ABOUT ALLEN
History
Recognized nationally for our exciting developments, excellent education system, and innovative projects, Allen is a gem of a community in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
Situated about 30 minutes north of downtown Dallas, our city has come to be known for its wide variety of shopping and dining options, an ever-growing park system, and plenty of exciting entertainment offerings.
When Allen was first incorporated as a city back in 1953, residents then might not have been able to imagine the city it would grow up to become. We fondly remember our past as a small town along US 75 and embrace our present as a vibrant but cozy city in one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation.
Allen Awards and Recognitions
One of 213 cities to be CAPRA Accredited (NRPA, 2024)
Ranked 3rd in the Most Bikable Cities in Texas (Redfin, 2024)
Top 10 Digital City (Government Technology, 2024)
Third best city in Texas, 15th best city in the nation for remote workers (Coworking Cafe, 2024)
Top-ranked city in Texas, 59th in the nation for quality of life (Lawnstarter, 2024)
Finalist for the Best Real Estate Deal (Dallas Business Journal, 2024)
Ranked 9th in its population category for use of innovative technology (Digital Cities Survey, 2023)
Demographics
7,719 FACILITY MEMBERSHIPS
5,080 SWIM LESSON PARTICIPANTS
21,697 PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
698,886 FACILITY VISITS
67,394 GOLF ROUNDS
72,963 GOLF RANGE BUCKETS SOLD
C.A.R.E. SCHOLARSHIP PARTICIPANTS
6,463 SPORT LEAGUE PARTICIPANTS
5,382 GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES
6,519 VOLUNTEER HOURS
PARKS AND RECREATION STRATEGY MAP
G1O5: Deliver City Services in The Most Cost-Effective and Efficient Manner
G2O5: Maintain & enhance Allen community/recreation
G3O5: Develop Allen Downtown as a major community and regional destination that is unique
G4O7: Hire, develop and retain a topquality City workforce
G5O5: Promote community cohesion through engagement
G3O1: Develop Hwy121 as a Major
DIVISION GOALS
Goal 1: Financially sound and transparent City government
G1O1: Applied a $1 million county trail grant for Rowlett Trail
G1O2: Created a plan to fund and implement pool mechanical improvements
G1O2: Purchased equipment for events such as consolidating storage
G1O3: Evaluated tournament rentals and athletic offerings
G1O5: Completed implementation of Golf Services POS
G2O2: Inventoried park and facility electrical cabinets
G4O4: Initiated department-wide technology platform
G5O3: Conducted PGA Spring Session including monthly golf play days
Goal 2: Safe and livable community for all
G2O1: Designed the Eugene McDermott Park Trailhead
G2O1: Designed Rowlett Trail South and Rowlett Trail North
G2O1: Designed a segment of Watters Trail
G2O1: Designed Trail Bridge near 121 and Rowlett
G2O1: Construction of Molsen Farm Trailhead
G2O2: Put erosion control at Cancer Walk at Bethany Lakes Park
G2O2: Construction of Allen Station Park Playground Improvements
G2O2: Playground Replacement and Playground Shade Structures
Country Meadows Park, completed February 2024
G2O2: Replace DRAC lighting in the second-floor fitness area
G2O2: Designed Allen Heritage Deport Train Cover
G2O2: ADA Transition Plan Implementation
G2O2: Spirit Park Softball concrete wall and drainage lip
G2O2: Allen Station Park softball infield replacement
G2O2: Replaced backflow devices at Allen Station Park Baseball & Softball Complexes (4)
G2O2: Repainted Allen Station Baseball Field 4
G2O3: Security Camera Study
G2O4: Reworked Allen USA to make it a safer environment for families attending
G2O4: Completed Ford Park Master Plan
G2O5: Aquatic improvements to the DRAC Locker Rooms
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Goal 3: Vibrant community with lively destinations and successful commercial centers
G3O3: Opened STRC successfully; meeting staff and membership goals
G3O3: Completed Construction of Dog Park
G3O3: Replaced all windows and frames at the Blue House in Downtown
Goal
4:
High-performing City team providing resident-focused services
G4O1: Completed Sport Court Study
G4O1: Implemented HydroApps in Recreation Division
G4O3: Purchased a new beverage cart
