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Waco council approves first reading to apply for up-to-$15 million federal park grant for downtown phase 1A
Summary
The City of Waco voted to approve on first reading a resolution to apply for the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant through the National Park Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to help fund a roughly 7-acre downtown park in the Phase 1A redevelopment area, with a required 1:1 local match.
The Waco City Council on April 1 approved on first reading a resolution authorizing the city to apply for up to $15,000,000 through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant program administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Park Service via the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, with a required 1-to-1 local match, to fund park improvements in the downtown Phase 1A redevelopment area.
City staff told the council the application highlights the proposed development of about 7 new acres of parkland as the anchor of the downtown district. "Waco's application highlights the proposed development of 7 new acres of parkland as the anchor of the new Barents Branch District," said Tommy Balck, director of strategic initiatives, describing features on the project map such as a La Pila-centered fountain plaza, a community performance stage and pavilion, a pedestrian bridge through the Caiados corridor, natural plantings, limestone cascades, play fountains, viewing decks and restrooms.
The application as described by staff would be for an amount "not to exceed $15,000,000," and requires the city to certify that it is eligible for the program and that the local matching share is "readily available," Balck said. The city announced the application deadline to Texas Parks and Wildlife as April 15; staff said the National Park Service receives the packet in June and award announcements are anticipated in February 2026.
Mayor Jim Holmes spoke in support of submitting the application. "So, I think it makes sense to get this submitted... If we could pump $14,000,000 of federal grant money into this thing, I think it goes a long ways to helping us make Phase 1A a reality," Holmes said, characterizing the federal portion of the project in slightly different figures while indicating strong council support. No public speakers addressed the item during the public hearing.
A council member moved "for approval and first reading" and the motion was seconded. City Secretary Parker polled the council and the motion passed. The resolution directs the city manager and/or the director of strategic initiatives to act on behalf of the city in matters related to the application, including executing applications, assurances and certifications required by the program.
Why it matters: If awarded, the grant would reduce local costs for the downtown Phase 1A park project and fund major public amenities in the area identified by staff. The required 1:1 match means the city or its partners must secure an equal amount of local funding before the grant can be fully realized.
Next steps: Staff will submit the application by the April 15 deadline and, if the city is selected, return to council with further details about award conditions and implementation responsibilities.
