street such that
the roadway can easily and temporarily be closed for community events. 1B CS,
PW C3 3.3
TS-M1 McPherson Park Public Art
TS-M1.1 Consider the addition of a public art piece per the Public Arts Master Plan
(PA8 - "Install art or artistic features with the redevelopment of McPherson Park").
Depending on future buildout of the park, consider a sculpture garden or similar
artistic activation of the park.
1C CS C3 1.5
TS-M2
Potential McPherson Park
Redevelopment*
*Developer-driven park improvements
TS-M2.1 Reshape the pond to increase usable park space. 3C
CS,
PW,
PDS
C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
TS-M2.2 Consider the addition of a promenade on the east side of the pond between
Federal Way and Division Street – a wide walkway framed by a double row of trees,
bench seating and ambiance lighting.
3C
CS,
PW,
PDS
C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
TS-M2.3 Consider the installation of design features at the State Street/Federal Way
and the Division Street gateway entries. 3C
CS,
PW,
PDS
C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
TS-M2.4 Revise/improve the hardscape path that connects around the pond’s edge.
Consider a seat wall along some or all of the land side of the path and one or more
sitting areas at the end of the pond-edge path.
3C
CS,
PW,
PDS
C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
TS-M2.5 Consider the installation of terraced steps down to the pond to create
additional area to gather. Terraces could be all hardscape, all grass, or a mixture to
include a series of planted area of varying sizes to break up the hardscape.
3C
CS,
PW,
PDS
C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
TS-M2.6 Add a “great lawn” in the area south of the hotel for added gathering and
function space. This might include a crushed stone path along the perimeter with
some benches along the outer edge of the path. This lawn space would preserve a
footprint for a hotel conference center expansion/performing arts space if ever
needed.
3C CS C3 4.6
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 49
DRAFT Town Square Parks Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
TS-M2.7 Connect the promenade to the hotel with an expanded patio area, allowing
room for table seating and trees/landscape. Consider installation of a water feature,
sculpture, or other installation to center the space.
3C CS
TS-M2.8 Consider the installation of a feature fountain to the pond. 3C CS
TS-M2.9 Enhance access and parking in and around the park. Add a sidewalk along
State Street to provide a direct connection between State Street and Division Street.
A mid-block bumpout would provide a viewing area and access into the park from
State Street.
3C
CS,
PW,
PDS
C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.11
DRAFT Chesapeake Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
C1
Proposed changes to existing
Chesapeake Park concept
plan
C1.1 Remove off-street parking from concept plan, and instead add on-street parking
spaces along Chesapeake Ln. 1C
CS
Quality
Development
C3
1.5,
4.5,
4.6,
4.11
C1.2 Consider moving the basketball and tennis courts shown along the western portion of
the park to the northeast side of the park. Consider striping the courts for Pickleball as well
as tennis.
1C
C1.3 Evaluate making safety and aesthetic improvements to the fence along the western
boundary of the park. 1A
C1.4 Add a shade structure to the playground when upgrading/expansion occurs (see
PROS10). 1C
C1.5 Add bike racks to the park to encourage active transportation thus reducing the need
for vehicular travel and parking. 1A
C1.6 Add trees in the northeast section of the park to provide natural shade areas. 1A
C2
Prioritize the construction of
sidewalks and trails to
Chesapeake park from Union
C2.1 As part of the Mobility Master Plan, prioritize the construction of a currently
incomplete sidewalk segment along Union Church Rd. to the park from where the sidewalk
currently ends at Chesapeake Place.
1A CS,
PW C2, C3 3.3
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 50
DRAFT Chesapeake Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
Church Rd. C2.2 Consider and monitor the need for a wrought iron fence or other low impact,
decorative barrier to the south of Chesapeake park to prevent vehicles from parking near
the pond. Alternatively, consider and monitor the need for additional parking in this area
to allow for access to the park. Ensure that the sidewalk along Union Church Rd. connects
to the loop in Chesapeake Park and then back to Union Church Rd. via open areas in the
fence for park accessibility.
1C CS C3
C3 Add age-friendly amenities to
the park.
C3.1 Consider adding permanent exercise stations and/or other age-friendly park amenities
that are more passive in nature. 1C CS C3
1.5,
4.5,
4.6,
4.11
C4 Chesapeake Park
Improvements
C4.1 Provide a restroom if and when the basketball, tennis, pickleball courts and pavilion
are built 1C
CS C3 C4.2 Install appropriate signage in addition to a monument sign(s) that is scaled
appropriately for the park. 1A
C4.3 Evaluate the need for and implement the installation of a well at the park if necessary. 1C
Draft Lonesome Dove Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
LD1 Make improvements to the trail
system within the park.
LD1.1 Provide wayfinding signage in the park. 1C
CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6
4.11,
4.12
LD1.2 Evaluate the bridge crossings within the park; make improvements as
identified. 1C
LD2 Add age-friendly amenities to the
park.
