Park Projects

Photo of city leaders and staff holding a ribbon during a ribbon cutting ceremony at Buena Vista Park.

The Park Planning Division of Waco Parks and Recreation serves to enrich the lives of citizens through the planning, design, development and enhancement of Waco's parks, natural spaces, recreation facilities and historical sites. As stewards of the public park system, we are dedicated toward providing and promoting high-quality experiences and facilities that meet the needs of our residents.

From neighborhood park improvements to the rehabilitation of historic sites such as the Waco Suspension Bridge, the goal is to maintain and preserve these community assets for generations to come.

Take a look at some of our current projects below to stay informed on what's happening at Waco Parks and Recreation.

Floyd Casey Development Project

The Floyd Casey Development Project includes the re-visioning of the existing Hart-Patterson track facility and the Waco Creek Corridor and will promote connectivity to Bell's Hill Park to establish inclusive community park benefits, essential neighborhood connectivity, and expansion of the Waco city-wide trail system.

Lions Park Revitalization Project

The City of Waco, Lions Park Trust Board, and many community partners are excited to work with the community to reimagine Lions Park for the future of Waco. Learn more about the revitalization project.

China Spring Park Project

The City of Waco purchased 85 acres for the future development of a city park in China Spring. The China Spring Park project is currently in the works, and the Waco City Council approved a contract with the design firm RVI. The project kicked off in October 2023 with in-depth site analysis and creation of a virtual site tour.

Learn more about the project.

Waco Suspension Bridge Rehabilitation Project

Since its initial construction in 1870, Waco's historic Suspension Bridge has been widely recognized as an engineering marvel of its time and a significant landmark. The 475-foot bridge represents the first permanent bridge over the Brazos River and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Waco Suspension Bridge Rehabilitation Project, which was completed in April 2023, featured replacement of the bridge’s deck and cables, strengthening of its anchors on both banks and repairs to the anchor houses.

Waco City-Wide Trails Master Plan

The Waco City-Wide Trails Master Plan initiative is an effort to develop a multi-year vision to guide the continued expansion of bicycle and pedestrian connectivity in the City of Waco and surrounding areas. The Plan will serve as a roadmap for building an interconnected network of trails designed to enhance active transportation, recreation and quality-of-life opportunities for Waco's residents and visitors.

Cotton Palace Park Master Plan

The City of Waco is preparing a Master Plan for major improvements to Cotton Palace Park, one of the oldest parks in Waco.