JULY 2025
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
FIREWORKS, MUSIC, AND FAMILY FUN.
FRIDAY, JULY 4 WOLF PEN CREEK AMPHITHEATER
Pre sented by
I HEART AMERICA CELEBRATION
Join us at Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater for the City of College Station’s official Fourth of July celebration, proudly presented by Xfinity.
Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable evening filled with live music, family fun, and a stunning fireworks show that lights up the summer sky. Sorry, no pets allowed.
This year’s featured entertainment is Infinite Journey, an international Journey tribute band that will have you singing along all night.
EVENT SCHEDULE
• Gates Open: 7 p.m.
• Concert: 8 – 9:30 p.m.
Infinite Journey
• Fireworks: 9:30 p.m.
PARKING
Free parking is available at Post Oak Mall, with accessible parking near Colgate Drive.
SEATING REMINDER
Chairs are welcome on the dance floor, but please keep them out of the blanketonly seating areas. For everyone's viewing experience, tents and canopies are not allowed.
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS:
CELEBRATE SUMMER SAFELY
Most of us build our traditional summer celebrations around food, family, friends, water fun, and occasionally, colorful fireworks.
Unfortunately, fireworks can cause injuries and damage property, and backyard swimming pools pose serious risks to children left unsupervised.
FIREWORKS SAFETY
Can you guess what types of fireworks cause the most injuries?
It’s not bottle rockets, roman candles, or even the aerial firecrackers – it’s those innocentlooking sparklers. They produce about a third of all fireworks-related injuries and about half to kids under five years old.
Sparklers burn at about 1,200 degrees – that’s six times hotter than boiling water. Glow sticks, confetti poppers, silly string, and bubbles are safer alternatives for young children.
And remember – discharging fireworks within 5,000 feet of city limits is a misdemeanor and can result in fines of up to $2,500.
DROWNING PREVENTION
One of the most common contributing factors to accidental drownings is a lack of adult supervision.
Check out these helpful safety tips from the College Station Fire Department to avoid drowning accidents.
Available Now
July is National Parks and Recreation Month
ABOUT PARKS & RECREATION MONTH
Since 1985, America has celebrated July as the nation’s official Parks and Recreation Month. In 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives officially mandated the observance.
The National Recreation and Park Association‘s mission is to advance parks, recreation, and environmental conservation efforts to enhance everyone’s quality of life. Parks are central to many experiences and memories – and park and recreation professionals help make them happen.
The College Station Parks and Recreation Department likes to think it has something to offer everyone, but that wasn’t always the case.
Lets examine our history and see how far we’ve come.
Not long after College Station was incorporated with about 2,000 residents in 1938, the first city council created a board to manage public parks and grounds. In 1947, the city purchased land on Dexter Drive from F.B. Clark and Hershel Burgess for $2,000 to establish our first municipal park.
Initially known as Dexter Park, it was renamed Brison Park in 1980 in honor of Fred Brison. He served as College Station’s mayor pro tem from 1971-1974 and was a faculty member in Texas A&M’s Department of Horticultural Sciences for 43 years.
Brison Park is a beautifully wooded green space with a 1/3-mile nature trail and a seasonal stream. Around the perimeter are lamp posts and individual markers dedicated to each of the 12 victims of the 1999 Aggie bonfire tragedy.
Parks and Recreation became a city department in 1971 and has grown into one of only 30 nationally accredited municipal park agencies in Texas,with 72 full-time employees and over 175 part-time and seasonal staff.
Today, we maintain 56 developed and nine undeveloped parks that span nearly 1,971 acres, not to mention various recreational facilities and programs. Our parks feature 42 miles of walking trails, 65 exercise stations, 85 play units, 26 swing sets, seven fishing ponds, seven rentable pavilions, three dog parks, two pools, two splash pads, a skate park, and an all-abilities playground. In 2024, a total of more than 700 individuals took part in our youth and adult programs, and 394 teams competed in our adult sports leagues.
If that isn’t impressive enough, we also operate an amphitheater and festival site, three senior centers, a full-service recreation center, two cemeteries, and a nature center. In addition, our significant inventory of flat and diamond fields allows us to host many state and national tournaments in several sports.
Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with us by sharing your photos. Tag us on social media or use #CSTXparks. We’re eager to see how our community is stronger, more vibrant, and more resilient because of our parks and recreation programs and facilities. For more information, go to cstx.gov/parks or contact us at parks@cstx.gov or 979-764-3486.
