Hermann Park Conservancy Sets Grand Opening Date for the Commons
Reinvigorated 26-acre expanse of historic Houston park opens to the public on April 13, 2024
Following two years of construction, Hermann Park Conservancy (HPC) and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) will mark the grand opening of the Commons, a sprawling 26-acre area in Hermann Park’s southwest corner, on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The Commons is one of three projects in the latest phase of HPC’s 20-year master plan, aimed at creating a more welcoming space for Houstonians today and into the future.
“After years of planning, it is amazing to see this shared vision come to life,” said Doreen Stoller, President of Hermann Park Conservancy. “We look forward to the public’s reception of the Commons and hope the project will renew Houstonians’ sense of connection with the Park for many years to come.”
Bordered by the Texas Medical Center, Houston Zoo, Rice University, the Museum District and the Innovation District, the revitalized space connects these institutions physically and civically, and provides a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
“The Commons is a wonderful addition to one of the parks department’s biggest and finest signature parks,” said Kenneth Allen, Director of the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, “We thank the Hermann Park Conservancy and their many supporters for working to create this new gathering and recreational space for all park visitors, in Houston, from around the country, and around the world.”
Project highlights include interactive elements for kids ranging from a Space Adventure play area featuring a 45-foot-tall rocket ship slide, to bayou-themed water activities, to a classic playground experience, to a modern carousel. The project also offers various spaces for connection, including the Central Lawn, the Live Oak Terrace, new grilling and picnic areas, and a refurbished Fannin Pavilion. As part of the Commons project, HPC has planted more than 1,000 trees and tens of thousands of plants, supporting the restoration and conservation of natural habitats.
The public is invited to attend a grand opening celebration at the Commons beginning April 13 at 9 a.m.
Media Resources
For more information about the Commons and upcoming projects, please visit the Hermann Park Conservancy website. Media can click here for press assets, including an overview of the Commons and high-quality progress images. To request a pre-opening tour or a one-on-one interview, please contact Jessica Henderson, jessica@theckpgroup.com or 916-690-5923.
About Hermann Park Conservancy
Founded in 1992, Hermann Park Conservancy is a nonprofit citizens’ organization dedicated to the stewardship and improvement of Hermann Park, which is enjoyed by more than six million visitors each year. Through a public-private partnership with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, the Conservancy has overseen the master planning efforts for one of Houston’s largest and most loved urban parks. Since its founding, Hermann Park Conservancy has secured over $177 million in funding for Park improvements, including the most recent set of improvements as part of the Play Your Park campaign: the McWilliams Dog Park, the Commons (opening in 2024) and a public art initiative. In addition to capital improvements, the Conservancy oversees programs focused on visitor services, private event rentals, conservation and stewardship, tree care, and operation of the McGovern Centennial Gardens, Lott Hall, McWilliams Dog Park and the Commons. For more information on Hermann Park Conservancy, visit hermannpark.org.
About Houston Parks and Recreation Department
The Houston Parks & Recreation Department (H.P.A.R.D.) stewards and manages 382 and 38,486 acres of parkland and greenspace for the City of Houston and develops and implements recreational programming for citizens of all ages and abilities. For more information on the Houston Parks & Recreation Department, call (832) 395-7020 or visit www.houstonparks.org.