Schertz Parks & Recreation Spring/Summer 2021 Guide

PARKS, RECREATION, AND LIBRARY PROGRAMS

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT STAFF

Administration

10 Commercial Place, Bldg #1 Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 619-1850

Director

Lauren Shrum lshrum@schertz.com

Parks Manager

Jared Montney jmontney@schertz.com

Parks Maintenance Crew Supervisor

Robert Dobratz rdobratz@schertz.com

Events Manager

Mary Spence mspence@schertz.com

Events Specialist

Michelle Yang myang@schertz.com

Administrative Assistant

Analyse Miranda amiranda1@schertz.com

PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board exists to advise and make recommendations to the City Council concerning policy matters related to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the City’s parks and recreation programs. The Board meets on the fourth Monday of every month at City Hall in the Bob Andrews Conference Room, located at 1400 Schertz Parkway.

Chair

Johnie McDow

Members

William Bosch

Regina Agee

Sally Macias

Floy Simmons

Kimberly Smith

Robert Sheridan III

Carol Yauger

James Garvin

Shawn Moore (Alternate Member)

Jamie Acevedo (Alternate Member)

PHOTO RELEASE

The Schertz Parks & Recreation Department may videotape or take photographs of participants enrolled in recreation activities, programs, and special events. These photos and/or videotapes may be used for promotional purposes.

FROM THE DIRECTOR

This spring will mark one year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic closures in Texas and while we are still dealing with the virus, we are happy to be able to provide some outdoor programming for you this spring and summer! We will continue to practice physical distancing and encourage the use of masks.

First up is Movin’ on Main – an open streets event - on Sunday, April 11. We’ll have fitness demonstrations, health & wellness vendors, live music, kids’ activities, and food trucks. Bring your bikes, scooters, strollers, and get movin!

Don’t forget to get out and explore all of our parks highlighted on pages 18-21. Head on over to Crescent Bend Nature Park and join us in recording plant and wildlife species in the City Nature Challenge April 30 –May 3. Or take the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge and download a cool tracker to keep track of your time.

Music and Movies in the Park kicks off in June this year and we are combining the fun into one night – a concert and a movie each Saturday night in June! The first three nights in the series are family-friendly with the last night a Girls Night Out theme showing the classic movie Dirty Dancing.

Finally, July is National Park & Recreation Month, and we'll be bringing Popsicle Parties to several parks throughout the month to celebrate! Follow us on social media for more details about our month-long celebration!

We hope you have FUN exploring everything your Schertz Parks & Recreation Department has to offer!

Lauren Shrum, Director of Schertz Parks & Recreation

REGISTER FOR PARKS, RECREATION, & LIBRARY PROGRAMS NOW WITH

The City of Schertz is committed to providing a high quality of life for our residents which includes the many events, programs, and facility rentals offered by Schertz Parks & Recreation and the Schertz Public Library. In order to offer a new convenience to our residents, we would like to introduce CivicRec. This new program gives you the ability to view, register, and reserve Schertz Parks & Recreation and Schertz Public Library activities, events, facilities, and manage your account all in one place. Payments for programs and rentals can also be made on CivicRec.

Once you create an account and sign in, be sure to click on “Account” to verify your address and contact information. You can also update your contact preferences. Then you may click on “Catalog” to view recreation programs, special events, library programs, pavilion and room rentals, and more.

Here are some things you can do on CivicRec:

Check availability for park pavilion rentals

Register your team for the Adult Kickball League Purchase Float & Fireworks tickets

Register for a library program

Purchase a Veteran's Memorial Plaza brick

NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES 2021

Programs are FREE to attend on the 2nd Saturday of the month with staggered start times from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Pre-registration is required, register at schertz.com. Meet at the 1st Parking lot near the Restroom Building

FRIENDS OF CRESCENT BEND NATURE PARK

The Friends of Crescent Bend Nature Park is a volunteer group of residents who have a passion for the park and assist Parks & Recreation Department staff to maintain the park through volunteer service hours. The group organizes volunteer clean-up days, maintains the bird blinds, documents flora and fauna in the park, and volunteers at various park events throughout the year. If you’re interested in joining the Friends of Crescent Bend Nature Park, see their website at friendscbnp.zenfolio.com.

GUADALUPE COUNTY MASTER NATURALISTS

The mission of the Texas Master Naturalist program is to develop a corps of well-informed volunteers to provide education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities. The Guadalupe chapter serves the Guadalupe County area, including numerous projects in Seguin as well as Schertz. The group sponsors the Nature Discovery Series held at Crescent Bend Nature Park and also has plans to help with invasive species removal and citizen science projects like bird counts and water quality monitoring of Cibolo Creek. If you’re interested in joining the Master Naturalists and their work at Crescent Bend Nature Park, see their website at txmn.org/guadalupe.

UPCOMING/NEW PROGRAMS

DARK SKIES & FIREFLIES

May 29 / 7 p.m. / Crescent Bend Nature Park

Local Firefly Expert and founder of Firefly Conservation & Research, Ben Pfeiffer, is partnering with Schertz Parks and Recreation to provide a great fun and educational program for all ages. This program will offer firefly education, and a chance to explore and learn how to carefully catch local fireflies. So don’t forget to bring a chair and a butterfly net. Meet at the 1st Parking lot near the Restroom Building and Trailhead.

ED-ZOO-CATION IN THE PARK

April 17, July 17, September 25 / 10 a.m.

San Antonio Zoo Center for Conservation and Research has selected Crescent Bend Nature Park as a harvesting location to help feed their Texas Horned Lizards. Learn about the Texas Horned Lizards, carpenter ants, the history of the animals, and their importance. If this program is not already cool enough, there is also an opportunity for appearances of live animals/lizards from the zoo! Meet at the 1st Parking lot near the Restroom Building and Trailhead.

1000 HOURS OUTSIDE CHALLENGE

Track Your Time Outside! The concept at the core of this movement is simple – the amount of time kids spend outside ‘actually matters’, though you may not hear this very often. A childhood flooded with nature time benefits kids (and adults) in untold ways. 1000 Hours Outside is about striving for engaged time outside, and that looks different from one family to the next. That’s the beauty of nature play; it works for any age and any stage, in any outdoor environment. Go to 1000hoursoutside.com and download one of the fun trackers to track your time. Share your pictures with us using the hashtag #SchertzParksandRec and #1000HoursOutside. Join us in the 1,000 Hours Outside Challenge and commit to a year filled with making memories outside!

CITY NATURE CHALLENGE 2021

April 30 – May 3

The City Nature Challenge is an international effort for people to find and document plants and wildlife in cities across the globe. There is nature all around us, even in our cities! Knowing what species are in our city and where they are, helps us study and protect them, but the ONLY way to do that is by all of us – scientists, land managers, and the community –working together to find and document the nature in our area. By participating in the City Nature Challenge, not only do you learn more about your local nature, but you can also make your city a better place – for you and other species!

Create your own iNaturalist account

• Visit iNatrualist.org

• Download the app from the AppStore or Google Play

• Sign In

• Start sharing your observations

• Get feedback from actual scientists, experts, and other naturalists.

Some good places in Schertz to be on the hunt are Crescent Bend Nature Park, Heritage Oaks Park, and Forest Ridge Park.

MOVIN ON MAIN

April 11, 12-4 p.m. @ Main Street; Free event

In partnership with the Schertz Family Y, Movin on Main invites individuals and families to bring their bicycle, skateboard, stroller, and tennis shoes for an afternoon full of fitness demonstrations, exercise stations, cycling, live music, health & wellness vendors, food & refreshments, and much more! Concessions will be available for purchase.

FOURTH OF JULY JUBILEE

July 4 @ Pickrell Park

Join the City of Schertz for the 45th Annual 4th of July Jubilee Celebration. The day begins with the ‘Let Freedom Run’ 5K followed by a downtown parade. Come out to Pickrell Park for an evening of live music, Family Zone activities, kids carnival, festival food, and Fireworks! Schertz is proud to host one of South Texas’ largest tributes to freedom and independence.

FLOAT & FIREWORKS

July 4, 6-10 p.m. @ Pickrell Park Pool; $3 per person in advance

Reserve your place for the coolest seat in the house during the 4th of July Jubilee Fireworks Spectacular! Participants will enjoy the show from the cool waters of the pool while lounging on patriotic pool noodles. Limited capacity for the event. Tickets go on sale on June 1 online at Schertz.com.

NATIONAL WATERMELON DAY

August 3, 5-7 p.m. @ Pickrell Park Pool

What’s better than watermelon in the summer?! Floating watermelons in the pool, contests, games, and activities, plus food available for purchase on this celebration of all things watermelon. Regular pool admission applies.

AQUATICS

OUTDOOR POOLS

PICKRELL PARK POOL

Contact Info

701 Oak St., Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 419-9439

Hours of Operation

Tuesday – Sunday (closed on Mondays for maintenance) 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Open May 29 – August 8

WENDY SWAN MEMORIAL PARK POOL

Contact Info

4601 Cherry Tree Dr., Schertz, TX 78108 (210) 419-5828

Hours of Operation

Wednesday – Monday (closed on Tuesdays for maintenance) 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Open: May 29 – August 8

ADMISSION PRICES

• Child 2 and under: FREE

• Per Person: $2.00

• All Day Entry (in and out permitted): $3.00

SWIM LESSONS

FLOAT & FLICKS

• July 4 – Float & Fireworks @ Pickrell Park Pool

• July 17 – Lilo & Stitch @ Pickrell Park Pool

• July 24 – Shark Tale @ Pickrell Park Pool

SCHERTZ AQUATICS CENTER

Contact Info

560 Schertz Parkway

Schertz, TX 78154

(210) 619-1900

ymcasatx.org/schertz

Hours of Operation

The Schertz Aquatics Center is operating at a reduced capacity due to the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing requirements. Reservations are required for Lap Swim, Water Aerobics, and Recreation Swim. Go to ymcasatx.org/schertz to reserve your time slot. Hours are subject to change.

Monday - Friday 5 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday: CLOSED

Admission Prices, Passes

• $6 per resident

• $10 per non-resident

• $15 per resident family

• $20 per non-resident family

• Or by YMCA membership

SWIM LESSONS

AQUATIC SUPERVISION & SWIM TEST POLICY

A Family Who Swims Together, Stays Together

Adult supervision of children is important as it allows our lifeguards and aquatic safety staff to focus on the water and keeping everyone safe. All youth ages 16 and under must complete a new swim test each visit prior to entering the water. Each youth will receive a wristband that will allow him or her access to certain areas of the pool.

• Children 6 & under must be within arm’s reach of a parent or guardian at all times

• Children 7-16 are required to take a swim test once a year

• Children 13 & up are allowed access to the pools without a guardian

• Any children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older

For more information (210) 619-1900 or ymcasatx.org/schertz

SCHERTZ AREA SENIOR CENTER

Contact Info

608 Schertz Parkway

Schertz, TX 78154

(210) 619-1970

schertzseniors.org

Hours of Operation

Currently operating in a limited capacity due to the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing requirements.

Membership

The center is currently not accepting new members during this time of reduced operating capacity. Stay tuned to Schertz.com for updates on restored operations.

Programs

• Fitness classes at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.

• Parking Lot Bingo every Thursday at 10 a.m.

• Pickleball and Aqua Aerobics at the Schertz Family YMCA at various times

• Computer time is available Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. by reservation only. Please call (210) 619-1970 to reserve your 50-minute time slot. Only one person is allowed in the library room during each reservation, with face masks being required at all times.

Curbside Lunch Program

The City of Schertz offers a free lunch program at the Center – currently operating as curbside service – Monday – Friday from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (excluding city holidays.) Ordering in advance is not necessary during this period but meals are first come, first served.

The Schertz Area Senior Center is owned by the City of Schertz and managed through a public facility license

SCHERTZ RECREATION CENTER

Contact Info

621 Westchester Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 619-1900 ymcasatx.org/schertz

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 5 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Closed 2 – 3 p.m. for cleaning; 3 – 9 p.m., Saturday: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Child Watch Hours

Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday - 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Sunday - Closed

Rock Wall

Temporarily closed until further notice.