CSPD WELCOMES NEW RECRUITS
The College Station Police Department recently welcomed eight new recruits who graduated from the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Central Texas Police Academy's 178th Basic Peace Officer Course. After successfully completing months of rigorous training and passing the TEEX final exam, the recruits earned their peace officer licenses by passing the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) examination. A graduation ceremony was held on June 13, to celebrate their achievement.
Following graduation, the recruits began a month-long orientation
with CSPD, covering firearms, driving, Mobile Field Force, department policy, and more than a dozen additional courses. Once completed, they will move into a short patrol familiarization period before beginning a minimum of 20 weeks of field training, progressing through four structured phases.
A badge pinning ceremony took place on June 20, where their bios were shared and badges officially pinned in front of family and friends.
Congratulations to our newest officers as they begin their careers in service to our community.
Have you ever wondered where your water comes from or what is in your drinking water? You will find the answer to these and more questions in the annual Drinking Water Quality Report, also known as the Consumer Confidence Report.
College Station maintains water quality in the distribution system through continuous monitoring of water pressure, temperature, disinfectant residual, and turbidity.
College Station Utilities offers rebates to electric customers who conserve energy.
Some thermostats allow you to connect remotely from your smartphone, saving energy and money! Customers with an eligible thermostat can receive a $30 rebate.
Customers who purchase and install a new central air conditioning unit with a SEER rating of 16 or higher, air-toair heat pumps, or geothermal heat pumps are eligible for an $800 rebate.
For more details, a list of eligible products, and a rebate application, visit our website or call us today!
HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THE
FY 26 BUDGET PROCESS
The College Station City Council gets its first look at the proposed FY 26 budget at a special meeting on Monday, July 7, at 4 p.m. at City Hall. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.
Through July 9, you can express your budget priorities using the interactive Service Level Adjustment Survey tool, which outlines some of the key decision points. The easy-to-use format enables you to participate from a computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Mon, July 7 4 p.m. at City Hall
Thu., July 10 6 p.m. at City Hall
Wed., July 16 8:30 a.m. at City Hall
Thu., July 24 6 p.m. at City Hall
Thu., Aug. 28 6 p.m. at City Hall
TEXAS HUNTER SAFETY COURSE
Sat., Aug. 16 & 23 • 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Gary Halter Nature Center
Did you know that hunters nine years and older must complete the Texas hunter Safety Certification Course to hunt in Texas legally?
Fishing licenses are not required.
Register for $20 online with Texas Parks and Wildlife
Friday, Aug. 8 @ 7:30 p.m. • $7 ADAMSON
CS SUMMER BUCKET LIST:
10 TIPS 10 TIPS HAVE FUN WHILE STAYING COOL
College Station offers ample opportunities to help visitors and residents stay cool in the sweltering Texas heat. Give your AC a break and escape with these 10 fun ways to cool off.
1
CATCH A MOVIE
Cinemark offers the latest releases and a range of showtimes to suit your schedule. It also offers numerous discounts for students, seniors, veterans, early birds, and groups, and reduces its prices for everyone on Tuesdays. For a first-class experience, Star Cinema Grill offers high-quality dine-in meals while you enjoy your movie.
2
TAKE A DIP
Pack a cooler with snacks, cold drinks, and take your family to the mini waterpark at Adamson Lagoon! Likewise, Cindy Hallaran Pool is perfect for young children and families with its shallow water, beach entry, and plenty of shade. For even more ways to cool off, check out the splash pads at the Fun For All Playground in Central Park and at W.A. Tarrow Park — perfect for little ones to splash, play, and stay refreshed.
5 6 4 3
TEST YOUR SKILLS
Spend a fun afternoon hurling axes at The Cut Axe Throwing. Test your skills with axes, hatches, knives, and more, either as a group or individually.
CLIMB SOME ROCKS
Get a rewarding workout in at Stone Co Climbing. Rock climbing is a wonderful way to relieve stress, and it’s easy to get started.
PLAY GAMES ALL DAY
Spend the day at Grand Station with bowling, laser tag, mini golf, food, drinks, and more! Or head to PopStroke, an outdoor mini golf experience designed by Tiger Woods that features two 18hole courses, a full-service restaurant, and a playground for the kids.
TREAT YOURSELF
College Station has fabulous shopping options to match anyone’s style. Century Square and Aggieland Outfitters are two excellent stops for a day of shopping.