G4O5: Implemented membership retention software and utilization for NPS
G4O5: Continued to work with the Recreation Centers on new events and ideas and establish events with STRC
Goal 5: Engaged and connected Allen community
G5O2: Continued to work with cultural organizations to incorporate them in our events throughout the year
G5O3: Created a Volunteer Annual Report
G5O3: Implemented an annual Volunteer Recognition
G5O3: Presidential Award for Volunteers
G5O5: Ford Park Master Plan Engagement
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MASTER PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Dog Park - Bark Yard
The Parks and Open Space (PROS) Master Plan identified the construction of a dog park as the #3 priority for the park system, ranking just behind shaded recreation areas and the consistently top-rated multi-purpose trails. After evaluating several potential locations, Jupiter Park was selected as the ideal central site for the project. Renamed “The Bark Yard,” Allen’s first and only dog park opened to widespread acclaim in June 2024. Thanks to an additional $350,000 contribution from the Public Art Committee, the total project budget came in at just under $2.5 million, delivering a vibrant and muchanticipated amenity to the community. Funded through 4B Sales Tax (CDC).
Security Camera Study
The department conducted a security camera study with Tru North Consulting Group. The purpose of the assessment was to evaluate the adequacy of existing video technology deployed including surveillance cameras and recording equipment. The survey included assessment for the following locations; Ford Pool, Celebration Park, Joe Farmer Recreation Center, The Edge, The Stone Dam, Don Rodenbaugh Aquatics Center, Allen Senior Recreation Center, Allen Event Center, Spirit Park, Courses at Watters Creek, Allen Heritage Center, Dayspring Pavilion, Lakeside Clubhouse, and Amenities Building. Outcomes are now reflected in the department’s 10-year Investment Plan.
Sport Court Study
As a Tier I recommendation from the PROS Master Plan, it was advised that a multi-purpose sport court needs assessment study be conducted. The purpose of this study was to evaluate our current inventory of indoor and outdoor sport courts, including basketball, volleyball, tennis, pickleball, and inline hockey. Given the growing popularity of pickleball, staff requested that the study place additional emphasis on strategies for the future development of pickleball courts. Outcomes are being incorporated into the department’s 10year Investment Plan.
Reimagining Ford Park: Ford Master Plan
Home to sports fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a playground, and more, Ford Park is one of the oldest and most-used parks in Allen. However, our community has changed a lot since it was first developed in 1986!
Through recent public input opportunities, Allen residents identified Ford Park as a top priority for redevelopment. This master planning process has given Allen Parks & Recreation a better idea of what our community envisions for this space. Knowing community priorities and preferences has helped shape construction plans.
Phase I: Community Kickoff Event
On October 5, 2023, the public input process began at a community party at Ford Park hosted by Allen Parks & Recreation. There were opportunities to share ideas and input for the park with food.
Phase II: Park Amenities Survey
More than 300 responses were collected from a survey open to the community between October 6 and October 31, 2023, allowing residents to share their thoughts and feedback on Ford Park and potential future park amenities.
Phase III: Bond Approval
On Nov. 7, 2023, voters approved four propositions to repair streets, enhance police facilities, revitalize downtown, and make improvements to Ford Park by issuing General Obligation (GO) bonds totaling $155,000,000, $17 million being for Ford Park, with no projected increase to the City tax rate.
Phase IV: Feedback and Data Analysis
The Parks & Recreation Department created a report based on the data and feedback collected from the community. This report was presented to the Parks Board and Community Development Corporation in October 2024.
