RE-
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
-V IVE
DEAR FRIEND Whether it’s transforming a vacant property or
warehouse was thoughtfully restored and reopened
restoring an industrial warehouse, Buffalo Bayou
as the Warehouse at Turkey Bend. Bend Construction
Partnership (BBP) is dedicated to reviving existing
continued on other key projects, including the
spaces along the bayou into vibrant destinations
expansion of Tony Marron Park, Marron Park Way,
for all to enjoy.
and the hike and bike trail along the bayou in this area, which we are thrilled to announce will be
For nearly four decades, BBP has led the visioning,
named Kinder Trail.
planning, and creation of an expansive network of trails, parks, and unique public sites woven
In 2025, the public engaged with Buffalo Bayou
through the heart of Houston. At the center of this
spaces through a variety of dynamic programs,
work is a commitment to revitalizing the city’s
immersive art experiences, and exciting educational
historic waterway and building greater connectivity
offerings. Signature events such as the annual KBR
between communities and each other. Realizing
Kids Day and Jazzy Sundays in the Parks brought
this vision requires creativity, innovation, and belief
thousands of Houstonians to Buffalo Bayou Park in
in possibility. Reclaiming neglected landscapes and
celebration of its 10-year anniversary.
reimagining infrastructural elements are hallmarks of BBP’s approach for adaptable and sustainable
This journey of reviving public space is only
destinations that make a lasting impact.
possible through our remarkable community of donors, partners, volunteers, advocates, and
This year marked further realization of this
friends. We are deeply grateful for the people
mission as significant progress was made on
and organizations who believe in the power
projects within the Buffalo Bayou East 10-Year
of this mission and invest in the future of our
Plan. An empty lot became Garver Park, a new
city. We invite everyone to join us for a more
neighborhood green space. A former shipping
connected and greener Houston. Sincerely,
JUDY NYQUIST 2025 BOARD CHAIR
ANNE OLSON PRESIDENT
REALONG THE BAYOU EAST OF downtown, two new 10-Year Plan projects came to life in 2025.
BBP turned ten vacant acres into Garver Park, a new neighborhood green space surrounding the Lockwood on Buffalo Bayou affordable housing community with trails, wildflower meadows, native plantings, a children’s play area, and a dog park, all available to nearby residents. Much of the existing tree canopy was preserved, providing established shade trees for visitors as they meander along trails at the bayou’s edge. The ecological renewal of this landscape received a Certificate of Recognition from the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s 2025 Parks and Natural Areas Awards.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
2
-IMAGINE
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
3
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
4
BBP UNVEILED THe Warehouse AT Turkey Bend,
a former barge terminal on Navigation Boulevard reimagined as a community hub. The restored industrial building features an open-air breezeway and preserved graffiti tunnel, and will be the future home of community-based retail and Houston Public Library’s Hispanic History Research Center.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
5
Adaptive reuse is also shaping
the next phase of Turkey Bend, the expansion of Tony Marron Park, and the former gravel silos. Turkey Bend’s historic waterfront wharf will be transformed into a vibrant public plaza and boating hub. Original gantry cranes will be refurbished into dramatic site features and existing structures will be restored and activated with performances, public art, and community events.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
6
At Tony Marron Park, three existing structures are being repurposed into pavilions for shade, gathering,
play, and even barbequing. The enhanced park will also offer refurbished soccer fields, a destination children’s play area, event spaces, and public art, all to be completed in 2027.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
7
Designs came together for the silos just east of Jensen Drive along the south bank of the bayou. BBP is adapting this site into a pocket park with seating, event space for gathering, and a “gravel garden” inspired by the site’s industrial history. An adjacent, vacant lot will become Stormwater Crossing, a high-performance landscape featuring a constructed wetland for wildlife habitat and enhanced stormwater management.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
8
REGreater connectivity IS on the horizon
east of downtown between neighborhoods to the north and south of the bayou. Design is underway on two pedestrian bridges linking the Fifth Ward and Greater East End neighborhoods – the first of their kind in this area. The Kinder Bridge will extend from Japhet Creek Park to Tony Marron Park, and the Gregg Street Bridge will link the north bank to Velasco Street on the south.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
9
- CONNEC T SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS ON IMPORTANT CONNECTIONS
to downtown, Buffalo Bayou Park, and the broader city-wide trail network was made this year. In 2025, BBP broke ground on a trail segment on the south bank stretching between US-59 and Tony Marron Park. Another new trail segment is also taking shape from US-59 to Jensen Drive on the north bank of the bayou. This critical link is suspended above the bayou’s embankment, embankment rather than relying on the slope itself for support. This innovative design ensures the stability of the trail, regardless of soil erosion over time.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
10
“Houston’s rich history started on Buffalo Bayou, and it’s great to see connectivity along our historic waterway shape the city’s future too. Having access to our neighbors, businesses, and communities via the bayou is a great way to experience Houston without having to get behind the wheel and hunt for parking or sit in traffic. I think Houston’s bright future starts with community development and shared public spaces, and I can’t wait to see the expanded trail network and unique destinations that will thread together along Buffalo Bayou.”
RUBEN GARZA
Buffalo Bayou East Community Member with his pup, Roger Favorite Space: Japhet Creek Park
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
11
RE KBR KIDS DAY
Families put on their Halloween best for BBP’s annual fall festival, this year celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Buffalo Bayou Park.
