APRIL 2025
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
26
28 32
A LONE STAR LEGACY PARK BRISON PARK
Brison Park, the frst park created in the City of College Station, was offcially designated as a Lone Star Legacy Park by the Texas Recreation & Park Society (TRAPS) at the organization's annual Institute & Expo. Lone Star Legacy Parks hold special prominence in Texas communities. To qualify, the park must have endured the test of time and be iconic to those who have visited, played, and rested on its grounds.
Since 2012, TRAPS has recognized 78 parks with the prestigious designation. Brison Park will join treasured green spaces such as Austin's Zilker Park, the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens, New Braunfels' Landa Park, Houston's Memorial Park, and the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden. The staff nominated Brison Park in coordination with Sherry Frisk of the Historical Preservation Committee. We plan to nominate Gabbard, Thomas, and other parks in our system in the next few years.
FOOD TRUCK WEDNESDAY
APRIL 9 & 23
Treat yourself to a delicious meal from local food trucks this spring at the Wolf Pen Creek Festival Site.
We’ll announce the food trucks on the city’s Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) pages the Monday before each event. Cash and credit card payments are accepted, and you can enjoy music and yard games while savoring your meal.
Food truck vendors interested in participating should contact Recreation Supervisor Luis Perez at 979-764-3649 or lperez@cstx.gov.
COLLEGE STATION
BIRD CITY FACTS
Did you know?
Most bird migration happens at night!
Migrating birds are often confused by lights whose refection and glare can obscure windows, making them appear safe places to pass through. Other birds get lost and fy around until dawn, wasting muchneeded energy to continue migration. The City of College Station turns the lights off during Lights Out migration times in all non-essential buildings.
To learn how you can help, read our blog: Lights Out Nights initiative aims to protect birds migrating through College Station at night
ARTIFICIAL TURF PROJECT COMPLETE
Construction is complete on the artifcial turf replacement project on Fields 7 and 8 at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex. New fencing has been installed to address ongoing feral hog intrusions. The turf features in-laid markings to accommodate multiple sports, including full-size soccer, youth soccer, and 7-on-7 football.
Portions of the removed turf were repurposed on-site to stabilize a washout area, and additional material will be used to upgrade batting cages throughout the parks system.
Hop into spring at CSPD's Annual Easter Celebration!
Get ready for a fun-flled morning at one of College Station’s most beloved spring traditions! The Annual Easter Celebration, hosted by the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum in partnership with the College Station Police Department, is set to bring joy to children and families on Saturday, April 12 from 9:30 a.m. - noon at the George Bush Presidential Center grounds.
The free event is open to children ages 9 and under and promises an exciting lineup of activities, including an Easter egg hunt, carnival games, face painting, balloon animals, complimentary refreshments, and a chance to take photos with the Easter Bunny.
Parking is free in Lots 111 and Fan Field (the gravel lot off Research Parkway). Please note that Barbara Bush Drive will close at 9 a.m., so attendees should enter through Research Park.
CSPD Honors Outstanding Service
Recently, the College Station Police Department celebrated the dedication, courage, and service of our incredible staff—offcers, professional staff, and volunteers—at the annual awards banquet.
The event is more than just an awards ceremony; it’s a chance to recognize those who go above and beyond to protect, serve, and support our community every day. The following individuals were recognized for their outstanding service in 2024.
LIFE SAVING AWARDS
K9 Offcer Matthew Newton
Offcer Taylor Tindel
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Rick Price
COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR OF THE YEAR
Kayla Stribling
CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR
Ana Pachuca
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Offcer Zachary Johns
OUTSTANDING UNIT OF THE YEAR
Traffc (Motors)
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
Lt. Sean Beatty
POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Corp. Michael Pohl
Congratulations to all winners and nominees!
Dog owners always look for opportunities to take their four-legged friends beyond their backyards for some healthy outdoor exercise. In College Station, that’s an easy task.
We have 56 dog-friendly parks with 1,895 beautiful acres to experience. That means you can explore a new park every week for a year!
