SUBJECT
title
Resolution of the City Council of the City of Laredo, Texas ratifying and authorizing the City Manager to submit an application in the amount of $594,182.00 to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD), under the 2027 Local Parks Grant Program for The Lago Del Valle Park Bike and Hike Trails, and execute all relevant documents as determined by TPWD. The project will provide, promote and support outdoor recreation. This notice of funding opportunity is on a reimbursement basis. Grant match in the amount of $297,091.00 is available through District 3 Park Improvement Fees and District 3’s Discretionary Funds from the 2025 Certificate of Obligations Bond.
body
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
None.
BACKGROUND
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Local Park Grant Program provides 50% matching grants on a reimbursement basis to eligible local governments for the acquisition and development of public park and recreational facilities. The program requires that all grant-assisted sites be dedicated as parkland in perpetuity, properly maintained, and remain open to the public.
body
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating:
☑ Strong ⬜ Moderate ⬜ Weak/None
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Goal 8.1 - Promote Active Recreation and Trail Connectivity
Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 8.12
“Develop and maintain pedestrian and bicycle trails to improve connectivity, recreational access, and healthy lifestyle opportunities for all residents.”
Relevance:
The proposed TPWD grant application is specifically intended to construct bike and hike trails at Lago Del Valle Park. The project directly implements the Comprehensive Plan's objective of expanding pedestrian and bicycle trail infrastructure while promoting active recreation.
Policy 8.2.3 - Enhance Neighborhood Access to Parks and Recreation Facilities
Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 8.14
“Ensure that all neighborhoods have safe and convenient access to parks, trails, and recreational facilities.”
Relevance:
The project expands recreational opportunities within District 3 by improving access to park amenities and creating safe facilities for walking and bicycling.
Policy 8.2.5 - Leverage Grant Funding for Recreational Development
Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 8.15
“Pursue state, federal, and private funding opportunities to develop and enhance parks, trails, and recreational infrastructure.”
Relevance:
The resolution directly implements this policy by seeking financial assistance through the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Local Parks Grant Program while providing the required local matching funds.
Summary of alignment:
This resolution demonstrates strong alignment with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by directly advancing the City's goals for expanding recreational infrastructure, increasing trail connectivity, and improving neighborhood access to outdoor recreational opportunities. The proposed Lago Del Valle Park Bike and Hike Trails project fulfills the Plan's emphasis on developing pedestrian and bicycle facilities while leveraging state grant funding to maximize local investment.
The project also advances broader Comprehensive Plan themes of:
Public Health through promotion of walking, bicycling, and active lifestyles.
Mobility by expanding non-motorized transportation infrastructure.
Equity by increasing recreational opportunities within District 3.
Sustainability through investment in outdoor recreation and park infrastructure.
Economic Development by utilizing state grant funds to enhance community amenities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
Click or tap here to enter text.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Approval of the item.
end
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: FY2026
Budgeted Y/N?: Y
Source of Funds: 2025 CO Bond (District 3) and Parkland Fund
Account #: Various
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
$244,091 478-9810-514-9900 /D318RS(District 3 Discretionary Funds-2025 CO Bond)
53,000 268-3181-555-9301 /D32306 (Parkland Fund)
$297,091