Pflugerville seeks designers for Bowles 'destination play' and reports $5 million pledged for project
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Summary
Staff announced an RFQ for a 'destination play space' at Bowles Park with the RFQ closing Jan. 22 and said the Pflugerville Parks Foundation has committed roughly $5 million to the first phase; design is intended to be multigenerational, accessible and an economic driver for Downtown East.
Pflugerville parks staff told commissioners they have launched a request for qualifications for a multigenerational “destination play” at Bowles Park and that the Parks Foundation has committed more than $5 million toward the project’s fundraising effort.
Jeff O’Shea said the RFQ for the destination play’s design team was closing on January 22 and described the project as a two‑phase effort tied to Downtown East and the new plaza. “The goal here is for it to be multigenerational, for it to be all abilities, also an economic driver, especially with Downtown East being constructed,” O’Shea said.
Why it matters: Staff said the destination playground is intended both as a community amenity and as a regional draw that will integrate with pedestrian connections to the plaza, new rec center and future retail. The Parks Foundation’s early fundraising commitment will cover part of the first phase; staff said they hope the foundation can raise additional funds.
Design and timeline: Staff described the concept as immersive and topography‑driven, with play elements integrated into landscape and elevation changes, citing Cary, North Carolina as a design model. The RFQ will identify a design team that will develop the first phase, which is funded through the city’s 2020 bond; additional phases would depend on future funding.
What’s next: Staff will review RFQ responses and return to the commission with recommended designers and fundraising updates as the project moves through the city’s design and RFP process.