UNDERGROUND SOUNDS
Four music ensembles — Sam Nester, Sarah Grace Graves, Les Cenelles, and Kurt Stallmann — created resonant, site-specific performances in the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
12
OPPORTUNITIES TO REKINDLE A CONNECTION
NIGHT LIGHT
with Buffalo Bayou or experience it for the first time were ample, from engaging digital content and nature-inspired programs to lively concerts and festivals for the whole family.
Held in partnership with Aurora Picture Show, NIGHT LIGHT illuminated the iconic former gravel silos and trails east of downtown with video art.
2025 also marked the 10-year anniversary of the transformation of Buffalo Bayou Park into one of Houston’s most iconic and beloved outdoor spaces. To celebrate this milestone, thousands flocked to the park for music, cultural activities, and unique experiences throughout the year.
2025 by the Numbers • • • •
•
Led ongoing Cistern, boat, and walking tours with more than 35,000 visitors Presented public programs with more than
18,000 participants Welcomed 39,000 guests to the Buffalo Bayou Park Visitor Center from 85 countries Hosted more than 27 venue rentals for
Jazzy Sundays in the Parks
Thousands got in the groove at The Water Works for free jazz performances in May, presented in partnership with Discovery Green and Emancipation Park Conservancy and made possible by Kinder Foundation®.
festivals, special occasions, and celebrations, bringing more than 52,000 visitors to Buffalo Bayou spaces Engaged more than 6 million digitally through social media, email, and website communications
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
13
SUMMER SPECIES
Participants of all ages learned about native plants and the important role they play through walking tours, a native plant guide, and Mark Dion’s interactive artwork, Buffalo Bayou Invasive Plant Eradication Unit.
UNTITLED ART, HOUSTON
In collaboration with Untitled Art, Houston, BBP presented Lita Albuquerque’s The Sea is Within Me, an exclusive, site-specific performance for the Cistern.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Observance
The Calmecac Indigenous Organization led participants through blessings, ceremonial dances, and traditional rituals at Eleanor Tinsley Park.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
14
- KINDL E
PUBLIC ART ABOUNDS ON BUFFALO BAYOU
WEAVING WATERS
with site-specific art installations, engaging programs encouraging connection with nature, and a new vision for a community-driven artwork rooted in collective storytelling.
Weaving Waters Artist Margarita Cabrera is envisioning Weaving Waters, a large-scale, site-specific sculpture planned for the transformed Tony Marron Park. Through a series of summer workshops, community members shared their personal or ancestral stories of water crossings and “shook hands” to create clay forms that will compose the future artwork.
Rust Garden: A Triad Harmony A nature-inspired installation came to life in Japhet Creek Park created by BBP’s 2024 Artist-inResidence, Preston Gaines. Botanical sculptural forms emerged from the landscape and were paired with interpretive panels illustrating connections between environment, culture, and community.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
RUST GARDEN: A TRIAD HARMONY
15
Witness Series Kristi Rangel, BBP’s 2025 Artist-inResidence, curated a collection of public programs and guided walks designed to cultivate an authentic and deep sense of place through drawing, art-making, contemplation, nature journaling, and close observation.
“Cultivating connection to place provides the opportunity for collective healing and resilience by encouraging communities to process their experiences — past, present, and future. Everything and anything is possible when communities come together. My art practice centers around creating intersecting bridges for placekeeping that honor communities, their cultures, and histories.”
KRISTI RANGEL
BBP Artist-in-Residence Favorite Space: Yolanda Black Navarro Buffalo Bend Nature Park
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
16
BBP EXPANDED ITS REACH
by engaging the public and partner organizations locally, regionally, and nationally. This year, BBP’s team: •
Hosted the annual Buffalo Bayou East:
•
providing updates and plans for sites along the bayou east of downtown Attended more than 40 community
•
•
A Progress Report to the Community,
meetings and outreach events
Presented the Buffalo Bayou East 10-Year Plan at the annual conference for the American
Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Texas Chapter
Participated with landscape architecture firm Reed Hilderbrand in an exhibition at the
Harvard Graduate School of Design, •
•
•
which featured a visual evolution of Turkey Bend over time Partnered with the Houston-Galveston Area Council on the Connecting Buffalo Bayou East Study, exploring opportunities for multimodal access to and from neighborhoods east of downtown Hosted tours for the Architectural League
of New York, City Parks Alliance, and the COLORES Latinos in Architecture group of AIA Houston
Celebrated the opening of a new neighboring organization to Buffalo Bayou Park, the Ismaili
Center Houston
Throughout the year, BBP’s Buffalo Bayou East Ambassadors contributed their time, guidance, and expertise as projects progressed east of downtown. Thank you to Arlinda Arriaga, Ricky Cardenas, Brittany Delafose, Bridgette Dorian, Erica Hubbard, Jessica Hulsey, Roy Lira, Ernestine Lloyd, Youletta McCullough, Mary Helen Ortega, Melanie Rodriguez, and Kimberly Satterwhite for their participation.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
17
RERESTORATION AND STEWARDSHIP GO HAND IN HAND
as BBP’s Green Space and Waterway Maintenance teams ensure that the bayou and surrounding public spaces remain clean, accessible, and beautiful, year-round.
