Pearland and Manvel Prioritize Inclusive Parks with New Grant Effort

PEARLAND, TX — Pearland and neighboring Manvel are teaming up to make local park spaces more inclusive and accessible, following action taken by the Pearland City Council this month. At the council’s Dec. 8 meeting, members unanimously approved moving forward with an application for a $1 million grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife. Community Impact The proposed funding would go toward new all-inclusive playground facilities at Independence Park in Pearland and Heritage Park in Manvel. These upgrades are designed to ensure that children and families of all abilities can enjoy outdoor recreation together. Officials say the inclusive design features would include equipment suitable for children with mobility challenges, sensory-friendly play areas, and pathways that make parks easier to navigate for residents using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Community Impact “We want our parks to be spaces where everyone can play and interact,” said a council member during the meeting. Supporters of the project noted that accessible public spaces contribute to overall community health and foster stronger neighborhood connections. If awarded, the grant would help cover construction and accessibility improvements that may have been out of reach through city funds alone. According to local officials, applications for the Texas Parks and Wildlife grant typically demand detailed project plans and a strong demonstration of community benefit. City staff will now prepare the formal application and supporting materials ahead of the grant deadline, with hopes that the funding will soon bring upgraded, inclusive spaces to both Pearland and Manvel residents.