Parks & Recreation: What’s open and what’s not?
EDITOR’S NOTE: The post was updated on Friday, May 22, to reflect that park water fountains will be on June 1.
By Kelly Kelbly, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director
As Gov. Greg Abbott continues his plans to open Texas, the College Station Parks and Recreation Department has been making plans for reopening spaces, facilities, and programs impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We base our discussions on federal, state, and local guidance to prioritize public health and safety.
Regrettably, budget reductions resulting from a significant decline in sales tax revenue are also a factor. Remember also that phased reopenings aren’t an immediate return to normal operations. They include necessary and appropriate measures to reduce the risks of community transmission.
Here’s a look at our current situation, including some answers to your most frequent questions.
Open Facilities
- Basketball courts
- Community and neighborhood parks (Directory)
- Disc golf courses
- Dog parks
- Larry J. Ringer Library
- Lick Creek Park
- G. Hysmith Skate Park
- Pavilions and shelters
- Playgrounds (use is discouraged)
- Sand volleyball courts
- Stephen C. Beachy Central Park office
- Tennis courts
Facility Reopening Schedule
- Athletic Fields – June 1 for practices; June 15 for tournaments
- Lick Creek Nature Center office and restrooms – June 1 (open Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 1-6 p.m.)
- Park restrooms and water fountains – June 1
- Veterans Park & Athletic Complex – May 23
Remaining Facility Closures
- Adamson Lagoon
- Cindy Hallaran Pool
- Fun For All Playground and splash pad
- Lincoln Recreation Center
- Meyer Senior & Community Center
- Southwood Community Center
- W.A. Tarrow splash pad
Canceled Summer Programs
- Tsunami Swim Team
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Training
- Water Safety Instructor Certification
- Swim Lessons
- 5V5 Basketball League
- Summer Youth Basketball
- Summer Softball & Kickball Leagues
- Starlight Music Series
- Challenger Bowling
- Water Aerobics
- Mini Summer Camps
- College Station Senior Games (Sept. 25-27)
For your convenience, here are some answers to your most frequently asked questions:
Are playgrounds open?
Yes, but their use is discouraged. Citizens should stay 6 feet away from anyone who doesn’t live with them and follow other CDC guidelines.
Is Lick Creek Park open?
Yes, the trails are open. The office and restrooms will open on June 1. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m-5 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m.
Is Veterans Park & Athletic Complex open?
The park will open on May 23. The restrooms and athletic fields open on June 1.
When will the pools and splash pads open?
Cindy Hallaran Pool will remain closed for the 2020 season due to budgetary constraints. Adamson Lagoon is closed due to strict CDC guidelines regarding social distancing, sanitization, and staffing requirements. Depending on protocols and governor’s orders, Adamson could open July 6. We’ll decide at the end of June. Splash pads will open when allowed by the governor.
Will you have swimming lessons this year?
No, if we open Adamson in July, staff will focus on proper cleaning and public swimming.
When will the Lincoln Recreation Center’s full-day summer camp open?
We canceled Session 1 due to strict CDC guidelines regarding group sizes, activity restrictions, social distancing, sanitization, and staffing requirements. Depending on protocols and governor’s orders, we might offer session 2 beginning July 6. We’ll decide at the end of June.
When will the Summer Parks Guide be published?
The summer guide will not be published. We are committed to providing updated information through our website.
Who will enforce minimum health protocols for non-city-sponsored youth sports and tournaments?
User groups and tournament organizers are responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing minimum health protocols for their events at our facilities. The city is responsible for sanitizing restrooms, trash cans, and fields.
When will senior adult programming resume?
Senior programming won’t resume until the fall. People 65 years and older and those who live in nursing homes or long-term care facilities are encouraged to stay home as much as possible.
Are dog parks open?
Yes, Barracks, Steeplechase, and University Park are open.
Can you fish at College Station ponds?
Yes, you can fish at Brothers Pond, Cy Miller, John Crompton, and Stephen C. Beachy Central Park ponds. You must have a freshwater fishing stamp if you’re 17 or older. For information on pond stocking, harvest regulations, and license requirements, go to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
Are cemeteries open?
Yes, the Aggie Field of Honor and the College Station Cemetery are open for visitation. The hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to sunset, and on Sunday from 6 a.m. to sunset.
We understand the vital role our department plays in our community’s quality of life, especially during these challenging times. We are faithfully working to create healthier, happier, and more connected communities while responsibly addressing the COVID-19 outbreak.
For more information, contact us at 979-764-3486 or parks@cstx.gov.
About the Blogger
Assistant Director Kelly Kelbly is in her 19th year with the College Station Parks & Recreation Department. A native of Gilmer, Kelly is a 1998 graduate of Texas A&M.
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Patron’s dream fulfilled with Meyer Center’s opening
Editor’s Note: The grand opening ceremony has been postponed until Tuesday, June 18, at 10 a.m.