LD2.1 Consider adding permanent exercise stations and/or other age-friendly park
amenities that are more passive in nature. 1C
LD3 Park educational opportunities.
LD3.1 Explore opportunities for flora and fauna species identification, as well as
information about biodiversity and nature (kiosks, signs, or other means) throughout
the park to encourage more hands-on learning.
1C
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 51
Draft Royal & Annie Smith Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
RAS1 Add amenities to the park.
RAS1.1 Add more trash cans in the park near the benches. 1A
CS
Quality
Development C2, C3
1.5,
3.3,
4.6,
4.7
4.11,
RAS1.2 Add a water bottle refill station in the park near the pathway along Johnson
Road. 1A
RAS1.3 Add interpretive signage to the existing well at the park. 1C
RAS2 Trail Connectivity from the park to
Harrell Dr.
RAS2.1 Work with the Keller Independent School District to provide additional trail
connectivity from the park onto Harrell Dr. 1C CS,
PDS RAS2.2 Consider first right of refusal if KISD decides to sell excess land after the
remodel of Florence Elementary School 1A
RAS3 Consider providing a public restroom
in the park. RAS3.1 Add a public restroom to the park. 1C CS
RAS4 Cimmarron Acres access to RAS Park
RAS4.1 Determine the level of interest from the residents of Vermilion Addition to
allow an easement from Cimmarron acres to allow for easier access to RAS Park
(companion recommendation to PROS15).
1C PDS,
CS
RAS5 Promote Passive Activities at RAS Park
RAS5.1 Maintain the southern portion of the lot in its natural state to provide
flexibility of use for this area and evaluate potential passive activities such as Frisbee
golf
1C CS
DRAFT Carillon Parks Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
CAR-
CL1
Park amenities (Corporate Park and
Lake Park).
CAR-CL1.1 Add distance markers to this park for runners and walkers (see PROS12.3). 1A
CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
4.6,
4.7,
4.9,
4.11
CAR-CL1.2 Add benches, water bottle refill stations, and dog water bowls around the
pedestrian pathway to encourage use of this trail. 1A
CAR-CL1.3 Work with the HOA to update the internal trail signage throughout
Corporate and Lake Park. 1A
CAR-CL1.4 Plant trees/landscape to screen the utility boxes at the northwest corner
of Corporate Park. 1A
CAR-CL1.5 Consider the addition of low-intensity lighting around the trail in each
park to increase the safety for those walking in the early mornings or evenings.
Ensure the lighting is consistent with the City's amenity policy (see PROS4).
1C
CAR-
CL2
Trail extension (Corporate Park and
Lake Park).
CAR-CL2.1 Consider connecting the trail at the south end of Lake Park to the 11-acre
property recently purchased by the City. 1C CS,
PW 3.3
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 52
DRAFT Carillon Parks Recommendations
No. Recommendation/Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
CAR-CL2.2 Consider possible improvements to the Corporate Park / Lake Park trail
when designing the potential future extension of Kirkwood Blvd. to E. Highland St.
Identify opportunities to keep the pedestrian connection between these two parks
and allow for the trail system to continue to E. Highland St (perhaps a pedestrian
connection under the bridge).
1C CS,
PW 3.3
CAR-CL2.3 Consider passive park and/or open space use for the remaining land of the
11-acre property as part of the potential future extension of Kirkwood Blvd. takes
place.
1C CS 1.5,
4.6,
4.7,
4.9,
4.11
CAR-CL2.4 Consider purchasing the property in the floodplain at the rear of 1360 N.
Carroll Ave. for additional open space. 1C CS
CAR-CL2.5 There is a small cemetery that is surrounded by City property (addressed
as 950 E. Highland St.). Consider executing an access easement with the Southlake
Historical Society or other non-profit to allow access across City property for upkeep
of the cemetery.
1C CS,
PW 3.3
CAR-
P1 Park amenities (The Preserve Park).
CAR-P1.1 Add distance markers to this park for runners and walkers (see PROS12.3). 1A
CS
1.5,
4.6,
4.7,
4.9,
4.11
CAR-P1.2 Add benches, water bottle refill stations, and dog water bowls around the
pedestrian pathway to encourage use of this trail. 1A
CAR-P1.3 Add signage to indicate the park is public at the entry points along
Pyrenees Dr. and Lake Carillon Ln. 1A
CAR-P1.4 When it comes time to replace the existing playground equipment, replace
with accessible playground equipment and surfacing (see PROS10). 1C
CAR-P1.5 When it comes time to replace the existing playground equipment, identify
opportunities to add swings for children of all ages. 1C
CAR-
V1
Park amenities (Villa Park North and
Villa Park South)
CAR-V1.1 Add picnic-style tables to each park to make more conducive for outdoor
dining. If tables are added, ensure the area is an accessible space, and there are an
appropriate number of trash receptacles.
