Exciting News for San Antonio: A New Park is on the Way!
San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as the city prepares for the grand opening of the Berkley V. & Vincent M. Dawson Park this fall. After more than a decade filled with planning, negotiations, and even a few legal battles, this beautiful 1.7-acre park will soon be a reality for all to enjoy!
A Labor of Love
If you’re wondering what makes this park so special, it’s all about creating a space that brings joy and recreation to the community. Located under the iconic Hays Street Bridge, the park will feature a wide variety of amenities that cater to everyone’s interests. From skate parks to playgrounds, and even gathering spaces, it’s designed to be a hub of activity and relaxation for San Antonians. Imagine picnics sprawled out on the open green spaces, or cozy movie nights with friends and family—sounds delightful, right?
What to Expect
The park is set to include the following features:
- Skate park for thrill-seekers
- Open green space for community gatherings
- Bridge plaza with amenities like bike repair stations, restrooms, and seating areas
- Historic timeline walk to learn about the area’s past
- Storytelling plaza for community storytelling sessions
- Garden plaza to connect with nature
Neighborhood Impact
The opening of this park is a significant win for the Eastside community. In fact, the journey to getting to this point wasn’t easy at all. The property almost became a multi-story apartment complex! Back in 2012, the City of San Antonio sold the land to a private developer. However, the community rallied together, and thanks to the efforts of local activists and former Anheuser-Busch franchise owners, Berkley and Vincent Dawson, the city was encouraged to shift its plans. The brothers even donated the land to the city in 2007 with the request that it carry their last name if it ever became a park.
A Resolution After Years of Advocacy
In 2019, the Texas Supreme Court ruled that local activists could take legal action against the city for the previous sale of the land. After a long legal battle, it was decided that the developer would move the planned apartments less than a mile away, paving the way for Berkley V. and Vincent M. Dawson Park. It’s a testament to community spirit and perseverance!
District 2 Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez expressed gratitude to everyone who played a role in making the park a reality. He mentioned how significant this vote was in creating a free public park that the community can cherish for years to come. And as a bonus, we can look out for a grand opening date announcement happening soon—likely before Thanksgiving!
The Final Countdown
San Antonio, it’s time to get ready for a new place to hang out, play, and relax. As we patiently await the opening of Berkley V. & Vincent M. Dawson Park, we can’t help but feel a sense of excitement about the memories that will soon be made in this community space. Stay tuned for more updates, grab your friends, and let’s make some plans for the park! It’s almost here!
