North Austin News

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the San Antonio Spurs and the Austin Parks Foundation, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 16 to celebrate improvements at Davis-White Northeast Neighborhood Park. The event marked the unveiling of upgraded basketball goals, a new playscape for children aged 5 to 12, replacement swings, an additional arch swing with a saucer-style swing set, ADA benches, and an interpretive marker.

Davis-White Northeast Neighborhood Park covers nearly 20 acres and was renamed in 2007 to honor Captain Willie Ray Davis and Captain Louie White. These individuals were the first African Americans appointed to leadership roles in Austin's Fire and Police Departments.

Jesús Aguirre, Director of Austin Parks and Recreation, expressed enthusiasm about the park's transformation: "We are thrilled by the transformation of Davis-White Park," he said. "This project demonstrates the power of collaboration with our community and other valued partners."

Colin Wallis, CEO of Austin Parks Foundation, also highlighted the importance of partnerships: "Austin Parks Foundation, alongside Austin Parks and Recreation, is grateful to continue this partnership with Spurs Give with our first project completion of the year in Davis-White Park," he stated.

Dr. Kara Allen from Spurs Sports & Entertainment commented on their involvement: "Play ATX is our way of honoring and celebrating Spurs fans in Austin by creating safe, accessible spaces for play and connection."

The renovations respect the park’s history while preserving its pecan trees that provide shade. This redesign resulted from collaboration between community members and city departments.

Funding for these improvements came from municipal bonds as well as contributions from Austin Parks Foundation and Spurs Give.