As new parks and trails come to fruition east of downtown, BBP will begin to care for these sites as well. To house an expanded Green Space Maintenance staff as well as the Waterway Maintenance program, construction continued on the Mike Garver Maintenance Headquarters, a new facility on the west end of Tony Marron Park, slated to open in 2026.
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
18
-STORE 2025 by the Numbers • • • •
•
•
“Being a deckhand on the Bayou-Vac has given me a front row seat to what really goes on in the waterway. I see firsthand how much debris, trash, and natural build-up collects in the bayou and how quickly it can impact water flow and safety if it’s not maintained properly. It’s made me realize how important our job is in keeping the bayou functional and safe for the community.”
Planted more than 550 trees Seeded more than 7 acres with wildflowers Engaged 2,479 volunteers who contributed 7,286 hours of service Removed 2,297 cubic yards of trash and debris from the bayou, equaling 191
commercial dump truck loads Hosted 12 waterway clean up events with community organizations and corporate partners Completed landscaping projects and facility upgrades at Sesquicentennial Park, Jane Gregory Garden, Rosemont Bridge, Lost Lake, and The Water Works
Trey Dennis
Buffalo Bayou Partnership Field Technician Favorite Space: Port of Houston Turning Basin
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
19
DONORS GENERAL OPERATIONS
$100,000 KBR
$10,000-35,000 Bank of America Charitable Foundation Ann Blankinship The Gordon A. Cain Foundation The Clayton Fund Electra and Douglas Elliott George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation Port Houston REI Cooperative Action Fund Allison Sarofim TotalEnergies Susan Vaughan Foundation
$1,000-6,000 Lisa Young and Matt Assiff Marianne Snow Campbell and Ben Campbell Nicole and Brian Cates Chevron Matching Employee Funds Allyson P. and Stephen C. Cook The Crain Foundation Margaret Culbertson Kathryn and Leon de Sousa Erik Dilts Lee Doggett Downtown Houston+ David Ellis Harriet and Joe Foster Foundation Gardenia Foundation Fund Blanca Avery and Chuck German Ruth and Rusty Gorman Kay and David Hedges Gena and David Helm Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation Janet and Fred J. Heyne III Houck Family Foundation Lee Huber Elizabeth Hedden and Gerald Isaac Jill and Dunham Jewett Kathy and Randy Lake Laura Lambert Iris Tian and Tim Latimer Shelli and Steven Lindley Robert J. Lorio Frances Lummis Linh Nguyen and Fred Marshall Gretchen S. and Andrew R. McFarland Susan and David G. Miclette Judy and Scott Nyquist Kelly Apple and Jason Orsak
Cindy and B. Kelley Parker III Pamela and James Pool R & G Fund Carrie and Michael St. Croix Gillian Stude Sarofim Vivian L. Smith Foundation Janet and H.J. Springer Keith & Mattie Stevenson Foundation Strake Foundation Anne A. Symonds in memory of Susan Keeton Tellepsen in honor of Anne Olson and Ian Rosenberg Nancy P. Thompson Williams Companies Teresa and Jimmy Wong Family Foundation Ellen A. Yarrell
$100-999 Brian Alcott Mark Anderson Anonymous in memory of Glen Rosenbaum Courtney and Acho Azuike Leticia Bailey Victoria Bailey Larissa Lindsay and W. Stuart Bailey in memory of Susan Keeton Freddie A. Bartels Kim Winston and John Baumgartner in memory of Susan Keeton Belinda and Christopher Beale Chris Bilton The Bonsells in memory of Susan Keeton Peter Borches Julie and Richard Boushka Fernando L. Brave Brazos Valley Chapter NSDAR in honor of Trudi Smith Richard L. Brooks in memory of Susan Keeton Derrick Brown Belle Burden in memory of Susan Keeton Annabelle J. Burguiere Sola Cardoso Gayl and Chuck Carlberg Brielle and Wes Cauley Chevron Phillips Chemical Company Evans and Charlie Christ Barbara Chrzanowska Sallie Morian and Michael Clark Stephanie Coates Brandon Cofield Ken Council Richard P. Dawson Cynthia Dehlavi Dept. Landscape Architecture and Urban Design Emily Coalson and John Dilger
Andy DiRaddo Jen Morgan and Andrew Donnalley Tuff Donovan Linda Shead and Tom Douglas Helen and Gary Dowling Fareed Elhaj Deb and Kevin Elm in honor of Richard P. Dawson EOG Resources, Inc. Zion Escobar Gayle and Robert M. Eury
Caroline and Jeremy Finkelstein Sarah Newbery and Garrett Finney Stephen Fox in memory of Susan Keeton Nelly Moyano Fraga Deborah Wandel Francis in honor of Anne Olson Ann L. and J. Kent Friedman in memory of Susan Keeton Rae Friedman Michelle Galindo Joshua Galvan Jackie and Robert Gates Rebecca M. Gentry Ashton Gilliard Goldman, Sachs & Co. Matching Gift Program Salena Gonzalez Justin T. Graves Rita and Mike Grogan Groundswell Emma Guarnero Akash Gupta Sarah Gurrib Barbara B. Harberg in memory of Susan Keeton Maarit and W. Russell Harp John Haskins Kathryn Hayward Kate and Joe Hood Stacy and Scott Humphries Insperity Karen and Dallas Ives Sis Johnson in memory of Susan Keeton Carole Johnston JPMorgan Chase Foundation William Keeton in memory of Susan Keeton Keller Williams Memorial Scott Kelley Mary Hinojosa Kelly and Bill Kelly Bryce Hairston Kennard Marie Louise and David Kinder Andre and Michael Koester in memory of Susan Keeton Kroger Molly and Duncan Lamme Carolyn and Paul Landen in honor of Lynn and Ty Kelly Laura and Barry Leavitt Mitzi Levine Virginia Lew