1A
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 53
Noble Oaks Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
NO1 Promote this park as an open, passive,
natural area.
NO1.1 Add signage within the park noting that unstructured activities can occur in
this park, and the area is open for play. 1A
CS Quality
Development C3
1.5,
4.5,
4.7
NO1.2 Monitor and consider the need for more benches and picnic tables to this park
to promote its passive nature. 1A
NO1.3 Consider adding a water bottle refill station along the pathway adjacent to S.
Carroll Ave. 1A
NO2
Provide educational experiences and
promote the historical context within
Noble Oaks Park.
NO2.1 Highlight the Champion Oak Tree in the southwest corner of the park. 1A
PDS Quality
Development C3 4.12,
7.2 NO2.2 Identify low impact, minimalistic, educational opportunities to highlight the
various species of trees in the park, as well as the historical context of the tree stand. 1A
Oak Pointe Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
OP1 Amenity replacement.
OP1.1 Assess the existing amenities included in the park such as benches, signage,
and tables. Work with the HOA to replace amenities according to the standard
amenity replacement schedule as needed per recommendation PROS4.
1C CS Quality
Development C2, C3
1.1,
1.5,
4.11
OP2 Evaluate the need to expand the trails
and connectivity of Oak Pointe Park.
OP2.1 Oak Pointe Park consists of four (4) separate public park lots. Consider adding
trails to Lot 11, Block 1. 1C
CS,
PW
Quality
Development C2, C3 3.3,
4.6
OP2.2 Consider expanding the sidewalk that currently ends at Lot 2, Block 1 into the
public park lot (Lot 1, Block 1), in case the property to the north is redeveloped and
sidewalks are added.
1C
OP2.3 Consider expanding the trails into the southwest corner of Lot 14, Block 2. 1C
OP2.4 Consider expanding the trails of Lot 6, Block 1 to include another segment at
the north end of the lot.
1C
OP2.5 Evaluate and consider the ability to create a pathway connection to North
White Chapel Boulevard / Walnut Grove Elementary School. 1C
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 54
The Cliffs Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
CP1 Park amenities at The Cliffs Park (+/-10
acres) off N. White Chapel Blvd.
CP1.1 Add distance markers to this park for runners and walkers (see PROS12.3). 1A
CS
Quality
Development
C3
1.2,
1.5,
4.6,
4.11
CP1.2 Add benches, water bottle refill stations, and dog water bowls around the
pedestrian pathway to encourage use of this trail. 1A
CP1.3 Plant trees to provide screening for the residents of Clariden Ranch on the
perimeter of the park, and also provide shade trees along the sidewalk for those
using the trail.
1A
CP1.4 Consider adding low-intensity lighting around the trail in each park to increase
the safety for those walking in the early mornings or evenings. Ensure the lighting is
consistent with the City's amenity policy (see recommendation PROS4).
1C
CP1.5 Add an unsignalized mid-block pedestrian crossing area across N. White Chapel
Blvd. to better connect Bob Jones Park to The Cliffs Park. 1C CS,
PW C2, C3 3.3,
CP1.6 Create an accessible opening in the fence near the pedestrian crossing at Bob
Jones Park on the east side of N. White Chapel Blvd. 1C
CS C3
1.2,
1.5,
4.6,
4.11 CP2 Park amenities at The Cliffs Park (+/-4
acres) of Rancho Laredo Trl
CP2.1 Add shade trees to the park. 1A
CP2.2 Consider incorporating additional amenities into to the park such as low
intensity lighting, additional seating, and pet waste stations. 1C
CP2.3 Add a gazebo with dining table to the park. 1C
CP2.4 Consider the addition of a play structure to this park (see PROS10). 1C
CP3 Sidewalk segment connections.
CP3.1 Connect the missing sidewalk segment across 101 Clariden Ranch Rd. between
the City trail and where the sidewalk begins again to the southeast of The Clariden
School (100 Clariden Ranch Rd.)
1C CS,
PW C2, C3 3.3,
CP3.2 Connect the missing sidewalk segment at 3611 Sunrise Ranch Rd. to the City
trail system. 1C
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 55
Recommendations for Non-Prioritized Parks
The recommendations within this section represent, in many cases, park amenities and other projects that can be addressed without needing to make
a capital funding request as part of the 5-year CIP. When putting together their workplan, the Community Services department can review these items
to determine identified amenities to be addressed in their annual operational budget.
