M
Parks & Environmental Services
City of Longview, Texas, gives Lear Park a huge amenity boost By NICHOLETTE CARLSON | The Municipal
A regional park in Longview, Texas, Lear Park was first acquired by the city of in 1998 with the assistance of donations made by William Lear, a local philanthropist. After the original development of the park in 2000, the park has since grown to 182 acres. Improvements following 2000 and those that will be made in phase five this year will greatly enhance the draw and amenities of Lear Park to both residents of the community and visitors. In 2000, Lear Park’s original master plan was completed. According to Scott Caron, director of parks and recreation in Longview, “That really got the ball rolling with how to tackle all that was envisioned.” A comprehensive plan was developed and adopted by the city of Longview in 2015. 42 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2022
Caron explained, “The process took two years to complete with establishing an advisory committee, strategic planning sessions, public meetings, open houses and surveys. This plan provided our mayor, city council and staff with priorities for what they wanted to see within the city. Number 18 on
ABOVE: After the city of Longview, Texas, acquired Lear Park in 1998, development began on the park in 2000, and phase five is set to be completed later this year. A comprehensive plan was developed and adopted in 2015. Then, in 2018, a bond issue was approved with Lear Park receiving $8.8 million. Other bond issues as well as grants from Texas Park and Wildlife have helped to fund various phases of improvement. Since 2000, the park has grown to 182 acres. (Photo provided) the list of priorities was the completion of the Lear Park master plan.” Once the city’s comprehensive plan was adopted, with Lear Park improvements noted as a priority, the comprehensive planning advisory committee continued to meet to discuss and review accomplishments. The accomplishments discussed
