Navasota parks a blank canvas of potential

July 2023 marks the 38th anniversary of National Parks and Recreation Month. This year’s theme, “Where Community Grows,” is particularly appropriate in Navasota where the “community” is growing by leaps and bounds! Leading the charge to meet the challenges of growth is Navasota’s Parks and Recreation Specialist, Ryan Hendricks.

Hendricks, a San Antonio native and father of two, was an elementary physical education teacher for almost a decade. In 2013, he was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Texas at San Antonio followed by a Master of Science in Sports Administration in 2022 fromArkansas State University.

Hendricks was also the founder of San Antonio Roundnet, also known as Spikeball, and a volunteer with SanAntonio Sports.

Agood foundation

Comparing Navasota’s parks to similar sized towns, Hendricks said, “Personally, I think Navasota has a lot of parks versus towns that are similar in size. This is great because the foundation and space are already accounted for. The only concern that I see is that some of the parks and facilities have seen better days and are in need of some updates and risk mitigation.”

He continued, “All the parks in Navasota are a blank canvas in my eyes and have true potential to be iconic in their own way. Of course, some will have more than others.”

Discussing the 80-acreAugust Horst Park west of town on SH 105 at Veterans Memorial Drive, Hendricks said, “It will end up being a premier park solely based off its size and the possibilities for amenities versus a Ketchum Park which is on a corner lot focused toward children.”

He continued, “My main focus at this point is to enhance each existing park as best I can before focusing on the construction of something brand-new.”

Since his hire in March, Hendricks has concentrated on preparing the Navasota swimming pool for swim season and encourages everyone to enjoy the historic Navasota Municipal Pool this summer.

He said, “Admission is just $5 and the pool hours officially change June 27 through the end of summer. The new hours will be Tuesday through Saturday, 1-7 p.m., depending on weather and staffing. Sunday and Monday the pool will be closed for maintenance.

Parks for all

Hendricks stressed that all parks in the City of Navasota are open to anyone, saying, “We encourage everyone who lives in the city, and visitors, to check out our parks to catch some fresh air, take their kids to play – even fish!”

At least one of Navasota’s 10 parks can be found in each quadrant of the City and include Brule, Mance Lipscomb, Ketchum, Mockingbird, August Horst, Cleveland, Victoria, Hillside, Patout Pond and the Skate Park.

Amenities vary at each location but Navasota’s park system can meet every need. Visitors interested in passive recreation may prefer parks which feature only ponds, benches and shade trees while basketball courts and playground equipment appeal to younger and more active visitors. City parks with sidewalks and trails are made-to-order for Navasota’s walkers and joggers. There are also parks with picnic tables, barbecue pits, restrooms, electricity and water - ideally suited for family gatherings.

Park funding options

All residents, whether they own or rent, have the opportunity to contribute to Navasota’s parks. Utility users can donate through the optional $1 Voluntary Park Fund fee on monthly utility bills. According to Hendricks, proceeds have been placed in municipal bonds and CDs to build interest.

He said, “As some of those accounts begin to mature, we will be able to access those funds to use for park projects.”

Another option is a tax-deductible donation earmarked for parks to the City of Navasota Foundation.

Hendricks said he looks forward to working with new Parks and Recreation Board appointees this fall and discussing future projects.

Cornhole in Navasota?

Disc golf and pickleball have been well-received in Navasota and Hendricks sees a place for another activity.

He said, “I think that Cornhole will be a great low intensity activity for the City of Navasota to enjoy. I am aware that Grimes County Cornhole exists already; however, I would like to partner with them in setting up a tournament, and if there’s enough interest, facilitating league play.” Hendricks has a few more ideas but is keeping them close to the vest. He said, “Right now, the Navasota Center hosts Gold Club for seniors 55-plus monthly, Yoga, and the Boy Scouts use the Center for their meetings. I do have a program or two in mind that I think the community will enjoy but I can’t share until the budget gets passed for next year. Fingers crossed, if there is anyone in the public that is interested in teaching a class they think the community will enjoy, I encourage them to contact me here at City Hall.”

Movies in the park

To celebrate Parks and Recreation Month, the City of Navasota will host an outdoor movie at Brule Park at sundown (8:30 p.m.) every Friday in July depending on the weather.

Hendricks said, “I strongly encourage patrons to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. Snacks and/or meals are allowed – just make sure you keep our park clean by picking up your trash. Of course, alcohol, vape, smoking and violence are unnecessary and prohibited.”