Houston Downtown Park Conservancy

News

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:41:27 GMT

DockDogs® Made Successful Local Debut at Discovery Green Houstons New Downtown Park HOUSTON - July 2, 2008 -- Houston, well-known for its enthusiastic sports fans, embraced another exciting athletic event as DockDogs®made its Houston debut at Discovery Green, Houston’s newest park located across from the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston. The non-stop action began on Friday, June 27 and attracted over 140 canines competing in distance and aerial events throughout the weekend. More... - photo credit: John C. Leggio, Jr. Downtown Green Market at Discovery Green HOUSTON - May 13, 2008 -- Houstonians seeking to supplement their Thursday afternoon happy hour have an exciting alternative in Downtown Houston. Discovery Green, the urban park located across from the George R. Brown Convention Center, opened April 13, 2008. Houstonians and visitors...

Experience

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:59:01 GMT

Dowload this weeks Activities at Discovery Green Red, White & Blue at the Green: July 4: Performance by Houston-based idol hand Recycling Saturdays July 5: Bring your recycling to the park. Drew Bettge brings his HEN CAR & leads recycling workshop

Recreation

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:31:46 GMT

Emulating the model of great urban parks around the country, Discovery Green is designed as an engaging and active place with dedicated management and programming to serve all ages and backgrounds, as well as workers, residents and visitors alike. Discovery Green has a unique and entertaining menu of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages to enjoy year-round. Andrea and Bill White Promenade This walkway forms the heart of the park, offers a 360-degree view of Houstons skyline and connects Minute Maid on the north and Toyota Center on the south. The length of one city block, this walkway will play host to markets and arts and crafts events in the springtime. John P. McGovern Playground The playground is carved into an existing, tree-shaded hill and shields youngsters from the surrounding streets. The major migratory bird flyway over Houston...

Events

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:28:37 GMT

Introducing Discovery Green’s
Spring/Summer Programming Season

April 13 - August 8, 2008

All series programs are FREE and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. This schedule is subject to change. Many events must be rescheduled or cancelled in the event of rain.

For last minute weather updates, see information below or call 713-400-7336.

DOWNLOAD A LIST OF THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

Click on each activity below for more information.

Narrow Green Bar

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:07:47 GMT

Visit Central City Co-op's Green Market: Thursdays 4 - 7:30 p.m.
Recycled Gazebo - Art installation by Dan Phillips on display through September
The Gateway Fountain is off on Mondays for maintenance

Art

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:57:13 GMT

One of the most important goals of Discovery Green was to incorporate art throughout the park. Park organizers, through generous donors and partners like the Houston Arts Alliance, have secured the works of many renowned national and local artists to enhance Discovery Green. Great care was taken to ensure the installations would be visually prominent yet at home in the park’s environs. Recycled Gazebo Photo: Allen Wilkerson Recycled Gazebo is the first temporary art installation at Discovery Green. Created by Huntsville, Texas artist Dan Phillips, the 16 x 13 structure is made predominantly from recycled materials. Located on the Compass Bank Waterside Lawn, adjacent to Kinder Lake, the fascinating art installation will be on...

Jobs

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:51:34 GMT

Ground Maintenance Supervisor

The Grounds Maintenance Supervisor will be responsible for horticulture and general park maintenance work. This position is a working supervisory position and will include both manual labor and administrative tasks. The Grounds Maintenance Supervisor will oversee a crew of both full-time and part-time employees, and will oversee and coordinate the work of grounds and facilities maintenance contractors. This position will facilitate and support Special Events. Salary is $32,000 - $35,000.

Click here for a complete job description.

Help The Park

Fri, 23 May 2008 19:26:22 GMT

There are many ways you can contribute financially to the 501(c)(3) Discovery Green Conservancy: Building Campaign We have surpassed our $53 million buidling campaign! View a list of the Discovery Green Building Campaign Contributors. We have a few available naming opportunties ranging from $25,000 to $3 million. For a current list of available naming opportunities, email julie@discoverygreen.com Paver Campaign Thank you to everyone who contributed to our paver campaign. Our current gross income is more than $465,000! We hope you will visit the park soon to find your paver, bench or plaque. View list of Paver Campaign donors Gala on the Green - 2008 Discovery Green sparkled at its inaugural Gala on the Green presented by Shell Oil Company on Saturday, February 23, 2008. Co-chairs Franci and Jim Crane, Nancy and Rich Kinder and Eileen and Kase Lawal hosted some 1,200 guests at the elegant black-tie evening on the park grounds. Guests strolled down a red carpet to...