Dogs are required to be leashed in most of our parks – and please clean up after them. If you want a little more running room, check out our off-leash dog parks that offer benches, shaded areas, and open spaces for your dog to run and socialize.
COLLEGE STATION DOG PARKS
Barracks Park has a fenced-in recreational area with benches and a covered shelter for owners to relax while their pups play. In addition, you can keep them hydrated with the convenient fountains at the side of the park.
University Park has opportunities for small and large dogs with separate fenced-in play areas. It also has a walkway through the woods that leads to a large pond
where your pup can cool off, swim, and frolic with the other dogs. The park also boasts an agility obstacle course in the large dog area and a wash and hydration station.
Steeplechase is a 1.5-acre fenced-in area where your pup can release all that pent-up energy. A 0.2-mile walking loop sits just inside the fence, so you can also get your steps in. When your dog needs a quick rinse, a wash and hydration station is available, so don’t forget your towel. Your kids can have fun with a nearby play unit and a basketball court.
DESIGNATED OFF-LEASH TRAIL
Among Lick Creek Park’s fve miles of marked trails sits Raccoon Run, a 1.7mile off-leash trail that gives your pup a little more room to explore. Dogs must be under voice control, and dog park rules apply.
The Lick Creek Nature Center’s hydration stations and restrooms are about a half mile from Raccoon Run, the only off-leash trail in Lick Creek Park. Dogs must always remain leashed on all the other trails.
29 TUES APR
10 a.m.
2981 GREENS PRAIRIE ROAD
Featured Speakers
You are cordially invited to the ofcial groundbreaking ceremony of Fire Station No. 7. Approved by voters in the 2022 bond election, the station is scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.
MAYOR JOHN NICHOLS
FIRE CHIEF RICHARD MANN
The event is open to the public.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
SPRUCE UP YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to make sure your irrigation system is working effciently before the hot summer months arrive. April is EPA WaterSense’s Sprinkler Spruce-Up month, encouraging homeowners to check, adjust, and maintain their irrigation systems for peak performance.
College Station Water Services is here to help. Our Irrigation Checkup Service ensures your system is running effciently, preventing water waste while keeping your landscape healthy. Plus, we’re rolling out a rebate program for WaterSense-labeled smart irrigation controllers, helping you upgrade to a system that saves water and money.
Schedule your checkup today and stay tuned for rebate details!
APRIL
SEMINAR SUPPER
THE POWER BEHIND THE SWITCH:
HOW WE KEEP YOUR
LIGHTS
ON
Learn about College Station Utilities while enjoying a delicious meal at this month's Seminar Supper!
TUESDAY, APRIL 22
6-8 P.M.
CITY HALL
The free event is open to all—dinner is on us!
RSVP BEFORE APRIL 16
CITY OFFICES CLOSED
City offces and facilities will be closed for Good Friday on April 18.
Contribute to a survey map with suggestions for actions and ideas for the future of the Northgate planning area.
Northgate Planning Area
THE GREATER NORTHGATE SMALL AREA PLAN HAS REACHED ITS MIDWAY POINT WITH SEVERAL UPDATES:
• New Name: The plan’s name was changed to refect a broader scope, now including Century Square, Hensel Park, and Northpoint Crossing alongside Northgate District.
• Extended Timeline: The planning process has been extended but is still set to be presented to the City Council this summer. A feedback session is now set for May 20.
• Vision Statement: The committee has developed a vision for the area, emphasizing pedestrian-friendly connectivity, improved infrastructure, and honoring the area's historical roots. Over 40 business owners, patrons, and partners have participated in meetings to contribute ideas for this collaborative plan.
Greater Northgate Vision Statement
Rooted in history and tradition, the Greater Northgate Area will be a thoughtfully designed and well-connected hub, bringing together the Northgate District, Century Square, Hensel Park, and Northpoint Crossing. Through strategic planning and collaborative development, we envision pedestrian-friendly connectivity, enhanced infrastructure, and lifestyle conveniences. This plan will foster future community while honoring this historical area for tourists and locals alike.
