Changes are coming near the historic Freedom Tree in Missouri City.

What’s happening?

At a May 6 meeting, Missouri City City Council authorized the mayor to purchase a 1.82-acre tract of land near Freedom Tree Park for trails. The land was purchased from Teahouse Beverage, Inc. for an appraisal value of $176,812, according to agenda documents.

City Council previously authorized the acquisition of the land by donation, purchase or eminent domain on July 3, according to agenda documents.

About the project

The $3.5 million Freedom Tree Park project at 4303 Freedom Tree Drive will develop 5 acres of parkland east of Misty Hollow Drive, directly across from the historic Freedom Tree. Interim Director of Parks & Recreation Daniele Stewart said the project will feature amenities including:

• Playground
• Plaza
• Public art element
• Gathering spaces
• Parking

The project will also feature trails that will connect the park to Community Park and Troxell Park, which is projected to open this summer, Stewart said in an email.

The project is funded by the city’s November 2021 $85.85 million bond, which included $23.02 million in parks improvements. It’s also funded through a $750,000 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Local Parks Grant, which was awarded in 2022, Stewart said.

Did you know?

Missouri City’s Freedom Tree was where slaves in the community were informed after the Civil War in 1865 that they were no longer enslaved, according to the city’s website.

Stewart said the project has been and continues to be a significant priority for the community as they celebrate its importance.

“The development of Freedom Tree Park has been a priority for city staff and the community for almost a decade,” Stewart said. “The Freedom Tree is a significant part of our community’s history, and the new park was designed for the community to celebrate, honor and learn about that history.”

What else?

The city is accepting applications for its Freedom Tree Park Advisory Committee, which will be appointed by Mayor Robin Elackatt this summer.

The nine-person committee will be responsible for:

• Researching and recommending notable Missouri City residents, historical stories and local accomplishments to be included in park design
• Providing feedback on the design of historical features for park signage
• Provide feedback during the public art sculpture selection process

Meeting dates have not been set, but the committee will likely meet at least once a month, Stewart said. Applications for the committee are open until May 20 at 5 p.m. and can be accessed here.

What’s next

The Freedom Tree Park project is entering the permitting phase and will be bid for construction this summer. Once started, the project is expected to last between 9-12 months, Stewart said.