General Info

Wed, 21 May 2008 17:54:27 GMT

Discovery Green opens April 13, 2008.The downtown Houston park is located across Avenida de las Americas from the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Hilton Americas Hotel. Toyota Center, Houston Center and Minute Maid Park are only blocks away. Admission is FREE. Hours The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Hours for events may vary. Areas of the park may be closed occasionally for maintenance or private events. Alkek Building Visit the park information center at the Alkek Building, located near the Gateway Fountain off the Andrea and Bill White Promenade. Staff is available to answer questions about the park, programming or rentals. Public restrooms are located in the Alkek Building. See a Park Map See the Event Calendar HPL Express HPL Express, a product of the Houston Public Library, is located on the east end of the Lake House building. Complimentary Wi-Fi Access is available to park visitors courtesy of the City of Houston. Hours of Operation: ...

Natural

Wed, 21 May 2008 13:54:36 GMT

Visitors to Discovery Green can see the remarkable skyline of downtown Houston, but be transported into a natural setting filled with greenery and trees. Lauren Griffith Associates, a local landscape architecture firm, contributed intimate knowledge of native Texas plants and wildlife habitats to create a green space that will flourish in its natural surroundings as it enhances the aesthetic of Houstons substantial urban footprint. Jones Lawn The parks largest green space, providing ample area for major events or pick-up sports. Brown Foundation Promenade A shaded walkway featuring 100-year-old oak trees, the largest of which is the Nancy G. Kinder Oak near Avenida de las Americas, one of four large live oaks moved to the park. In honor of George R. Browns instrumental role in shaping downtown Houston as we know it today, a bronze statue of him stands under the allee of oaks on...

Store

Tue, 20 May 2008 22:43:13 GMT

Come to the grand opening festivities of the new downtown park, Discovery Green on Sunday, April 13, 2008 and get your FREE ecology bag.

PHOTO OF BAG

After April 13, the eco-friendly bag will be available for purchase.

Check back for updates on Discovery Green merchandise to purchase online.

Features

Tue, 20 May 2008 22:39:04 GMT

Discovery Green, a 12-acre park located in downtown Houston, opens April 13, 2008. With its proximity to the George R. Brown Convention Center, Minute Maid Park and Toyota Center, Discovery Green is an ideal location for the citys newest attraction. View the Park Map Visitors to the park can enjoy many natural, recreational, art, and dining features including: one-acre lake childrens playground interactive water features amphitheater stage and slope dog runs for large and small breeds public art works HPL Express spacious green lawns great restaurants, The Grove and The Lake House In addition to surface lot and park perimeter parking, the Convention District Garage, operated by the City of Houston, lies beneath the park. Designed by Hargreaves Associates, PageSoutherlandPage and Lauren Griffith Associates, along with a team of engineers and specialists, these carefully planned features allow the park to accommodate those...

Park Rules & Permits

Mon, 19 May 2008 19:42:44 GMT

Please be aware of some guidelines for your visit to the park. Discovery Green is a safe and comfortable place for everyone because of our Park Rules. You are welcome: To bring your lawn chairs To bring coolers onto the park grounds Park Guidelines prohibit: Glass bottles or containers Alcohol, beer or wine brought onto the park grounds Weapons or firearms Video recording or flash photography during performances Distribution of literature or materials Photography and Video People are welcome to take photographs or video at Discovery Green for personal use provided their activity does not restrict public use of an area of the park. Members of the news media are also welcome to photograph or take video for news coverage. A permit is required if: There is a commercial purpose for the photography, film or video. For example, photographs that are sold for publication, feature or commercial film for which tickets are sold or video is to be used...

