Updates:

• Community engagement for the play equipment selection began in October. 
  Share your thoughts on Survey #1! Open until November 18.
  ¡Comparta sus pensamientos en Encuesta #1! Abierta hasta el 18 de noviembre.
• If you would like to sign up for project emails, sign up here (APF will host the email listserv).

Background

Chestnut Pocket Park is located at 2205 East 16th St., Austin, TX. 78702. It features a splash pad, picnic pavilion, and the existing play equipment. The existing playscape equipment includes a small play tower and a medium-sized play tower; both of which offer little shade or play value for visitors. Austin Parks and Recreation identified the playground at Chestnut Pocket Park in poor condition and a good candidate for replacement as part of the Greater and Greener Conference in 2026. 

Project Summary

The project team will develop a playground replacement plan that aligns with the community’s preferences, park standards, and site conditions. In addition to new play equipment, a nature play area will also be added.

Objectives

By replacing and improving the playground equipment, APF and Austin Parks and Recreation seek to accomplish the following objectives:

• Connect with the community to ensure that the new playground meets the needs and preferences of the neighborhood.
• Increase the variety of play equipment available to encourage physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play.
• Create a welcoming environment accessible to children of all abilities.
• Provide more shade for playground visitors.
• Create a new nature play area.
• Coordinate project with Landscape Structures to be showcased as part of the Greater and Greener Conference. 

Anticipated Schedule

• Fall to Winter 2025: Community outreach, engagement and design
• Winter 2025: Final playground equipment selected
• Spring 2026: Construction begins
• Summer 2026: Greater & Greener 2026 Conference; construction completed!

Please note that as with any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible. All dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and the weather.

Community Engagement

Austin Parks Foundation, in partnership with Austin Parks and Recreation, will work with community members to identify values and priorities for the playscape improvements. Community engagement will include a series of pop-ups. In addition to feedback captured during in-person engagement, surveys will be used to document community members' input.

Share your thoughts on Survey #1! 
¡Comparta sus pensamientos en Encuesta #1!

Information on future community engagement events will be listed here and supported with outreach on social media and locally placed signs. 

Contact Information

For more information or to ask questions, please email Charles Mabry, Parks and Recreation Department Program Manager.