By Hallie Hutchins, Parks & Recreation Marketing Assistant
As a university town, College Station offers a variety of attractions for millennials, but we’re also home to a substantial number of senior citizens. For more than a decade, the demand has grown for a new senior-focused center to expand community programming.
The wait is finally over.
Programs at the Bob and Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center begin Monday, with the doors opening at 8 a.m. On Wednesday, we invite you to join us for the grand opening ceremony at 10 a.m. We’ll serve light refreshments and dedicate a plaque in the Meyers’ honor.
Initially the Arts Council Building, the structure was redesigned and renovated with seniors in mind. The facility complies with ADA standards and offers three multipurpose rooms equipped for arts, crafts, and ceramics. The warm color tones provide a comfortable setting for classes, dances, games, fitness, and educational presentations.
At the heart of the center’s mission is the Meyer family. The redesign includes a personalized café style entrance that provides a welcoming and enjoyable place to socialize with friends. We designed the area specifically with Mr. Meyer in mind.
After his beloved wife, Wanda, passed away, Bob would come to the Southwood Community Center daily for a cup of coffee and a visit. Periodically, he would participate in the programs, but more than anything, he craved the social benefits. That’s why the lobby is filled with cozy furniture and, of course, coffee, providing an ideal gathering place.
Mr. Meyer was not only a devoted Southwood Community Center member; he also enjoyed learning about our city government. He participated in Citizens University and volunteered for the Citizens Advisory Committee, serving as chairman from 2004-2007.
He immediately became involved when the city council asked the advisory committee to develop ideas about how a dedicated senior activities center might look. He worked tirelessly on the project and traveled with other committee members to cities across Texas to explore architectural approaches and review successful programs.
Although the dream of a dedicated senior center didn’t come true in his lifetime, he continually expressed an appreciation to the city for its efforts to provide quality programming and a place for seniors to meet and participate in programs.
After more than 50 years as a College Station resident, Mr. Meyer passed away in 2013 at the age of 81. In his will, he left 25 percent of his sizable estate to Parks and Recreation programs that benefit senior citizens.
The grand opening of the center marks a bright, new beginning while honoring the Meyers’ aspirations and sincere passion for seniors.
The Summer Parks & Recreation Guide includes a complete listing of our senior programs and activities.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/MeyerCenter or call 979-764-2670.
About the Blogger
Hallie Hutchins is in her fourth year as a marketing staff assistant in the Parks & Recreation Department after graduating from Texas A&M in 2014 with a degree in sports management. She has previously worked with the Dallas Sidekicks professional soccer team and Texas Team Junior Golf. Originally from White Oak, Hallie also attended Kilgore College and was a member of the famed Kilgore Rangerettes dance team.
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Meyer Senior and Community Center opens in June
By Kelly Kelbly, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director
The Bob & Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center is within a few weeks of opening!
Work on the floors is still being performed, along with other punch list items, which will clear the way for this senior-focused center to be ready for additional technology installation and new furniture.
Doors will open and programming will begin Monday, June 3, at 8 a.m.
The rescheduled grand opening ceremony will be Wednesday, June 5, at 10 a.m.
If you already have your copy of the College Station Parks & Recreation Summer Guide, then you will see different dates listed. The online version of the guide has the correct grand opening information, along with all the programs that will be offered at the Meyer Senior and Community Center.
For those who may be unaware, the Bob & Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center is the reimagined, renovated facility formerly occupied by Arts Council of Brazos Valley at 2275 Dartmouth St.
The center will offer three multipurpose rooms, a room for arts and crafts, WiFi, and plenty of space for dances, classes, a wide variety of activities, or just visiting with friends and family.
The center and its senior programming are made possible through generous contributions from the estate of Bob and Wanda Meyer, and is the fulfillment of Bob’s dream for College Station to have a facility that met the social needs of its older citizens.
Learn more at cstx.gov/MeyerCenter or in our Parks & Recreation Summer Guide.
About the Blogger
Assistant Director Kelly Kelbly is in her 18th year with the College Station Parks & Recreation Department. A native of Gilmer, Kelly is a 1998 graduate of Texas A&M.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Oct. 25)
(L-R): Bob Brick, Linda Harvell, Jerome Rektorik, Karl Mooney (mayor), John Nichols, Barry Moore, James Benham.
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Oct. 25. It’s not the official minutes.
The meetings can be watched live on Suddenlink channel 19 or online. An archive of previous council meetings is available on the website.
5:12 p.m.
The workshop has started.
Bryan Woods
5:13 p.m.
Woods named City Manager
The council unanimously selected Bryan Woods as College Station’s city manager, effective Dec. 3. He has been New Braunfels’ assistant city manager since 2017.
Woods replaces Kelly Templin, who left last spring to lead the Texas A&M University System’s new RELLIS Campus. Jeff Capps has since served as interim city manager.
Press release: Woods named College Station City Manager
5:14 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda during tonight’s regular meeting. No items were pulled for workshop discussion.
5:50 p.m.
