The Park Department has received several honors, including the American Planning Association (APA) designation of Fair Park as one of 10 Great Public Spaces for 2011. APA Great Places exemplify exceptional character and highlight the role planners play in creating communities of lasting value.
APA singled out Fair Park for its extraordinary collection of 1930s art and architecture; proximity to downtown Dallas; year-round cultural, entertainment and sports offerings; and stunning views of Downtown Dallas. The park embodies the City Beautiful Movement with its thoughtfully designed spaces, tree-lined boulevards, monuments and fountains.
Through Great Places in America, APA recognizes unique and exemplary streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces – essential components of all communities. These authentic places have been shaped by forward think- ing planning that showcases diverse architectural styles, promotes community involvement and accessibility, and fosters economic opportunity.
Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS) Regions 2 and 3 also recognized the Park Department with its Lone Star Programming Award for the White Rock Lake Centennial Celebration. The regional honor recognizes innovative, first-time park and recreation programs and events. TRAPS is a professional and educational organization for the state’s parks, recreation, and leisure services professions.
And, Forestry Services received the Gold Leaf Award for landscape beautification Activities for Dallas Mavericks “Trees for Threes” program. The Mavs agreed to plant one tree for each three-point basket made at all home games, resulting in 320 trees planted at city parks.
The award, presented by the Texas Forest Service and Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, recognizes municipalities that have made significant contributions through tree planting and landscaping that enhances environmental protection, conservation, beautification, energy conservation or wildlife.
