Public parks serve their communities in so many ways. They are a hub for leisure and fitness activities; they provide space to meditate or activate. They are a gathering place in times of joy and in times of unrest. They create fantastic memories of recreation in the community and play a significant role in the history of their communities.
TRAPS developed the Lone Star Legacy Park program to celebrate parks that have provided these amenities to communities across Texas. One of the highest honors that can be bestowed on a Texas public park, a Lone Star Legacy park has endured the test of time and played an important role in the development of community throughout its history.
Texas communities, with beloved parks that are a source of great pride and history, are encouraged to apply for this designation through TRAPS. Applications are due January 8, 2021. The 2021 application is available now.
Lone Star Legacy Parks are not meant to be of a specific size, make-up or location. The purpose of the designation is to recognize what a park means to a particular community. Some parks are significant for their natural resources including their forests, springs and wetlands. Other parks
are noteworthy for annual traditions including parades, pageants and festivals.
Lone Star Legacy Parks will honor all of the significant impacts these sites have made on the people who have walked their grounds.
A successful application will include robust information about the park’s history, including its establishment date and information on the formation of the park. Information about the park’s acreage, site facilities and space specifications will also be needed to be included in the application.
Great descriptions of the park’s natural resources, site features, historical significance and traditions, and cultural relevance are key to a successful application.
A picture is a worth a thousand words! Applications should include dynamic and impactful photos and/or video to showcase the value that the park has brought to the community.
Other criteria include:
- Park must be at least 50 years old
- Park must be designated as a public park
- $200 application fee
It must also meet one of the following criteria
- The property represents distinctive design and/or construction
- The park should be associated with historic events or sites
- The park is associated with events specific to the local community/state
- The park is home to natural features
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee comprised of a citizen representative, a landscape architect representative, an academic representative, a retired recreation professional and a retired park professional.
A full list of Lone Star Legacy Parks can be found here.