Park Map

Wed, 14 May 2008 14:16:42 GMT

Download a high res jpeg
Print a map of the park

Directions & Parking

Mon, 12 May 2008 14:40:59 GMT

Discovery Green’s 11.78-acre site can be found in downtown Houston across Avenida de las Americas from the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Hilton Americas Hotel. Toyota Center, Houston Center and Minute Maid Park are only blocks away. How to Get to Discovery Green Discovery Green is centrally-located, just blocks away from Minute Maid Park, Toyota Center, Main Street and The Shops at Houston Center. The Alkek Building, near the intersection of McKinney and Crawford on the north side of the park, is the location for information, maps and event schedules. Once the park opens in April 2008, park staff can answer questions during regular business hours. By Transit Take METRORail to the Main Street Square Station and walk five blocks east on McKinney or Lamar. For bus route information, go to www.ridemetro.org. By Bicycle Refer to the City of Houston Bikeway Map on its Web site for a safe route into...

Private Events

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:35:05 GMT

With twelve acres across from the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston, Discovery Green will be an ideal location to host your corporate event, special occasion or childrens birthday party. Locations Against the backdrop of Houstons dramatic skyline, there is tremendous potential to make your event memorable. Several ideal locations at Discovery Green are available for private and public rentals. Event spaces can accommodate events from 15 up to 4,000 people. Anheuser-Busch Amphitheater Stage Lindsey Waterside Landing Macondas Grove/Market Grove Event Lawn Andrea and Bill White Promenade Jones Lawn View a listing and description or map of the Event Spaces. Proposals A proposal must be submitted to hold an event at Discovery Green. Please contact programs@discoverygreen.com or call 713-800-4700 for more information. Photography and video shoots Please note that all film, video and photo shoots to take place in Discovery Green...

Downloads

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:54:04 GMT

Photo Gallery For high-resolution images, please request here. April 13 Family Day March 1 One for Doc preview concert The Grove and The Lake House Doug Hollis Mist Tree and Listening Vessels Synchronicity of Color by Margo Sawyer Brown Foundation Promenade Dog Runs Park Renderings (All image credits should reflect Hargreaves Associates) Aerial Rendering (JPG, 12M) Gateway Fountain (JPG, 7M) Gardens (JPG, 6M) View from Avenidas de las Americas (JPG, 3M) Kinder Lake (JPG, 5M) The Grove Restaurant (JPG, 6M) Veranda (JPG, 5M)

Sponsorships

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 21:07:13 GMT

Discovery Green has had the tremendous support of the Houston community not only during development, but through the months as the park opens to the public. If you are interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities at Discovery Green, please contact Julie Bergen at julie@discoverygreen.com Special thanks to our media partners

Dining

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:24:38 GMT

The Grove Visitors to Discovery Green may choose from two contemporary restaurants or pack a picnic lunch or dinner to enjoy with family and friends. THE GROVE. Overlooking the parks live oaks, Schiller Del Grandes destination restaurant and rooftop bar offer patrons exceptional food, service and views of the park. Also visit The Tree House on the second floor of the restaurant 713-337-7321 www.thegrovehouston.com Hours of Operation: Monday 11-2 pm CLOSED DINNER Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday 11 am - 10 pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday 11 am - 11 pm THE LAKE HOUSE. Offers fast, casual, family-friendly food, featuring burgers, hot dogs, salads, shakes, sodas, wine and beer. 713-337-7320 Hours of Operation: Monday CLOSED Tuesday-Sunday 11 am-8pm About the Design While much of the emphasis and beauty of Discovery Green is focused on its beautiful outdoor setting, great care and purpose was taken in the construction of the...

Dining & Accommodations

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:23:42 GMT

Dining Visitors to Discovery Green can chose from two contemporary restaurants or pack a picnic lunch or dinner to enjoy with family and friends. Discovery Green’s signature restaurant and rooftop bar - The Grove and The Treehouse -- is operated by the Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group and promises to appease the appetite for great beauty as well as great food. The Grove is located on the south side of the park near Lamar Street. The Lake House, also operated by Schiller Del Grande, overlooks the Jones Lawn, and offers fast casual dining. THE GROVE. 713-337-7321 www.thegrovehouston.com Hours of Operation: Monday 11 am-2 pm CLOSED DINNER Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday 11 am-10 pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday 11 am-11 pm THE LAKE HOUSE. 713-337-7320 Hours of Operation: Monday CLOSED Tuesday-Sunday 11 am-8pm Visitors to Houston Houston is a world-class city with amenities to meet the needs of families, businesses and travelers around the world....