Splash Pad

Season Dates, Hours of Operation: TBD

MASKS REQUIRED At All Times Inside YMCAs –After careful consideration, guidelines now require anyone 2 years of age & older to wear a mask at all times when inside a Y facility. To learn more go to ymcasatx.org/schertz.

Membership Rates

Family Household with up to 2 adults and children(up to age 26 – proof of household residence required)

Amenities

Membership to the Schertz Family YMCA includes access to all branches in the San Antonio Association as well as Nationwide. Our Schertz facility includes: the Recreation Center, Aquatic Center, Rock Wall, and the Splash Pad plus ALL of the following activities & amenities:

• 6,000 sq. ft. Basketball Gym

• 8,000 sq. ft. Cardio & Fitness Area

• Child Watch

• Competition Quality Pool

• Leisure Pool

• Kid Fit

• Group Exercise Classes

• Lockers & Showers

• Movies in Motion

• 24 ft. Rock Wall

• 1,000 sq. ft. Splash Pad

• Water Rowing Machines

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT –TIME TO UNWIND

April 10 / May 15

Bring your kiddos ages 6 weeks – 12 years for a night of fun at the Y. From 6-10 p.m. they will play games, eat dinner, and watch a movie with friends. A date night for you, a great night for them! Space is limited and registration closes the Friday before the event date. Members: $20 first child, $10 each additional child Nonmembers: $25 first child, $15 each additional.

The Schertz Recreation Center is owned by the City of Schertz and managed through a public facility license agreement with the Schertz Family YMCA.

RECREATION PROGRAMS

Kickball League

• Season: April 18 – May 23 from 6 – 10 p.m. @ Thulemeyer Park, 901 Oak Street, Schertz, TX 78154.

• $20 per individual; max 15 players per team; ages 21 and up; individuals can be placed on a team or with a teammate using the online registration system

• Late registrations will be accepted if spots are still available

Cornhole League

• Season: Tuesdays September 7 – October 12 from 6 – 9 p.m. at Pickrell Park 703 Oak St, Schertz, TX 78154

• $40 per individual; min 2 players per team, max 4 players team; ages 21 and up; Late registration $50

• Registration opens July 12; Late fee after August 20

Tactical Laser Tag

• Season: Tuesdays July 6 – 27 from 8 – 10 p.m. @ Pickrell Park Aero Pavilion, 102 Aero Street, Schertz, TX 78154

• $12 per person; each session limited to 36 participants.

• Registration opens June 1; Late fee after July 1

NATIONAL PARK & RECREATION MONTH

Celebrate National Park & Recreation Month with Schertz staff during July. We'll have two Float & Flicks at Pickrell Pool to celebrate. We’ll also be hosting Tactical Laser Tag in the Park every Tuesday night in July. Lastly, we’ll be bringing Popsicle Parties to several parks throughout the month. Be sure to follow Schertz Parks and Recreation on social media for more details about our month-long celebration!

PARK PAVILION RENTALS

Perfect for your next big celebration! For those interested in reserving a pavilion, please review our reservation information below. For reservations or inquires please contact the main Parks & Recreation Office at (210) 619-1850.

Pickrell Park

Large Pavilion/All Day Weekend

Resident/Non-Resident $200/$300

Deposit $200

Without Kitchen $100/$150

Weekday Rates Half-off $100/$150

REGISTER FOR PARKS, RECREATION, & LIBRARY PROGRAMS NOW WITH

Rhine Valley Park - Picnic Pavilion

Resident/Non-Resident $0/$0

Wendy Swan Memorial Park - Picnic Pavilion

Resident/Non-Resident $0/$0

Gutierrez Xeriscape Park - Gazebo

Resident/Non-Resident $0/$0

The Park at Woodland Oaks - Gazebo

Resident/Non-Resident $0/$0

Pickrell Park

SCHERTZ YOUTH SOCCER ALLIANCE (SYSA)

