FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE         CONTACT: Estella Espinosa
October 14, 2005                                       HPARD
                                                              713.845.1135
                                                              Deborah Rule
                                                              Houston Parks Board
                                                              wk.713.942.8500

East End Community Vision Becoming Reality
East End Community celebrates the beginning of
a long awaited vision

“Mason Park is one of Houston's and the East End's most treasured assets.  I have made it a priority to secure private funding for its improvement.  This project is an example of my office's commitment to public/private partnerships and working to put neighborhoods first," said Council Member Alvarado.

Houston Parks and Recreation Director Joe Turner echoes CM Alvarado’s sentiments, "This project is a unified effort to help enhance park land for Houston's East End community.  We are thrilled to work with Council Member Alvarado, the area legislators, the community, and private supporters to make “Plaza Viva” become a reality."

The event will feature the unveiling of the master plan and artist renderings of the “Plaza Viva” project, followed by a community celebration with music and refreshments. 

The plans for this part of the park include a Colonial-Mexican styled pavilion with fountains, landscaping, fully accessible walkways, and benches to beautify the west side of Mason Park and to give life to an area of the park that is currently underutilized.  “Viva” in Spanish means alive and full of life.  This is an appropriate name for this area because it signifies an area of the park, “coming to life,” or “full of life.”

“Our elderly community members have a great need for safe walking areas away from the more active trails in Mason Park”, stated Blanca Blanco, Chair of the Mason Park Beautification Committee. “We also hope to create an inviting environment for local bands, mariachis and other artists to practice, play, and entertain the community.”  Additionally, Plaza Viva will serve as a picturesque wedding portrait site and a place for cultural events, community gatherings, and receptions.

The project has been funded in large part by private donations to Council Member Alvarado’s 2004 Birthday Party, the 2004 City of Houston Birthday Party and the Houston Endowment Inc. Federal funds have also been earmarked for the Plaza Viva project, thanks to the support of Congressman Gene Green and Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison.   "I am glad we could work to have federal funds help rebuild this East End landmark. Mason Park is a jewel for our community and Houston.  From mothers with babies to soccer players, walkers and joggers, all generations use the park and will benefit from the new Plaza Viva", stated Congressman Green.

Ms. Roksan Okan-Vick, Executive Director of the Houston Parks Board, commended the Mason Park Beautification Committee for their efforts and persistence.  “The Houston Parks Board is delighted to be able to assist communities achieve their goals for their parks”, said Roksan Okan-Vick.  “Our partnerships with neighborhoods and civic groups not only increases success in fundraising, but also ensures the long term well-being of park land.” 

 The Houston Parks Board, a charitable organization dedicated to representing private donors and managing their contributions to acquire additional parkland and improve existing parks, will serve as the project manager for the project. 

For additional information on Mason Park or the Houston Parks and Recreation Department call 713.845.1135 or visit our Web site at www.houstonparks.org