Newsletter*****

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:42:37 GMT

Week of April 15, 2008

Newsletter*****

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:42:29 GMT

Week of April 15, 2008

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 18:14:13 GMT

content

Events

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 22:04:10 GMT

Whats your taste in outdoor activities? Discovery Greens Spring/Summer programming season launches April 13, 2008 so bring your family, meet some old friends or make new ones and enjoy a variety of inaugural, regular and special events custom-made for your pleasure. Special Events It all begins with Family Day on April 13, Discovery Greens official grand opening, with a slate of free activities to highlight the parks many features. Other inaugural season Special Events include the Art Car Party on the Green, presenting the winners of Houstons 2008 Art Car Parade and DockDogs, a canine sport competition. Art Series Houstons reputation as a world-class fine arts destination extends to the Discovery Green Art Series with a full slate of visual, literary and performing arts events. Come enjoy Fresh Fridays, a cant-miss primer for Houstons unique and thriving art complex; Houston Ballet II performs traditional and contemporary pas de deuxs; and the Discovery Green Reading...

History

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:35:34 GMT

Discovery Green was the vision of Mayor Bill White and the Discovery Green Conservancy. To turn what was once concrete parking lots and minimal green space into a thriving amenity, this dedicated group began its research. The first step in the process of creating Houstons new park was to investigate a wide range of parks in other great cities, seeking to identify urban green spaces that were successful and vibrant centers of the cities lives. Parks in cities such as New York, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago and San Francisco were just a few of many that the team reviewed. Understanding that a park is for people, the Conservancy sought out urban parks that attracted people who were there to enjoy tranquility but also those that encouraged park-goers to be active, both individually and in groups. The research revealed that the spaces that were most popular -- destinations in their communities -- provided a place for interaction, recreation, retreat and fun. Every city is unique,...

Discovery Green Events

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 17:21:59 GMT

Family Day - April 13, 2008 This much-anticipated new downtown park opens in April 2008. Enjoy 12 acres of urban green space including a one-acre lake, children’s playground, interactive water features, amphitheater stage and slope, small and large dog runs, public art works, HPL Express, open lawns and great restaurants operated by Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group. FREE activities and performances will start from noon until 9pm. See listing on Events Calendar here. Event Spaces With twelve acres across from the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston, Discovery Green will be an ideal location to host your event or special occasion when the park officially opens in April 2008. Against a backdrop of Houston’s dramatic skyline, the park includes beautiful mature trees, interactive fountains; a one-acre lake; signature restaurant, The Grove; leisure and sport activities; outdoor stages; art installations; and a great lawn, there is tremendous potential to make...

Hours & Information

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:45:44 GMT

Welcome to Discovery Green! Discovery Green opens to the public on April 13, 2008. Hours The park is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Hours for events may vary. Areas of the park may be closed occasionally for maintenance or private events. Rules and Safety Please be aware of some guidelines for your visit to the park. Discovery Green is a safe and comfortable place for everyone because of our Park Rules. You are welcome: To bring your lawn chairs To bring coolers onto the park grounds Park Guidelines prohibit: Glass bottles or containers Alcohol, beer or wine brought onto the park grounds Weapons or firearms Video recording or flash photography during performances Distribution of literature or materials Photography and video shoots Please note that all film, video and photo shoots to take place in Discovery Green require a permit. See details. If you are a member of the media, please contact Elmore Public Relations at...

