Master plan approved; tree planting to begin soon
Over the next 10 years, Corpus Christi plans to beautify its many parks, starting with the planting of about 230 shade trees.
The City Council received a final briefing of the proposed 10-year Parks Master Plan and the Bill Witt Park Master Plan at its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 26, from the Parks and Recreation Department and Halff Associates.
Texas-based Halff Associates, a consulting firm, emphasized that community preference and input determined the vision and goals for the city and established a roadmap for success. An operational plan, it is about targeted improvements to make an immediate impact rather than a capital-funded plan.
The presentation included guidelines for the growth and enhancement of city parks, public grounds, open spaces, and recreational assets.
“The updated 10-year Master Plan is a key in planning for the improvement and enhancements to all 187 city parks,” Mayor Paulette Guajardo said. “Parks are an important amenity of any city and contribute to the quality of life of its residents.”
The council will adopt the new plan from Halff at its meeting on Tuesday, May 10.
Also at the April 26 meeting, the council authorized a contract with Valley Garden Center Inc. for the purchase and installation of 230 shade trees at 30 city parks.
“Adding trees to our residential parks is an initiative that benefits the environment and adds value to the community,” Guajardo said. "I am excited to see the how this investment will beautify parks throughout the city.”
The $224,256 contract covers acquisitions of mature, large diameter-trunk trees, installation, and initial water management services. The money comes from the general fund and was included as an initiative in the city’s 2022 fiscal year budget.
Planting native South Texas trees will provide shade, reduce noise pollution, improve air quality, and reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion.
All five of Corpus Christi’s City Council districts will receive trees.