Images of nature, dogs running in a park, children playing on natural elements assembled on a playground, and families walking through a canopy of trees are just some of the images of a master park plan Burditt Consulting presented to the Board of Directors at its March meeting.
EMCID purchased 64 acres of land at FM 1485 along Caney Creek in 2023. At the time this issue went to print, a contract for another 45 acres was at the title company and negotiations on a 100-acre piece of property are ongoing to create a nearly 200-acre natural park with hike and bike trails, a dog park and pump track.
David Lestage, landscape architect with the Conroe company, presented both the master plan for the initial 64 acres and a first phase, which focuses on the land closest to the entrance at FM 1485. The first phase includes a dog park for large and small dogs situated in an area that includes natural shade from plenty of trees already on the property, a bicycle playground/pump track, a covered shelter, and parking.
The Board was excited to see the plans but suggested the number of parking spaces be increased to more than the proposed 16.
“We’re pretty positive about this project, and I think people from all over are ready for something like this. That’s why I think we’ll need to be able to accommodate more cars,” said Brenda Webb, Chairman of the Board.
Phase 2 includes adding restrooms, a playground that takes advantage of an area near Dry Creek, a canopy walk among the trees with elevated areas, a lawn area, and additional parking.
The master plan beyond phase 2 proposes several new hike and bike trails, a trail around a pond, a boardwalk, a fishing pier, a skate park, an overnight camping area, and additional parking.
“This is a really great piece of property that includes heavily wooded areas as well as natural ponds we can take advantage of to plan around,” said Lestage. “We think there are opportunities for things like boardwalks and even fishing, and an area further away that could provide an excellent spot for some overnight camping options for groups like the Boy Scouts.”
Lestage also mentioned using interpretive signage within the park to highlight the conservation and preservation of floodplains and native wildlife and plants.
Adding another 145 acres to the park opens up all kinds of additional possibilities, all with preserving nature in mind.
“Reaching the finish line by assembling 200 acres within a five-minute drive of the city limits of Houston is a monumental accomplishment, with this effort beginning about two years ago,” said Frank McCrady, President/CEO. “This is a legacy project for EMCID. We can’t wait to begin to enhance the naturally occurring features of this park for families to enjoy for years to come.”
