Leander's next park, Old Town Park, will feature the city's history, offer seating areas and serve as an event venue, according to the concept plan.

Leander City Council approved the park concept plan Feb. 23. The $1.2 million project is being paid for by parkland dedication funds. A design contract and $1 million project scope were originally approved in June. Council reviewed concept designs and added an additional $200,000 to the budget at its Nov. 19 meeting.

The park design includes:

• Seating areas;
• A history wall with the city's past and future;
• A landmark water tower with a clock;
• Four water cannons;
• Stage with retractable cover;
• Dinosaur tracks; and
• A bocce ball court.

PLACE designers, the firm awarded the project's design contract, estimated construction would begin in June and finish in December, according to its presentation. City Council is set to make final approvals in May.

Old Town Park will be located on a 0.82-acre lot on West South Street next to City Hall in Leander. City Council previously discussed the park as a way to attract businesses and restaurants to Leander’s Old Town District.

"It's fantastic. I just can't describe how Old Town is going to change," Mayor Troy Hill said. "This has been an eyesore out here for years."