EXPLORE A MUSEUM
The Arts Center is a colorful hub for creativity, supporting local and national artists through exhibitions, events, and educational programs. At the heart of The Arts Center efforts is its dynamic art gallery, which showcases a rotating collection of works ranging from fine art and sculpture to photography and mixed media. 7 9 10 8
As one of the top attractions in Texas, the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum creates an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family. For military-history buffs, The Museum of the American GI offers an immersive experience into the history and heroism of the American military. With one of the country’s finest collections of restored military vehicles, weaponry, and uniforms, the museum brings history to life.
CHILL ON THE ICE
What better way to cool off than ice skating at College Station’s local rink? Spirit Ice Arena is a massive indoor facility offering public skates, parties, and hockey and figure skating lessons.
FIND YOUR INNER PICASSO
Spend a creative day crafting at U Paint it or Painting with a Twist. Choose your own ceramic to paint and design with the provided tools and have your piece glazed within a week
BROWSE VIBRANT ART PIECES
SEMINAR SUPPER
YOUR CITY, YOUR BUDGET: HOW WE FUND WHAT MATTERS
Learn while enjoying a delicious meal at this month's Seminar Supper.
TUESDAY, JULY 22
6-8 P.M. CITY HALL
The free event is open to all—dinner is on us!
RSVP BEFORE JULY 16
BRAZOS VALLEY BOMBERS PRIMED FOR MOVE TO COLLEGE STATION
In late May, the College Station City Council directed staff to negotiate an agreement with the Brazos Valley Bombers to relocate their baseball operations to College Station and establish a permanent new home for the franchise.
The Bombers have been a cherished part of the Brazos Valley for nearly two decades, bringing championship-level baseball and unforgettable experiences to families across the region.
The Bombers plan to begin play in 2027 at a new "baseball for all" facility that the City is developing at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex.
In December, the Council approved three new baseball fields at Veterans Park, including a championship-style facility, to advance opportunities for local youth leagues and sports tourism. In April, an eight-member Baseball Field Design Committee was established to guide the project, including representatives from youth leagues, the school district, and other groups.
"We’re
excited to work with the City of College Station on the Bombers’ new home. Their vision for a new facility that supports youth sports, tourism, and the Bombers aligns with everything we want this franchise to represent.
-Uri Geva, Bombers Owner/President
“The Brazos Valley Bombers initiated discussions with the City of College Station about relocating their operations, and we look forward to working closely with them to usher in a new era of outstanding competitive and entertaining baseball in College Station,” The Council said in a statement. “The Bombers are a valued asset to the entire BryanCollege Station community, and we hope to maintain that strong connection.”
ONE CITY ONE TEAM
The City of College Station is not only an incredible place to live, but it is also a wonderful place to work!
We offer a variety of job opportunities, including full-time, part-time, seasonal positions, and internships.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...
VIDEO
In June, the College Station City Council was updated on the proposed master plan for Wolf Pen Creek Park. The Council had previously discussed a WPC plan during its strategic retreat, asking staff to explore options and bring them back for discussion. No funds have been allocated.
JULY 31 - AUG. 1
The 2025 Summer Games of Texas returns to premier venues across Bryan and College Station from July 31 to Aug. 3. The cities of Bryan, College Station, and Texas A&M University are hosting the event for the eighth time.
Texans of all ages and skill levels can compete. The schedule features the opening ceremonies at College Station’s Wolf Pen Creek Park and the competitions listed to the right.
Volunteers are also needed to assist with track and field events. Those interested must be at least 16 years old and can sign up for one slot per day. Volunteers will receive free food, refreshments, and an official Games of Texas shirt. The deadline to sign up is Friday, July 18.
Thousands of athletes, coaches, and spectators will be in town for the festival, providing a significant economic boost and strengthening the community’s reputation as a top sports tourism destination.
Archery
Live Oak Archery
Boxing
Hilton College Station Hotel & Conference Center
Esports
Legends Event Center
Golf
The City Course at Phillips Event Center
Judo
Texas A&M Physical
Education Activity Program (PEAP) Building
Pickleball
Legends Event Center
Sand Volleyball
Legends Event Center
Soccer Veterans Park and Athletic Complex
Swimming
Bryan Aquatic Center
Tennis
George P. Mitchell Tennis Center at Texas A&M
Track & Field
E.B. Cushing Stadium at Texas A&M
Ultimate Frisbee Bryan Regional Athletic Complex
Since its founding in San Antonio in 1986, the Games of Texas has steadily expanded to become the largest amateur sporting event in Texas, attracting more than 20,000 visitors. The TAAF has been recognized as an Official State Games Program participant by the U.S. Olympic Committee since 1991.
