A packed crowd filled Ballinger City Council chambers Tuesday night as residents shared ideas and concerns about a proposed new community park planned for the former Ballinger High School and junior high campus between Seventh and Eighth Streets.
The Ballinger City Park Board says plans for the project first began in 2019. Suggested features discussed during the informational meeting included pickle ball and tennis courts, T-ball and soccer practice fields with artificial turf, walking trails and shaded seating areas throughout the park.
Board members are also considering converting the former home economics building into a small event and meeting venue. Park board member Elaine Paske says a fence will also be constructed along the Bonsall Avenue side of the property for safety.
Officials stressed no city tax money or city funding will be used for the project. Instead, the park board plans to rely on grants and fundraising efforts, similar to the Imagination Station playground built in 2013 and the new Splash Pad completed in 2025. Future public meetings are planned as the project moves forward.
