Travis Park reopens its gates

  • 2014-04-18
San Antonio's Travis Park, one of the oldest city parks in the nation, has reopened just in time for locals to enjoy the spring there.

The park, which comprises 2.6 acres in the downtown area, had been closed in January for renovations and upgrades. Having reopened on March 31, some of the new features include new seating, new landscaping, and a dog park.

There were also improvements made to the electrical system; an effort carried out with monies raised in a 2012 bond election. The work to improve the landscaping, maintenance, and infrastructure was carried out thanks to a grant from Southwest Airlines, which is headquartered in Dallas.

San Antonio's mayor, Julián Castro, spoke to a number of people who came to the reopening ceremony, which featured food trucks, family-friendly games, fitness classes, historic tours and live music throughout the day. Vendors were on site to supply everything from pet products to coffee.

In a press release, Mayor Castro suggested that the park's revitalization would make the city's center a more attractive place for both residents and tourists, and is another step to creating a vibrant downtown.

The day ended with a fundraiser called Twilight on the Plaza, which featured the South Jazz Trio and The St. Anthony Hotel's noted chef, Michael Mata.

San Antonio officials could work with brochure printers to create a city guide that emphasizes the renovation of the park and encourages people to visit it.