Here’s to greener pastures. In recent history, Houston has caught flack for its lack of green spaces. While we do take umbrage with the accusation – see our roundup of gardens and Houston-area hikes – we do welcome a little more nature into our urban jungle.
And it’s not just us; the city has gotten the message, in addition to the recent opening of Trebly Park, the city has not just one, but multiple green initiatives in the works. Goal Park is one of those initiatives. With the goal of opening in 2026, Goal Park plans to open an expansive, NYC-inspired active and communal green space in East Downtown.
With M-K-T at MKT Trail as a precedent, Goal Park Foundation – now registered as a 501c3 non-profit organization – aims to levy culture, innovation, nature, and athletics to elevate seven blocks of urban trail into a world class park in East Downton.
Planned park features include:
- event lawn
- flexible athletic lawn
- promenade
- social games plaza
- pickleball courts
- Columbia Tap branded trail
- gateway sculptural element
- food and beverage area
- Dakotas Peace Grove
Pocket parks, nature runs, market walks, and separate fitness areas are also planned in the park design.
The masterplan and design of Goal Park have been finalized. Presently, the park is in the stages of capital fundraising and attaining necessary permits. As for the rest of the park’s timeline, the foundation hopes to begin construction in 2024 that will continue into 2025 in which programming plans will start. If all goes as planned, the park will open in 2026 just in time for the World Cup in Houston.
For more information of Goal Park or if you’re interested in donating/getting involved, visit their website here.