BRINGING YOU THE BUSINESS
RED’S ICE HOUSE
OPENED FEBRUARY
MAI SHAN YUN
OPENED MARCH
KARMA KOLACHE
OPENED NEW LOCATION IN MARCH
HANG OUT AND TUNE IN
Tuesday, April 15 6-8 p.m.
Reveille Rooftop Bar
Step into Hang Out & Tune In, the go-to event for aspiring musicians. Each month brings a new location, giving you the chance to impress different booking agents across town. The frst hour is packed with insights from music industry pros, while the second hour is an open mic where you can showcase your talent. So grab your gear and get ready to shine!
Hour 1: Learn from the pros!
A visiting expert will give you tips and tricks of the music industry.
Hour 2: It’s your time to shine!
Jump on stage during our open mic session and wow the crowd with your talent.
Every month brings a fresh venue and new opportunities to connect, create, and grow.
CITY ONE TEAM
Step into a bright future with the City of College Station this spring!
Join a team that cultivates growth, innovation, and community impact in a vibrant and welcoming environment. Apply today and let your future be bright!
Check out our Blog!
Topics include live blogs of city council meetings and the events, programs, and activities that impact everyone in our community.
TEXAS COMPTROLLER LAUDS
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
TRAILBLAZER AWARD
“Texans deserve transparency in how their tax dollars are being spent, and the City of College Station has gone the extra mile in opening its books to the public. Democracy can’t survive and thrive unless citizens have the information to make informed decisions at the voting booth.”
- Glenn Hegar, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
College Station residents have the right to know how their tax dollars are managed, and the Finance Department has taken signifcant steps to ensure the City’s fnancial information is readily available and easy to understand As a result of that steadfast commitment to the highest standards of transparency, openness, and accountability, the City of College Station has been honored with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts’ Transparency Stars Trailblazer Award.
Winners of the prestigious award must open their books in traditional fnances, contracts and procurement, economic development, public pensions, debt obligations, and open government and compliance. They must also provide clear and meaningful fnancial information by posting fnancial documents, thorough summaries, visualizations, downloadable data, and other relevant information.
The Financial Transparency webpage on the city website includes annual fnancial reports, budgets, check registers, and other pertinent fnancial data organized in a user-friendly format. College Station is one of 11 local governments that earned all six Transparency Stars to achieve Trailblazer status.
Glenn Hegar
Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
And congratulations, Mr. Hegar, for being named Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System!
WHAT DO THEY DO?
CSPD COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT UNIT
The College Station Police Department's Community Enhancement Unit plays a vital role in strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the public while proactively addressing crime prevention and community concerns. As part of the Operational Support Bureau, this specialized unit focuses on crime prevention, community engagement, and proactive enforcement strategies. While crime prevention and community partnerships are a shared responsibility across the department, CEU takes a focused approach, working to bridge the gap with the community through outreach, education, and meaningful engagement. Sgt. Patrick McCarthy oversees the unit’s operations, ensuring initiatives align with the department's mission of protecting and serving with excellence.
A signifcant function of CEU is to foster strong connections with residents, businesses, and organizations. The unit develops and implements programs designed to educate the public on crime prevention, promote neighborhood involvement, and enhance communication between citizens and offcers. Through outreach efforts such as safety awareness programs, security surveys, and the Citizens Police Academy, CEU empowers the community with knowledge and resources. CEU also hosts numerous free events designed to encourage positive interactions, including the Annual Easter Celebration and Family Fish (both with the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum), Cops & Goblins, and Breakfast with Blue Santa.
In addition to community engagement, CEU implements proactive policing operations aimed at reducing crime and enhancing public safety. Offcers analyze local crime data to target specifc types of crime and geographic areas, working closely with patrol units and criminal investigations personnel to address emerging trends. The unit focuses on suppressing organized crime, gang-related offenses, and street-level narcotics activity. Offcers also assist with enforcement operations such as surveillance, locating wanted individuals, and providing focused attention to areas of concern.
By integrating proactive policing tactics with strong community partnerships, the Community Enhancement Unit plays a crucial role in supporting the department's goals of reducing crime, reducing the fear of crime, building and maintaining effective partnerships, and improving the overall quality of life in the community.
