Pearland Independence Park ImprovementsThe Design for Phase 1 improvements planned for Independence Park are moving along. The $3.6 million project to modernize the park and bring it up to current service and safety standards will create a facility better equipped to meet the current and future needs of the Pearland community. The project construction will be competitively bid in March 2017, with construction expected to begin in May 2017. Plans for the redesign include reorienting the park entry to Pearland Parkway, adding space for a shuttle bus drop off, creating additional parking on park grounds and making park modifications to streamline vehicular movement and expand pedestrian pathways. Additionally, the replacement and expansion of the existing playground equipment to create a larger, all-inclusive playground to provide recreation opportunities for children of all aged and all abilities are also being planned. The design will provide for updated electrical and utility systems for vendor access, additional lighting, pavilion enhancements, new landscaping and the creation of a stage and amphitheater.According to a recent park utilization survey, Independence Park has the second highest utilization of all City parks. This project is part of the City’s efforts to ensure Quality Parks, Recreation and Events – one of Pearland City Council’s six Strategic Priorities and was included and approved in 2007 Bond Election. For more information on this project and other City Capital Improvement Projects, visit pearlandtx.gov/projects. To view a facility map for this projects and others, log on to the Capital Improvement Projects webpage.pearlandtx.gov/home