City of Dallas converts abandoned parking lot into vibrant park for northeast community
Dallas, Texas – A long-neglected parking lot in northeast Dallas is being reshaped into a new community space, as city leaders prepare to open Forest Audelia Park, a one-acre green area designed to bring recreation and connection to an underserved neighborhood.
The City of Dallas announced that the new park will officially be welcomed on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 4 p.m. The site, located at 9759 Forest Lane, once served as part of a former shopping center but had fallen into disuse over time. Now, it has been transformed into a space focused on outdoor activity and neighborhood improvement.
City officials say the park is meant to expand access to recreational areas in a part of Dallas that has long faced limited options. Leaders have described the project as a meaningful step toward revitalizing the Forest Audelia area, offering residents a place to gather, relax, and enjoy outdoor time closer to home.
From abandoned pavement to active community space
The development of Forest Audelia Park was handled entirely by the Dallas Park and Recreation Department’s Facilities Services Division. Skilled workers completed the project in-house, carrying out each stage of construction without outside contractors.
Work on the site included removing large sections of asphalt from the old parking lot and replacing it with fresh landscaping and green space. The project also introduced a range of new features, including a playground, walking paths, benches, and other park elements designed to serve people of all ages.
This transformation represents more than just a physical change. It reflects a broader effort to improve quality of life in neighborhoods that have historically lacked access to parks and outdoor amenities. By turning an unused space into a vibrant park, the city is aiming to create new opportunities for recreation and social connection.
Several local leaders and community figures are expected to attend the opening event, including Dallas City Council District 10 representative Kathy Stewart, Dallas Park and Recreation Department Director John D. Jenkins, and Dallas Park and Recreation Board President Arun Agarwal. Other attendees include Scott Goldstein, Vicky Taylor, Allison Griffin, and Susan Morgan, all of whom have played roles in supporting development efforts in the area.
Officials believe the new park will serve as a cornerstone for continued improvement in northeast Dallas. By providing a safe and welcoming space for residents, the project is expected to help strengthen the community while encouraging more outdoor activity and neighborhood engagement.
