In light of the strain that may come our way, it is even more important to have parks, facilities, events and programs for you and your families to enjoy locally. No matter the economy, spending quality time with your families and creating memories with your children will always be important.In order to ensure those parks and facilities are there for the future, we will continue with our plans for expansion.
We are currently working on plans and specifications for the first phase of a five phase hike and bike trail.The first phase will begin at Centennial Park and travel west along Mary's Creek to FM 1128 and should be finished during the latter party of 2009.
We are also currently developing plans and specifications for a new Recreation Center and Natatorium that is scheduled to be completed during the first quarter of 2010.This is a joint project between the city, the school district and the Pearland Economic Development Corporation.The facility will include at 50 meter indoor completion pool, a 25 yard warm-up/recreation pool, two full sized basketball courts, racquet ball courts, a weight room, an aerobics room, and area for tens, and an indoor jogging trial.
We also have plans to construct two new multipurpose sports complexes.One will be located off Max Road and the other located off Kingsley Drive in Shadow Creek Ranch.These new complexes will help with the increasing demand to provide lighted playing fields.We are also working on plans to expand the amenities at Centennial Park and to renovate and update Independence Park with a new all accessible playground, the additional of an amphitheater and the additional of a water park.
The National Recreation and Parks Association recently conducted a survey and a study throughout the United States to determine the effects of parks and recreation facilities and programs.The survey and study found that not only do parks and recreation programs: help to connect families, support youth, reduce crime and delinquency, offer lifelines for elderly.
But that parks and recreation facilities also: increase tourism, enhance land and property value, assist with business retention and business attractions, generate revenue.
It is with those and many other benefits in mind that we, as a department will continue to strive toward our vision of being the leader in providing quality services that connect the community through people, parks and programs.
As the Director of the Pearland Parks & Recreation Department, I encourage you to connect with your community by participating in one of our many programs or special events that are offered in the "A Time for Leisure" brochure and by visiting one of our parks/facilities.Whether you or your children are taking a class or playing on the playground, we expect you will find the above benefits to be true and experience your own personal benefits as well.I hope that you, too, will come to the same conclusions as the National Recreation and Parks Association and realize the "benefits are Endless." If you have any suggestions that will help us reach our vision, please contact me or one of our friendly staff members at 281.652.1673.
Sincerely,
Michelle A. Smith
Director of Parks & Recreation
