Program areas at HPB
In 2014, The Houston Parks Board entered into a long-term agreement with the City of Houston to provide ongoing maintenance for the Bayou Greenways system, an integrated system of connected linear parks along nine major bayous within the Houston city limits. Unspent funds from the annual maintenance fee are used for trail and bridge capital replacement projects along the bayous. The Houston Parks Board incorporates conservation in the maintenance of the bayous to preserve, create, and enhance the region's habitats through initiatives including tree plantings, prairie rebuilds, and wetland creations.
The Houston Parks Board, in partnership with the Houston Parks Board LGC, works with the City of Houston and other local entities to plan, advocate, acquire and improve parkland and space, thus providing an equitable distribution of parkland and recreation facilities for Houston's growing communities. Major initiatives include Beyond the Bayous, neighborhood park projects, and 50/50 Park Partners.
In 2013, the Houston Parks Board, in partnership with Houston Parks Board LGC, Inc. (the LGC), the City of Houston, Harris County Flood Control District, and other entities started a multi-year project identified as the Bayou Greenways 2020 ("BG2020") program which is focused on the expansion of the City's park system along Houston's nine major bayous. Its purpose is to acquire land along the bayous within the Houston City limits and design and construct linear parks and multi-use trails along the bayous. At its estimated 2024 completion, this project will provide over 3,000 acres of green space, 150 miles of new trails, improved flood prevention, and equitable access to parks, thus improving the quality of life for all Houstonians.
The Houston Parks Board assists with special projects to promote cultural activities and athletic events and manages trust accounts for City supported park and community programs.