Parks and Recreation Quick Scoops

New treetop facilities coming to Brazos River Park

A new tree-top adventure facility will bring zip lines, climbing nets, ax throwing, and a tree canopy ropes course to 19 acres of undeveloped land in Brazos River Park.

The new facility, called Go Ape, is for all age groups. This latest public-private partnership will benefit Sugar Land residents and provide economic benefits to the city since Go Ape will lease and develop the land, with the city collecting a percentage of the revenue in return. The City’s share of revenue will be based on a sliding scale as Go Ape’s revenue increases.

Go Ape will also cover the costs associated with facility operations and maintenance, in addition to paying rent to the city. This creates the opportunity for revenue-generating amenities within our parks system! This project is a huge win for residents. Property tax dollars will not be utilized to develop this amenity, but it will bring in revenue.

An example of one of the new amenities coming to Brazos River Park: axe throwing!

Construction is set to begin in September with an expected opening in early 2023. Residents can expect very little infrastructure changes at the ground level and no impact to existing bike trails and other park amenities. Construction will also not interfere with use of the park.

The projects were identified through years of public feedback, including the Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan and citizen surveys. 

“Our residents asked for recreational amenities that benefit them and support our economy,” Sugar Land Director of Parks and Recreation Joe Chesser said. “Our master plan recommends pursuing public-private partnerships that enhance recreational opportunities for our residents and increase activities that attract young adults and visitors to the city to help keep our tax rate among the lowest in the state for cities our size while funding the high level of services our residents expect.”

This partnership is just another example of Sugar Land’s commitment to completing projects meant to improve the quality of life in Sugar Land and give residents and tourists even more reasons to enjoy the outdoors!

For more details on Go Ape’s partnership with the City, click through the City Council presentation here.

%d bloggers like this: