About Us

Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy advances the long-term development and stewardship of parks in the urban core.

We champion a more livable, resilient Downtown where green space supports daily life, strengthens neighborhoods and creates moments of connection. As advocates and partners, we help ensure these parks are thoughtfully designed, well cared for and accessible to all.

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1987 Lubben Plaza Opens

The Belo Foundation helps establish Lubben Plaza, an early investment in public green space in Downtown Dallas

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2004 Downtown Parks Master Plan Completed


A first of its kind for Dallas, this plan laid a vision for a Downtown neighborhood
park system.

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2012: CIVIC GARDEN OPENS

An underutilized park lot is transformed into a garden inspired by the Texas prairie.

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2013 Downtown Parks Master Plan Update

The City identifies underutilized land and identifies four priority parks to serve the growing residential population.

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2015 Parks for Downtown Dallas Is Founded

The nonprofit launches with a mission to implement the Downtown Parks Master Plan

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2019 Pacific Plaza Opens

in the heart of Downtown Dallas, transforming a former parking lot into a 3.74-acre neighborhood park

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2021 West End Square Opens

bringing green space, shade, and water features to one of Downtown’s most historic neighborhoods

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2022 Carpenter Park Opens

as the largest park in Downtown Dallas, reconnecting the eastern edge of downtown with space for public art and recreation

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2023 Harwood Park Opens

as the fourth and final Priority Park, bringing dog parks, water features, and two giant mammoth play structures

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2023-Present Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy

Parks for Downtown Dallas evolves into Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy, reflecting a broader long-term mission focused on stewardship and the future of downtown parks.

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2026 Civic Garden Dog Park Opening Soon

The next chapter continues with the upcoming Civic Garden dog park!

NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS FOR DOWNTOWN DALLAS

When DDPC was formed in 2015 (then known as Parks for Downtown Dallas), we had one mandate: to reimagine Downtown Dallas by converting surface parking and vacant lots into neighborhood parks and green space.

The Priority Parks program, a public-private partnership between the Conservancy and the Dallas Park and Recreation Department, has converted more than 14 acres of underutilized land into Pacific Plaza, West End Square, Carpenter Park and Harwood Park. Together, these parks create a healthier, greener, and more walkable downtown experience.

SUPPORTING DOWNTOWN DALLAS PARKS LONG-TERM

Today, DDPC’s work extends beyond park development. As park builders, we are a key partner of the Dallas Park and Recreation Department.

As park investors, we raise and manage endowments for the future with capable advisors. 

As park advocates, we champion park excellence through initiatives like Downtown Parks Field Academy and horticulture enhancements, supporting the design vision and civic relevance of these public spaces.

We do this with you, creating enduring parks for today and the next generation.

AWARDS & ACCOLADES