Contact Info schertzsoccercomplex.org scheduler@schertzsoccercomplex.org

GRAYSA (GREATER RANDOLPH AREA YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION)

graysasoccer.org

Spring/Fall Soccer, 3 – 18 years

• GRAYSA Co-ed U3-U18 Recreational League

• GRAYSA Co-ed U8-U10 Academy

• GRAYSA Co-ed U11-U19 Select

ARSENAL FC

arsenalfcsa.org / (210) 497-1100

LIONS FUTBALL CLUB

lionsfc.org

Spring/Fall Soccer, 3 – 18 years

• Co-ed U3-U7 Cubs

• Co-ed U8-U10 Academy

• Co-ed U11-U19 Select

YMCA

ymcasatx.org/schertz

• Basketball (3-14 years)

• Flag Football (6-12 years)

• Soccer (3-15 years)

• Baseball (3-8 years)

SCHERTZ SOCCER COMPLEX

75 Maske Rd

The Schertz Soccer Complex is a 42acre facility owned by the City of Schertz and managed by a partnership with the Schertz Youth Soccer Alliance (SYSA.) Field rentals are available by contacting SYSA at scheduler@schertzsoccercomplex.org

Amenities:

• 12 Full-sized Soccer Fields

• 2 Lighted Fields

• Concession Building

• Restrooms

JOHNIE MCDOW SPORTS COMPLEX

955 Community Circle

Johnie McDow Sports Complex is 12-acre facility owned by the City of Schertz and managed by a partnership with the Buffalo Valley Youth Association (BVYA.) Field rentals are available by contacting BVYA at (210) 659-1610.

Amenities:

• Seven Youth Baseball & Softball Fields

• Lighting Available

• Covered Dugouts

• Shaded Bleacher Seating

• Pre-set Bases

• Restrooms

• Concession Building

BUFFALO VALLEY YOUTH ASSOCIATION (BVYA)

Contact Info

bvya.com

(210) 659-1610

bvya@att.net

Spring

• Baseball Co-ed Pre-K – 12th grade

• Softball Girls Ages 6-14 years

Summer

• Swimming 6-18 years

Fall

• Baseball/softball Pre-K –12th grade

• Volleyball 3rd – 7th grade

• Basketball Pre-K – 12th grade

THULEMEYER PARK

901 Oak Street

Thulemeyer Park is a 16-acre facility owned by the City of Schertz and managed by a partnership with the Buffalo Valley Youth Association (BVYA.) Field rentals are available by contacting BVYA at (210) 659-1610. Fields are also available for general public use when not reserved.

Amenities:

• 5 Baseball & Softball Fields

• Lighting Available

• Covered Dugouts,

• Bleacher Seating

• Pre-set Bases

• Restrooms

• Concession Building

FIELDS

RECREATION FACILITIES

PARKS

Since its beginning in 1958, the City of Schertz has maintained, at the forefront, its desire to focus on the quality of life enjoyed by our residents. Planned parks, natural parks, sports facilities, pavilions and family gathering places, hike and bike trails, safe pedestrians ways, fitness facilities, swimming facilities and social gathering places are all part of a large picture that meets the needs of our community.

PICKRELL PARK

701 Oak Street

This 17-acre park offers something for everyone. The large pavilion is a perfect place to host a gathering, play a pick-up game of basketball, or utilize the newly painted lines for pickleball. From swimming - to playscapes - to a walking trail - we’ve fit it all inin this busy community park. The park is also home to many city events and festivals throughout the year.

ASHLEY PARK

534 Ashley Park

This 5-acre neighborhood park is a great place for families to play on the playground, practice soccer, or enjoy a pick-up game of basketball. The park has an expression swing, gaga ball pit, and a lighted ADA accessible walking trail.

GUTIERREZ XERISCAPE PARK

1231 Borgfeld Rd

This 2-acre park features multiple garden areas beautifully maintained by the Guadalupe Master Gardeners volunteer group. The gazebo area is perfect for photo opportunities, and a shaded and lighted walking trail encircles the park.

