Lubbock’s Long-Awaited Downtown Park Moves Forward After Fundraising Milestone

A long-awaited dream for a civic park in downtown Lubbock is taking significant steps forward as fundraising leaders have confirmed they have secured sufficient funds to begin construction.

Brad Moran, the fundraising chair for the Lubbock Downtown Civic Park project, informed the City Council this week that the organizers have successfully reached their $9 million target to kick off the construction of the $12 million project, which allocates $3 million for operations and maintenance.

“The total projected budget stands at $12 million, and we have successfully raised the $9 million needed to commence construction on the project, which has us feeling quite enthusiastic,” Moran stated. The announcement arrives right as the council's deadline for commencing construction by the end of 2025 draws near.

A significant alteration in the plans is the elimination of splash pads, as Moran indicated they became redundant following the city's addition of three comparable features in other locations. He also pointed out the significant expenses associated with installation and upkeep.

The revamped park will continue to showcase a number of essential amenities, such as: space for families featuring outdoor games, an exhibition of public art, a mobile dining area, a platform designed for musical performances and various events and a canine recreation area

The location is set for the previous Lubbock Power & Light building site on Broadway, directly opposite First United Methodist Church. 

On Thursday, the council reached a unanimous decision on two key items to advance the project: extending the nonprofit’s land lease for an additional three months and approving $600,000 in Central Business District Tax Increment Financing funds to support construction.

“As we enter the early stages of Q3, we are focused on initiatives such as value engineering and the selection of the general contractor,” Moran stated, noting that updated drawings will be submitted for permitting shortly.

Councilwoman Christy Martinez-Garcia also applauded the initiative, emphasizing that the construction might align with the city's ongoing improvements along Broadway. “I believe this will allow residents to experience an entirely transformed downtown,” she stated.

The projected duration of construction is nine to 10 months, with an anticipated completion date in late 2026. Upon completion, the land will return to the City of Lubbock, while a new nonprofit organization will manage operations and maintenance.

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