Fulshear officials are looking to finalize several park scopes.

What’s happening?

At a March 4 special meeting, Fulshear City Council discussed the future of three park projects that will be part of the city's Parks and Pathways Master Plan, which is being updated.

According to agenda documents, the proposed changes to parks include:

• Frances Smart Park, located at 7926 FM 359, Fulshear, to include a veterans memorial, playground, plaza space and parking
• Irene Stern Park, located at 6920 Fulshear Katy Road, Fulshear, to include basketball, tennis and pickleball courts, a pavilion, walking paths and a playground
• Bessie’s Creek Park, a new 11.5-acre park along the creek, to include a walking trail, outdoor fitness station, boardwalk overlook with a pier and potential parking

City staff worked to incorporate community desires, such as trails, sports courts and playgrounds from the city’s community survey that was conducted last fall, Public Works Assistant Director Tiffany Stodder said.

The potential changes to the parks could be funded by a future general obligation bond, city officials said.

What they’re saying

Council member Christina Baron asked if the city had considered repurposing the existing playground from Irene Stern to another park, as the equipment is in good condition. City staff said they will look into where these could be used elsewhere in the city.

Additionally, council member Kent Pool suggested implementing a skate park at Bessie’s Creek Park. However, Stodder said it is unlikely as the area serves as the mitigation pond for the surrounding development.

Looking ahead

The Parks and Pathways Master Plan will be presented to council for approval in the first quarter of this year, where renderings will be finalized, Stodder previously said.