Photo Credit: Mariella Ayala
Setting the green standard for parks across the nation, Evelyn’s Park, near Houston, Texas, is set to become one of the most sustainable parks in the United States. Five acres of historic land have been conserved and transformed into a dynamic green space where a community can connect with nature in the midst of an energetic urban landscape.
The park, which opened on Earth Day, April 22, 2017, focuses on exploration and education, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about the environment they’re enjoying. Providing their own input and ideas, community members expressed the desire for an enduring gathering place that would offer something for everyone, including features like a great lawn, play areas, walking trails, calming gardens, and food options.
In addition to meeting the needs of the community, the board of director overseeing the park also wanted it to serve as a source of inspiration. The goal: build a space that could exemplify the very best in conservation by reaching “net-zero” energy status for the park’s day-to-day operations, meaning the park would generate the same amount of energy it consumes. To accomplish this, park management knew it needed to choose business partners with purpose, selecting organizations that specialize in environmental responsibility.