During the recent meeting of the Highland Village Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, significant discussions centered around enhancing community engagement, particularly among teenagers, and addressing infrastructure improvements at local parks.

One of the key topics was the ongoing efforts to revitalize the Copperas dock, which had suffered damage and was previously deemed unusable. Board members discussed potential modifications to the dock that would allow for increased usability. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving recreational facilities and ensuring they meet community needs.

Another major focus was the update on the Parks and Recreation team's engagement strategies, particularly aimed at involving teens in local activities. The board reviewed responses from a recent focus group and proposed a plan to gather further input through a simple survey distributed at popular teen hangouts, such as Whataburger and Awesome Times. The survey, which consists of three straightforward questions, aims to capture the interests and preferences of local youth. The timing of this engagement is strategic, with plans to maximize participation during the Thanksgiving break.

Assistant Director of Recreation, Andra, has spearheaded efforts to place posters with QR codes in key locations to facilitate easy access to the survey. Additionally, signs have been installed along trails and parks to encourage teens to participate in shaping future recreational offerings.

The discussions at this meeting highlight the board's proactive approach to fostering community involvement and enhancing recreational infrastructure. As the board prepares to analyze survey results and implement feedback, the next steps will be crucial in determining how effectively these initiatives resonate with the youth of Highland Village.