Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) will replace the existing playscape at Metz Neighborhood Park to provide enhanced opportunities for play. The new playscape will be situated in the same location as the existing playscape. Increased shade and play elements are planned opportunities. This project is currently in the Design Development, Construction Documentation & Permitting Phase. City Council District 3
Background
Metz Neighborhood Park is a 6.9 acre park located at 2407 Canterbury St, Austin TX 78702. The park includes a playscape, splash pad, pool, a covered basketball court, and bike polo court adjacent to the Mendez Recreation Center. The playscape is located behind and slightly west of the recreation center. The existing playscape was constructed and installed in 2001 prior to the renovation of the Mendez Recreation Center in 2006.
Project Description
This project will introduce new play equipment at Metz Neighborhood Park to replace the existing aging equipment. The new play equipment will add newer play features and elements which will enhance the park and build upon what was previously installed. Minor ADA improvements will take place to improve accessibility to and from the playscape. New amenities may include:
- Improved shade via shade structure, canopy, or shade integrated with play equipment
- Increased amount of play features/elements
- Additional trees
- Nature based play features/elements
Objectives
- Increase variety of play features/elements in playscape area to allow for maximum enjoyment of play area.
- Improve accessibility to playscape from Mendez Recreation Center and the adjacent parking lot.
- Increased amount of shade in and near playscape.
- Reflect the mission and values of the local community and the Mendez Recreation Center.
Anticipated Schedule
Please note that as in any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible, but all dates are subject to change do to the nature of construction and the weather.
- Summer 2024: Community Engagement
- Fall 2024: Design Development, Construction Documentation & Permitting
- Winter 2024: Construction
- Early Spring 2025: Major construction activities complete
Community Engagement
PARD will work with community members to identify values and priorities for the playscape improvements. Community engagement will include a series of pop-ups. In addition to feedback captured during in-person engagement, surveys will be used to document community members' input. Information on future and past community engagement events will be listed here.
Community Engagement Phase
Round 2: Future Play Amenities
Engagement focused on determining preferences for the future equipment including theming, colors, and playscape elements.
Community Survey (Survey Closed July 21)
Pop-Ups at Metz Playground & Mendez Recreation Center
- Pop-Up and Survey 2 Launch with Mendez Campers
Monday, July 1 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. - Friday, July 5 from 4:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Thursday, July 11 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Round 1: Existing Play Features
Engagement focused on evaluating the existing play features with the community to determine priorities for the new equipment.
Community Survey closed June 17, 2024.
Pop-Ups
- Metz Playground & Mendez Recreation Center
- Thursday, May 23, 2024 from 5:00 to 6:00 pm.
- Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 9-10 am
- Tuesday, June 4, 2024 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Latinapalooza Sunday, May 26 from noon to 2 p.m.
Lampkin Pavilion in Rosewood Park, 1182 North Pleasant Valley Rd
Funding and Resources
The project is funded by Certificates of Obligation (COs). COs are non-voter approved municipal bonds designed to finance public projects identified essential for the community.
Contact Information
For more information or to provide feedback, feel free to contact project staff.
PARD Project Manager, Reynaldo Hernandez email or phone at (512) 974-9464.
PARD Landscape Designer, Katie Kimball email or phone at (512) 974-9445.
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