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP REGATTA
Over 650 paddlers took to the bayou for the 53rd Annual Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta on March 22, the largest canoe and kayak race in Texas! After the 15-mile paddle, participants celebrated at the finish line party at Allen’s Landing. This year’s event marked the twelfth consecutive year that Gillman Subaru has served as the Presenting Sponsor. Evan Douglas Lewis Olivia Djibo and Olivier Lhommet Lick Honest Ice Creams Karl Long Mike Lu in memory of Scott Craig Lucas/Eilers Design Edward Main Rebecca Markley in memory of Susan Keeton Elena and Kenneth Marks in memory of Hasty Johnson Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty Laura Devitt and Stephen Massad Catherine and Matt Matthews Marla Mauricio Leigh McBurnett Judy and Dan McClure in memory of Susan Keeton Debra McCoy Colin and Kelsey McCulley McGraw Hill Financial Anne Mendelsohn Dawna and Tom Menges Timothy Miller Patricia Hunt and Joseph Milton Adrienne and Matt Moeller Yael and Gopi Mohan Jane Moore in memory of Susan Keeton Noni Mrok Steven John Murray Elaine J. Matte Mut and Alan D. Mut Shellie Natho Kim Nettles
20
Karen and Mark Newell Virginia G. Hodge and Bruce F. Nichols Evelyn Thomas Nolen in memory of Hasty Johnson Ciara Ortega Jessica Parfait Gayatri Parikh, Breathe and Bloom HTX Charlie Parker Dorothy and Malcolm Paterson Helena Patten Terri Patton Carrie and Al Pepi Nate Pettibone Pflugfelder Family Kristen and Carlo Pippolo Linda Powers Amy Purvis Harris Reid MJ and Douglas Rephlo in honor of Michele Nezi Marvin Jorge M. Rivas Lee and Gary L. Rosenthal in memory of Susan Keeton Jane Southern Rucker Judy and Henry Sauer Jamie Scherbeh Rebecca Estrada and Craig Schofer Maggie Segrich Shell Oil Company Foundation Matching Gifts Program Sherwood Forest Home & Garden Club Ellen C.L. Simmons in memory of Susan Keeton
Ginny and L.E. Simmons in memory of Susan Keeton Becky Houston and Nat Smith Leigh and Reggie Smith Mary H. Cook and Scott R. Spencer in memory of Susan Keeton Nicholas Stillman Julie and Richard Strouse Annabel Sweeney Dana Sweet-Marchese David Swenson
Ushma Tamboli Mark Taylor Jennifer and Tadd Tellepsen Andrea C. Teoh Jenna Thomas Kelley and David Tobin Emily L. Todd Kathleen Tomasovich Mary Anne Piacentini and Drexel Turner Lynden Alexis Unger Sergio Manuel Vazquez Caroline and Bill Vetterling John E. Walsh, Jr. Susan and Terry Wheeler Jo Ann Williams Joshua Williams Amy Willis Jennifer R. Wittman and L. Fabian Worthing, III Pascale Rucker and Jeff Ziga
The Fay School Freese and Nichols Marie Louise and David Kinder Page Turtlebox Audio
$100-500 Kimberly and Bradley Dennison Millis Development and Construction Orsted Pape-Dawson Engineers SWCA Environmental Consultants Elizabeth D. Williams
IN-KIND Bubbl’r Harris County Flood Control District Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management AUXCOMM Group Harris County Precinct 4 Houston Parks & Recreation Department Katz Coffee Mayor’s Office of Special Events Mendocino Farms Raising Cane’s Saint Arnold Brewing Company TEXSAR US Army Corps of Engineers
IN-KIND Baker Botts Barbacana Burger Bodega Flora Mexican Kitchen Giant Texas Distillery Henderson & Kane Houston Groove Society Kin Dee Thai Cuisine McKinsey & Company Monarch Hospitality Quick Draw Photobooth Saint Arnold Brewing Company
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP REGATTA, MARCH 22, 2025
KBR KIDS DAY OCTOBER 19, 2025
$15,000-50,000 H-E-B KBR
$2,500-7,500 Conely Foundation Gillman Jeep McDonald’s Houston
IN-KIND 365 Things to Do in Houston Houston Family Magazine Houston Parks & Recreation Department
$10,000-27,000 Gillman Subaru Pate Garver Subaru of America, Inc. Share the Love Campaign
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP GALA: MILESTONES IN MOTION NOVEMBER 6, 2025
$1,000-5,000
$10,000-25,000
BKO AI Brazos Valley Chapter DAR British International School of Houston DCCM
Irene and Brian Binash Polly and Murry Bowden Susan and Tom Dawson C.M. Garver
Jennifer and Paul Gregory in honor of Richard P. Dawson H-E-B Hines Kinder Foundation® John P. McGovern Foundation Sally and Robert E. Meadows Monica and Bradley Radoff Leslie and Shannon Sasser Melissa and Doug Schnitzer Anne Whitlock and Michael Skelly Meg and Dick Weekley