Help Shape the Future of
If you see something that needs our attention, let us know! Snap a picture with your smartphone and upload it to SeeClickFix We’ll take care of the rest.
Let’s work together to help keep our parks safe and beautiful.
Way Back When
Patranella Easter Egg Hunt
In the late 1920s, local grocer Luke Patranella began an annual Easter Egg Hunt for children of A&M Consolidated Schools, with eggs donated from his Northgate store. Originally held on campus, the event later moved to Southside, becoming a beloved community tradition.
Patranella’s passing in 1946 didn’t end the tradition—the College Station Recreation Council carried it forward in his honor. A memorial fund established in his name later funded the construction of a Recreation Center in 1949, ensuring his legacy of community spirit lived on.
SPRING
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION EVENT
Area residents are invited to participate in the Twin Oaks Landfll’s Spring Household Hazardous Waste and Computer Collection Event on Saturday, April 26 from 7 a.m.–2 p.m. at the TAMU – USB Building. The entrance is on Harvey Road east of Veteran’s Park and Athletic Complex.
The free event is open to Brazos Valley residents and offers the safe disposal of typical household hazardous wastes.
Pouring cleaning agents down your kitchen sink, a storm inlet, on the ground, or into your recycling or garbage containers poses severe health and safety risks to the environment and those who work around wastewater and solid waste.
ACCEPTABLE ITEMS
• Light bulbs
• Batteries
• Computers/electronics
• Chemicals
• Paints
• Lawn pesticides
• Herbicides
• Fertilizers
• Motor oil
• Gasoline
• Antifreeze
• Pool chemicals
NOT ACCEPTABLE ITEMS
• Medications
• Medical sharps
• Tires
• Freon-containing units
• Ammunition
• Radio-active waste
• 55- gallon drums
• Empty paint/chemical containers
• Commercial generated wastes
Please bring your household materials in the original containers with labels intact — and don’t mix products. You should also label materials that are not in the original packages and secure them, so they won’t tip or leak. Products should be in the trunk or bed of your vehicle, not in the passenger area. When you arrive, stay in your vehicle while staff members unload your items.
LARRY J. RINGER LIBRARY
The Larry J Ringer Library and the B+CS Library System is expanding their digital collections with the help of Hoopla Digital.
Hoopla Digital is a streaming service that allows readers to enjoy audiobooks, eBooks, comics and manga, music, movies, magazines, TV including BingePass to certain shows, from the comfort of their home 24/7 with no holds or waiting.
At the beginning of each month, users will have a maximum limit of seven items to check out in any format.
There are the seven formats and borrow times:
• Audiobook, eBook & Comic - 21 days
• BingePass & Music- 7 days
• Movie & Television - 3 days
Sign up for hoopla with your library card at hoopladigital.com or download the hoopla app on your Apple, Android, Kindle Fire devices or your smart TV’s.
Photo of the Month
Photography by Lucero Valenzuela
Fire Station No. 6 at sunset (March 2025)
Do you love
The City of College Station’s monthly digital newsletter, I Heart CS, brings you the latest on city events, programs, and activities.
Now, we want to hear from you!
Take our quick survey and tell us how we can make it even better. It only takes a few minutes! Enter your email at the end for a chance to win in our drawing!
Thank you for helping us create a newsletter you love!
COLLEGE STATION NAMED CITY OF THE MONTH
College Station was recognized as the Texas Hotel and Lodging Association's City of the Month for February. The recognition showcases College Station as a dynamic, welcoming destination with something to offer visitors year-round. Visit College Station curated the content for the feature, highlighting the city's unique blend of hospitality, rich history, and vibrant attractions.
From must-visit local hotspots to premier dining, shopping, and entertainment options, the piece is a guide to experiencing the best of our community. Check out the full feature to discover what makes our community a can't-miss stop on any traveler's itinerary.
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS
INTERNAL AUDITORS
The Internal Audit Department recognized the Accounts Payable staff for their hard work on a recent audit.