Location

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:16:32 GMT

Jobs

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:09:29 GMT

Lead Park Ambassador The Conservancy is looking for a dependable and reliable Lead Park Ambassador to work part time, evenings & weekends. The Lead Park Ambassador is responsible for scheduling Park Ambassadors, as well as performing as a Park Ambassador and coordinating volunteers for Discovery Green events, when needed. Lead Park Ambassador must have an outgoing personality and take initiative to greet guests, provide park information as requested, and rent park recreational equipment. Also, handle complaints and/or comments from guests. This is to be done in a courteous manner and must be based upon a thorough knowledge of the park and its operations. Must be extremely dependable and reliable. Must be mature, level headed and not be easily flustered. Must remain calm and courteous and maintain control of the situation at all times. Salary is $13.-$15./hour. The desired start date is March 2008. Click here for a compete job description. Park Ambassadors The Conservancy...

Advisory Committees

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:08:44 GMT

Art Advisory Committee

Jill Jewett, City of Houston

Tammie Kahn, Houston Children's Museum

Rick Lowe, Project Row Houses

Debbie McNulty, Art League Houston

Bill Neuhaus, W.O Neuhaus Associates

Nancy Pittman, The Brown Foundation

Gerorge Ramirez, MFAH

Clint Willour, Galveston Art Center

Design Advisory Committee

Rick Barongi, The Houston Zoo

John Casbarian, Rice Design Alliance

Roksan Okan-Vick, Houston Parks Board

Louis Sklar

Technical Advisory Committee

Paul Beutel, Miller Outdoor Theater

Russell Clark, City of Houston

Andy DiRaddo, LD Systems

Frank Hood, Miller Outdoor Theater

Barry Mandel, Legacy Health Clinic

Doreen Stoller, Hermann Park Conservancy

The Conservancy Staff

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:07:55 GMT

Guy Hagstette, AIA, President

Julie H. Bergen, Development Consultant

Peggy S. Menchaca, Park Administrator

Susanne Theis, Program Director

Lori Ann San Miguel, Programming Assistant

Gary Hernandez, Events Coordinator

Discovery Green Conservancy

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:07:42 GMT

Houston is a city of optimism and energy. From its very beginning, the city has been recognized as a place where people from all walks of life come to pursue and achieve their dreams. Today, our city is celebrated for its boundless spirit and surprising diversity of interests and endeavors. It’s from the very nature of Houston that the Conservancy fashioned the character of the city’s new downtown park.

When first formed, the mission of the Discovery Green Conservancy was clear: to build and maintain a gathering space for downtown Houston. Its objective was to create a space that is uncommonly beautiful, informal and welcoming -- a green space where Houstonians and visitors would have an opportunity to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

The Discovery Green Conservancy is a private, non-profit corporation responsible for designing, building, and operating our urban park. Discovery Green has been funded with generous support from The City of Houston, The Brown Foundation, Inc., Houston Endowment Inc., The Kinder Foundation and The Wortham Foundation; and many other generous foundation, corporations and individual contributors.

Most importantly, the Discovery Green Conservancy sought to capture the true spirit of Houston.

The Conservancy Board of Directors

Nancy G. Kinder, Chair and President
(Kinder Foundation)

Brady F. Carruth
(The Wortham Foundation, Inc.)

Tom Castro

(Border Media Partners)

Dr. Larry Faulkner
(Houston Endowment Inc.)

Jacqueline S. Martin
(JS Martin Associates, LP)

Dr. Maconda B. O’Connor
(The Brown Foundation, Inc.)

The Leadership

Sheryl Johns, Asst. Sec./Treasurer
(Houston Endowment Inc.)

Nancy Pittman, Asst. Sec./Treasurer

Ron I. Erlichman, General Counsel

(Bracewell & Giuliani LLP)

Bob Eury, Advisor to the Board

(Central Houston, Inc.)

History of Discovery Green

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:07:31 GMT

Discovery Green was the vision of Mayor Bill White and the Discovery Green Conservancy. This dedicated group’s first step in the process of creating Houston’s new park was to investigate a wide range of parks in other great cities, seeking to identify urban green spaces that were successful and vibrant centers of the cities lives. Parks in cities such as New York, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, and San Francisco were just a few of many that were reviewed. Understanding that a park is for people, the Conservancy sought out urban parks that attracted people who were there to enjoy tranquility but also those that encouraged park-goers to be active, both individually and in groups. The research revealed that the spaces that were most popular -- destinations in their communities -- provided a place for interaction, recreation, retreat and fun. Every city is unique, and each park reviewed offered characteristics that complemented the culture, climate, lifestyle and traits of the people and...