$2,500-7,500 Edward R. Allen III The Allen Development Barbara Amelio Asakura Robinson Julie and Seth Barrett Bellows Construction BoyarMiller Barbara Burger The Carlberg Family Lynn S. Carpenter CenterPoint Energy Wendy and Shawn W. Cloonan Concept Neighborhood Ann Marie and Mark Cover Kimberly and Joe Dang Richard P. Dawson/Dawson Estes Landscape Architecture The Duncan Fund East River Estrada Hinojosa The Goodman Corporation Guy Hagstette Ann Lents and David Heaney Ismaili Council Kellie Jenks Sis Johnson Emily Keeton Lynn and Ty Kelly Marie Louise and David Kinder The Lindley Family Foundation Cornelia C. Long Marley Lott Frances Lummis in honor of Kelly Buckner Nyquist and Family Michele and Paul Marvin Catherine and Matt Matthews Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates Moffatt & Nichol Cullen Geiselman Muse Alisha N. Nathoo Judy and Scott Nyquist Carrie and Al Pepi Susan and Renato Pereira Poarch Family Foundation Port Houston Isla and T.R. Reckling III Beth Robertson Sharon and Carlos Ruiz
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
21
COCKTAILS IN BLOOM
Two hundred bayou enthusiasts flocked to the iconic Lost Lake in Buffalo Bayou Park for the fourth annual Cocktails in Bloom on May 14. Cool cocktails, including Flora’s signature margaritas, tasty bites from local favorites, and live music made for a beautiful spring soirée. SKA Consulting, LP Johnny Steele SWA Group Hilary Tyson Laurie and Doug Vander Ploeg Walter P Moore Lea Weingarten Sallie and Bob Wright Liz and Andrew Ziccardi
$1,000-2,499 Christina and Matt Altenau Zane Anderson Lisa Young and Matt Assiff Veronica Avila Carol and Larry Barbour in honor of Richard P. Dawson Mary and Marcel Barone Ann Blankinship Minnette and Peter Boesel Elizabeth Bowes Cecily and Rick Burleson CAPTRUST Ben Carey The Chapman Family Emily and Kevin Clock in honor of Richard P. Dawson John B. Connally IV Dept. Landscape Architecture and Urban Design Ewan Dinsdale Marsha and Sam Dodson Gaynell Floyd Drexler Kathryn and Gary Dudley Clayton Erikson Monty Eubank Shari and Tom Fish Bolivar “Bo” M. Fraga
Gallagher Frank Billingsley and Kevin Gilliard Gillman Automotive Group Deborah Knapp Gonzalez-Falla Harris County Sports and Convention Corporation Kathy and Alex Johnson Jay Jones and Terry Wayne Jones JP Morgan Private Bank Elizabeth and Drew Kanaly in honor of Richard P. Dawson Katherine L. Kohlmeyer Judy and Craig Mabrito Tara McNeill Lainie Gordon and David Mincberg in honor of Lynn and Ty Kelly Ginni and Richard Mithoff Adrienne and Matt Moeller Sara and Bill Morgan in honor of Sis Johnson, Nancy and Rich Kinder, and Judy Nyquist Audrey Moses PMG - Vladimir Naranjo New Hope Housing Kathleen and Rufus Oliver in honor of Sallie and Bob Wright Anne and Tom Olson Carrin F. Patman Erin and Adrian Patterson Carol and Dan Price Winifred and Carleton Riser Lillie Robertson Buffi and Bruce Robinson Beth and Chase Robison in honor of Richard P. Dawson Tricia and Steve Rosencranz in honor of Lynn and Ty Kelly Shirley and Greg Rosin
Edwin Rumsey Lynn and John Russell Hulda C. Schubert Terri and Joseph Schwartz Dennis M. Lyons and Wayne L. Smith Frances Carter Stephens and Nicholas C. Stephens Suzi and Doug Swanson in honor of Richard P. Dawson Anne A. Symonds Judy and Charles Tate Abigail and Joe Thomas Billie and Richard Thompson Beth and Jim Wiggins Geraldina I. and Scott W. Wise Cyvia G. Wolff
$100-999 Ann P. Watson and James E. Allison, III Jonni and Stanley Almoney Leslie and Kit Ashby Melissa and Sanjay Bapat Claire P. Caudill Virginia and Jack Chandler Laura Conely Don Connelly Thomas Cordell Sharon R. Cunningham Madeleine and John Elmer in honor of Lynn and Ty Kelly Catharine and Grant Faulconer Edward Finger in honor of Richard P. Dawson Elaine Finger in honor of Lynn and Ty Kelly Cece and Mack Fowler Amy and Blair Garrou Bradley Houston in honor of Sis Johnson Stacy and Scott Humphries Frances and Rick Jeter in honor of Richard P. Dawson Suzanne Johnson in honor of Richard P. Dawson Mary Hinojosa Kelly and Bill Kelly Ann and Tom Kelsey Belen Kennedy David Brantley and Samir Khushalani George C. Lancaster in honor of Richard P. Dawson Holly Lang in honor of Alisha Nathoo Dustin Learned Nancy Manderson Sandra and Barry McBurnett Susie and Skip McGee Anne and Jack Moriniere Melanie Musgrove Roksan Okan-Vick Meredith Raine Lisa Roy Arati and Anu Saha Kyttie and Bentley Sanford Christine Schlenker
Ann and Howard Schramm Anne and Bruce Schwartz Leigh and Reggie Smith José Solís Alice Timmins in honor of Lynn and Ty Kelly Katherine and Pablo Valdez Lorraine Wulfe in honor of Anne Olson and Trudi Smith
