The Alamo is opening an all-inclusive park and fitness court after decades of neglect

Texas Frontier Business

By Roberto Hugo Gonzalez / Texas Border Business

Alamo, Texas – Mayor JR Garza joined city leaders, stakeholders and residents in a double ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the Alaniz-Villagomez Inclusive Park and Alamo City’s second National Fitness Campaign Fitness Court.

The ceremony celebrated the revitalization of a park that city officials said had been largely unused for more than four decades, turning it into a recreational space focused on accessibility, health and community gathering.

“Twenty-five years ago was the last time anyone laid hands on this park,” Garza said. “For many years, it was under lock and key, and there wasn’t much going on.”

City officials said the project is a nearly $4 million investment and was made possible in part by a nearly $1 million grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Garza credited city staff and community partners for securing funding and moving the project forward.

The park, located at 423 N. Tower Road, includes an entire playground, walking trails, sports courts, and a variety of recreational features designed to serve residents of all ages and abilities in the Rio Grande Valley.

The ceremony also marked the installation of the Alamo’s second National Fitness Campaign outdoor fitness court. The city’s first fitness court was installed at Lions Park as part of an effort to expand free public fitness opportunities.

The park is named after the Alanis and Villagomez families, whose historical ties to the area go back decades. Tony Alans, speaking on behalf of his family, recalled spending time in the area during his childhood.

“I was born before the war, and it reminds me of the 50s, because these trees were for us then,” Alans said. “Our group spent a lot of time under these trees in the 1950s.”

A key feature of the project is its inclusive playground design. Marissa Pekina said traditional playgrounds often do not accommodate children with disabilities.

“Today in the Alamo City, it ends,” Pekina said.

She pointed out several accessible features, including an all-inclusive merry-go-round, a 50-foot zip line with assisted bucket seats, and an American Sign Language communication panel.

“This playground is an answer for any family that has ever wondered if their community really sees their child,” Pekina said.

Asuro Trevino, the city’s economic development director, said the project required a strategic effort to secure state funding, with city staff developing a competitive proposal in less than three months.

“We have to take a regional approach to guaranteeing money,” Trevino said.

Trevino said the proposal emphasizes amenities designed to serve area residents, including pickleball courts, overall playground equipment, and a fitness court.

“The game is global,” Trevino said. “And playing at the Alamo is universal for all kids, all ages. We don’t discriminate.”

City leaders said the redevelopment transforms the long-neglected site into a park designed to improve community well-being, accessibility and family fun throughout the area.