Most Important Amenities from Survey:
Restrooms
Pickleball Courts
Tennis Court Updates
Playground
Natural/Open Areas
Pavilion
Boardwalk
Youth Activity Area
Tentative Project Timeline:
December 2024: Survey for Design
2025: Construction Documents
2026: Construction
2027: Park Re-opening
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
STEPHEN G. TERRELL RECREATION CENTER
GRAND OPENING: JANUARY 13, 2024
Inspiring healthy lifestyles, Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center provides 149,000 square feet of diverse fitness, recreational and leisurely activities for all ages, with topof-the-line equipment and unique amenities.
*Presale target was 2,000 memberships.
315,621
DAY PASS SALES PAID VISITS
10,343
14,640
BUDGET
Department Budget
REVENUE: $11,234,340 EXPENSE: $25,858,509
44% COST RECOVERY
General Fund
REVENUE: $6,619,098 EXPENSE: $21,384,181
Enterprise Fund - Golf Services
REVENUE: $5,015,242 EXPENSE: $4,474,327
END OF FY24 RESERVE FUND BALANCE: $3,377,209
Grants
Bonds
Collin County Parks & Open Space Funding Assistance Program: $139,428 for Watters Trail South Connection EXPENSE: $1,970,093
Community Development Corporation (CDC)
EXPENSE: $9,254,904 used for Capital Projects
DRAC Aquatic Improvements
Ford Park Master Plan
Playground Replacement
GRANT SPOTLIGHT
Rowlett Creek Trail Expansion & Watters Branch Trail
In December 2022, the City of Allen received a $3.2 million grant for the Rowlett Creek Trail, covering segments C2, C4, and C5, as outlined in the City’s 2019 Trails and Bikeways Master Plan.
With $3.2 million from TXDOT, $300,000 from TPWD, and additional sales tax funding, the $8 million initiative will fully finance the trail connection from Molsen Farm to McDermott Drive.
Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025, with completion expected within two years.
CONSERVATION
Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz
Partnered with Allen Parks Foundation, Parks for Pollinators is a national campaign to raise awareness and community involvement in the pollinator crisis through local parks and recreation organizations. During the month of September, community members were encouraged to take photos of a variety of wildlife (plants, insects, and animals) that can be found in local parks. This campaign allows the community to explore local parks, engage in environmental issues, and see how many pollinators and pollinator-friendly plants they can find.
In September 2024, 63 community members in Allen made 976 observations and identified 360 different species. This information will help inform future plant material decisions for our parks.
Arbor Day
In 1872, the Arbor Day Foundation was founded to encourage tree planting and educate people on the power of trees. Each year in October, the Forestry & Horticulture team, department leadership, city council, and the mayor invite the community to celebrate Arbor Day. The event features a tree climbing demonstration and chainsaw carvings, as well as different organizations giving out plants and take-home activities about Arbor Day.
In addition to celebrating Arbor Day, the City of Allen is one of 3,577 cities in the United States that are part of the Tree City USA community. Tree City USA displays a commitment to the environment, builds pride among community members, and positions the city as an attractive place to live. The department has been a part of this community for 26 years.
INITIATIVES
Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA)
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)’s Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) ensures quality assurance and improvement for accredited park and recreation departments. As the only national accreditation program for these agencies, CAPRA serves as a vital benchmark for assessing a department’s operational quality, management effectiveness, and community service.
In 2019, the Parks & Recreation Department pursued accreditation for the first time and successfully achieved this status. Accredited agencies must reapply every five years to confirm their adherence to CAPRA’s standards. In 2024, the department not only met all 154 standards but also earned a perfect 100% reaccreditation.
ADA Implementation
Key efforts have been made to improve accessibility and maintain safety in public spaces throughout the City of Allen. These actions were taken to ensure compliance with regulations, enhance user experience, and maintain the quality of city facilities. Both completed and ongoing projects reflect our commitment to accessibility and continuous improvement.