About the Name Discovery Green

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:06:40 GMT

“I believe a leaf of grass is no less than the journey-work of the stars. “ --Walt Whitman How the park got its name… When the Conservancys leadership was faced with determining the name and identity of the new park, the first order of business was to make certain that it captured the true essence of the space they intended to create. The Conservancy sought to ensure the name would reflect the spirit of the people whom it would soon serve. Working in tandem with the local media and community sponsors, the Conservancy sought the help of the public by creating a contest to name the park. The response was overwhelming: more than 6,200 entries were submitted, and a theme soon emerged. Houstonians wanted a name that was distinctive and unusual, including elements that mirrored Houston itself. Words such as surprising, unexpected and vital were reoccurring. But how to sift through 6,200 names to find the right one? Several times during the design process the...

Partners and Contributors

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:06:11 GMT

Discovery Green Conservancy Grants and Commitments Tuesday, January 15, 2008 Founding Donors The Brown Foundation, Inc. $10,000,000 Houston Endowment Inc. $10,000,000 Kinder Foundation $10,000,000 Wortham Foundation $5,000,000 City of Houston In-kind Major Donors Duncan Family Foundation In-kind Anheuser-Busch Foundation $1,500,000 The Fondren...

Discovery Green Park Features

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:03:53 GMT

Discovery Green’s 11.78-acre site can be found in downtown Houston, across Avenida de las Americas from the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Hilton Americas Hotel. The Toyota Center, Houston Center and Minute Maid Park are only blocks away. Many large live oaks and red oaks are featured prominently in the design of the new park. The WiFi-connected site has been designed as a very green environment that can accommodate many people at one time and service multiple community needs. Events, festivals, performances, children’s festivities and fun are all being planned. Discovery Green’s natural features include: The Great Lawn A two-acre grass lawn for lounging, offering dramatic views of the skyline The Oak Promenade A beautifully shaded walkway, lined with 100-year-old live oak trees The Urban Garden An acre of flowering trees, plants, fountains and works of art ...

About Discovery Green

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:03:36 GMT

Discovery Green, Houston’s new downtown park, is being developed on an 11.78-acre site between the George R. Brown Convention Center and the heart of downtown Houston. The park is the culmination of the dreams of many Houstonians for a major urban park that is being realized as a result of the leadership of Mayor White and some of Houston’s most committed and generous citizens. The park is ideally positioned to be the heart of Houston’s most desirable urban, mixed-use residential district. The park site offers dramatic views of downtown and sits across Avenida de las Americas from the George R. Brown Convention Center and across Lamar from the Hilton Americas Hotel. LaBranch and McKinney streets form the other two boundaries for the park. Toyota Center, Houston Center and Minute Maid Park are only one to three blocks away. Crawford Street bisected the site but was closed at the start of construction. In addition to on-street parking that surrounds the park, an underground...

Park Map

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:02:50 GMT

An overview of the features of Discovery Green.

Download a high resolution jpeg.
Download a printable park map.

Staff

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 01:43:17 GMT

(L to R) Gary Hernandez; Guy Hagstette; Clark Curry; Tonye Hodge and Lori San Miguel Guy Hagstette, AIA, President Guy is a native Houstonian who has lived downtown since 1995 and is excited to create a space in the heart of the city’s business district that is strictly for pleasure. He was a key player in the redevelopment of downtown, in his previous life at the Houston Downtown Management District. In his current role, he is managing the overall planning, design and construction of the park and upon construction completion, he will oversee management and operations, security, programming and customer service for the park. Maria Aguirre, Administrative Assistant Julie H. Bergen, Development Consultant Julie was brought on board as a development consultant to execute the building campaign and has moved on to devising a plan for annual giving. She previously spent 10 years as a special events manager with Texas Children’s Hospital. Another native Houstonian,...