Dockless Bike Share Update
The council was updated on Texas A&M’s dockless bike share program. The city issued a permit to Ofo, the program’s vendor, on Aug. 23, and revoked it on Oct. 12 after the company lost its auto liability insurance. To be reinstated, Ofo must update its insurance, present rebalancing and communication plans, and replenish its escrow account with the city.
The university will assume operational control and will also seek a new vendor for 2019. The existing 2,300 yellow bikes will be collected, donated, repurposed or recycled at the end of the fall semester.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:11 p.m.
BioCorridor Board Powers and Duties
The council discussed the powers and duties of the BioCorridor Board. The consensus was to keep the board in place.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:15 p.m.
Mayor Karl Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The regular meeting will start after a short break.
6:28 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:35 p.m.
Brazos Fellowship Church Recognition
Police Chief Scott McCollum and Fire Chief Jonathan McMahan recognized Brazos Fellowship Church for its community service in supporting first responders during a 16-hour standoff with an armed man in August at a local bar and grill.
6:39 p.m.
Municipal Court Week
Mayor Mooney proclaimed Nov. 5-9 as Municipal Court Week in recognition of the importance of municipal courts, the rule of law, and the fair and impartial administration of justice.
6:46 p.m.
Community Planning Month
Mayor Mooney proclaimed October as National Community Planning Month to highlight the important role planning plays in addressing our community’s most daunting challenges, including housing affordability and availability.
6:50 p.m.
Hear Visitors
One person spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens might address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda.
- Councilman Jerome Rektorik recognized Jeff Capps for his service as interim city manager since March.
6:51 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- Renewal of a $130,000 award for city-branded uniforms for parks and recreation athletic programs and other city departments with CC Creations ($65,000) and M&M Apparel ($65,000).
- A $589,787 contract with Marek Brothers Construction for the renovation of the Bob and Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center (formerly the Arts Council Building).
- Renewal of the annual award not to exceed $503,214.55 for the blanket purchase of three-phase pad-mounted transformers.
- An $859,640 annual bid award to Techline for electric distribution poles.
- A $1.42 million contract with Larry Young Paving for the rehabilitation of parking lots and lighting at Bachmann and Beachy Central parks.
- Resolutions declaring an intention to reimburse certain expenditures with proceeds from debt for Public Works, General Government, and Wastewater projects in the FY19 Capital Improvements budget.
- The 2018 Property Tax Roll of $46.99 million.
- An amended ordinance modifying the location, dates and times for voting in the Nov. 6 general and special election to elect two city council members (places 4 and 6), and to submit to voters five proposed amendments to the city charter.
6:54 p.m.
Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved the abandonment of a 20-foot wide public utility on the State Highway 6 bypass north of Pavilion Avenue to allow for development. No existing city utilities are located in the easement, which has no planned use.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:10 p.m.
Daiquiri Barn Conditional Use Permit
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a conditional use permit for a nightclub, bar or tavern in the shopping center northwest of the Texas Avenue-Southwest Parkway intersection. Councilwoman Linda Harvell and Councilman John Nichols voted against the motion.
The land use request for the Daiquiri Barn included a drive-up window, potential food sales, retail sales, limited interior seating, and alcohol sales for on- and off-site consumption.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:33 p.m.
City Hall Construction Manager at Risk
The council unanimously approved a contract with CORE Construction to be the construction manager at risk for the new city hall project.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:34 p.m.
Groundwater Conservation District Board
The council unanimously appointed Bill Harris to the Brazos Valley Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors, subject to approval by the Brazos County Commissioners Court.
7:35 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
7:35 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Thursday, Nov. 8.
About the Blogger
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian) has been with the City of College Station since 2010 after serving 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also worked as a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
5 things to watch at Thursday’s city council meetings
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
The College Station City Council gathers Thursday at city hall for its workshop (5 p.m.) and regular (6 p.m.) meetings.
Here are five items to watch:
- Dockless Bike Share Update: In the workshop, the council will hear an update on Texas A&M’s dockless bike share program.
- Role of BioCorridor Board: Another workshop item is a discussion of the powers and duties of the BioCorridor Board.
- Meyer Senior and Community Center: As part of the consent agenda, the council will consider a $589,787 contract for the renovation of the Bob and Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center (the former Arts Council building) on the corner of Dartmouth and Colgate.
- Bachmann, Central Park Parking Lots: Also on the consent agenda is a $1.42 million contract for the rehabilitation of the parking lots and lighting at Bachmann and Beachy Central parks.
- Daiquiri Barn Permit: After a public hearing, the council will consider a conditional use permit for a Daiquiri Barn in the shopping center northwest of the Texas Avenue-Southwest Parkway intersection. The request includes a drive-up window, potential food sales, retail and alcohol sales, and limited interior seating.
The meetings can be watched live on Suddenlink Channel 19 or online. We’ll post a detailed live blog on this site.
Related Links:
About the Blogger
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian) has been with the City of College Station since 2010 after serving 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also worked as a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