Repainted parking lots that were identified as out of code
Brought parking and restroom signage up to code
Added restroom coat hooks at proper heights
Added parking blocks to accessible parking spaces
Routine maintenance such as cleaning curbs/trimming trees that were deemed obstructions
In Progress
Adding urinal bars to restrooms
Crosswalk between Allen Senior Recreation Center and Allen Heritage Village
Painting ramps and parking blocks with contrast
Updating website descriptions of City of Allen parks to include accessibility information
Ribbon Cuttings
January 13, 2024: Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center
A 149,000 square-foot brand-new facility with a fully equipped fitness floor, indoor track, a vibrant playroom, indoor playground, batting cages, turf zone, concessions, catering kitchen, and golf simulator.
January 18, 2024: Sun Creature Series at Story Book Trail
In partnership with the Allen Parks Foundation and the Public Art Committee, the half-mile paved trail loop outside the Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center has been transformed into an immersive and engaging experience for visitors. This thoughtful fusion of art, nature, and storytelling creates a memorable experience that resonates with visitors of all ages. Commissioned by the Public Art Committee, the trail features five striking sculptures that greet explorers with whimsical reinterpretations of beloved Allen residents: a butterfly, bird, coyote, snail, and person. Through the support of the Allen Parks Foundation, the kiosks along the trail offer a unique self-guided experience and in collaboration with the Allen Library, visitors can enjoy a delightful children's storybook, with pages displayed at each kiosk.
January 18, 2024: VALA Art Dedication: Inspiration Avenue
The Visual Arts League of Allen (VALA) launched Inspiration Avenue, featuring its inaugural exhibit of paintings and pottery to showcase the talents of local artists.
June 4, 2024: Bark Yard Dog Park
City of Allen’s first dog park is designed with tailwagging fun in mind! Dogs are encouraged to explore, socialize, and run free in a safe and exciting environment. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a playful romp, Bark Yard is the perfect spot for dogs to unleash their joy.
Public Art
Allen began its master planning for public art in 2005. Since then, voters have approved nearly $3 million in funding to commission public art projects. These one-of-a-kind creations enhance community aesthetics and create unique use of our City's civic infrastructure. We currently have 20 commissioned pieces in our inventory.
Ten-Minute Walk
The Trust for Public Land was founded in 1972 to work with communities to create parks and protect public land where they’re most needed. To help this mission the 10-Minute Walk Program was established in 2017 to, help cities expand access and green spaces for everyone. The average distance most people are willing to walk to reach a destination is 10 minutes or roughly half a mile. The national average is 55% of residents.
within a 10-minute walk of a park by race/ethnicity
87% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park
94,051
108,128*
*Population from 2022
Park with Public Access
10-Minute Walk Service Area
Priority Areas for New Parks
within a 10-minute walk of a park by age
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Business Development Position
In 2022, the Parks & Recreation Department added the Business Development position to spearhead facility offering awareness, and membership initiatives, contributing to the department’s growth and community engagement.
Community Events Attended: Resource Fairs, Health Fairs, Golf Tournaments, Chamber of Commerce Events, Holiday Events, School Family Nights, Sporting Games, Educator Expos, Blood Drives, and more.
JCK Resources
In late 2023, JCK Resources began partnering with the Parks & Recreation Department at the Allen Senior Recreation Center. JCK Resources is a program dedicated to enhancing the lives of adults with disabilities. JCK provides internships to promote self-advocacy for participants, helping them gain independence to provide a firm foundation for life. JCK interns work three five-hour shifts per week at the Senior Center. During this time, they help at the front desk, make announcements, make reminder calls, help in the kitchen, work the coffee bar, and complete many other tasks as needed. They have shown independence and leadership and the interns and their coaches have begun to facilitate a monthly craft class for our members.
Visual Arts League of Allen
The City of Allen, in partnership with the Visual Arts League of Allen (VALA), proudly presents a vibrant and ever-changing exhibit that highlights the exceptional talent of local artists. This rotating collection, displayed at the Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center, offers a unique opportunity for the community to experience a diverse range of creative expressions. With each new rotation, visitors are invited to explore a fresh selection of artwork, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich artistic culture within the Allen area.
