In 1968, Plano’s newly formed Parks and Recreation Department consisted of one director, two part-time employees, and 42 acres of farmland. Today, this award-winning system boasts thousands of miles of parkland, miles of trails, and beautifully maintained facilities to meet the growing recreational needs of this diverse city.

Much has happened to help the department transform into what it is today, but its mission has stayed the same: to provide inviting spaces and memorable places for enjoying Plano’s high quality of life. And to thank the community for its continued support, the department is excited to give back in 2018 with an exciting lineup of open houses, special events, and giveaways celebrating 50 years of fun in Plano!

Plano Parks and Recreation cordially invites the public to join them in kicking off this milestone birthday with a special proclamation from Plano Mayor Harry LaRosiliere at the City Council’s Jan. 8 regular meeting. City Hall visitors are also encouraged to check out the department’s historical timeline display located in council chambers now through Jan. 19.

The celebration continues with the grand re-opening at Oak Point Recreation Center at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20, complete with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the newly renovated and expanded center. Similar open house events are scheduled at each of the city’s recreation facilities throughout the year to help mark the occasion, during which time residents can stop by, visit vendor booths, and learn about the many amenities these facilities have to offer.

The celebration continues in October with a birthday bash and employee reunion at Oak Point Park Nature & Retreat Center (5901 Los Rios Blvd.), followed by a community concert at Oak Point Park Amphitheater.

Parks and Recreation fans can also visit the department’s 50th Anniversary page at www.planoparks.org all year long to check out a historical timeline, archived photos, event info, anniversary news and much more.

Celebrate 50 Years of Fun with us at these upcoming open house events*:

Jan. 20 Oak Point Recreation Center (10 a.m.-1 p.m.)
March 15 Tom Muehlenbeck Recreation Center (2-6 p.m.)
April 21 Liberty Recreation Center (2-5 p.m.)
May 5 Oak Point Park Nature and Retreat Center (10 a.m.-noon)
June 2 High Point Tennis Center (10 a.m.-noon)
Sept. 24 Carpenter Park Recreation Center (4-8 p.m.)

* An open house at Plano Senior Recreation Center is expected to be held in December (date tentative due to renovation)

All information provided by the City of Plano