Message from DeSoto Parks and Recreation Director
As the Director of the DeSoto Parks and Recreation Department, I am proud to share our annual strategic plan accomplishments designed to impact the quality of life of our constituents daily. To the residents of DeSoto, volunteers, instructors, vendors, Park Board, and Keep DeSoto Beautiful Board, we accomplished so much together. We were proud to work on your behalf. This report will highlight some of these accomplishments. I would also like to publicly acknowledge my appreciation for our teams’ unwavering commitment to creating a climate conducive to improving quality of life. Aquatic and Recreation Center at McCowan Park In collaboration with the SmithGroup Architectural Firm, Manhattan/Post L Construction Company, and the Integrated Project Solutions construction management team, we have begun construction of the $55 million state-of-the-art Aquatic and Recreation Center (ARC) at McCowan Park.
Chris Glover
This 75,000-square-foot facility will feature an eight-lane Olympic competition pool, leisure pool, gymnasiums, indoor track, fitness areas, and community meeting spaces. The ARC promises to serve as a multigenerational health, wellness, and community engagement hub.
Community Engagement and Programming The Parks & Recreation Department is intentional in inclusive program delivery. Underserved populations, including Teens, Autism Awareness, and Seniors, are prioritized. Our department has successfully hosted various programs and events, including but limited to the Community Garden, 5K races, Athletic Tournaments, and Swim Lessons. These programs cater to all age groups. Notably, our recreation programming has seen substantial participation, with thousands of residents being actively engaged. In 2024, the DeSoto Parks & Recreation Department was recognized with the Arts and Humanities Award by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society.
DeSoto Parks and Recreation Annual Report | 3
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