Southwest Community Association

Pearsall Road Park Update

Feb 07, 2002

The city received approval from the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission (TNRCC) on the developed master plan to change this previous landfill into a community park. The project is now the responsibility of Parks & Recreation (P&R) instead of Environmental Services (ES). The $320K SWCA and People Active In Community Effort (PACE) lobbied for is still in this year?’s city budget for Phase I of the plan. Phase I called for a scenic overlook with earthen artwork, paths, and native grass & wildflowers; a 1 1/2 acre fenced dog park; and 2 1/2 miles of hike & bike trails; along with some parking and water. P&R is concerned that the estimated costs for Phase I will be more than $320K. One reason given is that previous work that was to have been provided by ES ?“in-kind?”, may not be done now. SWCA feels that just because responsibility has changed departmental hands, it shouldn?’t mean that ES doesn?’t provide the ?“in-kind?” services they previously agreed to.
There is tremendous interest around San Antonio for a dog park. This would be ?“the first?” and interest in it, may help spark citywide support for other parts of the plan. P&R will be holding community meetings to clarify how much of Phase I they think can now be funded and to get community input as to which parts to do first. Representatives from SWCA and PACE also met with former Mayor Lila Cockrell, of the SA Parks Foundation?—to make her aware of this project and its master plan. The Parks Foundation sometimes funds park projects when the city can?’t/won?’t.