Southlake officials have put a project out for bid that will convert grass surfaces to turf at North Park.
The city has budgeted $6.4 million for the project, prioritizing elements of the project, said Pilar Schank, Southlake’s director of communications. Southlake officials have also created a high-end estimate of $8.2 million, which includes a project contingency that would include all possible elements for park improvements, Schank added.
The details
With the $6.4 million budget, city officials are prioritizing:
- Artificial turf conversions of existing grass fields
- Fencing
- Sidewalk connections
- Additional parking at the park
“These proposed improvements are focused on making the park work better for the people who use it most, whether that's through improved parking, expanded field availability or greater flexibility for athletic programs,” Mayor Shawn McCaskill said in an email. “As the final phase of the city's turf conversion initiative, it reflects our continued investment in the parks and recreational amenities that contribute so much to Southlake's quality of life.”
Other potential project elements could include LED conversions for field lighting, irrigation improvements and work on the dumpster enclosures, if funding allows, Schank said.
Project funding comes through the Southlake Parks Development Corp., which was allocated from the fiscal year 2024-25 and 2025-26 capital improvements programs.
The impact
City officials have not determined whether or not the park will remain accessible during construction. Schank said large portions of the park could be closed during construction, but officials will communicate closures ahead of time.
Schank added that city staff will also work with any impacted programs, such as Lady Dragons Lacrosse, Southlake Carroll Lacrosse Association, Dragon Youth Football and other city programming, on using alternate spaces during construction.
Looking ahead
City officials expect to award a bid for the project this fall, Schank said. If council approves a bid, construction could start in the fall or winter and last into early 2027, Schank added.
“Southlake residents place a high value on parks, open spaces, and recreational opportunities. The proposed North Park improvements align with recommendations from the Parks and Open Space Master Plan and support the city’s long-term vision of providing high-quality amenities that serve more residents, more often,” McCaskill said. “As this project moves through the bid and approval process, we look forward to evaluating opportunities to enhance one of Southlake's most heavily used parks.”