Bicentennial Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
B1 On-street Parking spaces at Liberty
Garden
B1.1 Consider the addition of a few on-street parallel parking spaces off Unity Way
(south side of the street) at the east end of the park so that people can more easily
access the sitting area and trails located to the north east of the tennis courts (Liberty
Garden)
2C CS,
PW
Quality
Development C3 1.5
B2 Businesses along FM 1709
B2.1 Work with the businesses to the south of the park along FM 1709 to enhance
these areas adjacent to the park. 2C CS,
EDT
Quality
Development C3
4.11
B2.2 Consider screening the parking area north of Lot 13 (where Another Broken Egg
Café and Jersey Mike's are located) to enhance the views from The Marq facility. 2A
B3 Public Art B3.1 Evaluate the need and feasibility of expanding the stage and seating at Aria
Amphitheater Per the Public Arts Master Plan (PA16) 2C CS Quality
Development C3
Coker Hike & Bike Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
CHB1 Retain as open space CHB1.1 Retain the area as open space. Consider planting a tree buffer near the
adjacent property owner. 2A CS Quality
Development C3 4.2,
4.5
CHB2 Trail Connection and Park Amenities
CHB2.1 Consider working with the City of Grapevine and the USACE on the potential
connectivity of this open space park to the Grapevine trail system. If the connection
is made, add parking and appropriate park amenities and signage.
2C CS,
PDS
Quality
Development C2, C3 3.4,
4.4
CHB3 Privately owned property near the
Park
CHB3.1 Execute a first right of refusal on the purchase of the privately property in the
center of the park. 2C CS Quality
Development C3 4.2
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 56
East Haven Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
EH1 Add amenities to the park per the City
amenities policy.
EH1.1 There are currently not any water fountains in this park. Consider adding a
water bottle refill station near the pathway along Continental Blvd. Add according to
the City’s amenity policy.
2A CS Quality
Development C3 1.1,
4.11
EH2
Increase accessibility and safety for
those accessing the park from the
north side of E. Continental Blvd.
EH2.1 As part of the update to the Mobility Master Plan, consider adding a crosswalk
from Sarah Park Trail (Timarron) to provide better access to this park and a
continuation of the sidewalk system
2C
PW,
PDS,
CS
Quality
Development C2, C3 3.3
Johnson Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
J1 Ensure consistency of park signage. J1.1 Make sure signage is consistent in the park. 2A CS Quality
Development C3 1.1,
4.11
J2 Johnson Park Trail Improvements
J2.1 Evaluate the possibility of providing additional connectivity to the west by
working with the Trailhead Addition Home Owners Association to install a trail into
the Trailhead Addition private open space.
2C
CS,
PW,
PDS
Quality
Development C2, C3 3.3 J2.2 As part of the next Mobility Master Plan update, consider incorporating a
recommendation for pedestrian crosswalks at appropriate road intersections when
updating the Mobility Plan.
2A
J2.3 Explore options of trail connectivity to the northwest of the park if the property
develops. 2C
Kirkwood/Sabre Linear Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
KSL1 Pedestrian Connectivity
KSL1.1 As part of the next Mobility Master Plan update, consider prioritizing
pedestrian connectivity through the existing utility easement from N. White Chapel
to Kirkwood Boulevard.
2A
PW,
CS,
PDS
Quality
Development C2, C3 3.3
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 57
Kirkwood/Sabre Linear Park Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
KSL1.2 As part of the next Mobility Master Plan update, prioritize connectivity along
Kirkwood Blvd., Dove Road, and N. White Chapel Blvd. Consider alternatives to
connect the future pathway along Kirkwood Blvd., near Sabre, over to N. White
Chapel Blvd. The ultimate goal would be a fully connected trail around Kirkwood
Hollow to Bob Jones Park, The Cliffs Park, North Park and Liberty Park at
Sheltonwood. Consider the addition of a pedestrian crossings where appropriate.
2A
Watermere Parks Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
W1 Park improvements in Watermere.
W1.1 Remove the existing playground equipment from the park and consider
replacing with passive open space and age-friendly affixed fitness equipment, or
other appropriate age-friendly amenities.
2A
CS Quality
Development C2, C3
1.1,
1.5,
4.11
W1.2 Ensure all City park signage throughout the Watermere development is
consistent. 2A
W1.3 Improve the decomposed granite trail area at the northernmost park area near
Southlake Blvd. Consider including passive amenities such as sitting areas in the treed
areas. Consider connecting the trail to the sidewalks along FM 1709.
2C
W2 Crosswalk Treatments
W2.1 As part of the next Mobility Master Plan update, consider adding crosswalk
treatments to make it easier for residents to access the central park area from the
condominium building.
2A
PW,
CS,
PDS
Quality
Development C2, C3 3.3
W3 Park Improvements at the Park at
Verandas Watermere
W3.1 Add shade trees along the pathways of this park for increased walkability and
comfort. 2A
CS Quality
Development C3
1.1,
1.5,
4.11 W3.2 Consider incorporating additional amenities into to the Park at Verandas in
Watermere such as lighting, pet waste stations, additional tree cover. 2A
Winding Creek Park Recommendations (Public Park Portion)
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic Link Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
WC1 Clearly indicate which portions of the
park are public vs. private.
