A few improvements have been completed this year at Battle Bend Neighborhood Park at 121 Sheraton Ave., Austin, and the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, Austin Parks Foundation and the National Recreation and Parks Association are holding a ribbon cutting Dec. 3 to celebrate. The project has been in the works since 2015 when the city launched efforts to seek community feedback on a proposal to update outdated play equipment and other facilities at the park, according to the city. The first phase of improvements included renovating the basketball court with new backboards and rims, a resurfaced and restriped court and new lights. New swings and an updated playscape, as well as a new “nature-based” area with natural-looking stone settings, were part of the second phase of renovations. Phase 3 updated pathways from Sheraton Avenue and Suburban Drive so they comply with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, as well as the removal of the old picnic pavilion and the addition of a new one. According to PARD, more than $600,000 was provided for the projects, which aim to improve safety and aesthetics. The city planned to spend $85.3 million on Parks and Recreation Department staffing, maintenance and other expenses in the 2015-16 fiscal year, not including bond dollars for major facilities projects.