Highlands officials have outlined significant upgrades and maintenance plans for community parks during the recent Highland Village Community Development Corporation meeting held on July 22, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the planned repairs to the trellis at DoubleTree Ranch Park, which is set to undergo structural enhancements to ensure safety and longevity.

The trellis, currently showing signs of wear with cracking joists, will be reinforced with stronger materials and a new design, as recommended by a structural engineer. This project aims to replace the existing wood with a more durable option and to install LED lighting that is easier to maintain and replace. The anticipated improvements are expected to enhance the park's aesthetic appeal while ensuring the safety of visitors.

In addition to the trellis repairs, the meeting addressed ongoing maintenance and upgrades across the community's electrical systems and park facilities. Notably, the budget for maintenance has decreased from $88,000 to $80,000, attributed to efficiencies gained from bringing the trail system maintenance in-house, eliminating the need for contracted services.

The personnel budget for the upcoming year has been set at $406,000, covering professional services, employee development, supplies, and utilities. This budget reflects a strategic approach to managing community resources effectively.

As the community looks forward to these developments, the enhancements at DoubleTree Ranch Park and the overall maintenance strategies signify a commitment to improving public spaces and ensuring they meet the needs of Highlands residents. The next steps will involve finalizing the designs and moving forward with the planned repairs and upgrades, reinforcing the community's dedication to maintaining and enhancing its recreational facilities.