MacGregor Park's $75M makeover is underway

MacGregor Park's $75M makeover is underway

MacGregor Park renovations began earlier this month, kicking off a $75 million project for the historic southeast Houston park.

Why it matters: The project aims to modernize the 65-acre park in the Third Ward while preserving its century-old legacy as a community gathering place.

Zoom in: The renovations, led by the Houston Parks Board, include:

  • A new tennis center with 16 tennis courts, eight pickleball courts and a clubhouse
  • A renovated pool, fitness center and basketball pavilion
  • An inclusive, shaded playground and 3 miles of walking trails and sidewalks
  • Improved connections to Brays Bayou Greenway
  • Public art celebrating the park's history

    • Basketball court. Image: Talley Landscape Architects/Courtesy of Houston Parks Board

    Follow the money: The public-private project includes $27 million from the Kinder Foundation, $10 million in federal funding and $10.5 million from the city and a local reinvestment zone.

    What they're saying: "MacGregor Park is a historic community anchor and destination in southeast Houston," Kinder Foundation president and CEO Nancy Kinder said in a statement.

  • "These improvements mean that more kids will have their own chances to discover their interests and have space for themselves," said Houston Parks and Recreation Department director Kenneth Allen.

    • What's next: Construction will take place in two phases, keeping portions of the park open until the project is completed in late 2028.

    Tennis area. Image: Talley Landscape Architects/Courtesy of Houston Parks Board