COMPETE VOLUNTEER
WHAT DO THEY DO?
PARKS AND RECREATION OPERATIONS
When we think about parks, we typically envision picturesque open spaces, playgrounds filled with children’s laughter, and tranquil trails winding through nature’s beauty. You may overlook the devoted team of professionals working to ensure those recreational havens function seamlessly.
In College Station, a 51-person park operations crew oversees 56 developed and nine undeveloped parks, spanning nearly 1,971 acres. They are responsible for essential tasks such as maintaining park grounds and cemeteries, preparing athletic fields, keeping restrooms clean, collecting trash, inspecting
playgrounds for safety, trimming trees, and making minor repairs.
Their keen devotion to detail ensures a positive experience whenever a resident or visitor enters a park.
In addition to daily maintenance, the operations crew plays a crucial role in organizing and supporting events and tournaments so that cherished festivities are extraordinary. Our workers are the driving force that makes these gatherings run without a hitch, creating timeless memories for all.
Despite their immense contributions, these dedicated individuals remain largely unnoticed as they quietly work to create the best possible experience for park-goers. Ultimately, their efforts enhance the quality of life for our entire community.
So, next time you find yourself strolling through a beautiful park or attending a community event, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and exemplary service of the park operations crew. A simple “thank you” goes a long way in acknowledging the value of their efforts.
COLLEGE STATION TO HOST 2026 TOWN & GOWN CONFERENCE
Councilman Scott Shafer, University and Community Relations Manager Barbara Moore, Neighborhood and Community Relations Coordinator Taitelyn Morris, and Conventions Manager Jo Beth Wolfe attended the International Town and Gown Association Conference last month at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. The conference focused on strengthening town-gown relations through sessions on community engagement, public safety, economic development and more.
We were thrilled to announce during the event that the City of College Station, in partnership with Texas A&M, will host the 2026 ITGA Conference.
We look forward to welcoming ITGA members to College Station next May!
BROWER TALKS HOUSING ON THINK BRAZOS PODCAST
VIDEO
Community Development Analyst David Brower was a recent guest on the Think Brazos podcast. He and host Charles Coats discussed the City's housing action plan and strategies to address affordability.
The Think Brazos Podcast hosts policy conversations to help families thrive in Bryan and College Station, Texas. Think Brazos is a project of B/CS Habitat for Humanity.
HAVING FUN ISN’T HARD WHEN
YOU HAVE A
LIBRARY CARD
Take advantage of all of the exceptional services the Bryan + College Station Public Library System has to offer!
Apply for a virtual library card online, or fill out a paper application and bring it to the library to get a physical card.
Larry J. Ringer Library 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy
Get yours today!
SHOP SMALL. STROLL BIG. DINE BOLD.
Market on the Green RETURNS!
On Saturday, July 26, and Saturday, Aug. 23, Century Square transforms into a vibrant night market hosted by Hibiscus & Honey Boutique.
Explore artisan vendors alongside your favorite brands— from Lucchese, Kendra Scott, lululemon, Sephora, Onward Reserve and King Ranch to local gems like Galleria, Merge, Apricot Lane, Hemline and more!
Grab dinner at Porters, Juanita's Cantina, Sweet Paris, Coco Shrimp or Red's Icehouse.
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS
PARKS AND RECREATION
AWARDED TRAILS GRANT
The Parks and Recreation Department has been awarded a $287,997 Recreational Trails Grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. The Commission approved recommendations for 24 projects statewide. The City Council approved a resolution supporting the grant application in January.
The grant will support the natural trails portion of the Texas Independence Park at Midtown project. The grant will reimburse eligible project expenses up to the full award amount and requires a 20% local match of $57,600.
CS RANKED AMONG TOP PLACES FOR RETIREES
Forbes has ranked College Station among the nation's top 25 places for retirees. College Station and San Antonio are the only two Texas cities on the list. Media outlets across the state widely reported the recognition.
The researchers analyzed nearly 1,000 locations based on taxes, healthcare, air quality, crime, cost of living, climate, and natural hazards. In April, Livability ranked College Station the 34th best place to live in the nation, and No. 6 In Texas.
