New Braunfels is exploring options to expand paid parking at River Acres and Cypress Bend parks to balance resident access, manage nonresident usage and generate revenue for park maintenance.

The details

River and Watershed Manager Amy Niles presented recommendations at an Oct. 8 River Advisory meeting.

River Acres Park

The proposal suggests expanding paid parking at River Acres Park to seven days a week from March through September, Niles said.


Currently, the park charges $20 per space on weekends and holidays from May 1 to Labor Day.

Last year, paid parking generated $24,580 in revenue, which would fund maintenance and construction projects, Niles said.

Cypress Bend Park

Cypress Bend Park currently has no paid parking, but nonresident usage is high—82% of visitors being nonresidents, Niles said.


To address this, two options for paid parking were proposed:
  • Eliminate 25 parallel parking spaces
  • Add 21 new paved parking spaces outside the floodway
The estimated annual revenue from paid parking could range from $103,000 to $126,000, Niles said.

However, the board discussed potential impacts on events and activities and emphasized the need for a master plan before making any changes.

Point of note

Residents can continue to park for free with a valid parking pass, Niles said.


Concerns have been raised about the lack of awareness regarding the free parking pass program, according to the board.

Approximately 15,000 passes were issued last season, but confusion persists among residents, said one board member.

Residents can pick up passes at:
  • Parks and Recreation Administrative Office, 110 Golf Course Road, New Braunfels
  • Das Rec, 345 Landa St., New Braunfels
Next Steps

The River Advisory board approved the expansion of paid parking at River Acres Park, however, decisions regarding Cypress Bend Park were deferred pending further planning and development of a master plan.