WC1.1 Work with the HOA to develop and place a permanent map delineating the
public and private portions of this park. 2A
CS Quality
Development C3
4.4
WC2 Park amenities WC2.1 Add a bench or benches on the sidewalks near S. Carroll Ave. 2A 1.1,
4.11
Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 58
Bob Jones Nature Center Recommendations
No. Recommendation / Policy Implementation Metric Priority
Tier Dept. Strategic
Link
Corp.
Objective
VGO
Link
BJNC1 Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve BJNC2.1 The Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve to be addressed as part of the
update to the Community Facilities Master Plan, or other plan element. 2 PDS,
CS
Quality
Developmen
t
C3 4.6
Park Standards
Monument Signs
Monument signs in City parks should consist of masonry material and generally follow the City’s Urban Design
Plan unless there is a general theme of architecture or materials within the park that should be
complimentary. The design objectives for monument signs are as follows:
Versatile
Multiple configurations
Various stone or brick options to match park appearance or theme
Timeless & classic design to symbolize a Southlake park
Standardization of design to eliminate recurring design & engineering costs
Maximum visibility of park name with lighting
Sample of Existing City Park Monument Signs
The configurations of the signs should also retain some level of consistency throughout the City. The following
are some examples of configurations and should be used as guidelines only. Actual configuration may have to
vary depending on physical constraints on individual park sites.
Park Amenities
The City has informally adopted some level of standards when doing amenity improvements to the City’s
parks. With this master plan, the City will have formalized guidelines as to what level of quality the amenities
should contain. A majority of the improvements consisting of benches, picnic tables, trash bins and drinking
fountains have been installed with a black coating or finish. This trend should continue throughout all the City’s
parks, and the standards provided below indicate the minimum level of quality to be provided whenever
amenity improvements are considered.
Picnic Tables
Trash Bins
Benches, Drinking Fountains & Pet Waste Stations
There are also some higher quality amenities that have been installed at various City parks such as Bicentennial
Park, North Park and throughout the Town Square Parks. This level of quality should be aimed for but should
only be implemented if funding permits and if the use and character of the park calls for it. The Victor Stanley
and Dumor designs are examples of these higher quality park amenities.
Higher Quality Amenties Examples
Exhibit A – Southlake 2035 Parks, Recreation &
Open Space Master Plan Map
Exhibit B – Public and Private Parks Map
Exhibit C – Existing Comprehensive Plan
Recommendations
Exhibit D – Environmental Resource Protection
Map
Exhibit E – Parks Descriptions
Bicentennial Park
Bicentennial Park is a community park comprised of the first land ever assembled for park purposes in
Southlake, with initial purchases and donations beginning in the 1970s. It is located north of Southlake Blvd.
(F.M. 1709), west of White Chapel Blvd., and east of Shady Oaks Drive. As additional land was purchased, the
park became the center of athletic facilities in the city, and largely remains that way today, with baseball
facilities outnumbering all other uses. The park also includes basketball goals, a Tennis Center with a pro
shop, the Parks Division offices, and maintenance yard, a large playground, a log cabin community building, the
Liberty Garden demonstration garden, and The Marq Southlake.
In 2004, the city purchased 6.5 acres adjacent to Shady Oaks, which provides roughly 82 acres of contiguous
land for park uses. In February 2007, the City Council adopted the Bicentennial Park Schematic Design. The
first phase of the park improvements detailed in the Schematic Design was completed in September 2011
which included a new Bicentennial (American flags) theme for the park, four new youth baseball fields, a new
park entry feature off FM 1709, a third park entry drive off Shady Oaks Blvd, additional trails, the development
of a large pond with signature vehicular bridge and increased drainage retention, a roundabout intersection,
additional trees and landscaping, park amenities, as well as many other aesthetic improvements.
Phase II improvements began construction in 2013 and added a new playground, park boulevard connection to
White Chapel Blvd including a new park entry feature, new Parks Division offices and maintenance yard,
concession/restroom building, a Miracle Field, a high-school (60/90) size baseball field, trails, additional trees
and landscaping, and additional aesthetic improvements.
Phase III started in 2017 and concluded in early 2021, included a park restroom building, enclosed tennis
courts, completion of the trail system, a synthetic turf field to replace the in-line hockey court, as well as
irrigation enhancements.
Bob Jones Park and Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve
Bob Jones Park began as a series of purchases, a large portion coming from an underdeveloped, small-lot
mobile home park that had fallen into disarray. Eventually, with other acquisitions and the Corps of Engineers
lease, the park grew to total nearly 500 acres – most of which is prime native Cross Timbers habitat. The first
major construction at the park involved completion of 13 soccer fields (several subsequently lighted) and
parking, followed by support facilities. The nearby six-acre pond with the bat-wing pavilion serves to collect
drainage for use as field irrigation, not to mention a first-class fishing area. On the far north drive entrance, an
equestrian parking lot houses trailer parking, corral pens, hitching posts, a picnic area, and a ranch faucet.
