The playgrounds at Discovery Green are closed right now due to coronavirus and the demands of social distancing for the community’s health. However, the Discovery Green Conservancy can’t wait to show off the new playgrounds that will be available soon.
Watch as Clark Curry, operations director, takes a tour of the new playground and the features designed to give Houstonians more places to play, more trees and shade and more to discover!
This project is only possible because of sponsors and people like you. Visit discoverygreen.com/future to make a donation to complete this project. Discovery Green is a 501c3 and your gift is 100 percent tax deductible.
Frequently asked questions:
Why is the Discovery Green Conservancy building a new park?
When the park first opened in 2008, the northwest corner—where the playground was formerly located—was considered a back corner of the park. Now it’s a key gateway to Discovery Green. A new park corner will better connect park users to the changing neighborhood. An upgraded playground will give kids even more to explore.
What are some of the features of the new playground?
- Two play areas: one for 2- to 5-year-olds, one for 5- to 12-year-olds
- Seating for parents in both sections
- In smaller kids’ area, a concrete bench that acts as seating and containment
- Hedge with built-in fence surrounding playground
- Increase from 9 play pieces to 20 pieces (same footprint)
- Hill in smaller kids’ area that will mirror the one on the northeast park corner
What other features are being added?
- 31 fully developed trees!
- 12 Cathedral Oaks will line the new entry promenade
- 19 others (a mix of Willow Oaks, Swamp Chestnut Oaks, Cedar Elms, Drummond Red Maples and additional Cathedral Live Oaks) will be planted within the playground area
- This means more shade and cooling!
- New lighting along the allee!
Who designed the new playground?
Hargreaves Associates
Who can we thank?
- The new John P. McGovern Playground is supported by: The Brown Foundation, The Houston Endowment Inc., The Kinder Foundation, The John P. McGovern Foundation, The Elkins Foundation and The Houston Endowment Inc. in honor of Mr. David Mendez.
- The lighting on the new allée is provided by the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club.
- Additional Master Plan campaign donors include; The Cullen Foundation, The Wortham Foundation, Finger Interests and The Sterling-Turner Foundation.