Volunteer

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 01:38:46 GMT

Volunteer Opportunities We are very excited to announce Discovery Green will soon be complete; therefore, we are seeking volunteers to assist with our long-awaited opening event: Family Day. On Sunday, April 13, 2008, Discovery Green will celebrate its grand opening with a day highlighting the various features in the park. Free festivities include puppet shows, garden tours, croquet tournament, bocce ball competition, putting exhibition, kites, model boat races, organic urban market and performances from various arts groups such as Kuumba House, Suchu Dance and Taiko Drummers. The park will open at 11 a.m. and activities begin at noon with a ribbon cutting by Mayor White. Events conclude with a sunset showing (approximately 7:30 p.m.) of the silent movie classic, The Cabinet of Dr.Caligari, with live orchestral accompaniment by Two Star Symphony. We are seeking volunteers to assist with assignments such as: * Passing out information about the park * Greeting visitors with a...

Green Park

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 01:26:38 GMT

Driven by a passionate commitment to sustainable design and operation, the Conservancy retained PageSoutherlandPage to manage the LEED certification process for Discovery Green. LEED credits are earned based on site sustainability, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources used in construction, indoor environmental quality and innovation in the design process. The parks location in a dense urban center and access to public transportation, as well as complete remediation of a brownfield site, provision of facilities for cyclists, and prevention of pollution during construction all earned LEED credits. Solar arrays donated by BP are visible on the verandas on The Lake House (foreground) and Alkek Buildings. The parks efficient irrigation system, recycling of groundwater from...

Events

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 20:23:16 GMT

Whats your taste in outdoor activities? Discovery Greens Spring/Summer programming season launches April 13, 2008, so ring your family, meet some old friends or make new ones and enjoy a variety of inaugural, regular and special events custom-made for your pleasure. It all begins with Family Day, Discovery Green’s official grand opening, with a slate of free activities to highlight the park’s many features. Other inaugural season Special Events include the Art Car Party on the Green, presenting the winners of Houston’s 2008 Art Car Parade and DockDogs, a canine sport competition. Houston’s reputation as a world-class fine arts destination extends to the Discovery Green Art Series with a full slate of visual, literary and performing arts events. Come enjoy Fresh Fridays, a can’t-miss primer for Houston’s unique and thriving art complex; Houston Ballet II performs traditional and contemporary pas de deux’s; and the Discovery Green Reading Series, dedicated to connecting and...

Volunteers

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 21:12:16 GMT

Volunteer Opportunities We are extremely excited to announce that the park will soon be complete; therefore, we are seeking volunteers to assist with our long awaited upcoming event: Houston Family Day. On Sunday, April 13, 2008, Discovery Green will celebrate its grand opening with a Family Day highlighting the various features in the park. Free festivities include puppet shows, garden tours, croquet tournament, bocce ball competition, putting exhibition, kites, model boat races, organic urban market and performances from various arts groups such as Kuumba House, Suchu Dance and Taiko Drummers. The park will open at 11 a.m. and activities begin at noon with the Car Horn Concerto, a music composition performed on car horns by UH Music students. Events conclude with a sunset showing (approximately 7:30 p.m.) of the silent movie classic, The Cabinet of Dr.Caligari, with live orchestral accompaniment by Two Star Symphony. We are seeking volunteers to assist with assignments such...

Test page

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 18:03:49 GMT

testing display page

En Espanol

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 22:53:55 GMT

Informacion Sobre el Dia de la Familia El domingo 13 de abril se inaugurá oficialmente el parque Discovery Green para celebrar el Día de la Familia. Será un día lleno de actividades y espectáculos, como volar cometas, teatro de títeres, actuaciones de The Art Guys, Taiko Drummers, Two Star Symphony y mucho más. El parque abre sus puertas a las 11 a.m. y las actividades y espectáculos comienzan al mediodía con el corte de la cinta inaugural a cargo del Alcalde Bill White. El público tendrá oportunidad de comprar bebidas y comida. Las opciones de estacionamiento son varias: parquímetros y estacionamientos. También puede llamar al 713-400-7336 para obtener información adicional. Information General Sobre el Parque Bienvenido a Discovery Green, el nuevo parque en el centro de Houston, ubicado en el 1500 McKinney, frente al Centro de Convenciones George R. Brown. Disfrute de un espacio verde urbano de 12 acres. El parque incluye un lago de un acre, un área de recreación para...