IN-KIND Any Occasion Tents & Events Bergner & Johnson Design City of Houston City Kitchen Catering Giant Texas Distillery H-E-B Houston First Corporation Houston Parks & Recreation Department LD Systems Saint Arnold Brewing Company Smartwater Topo Chico Total Wine & More Wholesale Gardens
MEMBERSHIP
$1,000-2,500 Vivian Ho and Richard Boylan Nita and Will Butcher Jack Dexter Sidney and Albert B. Fay, Jr. Ruth and Rusty Gorman Shirley Bludau and Mike Grimes BJ Gill and Robby Guthart Monica Hartland Laura and Steve Jones Jan-Claire Phillips and Jerry Kendall Meredith and Landon Kruse Ginu Kuncheria Stephanie and Richard Langenstein Claire and Andy Madden Michele and Paul Marvin Catherine and Matt Matthews Jennifer and Ben McClure Mary Ann and Mark Miller Judy and Scott Nyquist Carol and Cliff Pearson Isla and T.R. Reckling III Buffi and Bruce Robinson Margaret Rochs Shirley and Greg Rosin Alana Spiwak and Sam Stolbun Jill and Charlie Talisman Teresa and Michael Thomas Mollie and Kent Wallace Sallie and Bob Wright
$75-500 Cheryl Huffman and Amer Ahmed Sarah Allen Ally Arias Arlinda Arriaga Leslie Ausucua Anthony D. Banks Saurabh Bansal Gary Baumgartner Diane and Greg Bennett Adrienne Saxe and Andrew Borches
Jacques Borisewitz Katherine and Christian Brock Claire and Dick Brooks Bret Broussard Michi Heckler and Chris Burbridge Maria Burdick Ricky Cardenas, Jr. Sarah Caress Emily Myers and Diego Castaño Ashley and Gonzalo Castro Peter Cayea Libby and Mitch Cheney Sallie Morian and Michael Clark Sandra Cook Michael L. Cox Flo Crady Meredith Daly Bridgette Dorian Allyn Dukes Susan and John Entwistle Tracy Everist Athena Try and Noah Fons Jan and Bill Glazner Glenwood Cemetery Nancy Greig Peter Griffiths Guy Hagstette John Hart Mary Henderson Marissa Hernandez Baxter Hollingsworth Paul G. Homeyer Bernadette Feezor and Jeffrey Hopkins Carla and David Hoyer Erica Hubbard Jessica Castillo Hulsey James Hurley Jerosh Jacob Sharon and Larry Jacobs Meera Jagannathan Joan and Richard Jennings Pat and David Jones Marie Kaminski Ann Harris and Pam Karter Mary Hinojosa Kelly and Bill Kelly Mary Choroszy and Mark Kelly Sidra Khan Patty Kleinknecht Cindee and Curtis Klement Koppert Household Kayla and Jim Lehmann
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
MEMBERS & PATRONS
In addition to unique opportunities from community partners around town, BBP Members enjoyed perks for signature events like the Regatta and Cocktails in Bloom as well as VIP treatment for Jazzy Sundays in the Parks.
BBP supporters were invited to a special reception and preview of the completed Warehouse at Turkey Bend in October. Frances Nguyen and Luke Lewis Alan Lindsey Roy Lira Ernestine Lloyd Anne and Cliff Mabry Charlotte MacKinnon Sheila Marshall Carolie E. Martin Laura Devitt and Stephen Massad Leigh McBurnett Teresa J. McCanlies William McCarthy Youletta J. McCullough Lenee and Jeff McDonald
22
Michael McGinity Eric McIntire Susan and Bill McMillian Alicia Miller Crista and Gary Miller Travis Mohle Caitlin Monteith Chandler Morris Elizabeth Casey and Ryan Mueller Janice and Philip Muhm Jennifer Murray Mindy Travillian and Ivan Musser Rufi Natarajan Linda Neely-Shelmire
Anthony C. Oaks Mary Helen Ortega Cheri Outler Christa Clarke and Jacob Owolabi Jessica Palmer Esther and Gary Polland Darryl Herzik and Armin Porter Melanie Rodriguez Cheryle Ross Jane and William Rucker Rebecca Rush
Kimberly E. Satterwhite Jamie Scherbeh Beth and Michael Schneider Holly Heuer and Peter Schneider David Sikes Martin Simon Paul Smithwick and Greyson the Houston History Hare Priscilla Soto Stephanie Willis and John Spath Joetta Stevenson Nicollette Stewart Cathy Troisi and Ric Stoll Annabel Sweeney Monica Tonissoo Laura N. Torgerson Babs Townsley Shante and Josh Wagner Brenda Williams and William Walvoord Lindsay Hart and Albert Warburton Ruth and Jason Wintz Kenny Rogers and David Wright Nancy and John Youens Pascale Rucker and Jeff Ziga
$100-500 Baker Hughes Foundation Carrie and David Brown Peter Cayea Debbie and Stuart Diamond Graylog Inc Drew Harlien Dr. Brendan and Maria Lee Judy Nyquist in honor of Scott Nyquist Reed Smith LLP Shirley and Greg Rosin
BUFFALO BAYOU EAST
PUBLIC ART AND PROGRAMMING
$15,000-50,000
Shell Oil Company Foundation Matching Gifts Program
$180,000 The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation
$27,500-75,000 John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation Houston Arts Alliance VIA Art Fund
$2,000-5,000 Lisa Young and Matt Assiff Mara and Erick Calderon Jereann Chaney Adrienne and Matt Moeller
WATERWAY MAINTENANCE
$434,000 GREEN SPACE AND TRAIL MAINTENANCE
$2,940,000 Downtown Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ #3
$10,000-50,000 Bosch Community Fund Chevron Enbridge Motiva Enterprises LLC Velma Guy Tolbert The Wortham Foundation, Inc.
