Austin City Council Member donates $100,000 to improve Austin parks

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Austin City Council Member Ryan Alter is contributing $100,000 of his office budget savings to the Austin Parks and Recreation Department to improve parks in District 5. 

After working with Austin Parks and Recreation staff to discuss the most “impactful and shovel-ready District 5 opportunities,” Alter said they found their priority projects, which will go towards improving Garrison Park and Piney Bend Playground, per a press release from the city.

“I look forward to continuing to work with APR and the community to bring these projects to fruition,” Alter said. 

In response to Alter’s generosity, Austin Parks and Recreation Director, Jesus Aguirre said, “We’re grateful for Council Member Alter’s generous $100,000 contribution in support of two District 5 park projects.” He said those funds will “help replace aging amenities at Garrison District Park like benches/tables, grills and drinking fountains, while also helping fund the Piney Bend Playground replacement.” 

The donation builds on over $6,500 in sponsorships over the past three years for community efforts that focus on supporting kids, culture, the environment and affordable housing, which includes the following, per the release:

• $1,000 for backpacks and school supplies for kids in need
• $2,000 to support local students
• $300 for water conservation and stewardship
• $1,000 for public safety programs
• $500 to advance local minority businesses
• $1,700 for affordable housing and homelessness services including encampment cleanup

According to the release, a check will be presented at Austin Parks and Recreation headquarters, located at 200 South Lamar Boulevard, at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.