HOUSTON, Texas – Mayor John Whitmire and the Houston Parks Board are breaking ground Thursday on the Let’s Play Houston initiative — marking the official start of what city leaders call the largest investment in neighborhood parks in Houston’s history.
The ceremony is taking place at Lawrence Park, 725 Lawrence St., in the Heights neighborhood.
Recommended Videos
“Let’s Play Houston combines approximately $60 million in public and private funding to upgrade 25 neighborhood parks across Houston,” said Justin Schultz, President and CEO of Houston Parks Board.
Lawrence Park is one of the first parks to enter construction under the initiative. The total cost of improvements at the site is approximately $2 million. Additional parks also entering construction include Greenwood, Andover, Haviland, and Montie Beach.
Why it matters
Houston is home to more than 180 neighborhood parks, and for many residents, those spaces are a daily destination. City leaders say quality parks do more than provide recreation — they strengthen communities, support physical and mental health, and serve as vital gathering places.
Let’s Play Houston is led by Mayor Whitmire, the Houston Parks Board, and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, with support from corporate and foundation partners.
Thursday’s groundbreaking draws a lineup of civic and community voices, including Council Member Joe Panzarella of District C, Houston Parks and Recreation Director Kenneth Allen, Pastor Dr. SJ Gilbert of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, and Brit Vora of Friends of Lawrence and Milroy Parks.
More Stories Like This In Our Email Newsletter