C.A.R.E. Program
The CARE (Citizen Assistance for Recreation Experiences) is a program offered through the Allen Parks Foundation that allows the City of Allen residents to apply for financial assistance for most recreational programs, camps, classes, and memberships.
The CARE Mission is to provide recreational opportunities through financial support to qualified Allen residents in order to promote citizen involvement, build a strong sense of community, and increase social and physical well-being.
In 2024, the CARE program assisted 51 people (12 families) with different activity enrollments throughout the department.
Parks Foundation
The Allen Parks Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose primary purpose is to further enhance Allen’s great park system and recreation facilities, expand the development of parks and recreational programming, accept land bequests and other donations by partnering with the City of Allen, other governmental partners, local organizations and groups.
Highlights for the year: Allen En Blanc, National Trails Day, and Ambassador Program,
SPECIAL EVENTS
AWARDS/ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Texas Recreation and Park Society North
Promotional, Class I
“We Love Allen” Sticker
Market Street Allen USA was scheduled for just six weeks after Allen’s May 6 mass shooting. In addition to massive safety and security measures, the Special Events team wanted to acknowledge the tragedy and remember the victims in a unique way that respectfully fit with the much-needed celebratory event. They developed a sticker for distribution at Allen USA. The sticker is red, white, and blue and reads, “We Love Allen, Texas.” It features eight stars—one for each victim.
TRAPS State
Lone Star Recreation Programming Achievement, Class II PGA HOPE Program - Solo Rider
The PGA HOPE program (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) introduces the game of golf to military veterans which incorporates lessons with professional golf trainers to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. The Courses at Watters Creek is a partner with the PGA and added this program this past year to their curriculum. To take the program to the next level, they purchased a Solo Rider Golf Cart, for those who are disabled to be able to participate in the program and the game of golf.
Organization Voluntary Service, Class II
Allen Heritage Guild
The Allen Heritage Guild is a volunteer organization that works with Allen Parks and Recreation to preserve Allen history, as well as manage and activate Allen Heritage Village, a heritage park. The Guild curates the Allen Train Depot Museum, assists with placing historical markers throughout the city, and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
TRAPS Region Maintenance Rodeo
State Maintenance Rodeo Qualifiers
Irrigation Assembly Competition
Third Place: Juan Medrano and Cameron Snider
Backpack Blowing Competition
First Place: Stephen Kursevski
Second Place: Gerardo Terrazas
PGA Metro Chapter
Golf Professional of the Year
Jeff Holt, Director of Golf
Jeff began with the City of Allen and The Courses at Watters Creek in February 2005, marking the beginning of a remarkable career dedicated to enhancing the golfing experience. During his tenure at the golf course, Jeff has consistently prioritized the people who visit, cultivating meaningful relationships with each guest. His warm and welcoming approach ensures that everyone feels valued, making their experience truly memorable and encouraging them to return time and time again.
DFW Directors
Inclusion Award, Class I
City of Allen Parks & Recreation and JCK Resources
The Allen Parks and Recreation Department prioritizes inclusivity through various creative and well-supported programs and services. Notable initiatives include a partnership with JCK Resources for adults with intellectual and development disabilities, adaptive recreation opportunities, a financial assistance program, the Recreation Enrichment Vehicle, a skate park that targets teens, and diverse park offerings that service international sports like cricket.
Southwest Park & Recreation Training Institute
TOMA for Creative Projects
Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center
Allen Parks and Recreation was honored with the 2024 TOMA Award for Best Creative Project by the Southwest Park and Recreation Training Institute for the Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center and Park project. The award recognizes the innovative design and its seamless integration of art and nature throughout both the park and the building. This marks the sixth time since 2003 that Allen Parks and Recreation has received the Creative Project TOMA.