The audit report states, "The AP staff have made noteworthy strides in improving the effciency and effectiveness of the receiving process. We commend their continuous efforts to manage and process invoices, especially considering the large volume of payment requests relative to the small team handling them. Additionally, department receivers have shown a strong willingness to collaborate and address issues that may cause payment delays. The AP staff have taken a proactive approach in enhancing the receiving and payment workfows, signifcantly contributing to the City's ability to maintain compliance and operate effciently."
We sincerely thank our Accounts Payable staff and acknowledge their daily work to ensure the payment and receiving process aligns with the city's values.
WATER SERVICES
Water Services recently won prestigious Watermark Awards from the Texas Chapter of the American Water Works Association for the Greens Prairie Water Tower design and the "Summer Fun Video Series" Jennifer Nations did with KAMUTV. The competition recognizes creative, effective communication initiatives about water resources. The winners were recognized at the Texas Water Conference in Houston on March 20.
SOLID WASTE DIVISION
The Solid Waste Division recently received the Operations Excellence Award at the American Public Works Association-Texas Chapter Workshop and Conference. The division was recognized for developing and practicing operational innovation that signifcantly impacted the public and protected the environment. We sincerely thank our tireless operator teams, administrative staff, and interdepartmental support staff for their outstanding contributions to our community.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The City of College Station's Economic Development Department was recently recognized for economic excellence by the Texas Economic Development Council at the organization's winter conference in Austin. The Economic Excellence Recognition Program highlights economic development organizations that meet a high professional threshold based on training completed by their governing board/ council, the economic development director, and professional staff. Certifcations, professional memberships and activities, and organizational effectiveness of the economic development staff also contribute.
College Station was among 72 economic development organizations across the state to receive the award. This recognition is a testament to the innovative spirit and vision that drives our community. The award honors the dedication and hard work of our residents, businesses, community partners, local leaders, and staff who strive to create a thriving, sustainable, and dynamic economy. Together, we build a brighter future and set a standard for economic success and prosperity.
CSFD
Four College Station Fire Department members assisted in wildfre frefghting operations in West Texas during the month of March. The crew consists of Capt. Jason Neuendorf, Capt. Kord Bratsen, Capt. Zach Hall, and Firefghter/Paramedic Bradley Sawicki. They are battling the Twin Oryx fre that has engulfed 2,156 acres in LaSalle County. The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System has activated frefghters from across the state.
Members participating in these 14-day deployments gained valuable experience that better prepares them to serve our community, ensuring our readiness to respond to emergencies. In addition, the City was reimbursed for all expenses during the deployments by the Texas Department of Emergency Management.
We are proud of these members who are using their skills to assist other Texans and represent the City of College Station.
“What’s Up, College Station?” Video and Podcast
Learn the latest about the City of College Station’s services, events, programs, and more as we chat with leaders and experts from across the organization.
College Station City Council
RECAPS
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall. OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
MARCH MEETINGS
MARCH 13: Blog | Video
MARCH 27: Blog | Video
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, APRIL 10 • 6 P.M.
THURSDAY, APRIL 24 • 6 P.M.
Can’t make it in person?
The meetings are streamed live on Optimum Channel 19 and cstx.gov/cstv19 and live blogged at blog.cstx.gov
(L-R): William Wright, Bob Yancy, Mark Smith, John Nichols (mayor), David White, Melissa McIlhaney, and Scott Shafer.
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION CONTACTS
cstx.gov/cip CITIZEN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS 979.764.3541 cstx.gov/committees CODE ENFORCEMENT / SEECLICKFIX 979.764.6363 cstx.gov/codeenforcement COMMUNITY
cstx.gov/commserv
cstx.gov/hr
bcslibrary.org
cstx.gov/court NEIGHBORHOOD
cstx.gov/neighbor
cstx.gov/parks
cstx.gov/pds
cstx.gov/police
cstx.gov/publiccommunications
cstx.gov/publicworks
PARKS AND RECREATION CONTACTS
cstx.gov/wolfpen
Stay Connected!
Ke ep up with cit y events, pro grams, emergencies, notices, and more by following us on s o cial me dia. We'd love t o he ar from you, t o o!
/CityofCollegeStation
@CityOfCollegeStation
@CityofCS
