La Verde Park
Client:
City of Kyle
Services Provided:
Urban Design, Public Space Landscape Architecture, Streetscapes, Parks, Stakeholder Engagement, Visualizations, Construction Documentation, Construction Observation
Recognition:
2024 Merit Award for La Verde Park (Built Work), American Society of Landscape Architects, Texas Chapter
2024 Great Places in Texas, Public Space Award for La Verde Park, American Planning Association, Texas Chapter
2022 Merit Award for La Verde Park and Cultural Trail, American Society of Landscape Architects, Texas Chapter
La Verde Park is a transformative urban development project located in Kyle, Texas, within the expansive 138-acre Brick and Mortar District of the Plum Creek Planned Unit Development. This 1.67-acre park is designed to serve as a vibrant, multi-generational gathering space equipped with a diversity of facilities including interactive water features, a performance pavilion, space for farmers markets, art, all-inclusive playground, and hammock grove, all supporting a wide range of community activities and interactions.
One of the primary objectives of this project is to provide a central community space that not only fosters social interaction and hosts public events but also integrates sustainable landscape practices to enhance both ecological and aesthetic value. Key challenges such as integrating diverse amenities within a compact urban setting were addressed through strategic and efficient space utilization, ensuring accessibility and variety. Furthermore, the project maintained momentum despite the global pandemic by leveraging digital tools for community engagement and project coordination.
Significant collaboration has been essential for the realization of La Verde Park. Led by Lionheart, the master planning and landscape architecture firm, the project involved close collaboration with the City of Kyle and local stakeholders, including residents and businesses. Lionheart's role extended beyond design and planning, as they skillfully led a comprehensive team of architects, engineers, and consultants to address intricate aspects of construction and compliance. This has ensured that the park not only meets but exceeds the community’s expectations in terms of usability and sustainability.
The impact of La Verde Park is profound, providing substantial benefits to the community, environment, and local economy. The park serves as a dynamic space for events, enhancing local business through increased foot traffic and hosting capabilities. Environmental sustainability is showcased through features like rain gardens and native plantings, which contribute to the ecological health of the area.
In recognition of its innovative approach and community impact, La Verde Park has received accolades for its community engagement strategies and sustainable design elements. Lionheart has been instrumental in integrating advanced stormwater management techniques, which stand as a testament to the project’s innovative and future-focused design approach.
Overall, La Verde Park exemplifies how thoughtful design and community-focused planning can transform urban spaces into enduring, valuable community assets.
Photo by ©Steve Moakley
La Verde Park is a space where children of all ages and abilities can tap into their ever-growing imaginations and explore an all-inclusive playground.
Photo by ©Steve Moakley
Lionheart led the master plan, landscape architecture and the entire consultant team for La Verde Park and the Cultural Trail. La Verde Park was opened to the public in November 2023 and the Cultural Trail is currently under construction.
Photo by ©Steve Moakley
The rain garden, with a substantial storage volume of 2,600 cubic feet, plays a pivotal role in providing detention and maintaining water quality for 100 percent of the site. This innovative feature stands as a resilient solution to manage stormwater effectively.