American Society of Landscape Architects Award of Excellence
Molsen Farm Master Plan
Parkhill’s Landscape Architecture team earned the prestigious Award of Excellence for the Molsen Farm Master Plan at the annual Texas Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. This award, the highest honor in the public portion of the Design Unrealized category, marks a historic first for Parkhill
Preservation Dallas
Annual Preservation Achievement Award
The Barn at Allen Heritage Village
Preservation Dallas announced that the "Barn at the Allen Heritage Village" received the 24th Annual Preservation Achievement Award. It was recognized as one of two winning Historic Resource Projects from Collin and Denton counties. The 1,650-square-foot barn, built in the 1890s, was relocated from Anna, Texas, to Allen Heritage Village in 2022. Its hand-hewn timbers, supported by hand-carved dowels and pegs instead of steel bolts and nails, highlighted its historic craftsmanship.
Arbor Day Foundation
Tree City USA
The City of Allen is one of 3,577 cities in the United States that are part of the Tree City USA community. Tree City USA displays a commitment to the environment, builds pride among community members, and positions the city as an attractive place to live. The department has been a part of this community for 26 years.
AmeriCorps
The President’s Volunteer Service Award
This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities and inspires those around them to take action too.
Bronze Award: 100-249 hours
14 volunteers
Silver Award: 250-499 hours
3 volunteers
Gold Award: 500 hours
1 volunteer
Host for Professional Organizations
Active Net Regional User Group (RUG)
DFW Inclusion Symposium
DFW Directors
Regional TRAPS Rodeo
Collin County Trails Workshop
TRAPS State Board Meeting
TRAPS Tex-Tern
Courtney Wilson Program Supervisor
The TRAPS TEX-ternship Program enables outstanding young professionals 30 years of age and younger in the parks and recreation field to interact with and learn from members of the Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS), and other individuals who attend the TRAPS Institute and its associated meetings. Courtney was one of three individuals selected throughout the state of Texas.
Dr. Michal Anne Lord Leadership Academy
Greg Dunn, Assistant Recreation Supervisor
Shelby Griffin, Training and Volunteer Coordinator
The Academy is a year-long educational opportunity available to young industry professionals. Participants engage in 12 months of dedicated education and networking with national speakers and professionals. In addition to education, participants research Industry topics and trends and join the Society for the bi-annual Walk the Halls to promote Industry standards and ideals and share their research with Texas lawmakers. Greg and Shelby were two of sixteen selected throughout the state of Texas.
NRPA Supervisors’ Management School
Ryan Patterson, Recreation Services Manager
Supervisors' Management School is the premiere resource for parks and recreation professionals who want to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to lead their staff effectively. The courses cover various topics, including leadership principles and team management, as well as the most up-to-date techniques and information on leading, staffing, organizing, directing, and managing employees.
Engaging Local Government Leaders
Top Influencers in Local Government
Kate Meacham, Director
The recognition honors people who make a difference in their communities and the larger local government network, and who demonstrate Engaging Local Government Leaders values of joy, creativity, connection, dependability, and equity through their work and public activities.
National Recreation and Park Association
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP)
The CPRP certification is the national standard for all parks and recreation professionals who want to be at the forefront of their profession. Attaining the CPRP designation shows that you have met education and experience qualifications, and illustrates your commitment to the profession as well as your knowledge and understanding of key concepts within parks and recreation.
Jennifer Robinson, Strategic Projects Manager
Shelby Griffin, Training and Volunteer Coordinator
Joey Ramos, Park Superintendent
Miki Veliz, Facility Manager
TRAPS State Speakers
The Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) annual Institute and Expo draws over 1,000 participants, including park and recreation department directors, travel and tourism professionals, athletic and tournament coordinators, park maintenance employees, senior recreation planners, aquatic managers, elected officials, board and commission members, and more.
Allen Strong
Kyle Benedict, Assistant Director of Maintenance Building On & Off Ramps for Success
Kate Meacham, Director
Jen Robinson, Strategic Projects Manager