$1,000-5,000 EOG Resources, Inc. Cheryl and Jim Lerdal Nicholas T. Pendley Memorial Fund S&P Global Foundation Tallgrass MLP Telios Corporation VLS Environmental Solutions, LLC
Harris County Flood Control District
$10,000-85,000 Cheniere CITGO Phillips 66 Port Houston SM Energy TC Energy Waste Management
$1,000-3,000 Environmental Fund of Texas ExxonMobil Corporation Katherine Furse
$100-999 Arena Energy Foundation Lisa and Joe Bender Barbara Cooney Chris Foyt Marty Harden in memory of Jay Harden Terracon Consultants Inc.
$1,000,000-5,000,000 Anonymous The Carruth Foundation, Inc. The Cullen Foundation Sarofim Foundation
$100,000-550,000 MD Anderson Foundation
CenterPoint Energy Foundation Emily Keeton Radoff Family Anne Whitlock and Michael Skelly
Ralph B. Abendshein AmeriMex Motor & Controls Higar Holdings, LLC Marie Louise and David Kinder Laura Keeton McVey and Henry McVey
$500-5,000 Asset Living Maire and David Baldwin Jeff Cohen in honor of Michael Skelly Julie and Ian Rosenberg Vulcan Materials Company
IN-KIND Amandes PLLC Kinder Foundation®
By 2032, Buffalo Bayou Partnership and its partners will realize the Buffalo Bayou East 10-Year Plan, bringing parks, trails, bayou-crossing bridges, affordable housing, cultural destinations, and infrastructure improvements to the Greater East End and Fifth Ward. This visionary plan is made possible by a $100 million catalyst gift from the Kinder Foundation® to Buffalo Bayou Partnership, which leveraged significant public support from Harris County and the City of Houston, including Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone funds.
Donors listed include gifts and pledges of $100 or more made during the fiscal year January 1 to December 31, 2025. Commitments are recognized in full at the time of the pledge. Every effort was made to ensure that the information published is accurate and reflects the requests of individual donors. Should you wish to report a concern regarding information listed, please email giving@buffalobayou.org.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
23
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP GALA
More than 400 guests gathered outdoors for the annual Buffalo Bayou Partnership Gala on November 6. Co-chaired by Richard P. Dawson and Lynn and Ty Kelly, pictured with BBP President Anne Olson, the evening celebrated Milestones in Motion. Nancy and Rich Kinder and Mayor John Whitmire, pictured top, joined the BBP Gala to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the transformation of Buffalo Bayou Park and progress being made to extend the vital green space network east of downtown.
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents Prepaid expenses and other receivables Land held for sale Contributions receivable, net Governmental grant receivables Other Endowment investments Property, net Note receivable TOTAL ASSETS
2025 $ 66,624,179 890,304 108,258 257,155 5,401,469 17,488,054 50,232,060 9,950,000 $ 150,951,479
as of December 31, 2025
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS LIABILITIES Accounts payable and accrued expenses Construction payable Deferred revenue Deferred land lease Note payable Deferred payment loan
2025 $ 1,000,052 4,491,323 456,979 1,407,692 2,256,558 9,950,000
TOTAL LIABILITIES
$ 19,562,604
NET ASSETS Without donor restrictions With donor restrictions
$ 33,628,424
TOTAL NET ASSETS
$ 131,388,875
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
$ 150,951,479
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
24
97,760,451
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES REVENUE Fees and program revenues: Contract service fees Park rentals and fees Contributions: Government agencies Nonfinancial assets Other Special events Cost of direct donor benefits Investment income Gain on sale of land Other income
as of December 31, 2025
WITHOUT DONOR RESTRICTIONS
WITH DONOR RESTRICTIONS
$ 4,322,185
$ 4,322,185
1,265,033
1,265,033 $ 2,733,216
2,733,216
4,197
176,290
180,487
881,854
37,825,171
38,707,025
739,793
739,793
(194,127)
(194,127)
306,722
4,790,742
5,097,464
664,690
664,690
390,708
390,708
TOTAL REVENUE
8,381,055
Redesignation and transfers Net assets released from donor restrictions
(196,095)
196,095
21,100,627
(21,100,627)
$ 29,285,587
$ 24,620,887
TOTAL
TOTAL
45,525,419
53,906,474
$ 53,906,474
EXPENSES Buffalo Bayou development, maintenance and park programming Management and general Fundraising
29,696,117
29,696,117
884,001
884,001
522,348
522,348
TOTAL EXPENSES
31,102,466
31,102,466
