Revitalization and expansion efforts within Burnett Bayland Park in Gulfton are advancing after a June groundbreaking event marked the beginning of long-awaited investments in green space, equity and community in one of Houston’s densest neighborhoods.
Gulfton Super Neighborhood President Sandra Rodriguez said the park has held great value in her family’s life since she was a child.
“This isn’t just a park improvement, it is a representation of our park’s beauty, resiliency and potential,” Rodriguez said. “This groundbreaking is more than just infrastructure—it’s a social transformation."
The framework
The long-term vision for the park includes expanding its footprint from 32 to 75 acres, according to master plan documents. The project will aim to transform the park with various initiatives identified in the planning process, including:
- Creating a more accessible park with safe pedestrian crossings and wide, well-lit trails
- Planting more native trees and expanding shaded areas to combat the area’s urban heat island effect
- Upgrading recreational facilities within its sports courts and soccer fields with new options that will include pickleball courts
- Providing more economic social connections through the addition of a new community center, designated food truck areas and a permanent farmers market space
The timeline
The Burnett Bayland Park master plan was initiated in September 2023, according to Precinct 4 officials. Since then, Precinct 4 officials received feedback from more than 1,000 community members during the public engagement process.
Phase 1 encompasses the southern portion of the park and began in April with a projected completion date of April 2026. Phase 2 will include the northwest side of the park and is slated to begin construction in the fall of 2026. Phase 3 will be for the northeast section of the park and is expected to begin construction in mid-2026.
Funding the project
While Harris County has secured funding for Phase 1, according to master plan documents, Precinct 4 and county engineer officials are continuing to work with partners to build a funding plan to implement the full, long-term vision of the master plan.
“We look forward to returning in 2026 to open Gulfton’s premier new park, built by and for this incredible community. As we launch our capital campaign for future phases, we welcome new partners to join us in building a more resilient, inclusive and connected Harris County for everyone,” Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones said in a news release.
