On Wednesday, city leaders authorized a resolution to apply for $3 million in grant funding from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. These funds are specifically earmarked for the long-awaited community park.
“We are thrilled for the opportunity to receive this grant,” City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert said. “With these funds, we’ll be able to elevate the park experience and create an even more welcoming and vibrant space for the Fair Park neighborhood and visitors from across Dallas.”
The funding opportunity stems from Senate Bill 1, passed last year, which identified Dallas as a recipient for the project. Once approved by the state, the city would need to sign a formal agreement before funds are awarded.
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Previous Delays and Oversight Changes
The Community Park at Fair Park has been in planning stages for years and remains a central piece of broader redevelopment efforts at the historic site.
NBCDFW has previously reported that city leaders shifted oversight of Fair Park projects back under tighter City Council control following concerns about financial management and delays tied to nonprofit partner Fair Park First.
That scrutiny included a 2024 audit that found donor-restricted funds connected to Fair Park projects had been used for other operating expenses, raising accountability concerns as the park project moved forward.
Despite those challenges, the community park remains a priority investment aimed at bringing new green space to South Dallas. The project, expected to transform the parking area in what is currently lot 10 into green space, has already secured millions in funding.
If approved, the $3 million grant would help move the project closer to construction, though a firm groundbreaking timeline has not been finalized.