CHANGES IN NET ASSETS Net assets, beginning of year
(1,816,879)
24,620,887
22,804,008
35,445,303
73,139,564
108,584,867
NET ASSETS, END OF YEAR
$ 33,628,424
$ 97,760,451
$ 131,388,875
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
25
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR
Judy Nyquist
VICE CHAIR
Anne Whitlock
TREASURER
Carlos A. Ruiz
SECRETARY
Andrew P. Ziccardi
Ralph Abendshein Christina Altenau Matthew J. Assiff Veronica Avila Acho Azuike Seth M. Barrett Chris Bilton Brandon Cofield, Sr. Jerry Davis Zion Escobar Bolivar M. Fraga Lisa Helfman Kellie R. Jenks Emily Keeton Mary Hinojosa Kelly Bryce Hairston Kennard Samir Khushalani Marie Louise Kinder Jana Pink Kusin Tim Latimer Catherine Adams Matthews Adrienne Moeller Alisha N. Nathoo Erin Patterson Carrie B. Pepi Monica Hoz de Vila Radoff Frem Reggie Carter Stern
CHAIRS EMERITUS
EX-OFFICIO
Toni Beauchamp* Chuck Carlberg Brady F. Carruth Shawn W. Cloonan Collin J. Cox Gaynell Floyd Drexler Thomas Fish Mike Garver Dennis Greer Artie Lee Hinds* Sis Johnson Susan Keeton* Dr. Manuel Pacheco Bob Phillips F. Max Schuette* Raymond Snokhous* Jeff Taylor Georgia Wilson
Mayor John Whitmire City of Houston
*Deceased
BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP
Judge Lina Hidalgo Harris County Kenneth Allen Houston Parks and Recreation Department Loren J. Blanchard, Ph.D. University of Houston-Downtown Allen Douglas Downtown Redevelopment Authority Commissioner Rodney Ellis Harris County Precinct One Erik A. Eriksson Port Houston Commissioner Adrian Garcia Harris County Precinct Two Roksan Okan-Vick, FAIA Houston First Vonn Tran City of Houston Planning and Development Department Elijah J. Williams Harris County Flood Control District
26
STAFF ADMINISTRATION Anne Olson President Karla Camacho Marketing and Communications Coordinator Lesley Eiermann Landscape Project Manager Karen Farber Vice President of External Affairs Caitlin Ferrell Marketing and Communications Manager Baldemar Gonzalez Senior Project Manager Darryl Herbert Controller Rebecca Leija Database and Office Coordinator Michele Nezi Marvin Vice President of Finance and Administration
as of December 31, 2025
José Solís Project Manager
LANDSCAPE OPERATIONS
VENUE AND VISITOR SERVICES
Alan Velazquez Community Engagement Manager
Daniel Campa Fatima Salinas Cantor Darwin Ariel Martinez Escalon Rafael Garcia-Ramirez Isaias Guerrero-Ramirez Juan Hernandez Silvestre Lopez Martin Manzo David Mayberry Mustaq Mohammed Frank Moreno Genesis Acosta Salinas Carlos Barahona Salinas Alberto Sanchez Jose Sanchez Matthew Torres
Alison Duran Venue and Visitor Services Supervisor
WATERWAY MAINTENANCE
Rafael Martinez Cistern Attendant
Robby Robinson Field Operations Manager
Adriana Marquez Morales Cistern Attendant
Trey Dennis Field Operations Technician
Marcela Strane Cistern Attendant
Brett Farley Field Operations Mechanic
Austin Warren Visitor Services Coordinator
Ned McQuarn Field Operations Technician
Irmi Willcockson Visitor Services Coordinator
Megan Wright Grants Manager
GREEN SPACE MAINTENANCE Joe Rodriguez Park Director Toni Estrada Office Manager Joel Guerrero, Jr. Facilities Manager Emma Long Conservation Technician Steve Parker Volunteer Manager Jeff Parkinson Zone Supervisor
Leigh McBurnett Vice President of Development
Alvaro Rangel Zone Supervisor
Ian Rosenberg Senior Vice President of Capital Projects and Planning
Florensio Tijerina Zone Supervisor
Natchaya Schyma Capital Projects Associate
Julien Treviño Conservation Technician
David Rivers Field Operations Foreman Roberto Ruiz Field Operations Technician
Trudi Smith Director of Programming
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
27
Lucy Briand Venue Coordinator Misael Calderon Cistern Attendant Rosemarie Croll Cistern Coordinator Jamie Gonzalez Cistern Attendant Manuel Martinez Cistern Attendant
MISSION
Buffalo Bayou Partnership creates and stewards welcoming parks, trails, and unique spaces, connecting Houstonians with our city’s most significant natural waterway.
VISION
We envision Buffalo Bayou as a unifying and transformative force for Houston.
IMAGE CREDITS Calmecac Indigenous Organization Nicki Evans April Frazier Houston-Galveston Area Council Sunil Kumar Michael Flanagan and Nicole McDonald Peter Molick MVVA Daniel Ortiz Anthony Rathbun Reed Hilderbrand SWA Group Melissa Taylor Waggonner & Ball Zainob+Mathew Create
Designed by ICDB Studio
1019 COMMERCE STREET, SUITE 200
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77002
713.752.0314
BUFFALOBAYOU.ORG
@BUFFALOBAYOU
-V IVE
buffalobayou.org