I HEART CS NEWSLETTER
NAMED BEST IN TEXAS
The City's monthly I Heart CS digital newsletter took top honors in Best Publications – E-Newsletter category (population 50K and up) last month at the 2025 Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers (TAMIO) Awards.
The Public Communications Office launched the newsletter in October in response to resident feedback. The newsletter offers a clear, visually appealing, and centralized source for city news, including capital projects, City Council updates, economic development initiatives, and upcoming City events. The publication is produced entirely in-house and has about 2,500 subscribers.
The recognition reflects more than strong design and execution. It highlights the City’s commitment to transparency, public engagement, and building stronger connections with residents.
Congratulations to our Public Communications team: Colin Killian, Bobbie Lehrmann, Joelene Tomecek, Brody McKinnon, Lucero Valenzuela, Grace Hallowell, Mark Beal, and Carlos Elarba.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
1ST QUARTER STAR AWARD RECIPIENTS
The City recognized our 1st Quarter Star Award recipients with a luncheon at City Hall. These individuals contribute in significant ways to the city’s success.
Congratulations to all on the well-deserved recognition!
• Alberto Enriquez, Parks and Recreation
• Omar Tobeh, Electric
• Caroline Ask, Public Works
• Tim Green, IT
• Eric Watkins, CIP
• Teresa Smith, HR
• Heather Wade, Planning and Development
• Angie Bertinot, Economic Development
• Ann Marie Williams, City Secretary
• Josh BrooksCommunity Development
• Anita Dorsey, Fiscal
CRUZ EARNS LEVEL I COURT CLERK CERTIFICATION
Court Clerk Kristal Cruz recently earned her Level I certification from the Texas Court Clerks Association. She is in her first year with the City.
Cruz completed 40 hours of continuing education and passed a four-hour exam covering the courts, ethics, authority and duties, pre- and post-trial procedures, trial processes, state and city reports, traffic law, communications, stress management, and juveniles.
The TCCA is a non-profit professional association of municipal and justice court clerks and administrators. The Municipal Court Clerk Certification Program encourages professional development and educational growth in the court clerk profession.
CRABB RETIRES AFTER 48 YEARS IN THE ELECTRIC INDUSTRY
In May, City leaders and staff bid farewell to retiring Electric Utility Director Timothy Crabb at a reception at the CSU Meeting and Training Facility. Crabb served a remarkable 48 years in the electric industry, including more than 18 years of dedicated service with the City of College Station. He's been the electric utility director since 2012.
WILLIAMS RETIRES AFTER 21 YEARS WITH CSFD
After 21 years, 1 month, and 5 days with the City of College Station, CSFD's beloved quartermaster and supply manager has retired. Natasha Williams' friendly disposition, constant smile, and unwavering commitment will be greatly missed.
We wish her the best in her future endeavors.
Community Kudos
CITIZENS PRAISE COCS EMPLOYEES
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
“I am blind and wanted to comment on Facebook and thank whoever was in charge of making sure that these pictures are labeled properly and have photo descriptions! Excellent job. Thank you for making this accessible.”
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
“The retention of the Bombers in Bryan College Station area, especially after all the years, is definitely a very good idea. Thank you for your efforts to retain them.”
PARKS AND RECREATION
"I just want to give a huge shout out to the manager at Adamson Lagoon in College Station. I asked the person at the front desk if they had an adult size changing table or a bench of some sort that wasn’t in front of everyone that I could use to put a swim diaper on my disabled 10 year old. She said she didn’t know but would go get the manager. I didn’t catch his name, but he said they didn’t have any but he could put a towel on the floor of the first aid room and we could close the door. ... He seemed truly heartbroken that the only solution he could give was a towel on a floor, but it’s 100 times better than a bathroom floor. He went out of his way to find the best solution he could and is making it a point to talk to upper management for a better solution. The lifeguards were also awesome. We stayed in the kiddie pool. [They] would redirect kids if they got too rowdy near us for the hour my son was in the pool. The manager and the lifeguards did their best to accommodate us"
“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.
PODCASTS VIDEOS
of the Month
Photography by Lucero Valenzuela
Photo
In June, Mayor Nichols presented The Dixie Chicken with the very first City Historic Destination plaque, highlighting it's iconic place in Aggieland’s history.
Events
College Station City Council
RECAPS
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall. OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
JUNE MEETINGS
JUNE 12: Blog | Video
JUNE 26: Blog | Video
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, JULY 10 • 6 P.M.
THURSDAY, JULY 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
cstx.gov/committees
cstx.gov/codeenforcement
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
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