In 2004 the six practice backstops were retrofitted with lights to create a Girls’ Softball Complex, which also
includes support facilities, buildings, and another pond. Boo Boo’s Buddies Dog Park, which sits on about 2.5
acres east of the Girls' Softball Complex, was added in 2006. Additional parking south of the complex near the
pond was added in 2007. Bob Jones Park and the Corps lease were also officially recognized by the City
Council in 2002 as the location for the Bob Jones Nature Center. To provide an immediate location, the ranch
house on the 60-acre Tucker property purchase was designated to serve as the center. In April 2008, the Bob
Jones Nature Center & Preserve was officially opened following major renovations to the Tucker home and the
development of the grounds near the facility. In 2011, the Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve Master Plan
was adopted by the City Council. Since then, Bob Jones Park and the Nature Center have become the premier
place to enjoy Southlake’s natural habitat.
There are many recommendations for Bob Jones Park outlined in the 2035 Master Plan. Among the most
significant include incorporating more public art, updating parking areas and fencing, adding Wayfinding
Signage, and adding an area for pickleball.
Central Park
Central Park is located in the Shops of Southlake Shopping Center directly across Southlake Blvd. from Town
Square. Constructed as part of a development partnership with The Shops of Southlake, more than 32,000
square feet of land was set aside to be constructed into a public park space. The park was created to as a
landmark feature and amenity area with the area of The Shops. In September 2005, Park Board recommended
the acceptance of the land as a public park. The park was officially named Central Park by City Council in early
2007. The park now boats a fountain and several shaded picnic tables. Due to its location within The Shops
development, it is an ideal place for a shopping break or to enjoy a meal outdoors. Recommendations for this
park include incorporating recommendation FM-P1 from the Southlake 2035 Consolidated Future Land Use
Plan that suggests adding an ice-skating rink during the holiday season and adding a public art piece in Central
Park. Additional recommendations consider several improvements including an arched central entrance, an
interactive water feature, trees, hedges, and the considering the feasibility of a pedestrian bridge across FM
1709 from Central Park to Rustin Park.
Chesapeake Park
As one of the only public parks in the southwest area of the city, Chesapeake Park is a neighborhood park that
has much potential to further provide enjoyment to the area residents. It features a mid-size pavilion, fishing
pier, and playground. Several recommendations were made to address improvements to Chesapeake Park and
are included in the concept plan.
These recommendations include removing off-street parking and adding on-street parking along Chesapeake
Ln, moving basketball and tennis courts to the northeast side of the park, striping the tennis courts for
Pickleball, improving fencing, and the addition of amenities such as shade structures, bike racks and trees for
natural shade. Other considerations include constructing sidewalks and trails to Chesapeake park from Union
Church Rd. and adding age-friendly amenities to the park.
Coker Hike & Bike Park
The Coker Hike & Bike Park is the only park that is not within the City of Southlake boundaries. This park is
located in Grapevine immediately adjacent to the City. The potential to improve the park is minimal due to a
portion of the park being in a floodplain and utility power lines with easements running diagonally through the
park. Recommendations to this park include retaining the park as open space and working with the City of
Grapevine and the USACE on possibly connecting this park to the Grapevine trail system. If feasible, add
parking, signage, and park amenities.
The Cliffs Park
The Cliffs Park was dedicated parkland during the development of the Cliffs of Clariden Ranch. The
approximately 15 acres of open space area is mostly unimproved with the exception of the portion of the park
that is on the interior of the Cliffs of Clariden Ranch development. The larger portion of the park between the
development and N. White Chapel Boulevard is mostly flat open space with minimal tree cover, particularly on
the interior of the lot. In 2019, the Clariden Ranch subdivision was the first of its kind to partner with the City
to expand The Cliffs Park trail system. The expansion included connecting two previous sections of the trails,
adding benches and making modifications to the irrigation system.
Several recommendations for The Cliffs Park were suggested. These include improving park amenities such as
adding distance markers, benches, water refill stations and dog water bowls, planting more trees for screening,
improving sidewalks and trails, and adding a Gazebo and play structure. Other improvements include adding
low-intensity lighting around the trails, adding passive walking trails in the Corps property, and connecting
sidewalk segments.
Cotswold Valley Park (Estancia)
Cotswold Valley Park is a 2.7-acre neighborhood park located in the Estancia subdivision. Mainly serving
Estancia residents, it includes a large water feature, a natural trail, and a pedestrian bridge. No specific
recommendations were discussed at this time.
Estes Park
Estes Park compliments Oak Pointe with a 2.3-acre public park area and public pathways. This small
neighborhood park features a small pond and large oak trees. The park is a great asset for residents living in
surrounding neighborhoods. No recommendations were discussed at this time.
Gateway Lakes Park
This unimproved park area was dedicated to the City with the development of the new Gateway Church
facility. This lot has a wetlands area occupying most of the property. With the development of the Southlake
Glen subdivision, more parkland was dedicated to the city. Together, these two areas make up Gateway Lakes
Park. Primarily serving the Southlake Glen subdivision, Gateway Lakes Park includes a designated parking lot
on the corner of N. Kimble Ave and Kirkwood Blvd and a natural trail system with a trailhead. No additional
recommendations were discussed as part of the 2035 plan.