Construction

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 21:06:10 GMT

Contractors Miner Dederick worked for 20 months to implement the various aspects of Discovery Green. Construction was completed in April 2008 and the park opens to the public on Sunday April 13, 2008. Below are photos from the early days of construction through substantial completion. Click on each thumbnail for a larger view. Aerial Views September 11, 2006 October 11, 2006 November 13, 2006 December 18, 2006 January 9, 2007 February 6, 2007 March 1, 2007 April 12, 2007 May 15, 2007 June 15, 2007 July 24, 2007 ...

Advisory Committees

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 21:03:17 GMT

In addition to a tremendous Project Team, Discovery Green also had the invaluable support of much of the Houston community. The following committee members helped guide the development of Discovery Green. Art Advisory Committee Jill Jewett, Tammie Kahn, Rick Lowe, Debbie McNulty, Bill Neuhaus, George Ramirez, Clint Willour Design Advisory Committee Rick Barongi, John Casbarian, Roksan Okan-Vick, Louis Sklar Technical Advisory Committee Paul Beutel, Russell Clark, Andy DiRaddo, Frank Hood, Barry Mandel, Doreen Stoller, Shawn Hauptmann Programming Advisory Committee Sharon Adams, Nancy Pittman, Tom Castro, Andrew Huang, Vanessa Perez McCalla, Lonnie Schiller, Rev. Leslie Smith, Sheila Turkiewicz, Luther Villagomez .

About the Name

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 20:59:40 GMT

When the Conservancys leadership was faced with determining the name and identity of the new park, the first order of business was to make certain that it captured the true essence of the space they intended to create. The Conservancy sought to ensure the name would reflect the spirit of the people whom it would soon serve. Working in tandem with the local media and community sponsors, the Conservancy sought the help of the public by creating a contest to name the park. The response was overwhelming: more than 6,200 entries were submitted, and a theme soon emerged. Houstonians wanted a name that was distinctive and unusual, including elements that mirrored Houston itself. Words such as surprising, unexpected and vital were reoccurring. But how to sift through 6,200 names to find the right one? Several times during the design process the Conservancy hosted interested community leaders, stakeholders and supporters to ask for input. The Conservancy also shared a cross section of...

Management

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 19:38:20 GMT

Discovery Green is a public-private partnership initiated in mid-2004 when the sale of the privately owned green space across from the George R. Brown Convention Center was announced. There are three entities that worked collaboratively to realize the vision for Discovery Green: City of Houston. Mayor Bill White initiated the public-private partnership to secure the site for a park, and City Council approved a contribution of 6.4 acres of land toward the project and $7,900,000 toward acquisition of the remaining 5.4 acres. The city also created the Corporation, and it will contribute $750,000 annually toward maintenance of the park. In early 2006, the city approved funding of $21,500,000 for a garage under a part of the park. Houston Downtown Park Corporation. The Corporation is a public local government corporation that owns the land. Upon the park’s completion, the Corporation will dedicate Discovery Green as a public park. The Corporation has entered into agreements with...

Event Spaces

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 16:36:42 GMT

Map of Event Spaces Anheuser-Busch Amphitheater and Stage (1A-1C) Adjacent to the Jones Lawn, the Anheuser-Busch Amphitheater is a sloped event space with an estimated capacity of 1,000 to 2,000 (the larger capacity is for music events when site lines to the stage are not critical). There are no permanent seats. The lawn is oriented to the covered 30’ x 40’ stage, which also has an uncovered 19’ x 45’ stage area. Restrooms with three toilet fixtures for men and women are located nearby. If the event requires, there are limited dressing rooms available near the stage for performers. The amphitheater slope, stage and dressing rooms are available for rent separately. Lindsey Waterside Landing (1D) Located adjacent to Dubuffet Plaza and the Astros Garden Grove, the lawn is a 70’ x 120’ lawn area that can be used for medium sized events. A raised floor can be used with a tent to protect the turf. Capacity is estimated to be 275-650, depending on the layout, but tented events...

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