Congratulations to three of our clients for being selected for recognition in the Houston-Galveston Area Council's annual Parks and Natural Areas Award Program! The winners were honored in an online celebration on February 5, 2021. H-GAC established the Parks and Natural Areas awards program in 2006 to highlight best practices and innovative approaches to parks planning and implementation.
H-GAC honors projects in the categories of Projects Over $500,000, Projects Under $500,000, Planning Process, and Policy Tools. Projects recognized by this awards program are selected by a panel of expert judges and industry professionals.
Green's Bayou | Houston Parks Board | Special Recognition
As part of Bayou Greenways 2020, a $220 million public-private effort to distribute parkland equitably to neighborhoods throughout Houston, Clark Condon worked with the Houston Parks Board on Segment 4 of the Greens Bayou Trail. The project began with a study to identify ways to improve connectivity to public facilities, residential neighborhoods and parkland, greatly expanding connections in the region.
Clark Condon oversaw design through CA on this project. To learn more about this project, visit the project profile here.
Green's Bayou
Sylvan Beach master Plan | Harris County Precinct 2 | Special Recognition
Clark Condon oversaw all planning on this project. The master plan explored methods to increase the resiliency of this shoreline landscape. Located on Galveston Bay, the site is subject to harsh coastal conditions. The park design considered all aspects of the site conditions to provide a design solution reflective of natural impacts. Harris County challenged the design team to find ways to reinvigorate the park and improve its regional presence.
The park will become a cultural hub, as it will support outdoor performances and gatherings. In addition to the existing dance pavilion, the design features an iconic bandstand and a central pavilion serving as the park hub. The pavilion includes a carousel, gift shop, food vendor, and equipment rental for kayaks and other sports equipment. The design also improves safety for park users by creating a network of off-street walking paths and a safer swimming environment.
Sylvan Beach Master Plan
Timberland Community Center | Timber Lane Utility District | Special Recognition - Projects over $500,000
Clark Condon worked with the Timber Lane Utility District to develop a master plan to develop a 20-acre site into a community center. The main goal was to design and construct a public gathering space for workshops and community events. Additionally, they needed space to house their maintenance crew, equipment, and provide a small office for local constables. The interior lobby is aligned with a pedestrian bridge across the parking lot to encourage neighborhood interaction.
Timberland Community Center
Visit H-GAC's website for more information about the Parks and Natural Area Awards.