East Haven Park
East Haven Park is a narrow linear park area that mainly serves the residents of Haven Circle. Due to its limited
size and physical development constraints, no major development recommendations were made.
Recommendations include adding a water bottle refill station and adding a crosswalk from Sarah Park Trail to
increase accessibility and safety of the park from the north side of E. Continental Blvd.
Johnson Park
Johnson Place Park was dedicated as a City park during the development of Johnson Place Estates. This park,
like East Haven Park, primarily serves the residents within the development. There are existing trails within the
park and a few sitting areas. The park contains the development’s three retention ponds and serves primarily
as a walking/jogging and aesthetic amenity to the development and surrounding area.
Recommendations for this park include ensuring consistency of park signage, installing crosswalks where
appropriate, and providing additional connectivity to the west and northwest areas of the park.
Kirkwood/Sabre Linear Park
This small, triangular and linear site is on the west side of North White Chapel Boulevard near Kirkwood
Boulevard at the Sabre Campus property. It is a linear park that connects to the other linear private parks
throughout the area, including the parks adjacent to the Kirkwood Hollow neighborhood. This site, when the
North White Chapel trail is constructed, would make an ideal rest area and picnic spot. To achieve full
potential of the site, connectivity is key in development of this park, and as such, has been recommended by
the committee.
Koalaty Park
Koalaty Park is a mostly open neighborhood park with a small stand of trees in the southern end. It currently
contains four backstops and is heavily used by local youth sports teams. Due to its strategic location and
frequency of use, the committee determined that further expansion of the parks uses is possible. Several
recommendations have been made regarding this park including adding restrooms and seating areas to the
park, adding decorative bollards to control parking and additional amenities such as shade structures, benches
and lighting.
Liberty Park at Sheltonwood
This park, on the north side of Dove Road at Ridgecrest, is a relatively large and underdeveloped park. It was
formerly the site of a “summer camp” area, complete with a pavilion and swimming pool, and during the
Southlake 2025 process was mostly undeveloped. In 2009 the first phase of development of the park was
completed to include a new, large pavilion structure over the original pavilion slab, trails, landscaping, park
amenities, a restroom facility, pond, and parking.
Considerations by the committee for the park consisted of clearly marking the public and private areas of the
park, adding amenities to the natural areas of the park, and improving park amenities such as adding benches,
updating the volleyball area, improved pedestrian connectivity, and adding historical and educational markers.
Lonesome Dove Park
Lonesome Dove Park, one of the first neighborhood parks, was dedicated and constructed by the developer of
the subdivision. This park is completely developed, and major improvements such as adding a playground were
made in 2008 per the recommendations of the 2005 Parks Master Plan. Additional recommendations include
improving the trail system by providing wayfinding signage in the park, adding age-friendly amenities such as
exercise stations, and exploring the educational opportunities in the park.
Noble Oaks Park
Noble Oaks Park is an approximately 4.6-acre park in one of the more densely populated areas of the city,
located adjacent to Old Union Elementary School. Residents have long enjoyed its simple open space and
shade trees for impromptu events and youth sports practice. Improvements in the form of monument signs
and a small pavilion have been completed since the last master plan update. During the committee’s review of
the park, it was determined that the priority for the park was promoting this park as an open, natural area by
adding signage, adding amenities such as benches and water refill stations, and providing educational
experiences within the park.
North Park
This park opened in September 2012. The park includes three lighted multi-purpose sports fields, a
concession/restroom building, multi-use trails, playground, large pond, landscaping, and open play space. The
park represents the level of quality that should be used in development of other City parks that are similar in
nature. The park serves as a great amenity to the surrounding neighborhoods, such as Estes Park and Oak
Pointe, but also the City as whole due to its flexibility in field use.
To maintain the quality of this park it was recommended to update certain amenities such as replacing the
scoreboards on the lacrosse fields, improving the walking connection to the Oak Pointe subdivision, adding
park amenities, and including public art in the revised concept plan. Other considerations include additional
parking and potentially purchasing properties to the east of the park for future expansion.
Oak Pointe Park
This public neighborhood park on the west side of Ridgecrest just north of Dove Road consists of a series of
“pocket park” areas totaling 8.2-acres within the residential development of Oak Pointe linked by a public
pathway system. The areas are to be kept in a relatively natural state, and area residents can enjoy the public
pond and multiple shaded areas with benches and tables. The committee recommended connectivity as the
primary focus for the park, expanding trails and sidewalks as well as providing links between North Park,
Liberty Park at Sheltonwood, and Walnut Grove Elementary School along North White Chapel Boulevard.
Replacing park amenities as needed was also recommended.
Royal and Annie Smith Park
Royal and Annie Smith Park was purchased from the Smith family, who had long occupied the premises. The
property has a significant bit of history, and includes a hand-dug well, rumored to be the final resting place of a
notorious gangster named “Pinky”. The history and abundant natural area suggested very minor
improvements during the last master plan update. Since that time, amenities such as a playground and play
area, pavilion, picnic benches, walking trails, drinking fountain and parking lot have been added to the park.
The developed area and the area adjacent to Johnson Road is maintained in a more manicured state, however
the undeveloped portions of the park are left in a more natural state per the request of the surrounding
neighbors. It is suited for a number of mid- to low-impact activities due to its size. During the review by the
committee, it was recommended to add amenities such as trash cans to the park, improving trail connectivity
from the park to Harrell Dr, and the addition of a public restroom.
Southlake Sports Complex
This approximately 16-acre park was constructed as a private baseball instructional facility and was purchased
from the original owners. The property contains three lighted baseball fields (one high school size and two
youth size), roughly 100 parking spaces, a 20,000 sq. ft. indoor training facility (currently leased to a private
gymnastics instruction group), and approximately six acres of undeveloped property north of the drive
entrance. The committee has determined there is significant potential to redevelop this park to become a
prominent community park in the City. In FY 2020 the design process for redeveloping the sports complex
started. There are numerous recommendations for this park, and they are included in the concept plan. The
priorities include synthetic turf at expanded large field and baseball fields, demo of current metal building,
concession/restroom building, pavilions and shade structures, maintenance and storage building, a
playground, trail development and connectivity, fitness stations, batting cages, parking areas, and public art
among others. In addition, this park will serve as the primary hub for Pickleball in the City.
Town Square Parks
Town Square Parks serve as a main tourist destination in Southlake. Nestled within the Town Square
development the parks offer a place for Town Square visitors to take in the scenery and enjoy the green space.
The following parks are located within Town Square: Family Park, Frank Edgar Cornish, IV Park, McPherson
Park, Rustin Park and Summit Park. Family Park is located directly in front of Town Hall on Main Street. The
park features lighted pathways, benches, and a water fountain. Frank Edgar Cornish, IV Park is located on
Grand Avenue in the restaurant district of Town Square. It features a paved plaza with a trellis system,
fountain, and beautiful landscaping. McPherson Park is located adjacent to the Hilton Hotel. It features a
beautiful pond and a loop trail. The park provides beautiful greenspace in an urban environment. Rustin Park is
located at Fountain Place and across the street from Family Park. It features the large Rustin Pavilion, a large
water feature, sidewalks, and Benches. Summit Park is located adjacent to the Brownstones residential
development. The park features a trail, benches, ornamental grasses, and open space.
Several improvements to the Town Square Parks were recommended such as adding bollards at Fountain Place
and incorporating shared, outdoor working or collaboration space into the master plan for Town Square Parks.
They also include considering redevelopment of Family Park to make it more dynamic and suitable for
community events. Additional recommendations include adding Public Art, such as a sculpture garden or
similar artistic activation if McPherson Park is redeveloped.
Watermere Parks
Watermere at Southlake is a 67-acred master planned community offering several choices for the over 55
Senior and the Active Adult buyer. The community has two dedicated park areas: Watermere Park and Park at
Verandas. Watermere Park features a playground, walking paths, and a small gazebo. Park at Verandas is made
up primarily of natural landscaping with a walking trail and features several benches.
Recommendations for these parks include removing the existing playground equipment from the park and
consider replacing it with passive open space and age-friendly affixed fitness equipment, adding crosswalk
treatments to improve resident accessibility to the park area from the condominium building, ensuring
consistent park signage throughout the development, and improving the decomposed granite trail area at the
northernmost park area near Southlake Blvd. For the Park at Verandas Watermere, it was recommended to
add shade trees along the pathways of the park and to consider incorporating additional amenities such as
lighting, pet waste stations, and additional tree cover.
Winding Creek Park
Winding Creek is a luxury neighborhood situated on 46 acres featuring walking trails, benches, and water
features located throughout the development. This park has portions that are public and portions that are
private to the subdivision. It is recommended to work with the HOA to develop and place a permanent map
delineating the public and private portions of this park. Other recommendations include adding benches on
the sidewalks near S. Carroll Ave.
Carillon Parks
The Carillon subdivision has several areas of dedicated park land. These parks include: Enclave Park, Villa Park
North, Villa Park South, Village Green Park, The Preserve Corporate Park and Lake Carillon Park. This system of
parks includes trails, benches playground structures, water features and a few pieces of Public Art. Several
recommendations were made for the Carillon Parks the most significant being adding park amenities such as
distance markers, benches, trail signage and trees to Corporate Park, Lake Park and the Preserve Park. Other
recommendations include improving trail connectivity of Corporate Park and Lake Park and adding picnic-style
tables to Villa Park North and Villa Park South.