CUT-OFF PARK

700 Block of FM 1518

This 58-acre park features lots of open space, heritage-sized oak trees, and trailhead access to six miles of Cibolo Creek Primitive Trails.

HERITAGE OAKS PARK

11700 Longleaf Parkway

This 13-acre park is a truly unique site, with hundreds of heritage-sized oak and cedar elm trees. This park offers a playscape surrounded by a tranquil walking path through the woods, picnic facilities, and a picturesque pond.

CYPRESS POINT

PARK

5526 Cypress Point

This 10-acre neighborhood park features a playscape, walking trail, and lots of open space for families to toss a football around or play a game of Frisbee.

LONE OAK PARK

100 Block of Rountree Dr

This 0.34-acre neighborhood pocket park used to be home to a majestic lone oak right in the center of the park. While the lone oak is gone, the name remains the same, and several other large oaks shade some benches in this small tranquil spot.

FOREST RIDGE PARK

17529 Wiederstein Rd

This 14-acre park features an almost hidden trail through a linear forested area that many walkers and runners utilize. The trail connects to the FM 3009 sidewalks and will have a future connection to the Schertz Parkway Trails. The park also features open space where pop-up soccer practices often take place.

MARY WHITFIELD BURKS PARK

3175 Schertz Parkway

This 2-acre park is just off Schertz Parkway and can only be accessed on foot or by bicycle off of the Schertz Parkway trails. The small pocket park has outdoor fitness equipment and a drinking fountain for runners and walkers to get a short workout in along their regular exercise route.

CRESCENT BEND NATURE PARK

12780 Schaefer Rd

This 180-acre park is a nature lover’s paradise. Miles of trail, blooming wildflowers, and picnic facilities are just some of what make this park special. Check out the two bird blinds in the park where rare bird species have been spotted or head down to the Cibolo Creek for some fishing.

SCHERTZ COMMUNITY PLAYSCAPE

629 Westchester Dr

This 1-acre park is all about play with multiple play structures, swings, merry-go-round, and accessible features. A new restroom building makes it a destination park for the community.

OAK FOREST PARK

4200 Block of FM 3009

This 2.5-acre neighborhood pocket park has numerous oak trees that provide a shaded canopy for the walking trail that meanders through the park. The walking trail connects to the FM 3009 sidewalks.

SCHERTZ

PARK

SKATE

820 Community Circle

This 0.30-acre park is Phase I of a planned 3-phase skate park with street features and grinding rails.

PALM PARK

200 Block of FM 78

This small 2-acre pocket park borders Cibolo Creek and is mostly open space. The park is being developed by Eagle Scouts into a Scout Day Use Area with picnic facilities.

THE PARK AT WOODLAND OAKS

905 Woodland Oaks Dr

This 2-acre neighborhood pocket park is a great place for families to enjoy the playscape and a picnic lunch under the shaded picnic facilities, or enjoy a game of pick-up basketball.

RHINE VALLEY PARK

9958 Mulhouse Dr

This 5-acre neighborhood park offers a shaded playscape, picnic pavilion, walking trail, sport court and soccer fields. It’s the perfect spot for the family to play a pick-up game on the court or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy.

VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PLAZA

512 Schertz Parkway

This 0.60-acre park was constructed to honor members of our military. Engraved pavers are available for purchase online through CivicRec. Visit Schertz. com for more information.

SCHERTZ DOG PARK

940 Community Circle

This 0.60-acre park is not only for the dogs but for the owners too. Benches allow the people to socialize while the dogs socialize too. Multiple fountains and small dog areas make the space multifunctional for pet owners.

WENDY SWAN MEMORIAL PARK

4601 Cherry Tree Dr

This 3-acre neighborhood park has a lot of amenities packed into a small space. Amenities include an outdoor pool and bathhouse, basketball court, playscape and walking trail.

SCHERTZ PARKS

TRAIL DEVELOPMENT

City staff is working on expanding the trail network in Schertz and with that comes the development of a trail branding program. The Schertz Trails logo, trail mile-marker signage, and trail maps will all be developed as we add more trail networks to the system. Long-range plans include the Cibolo Creek Trail, Dry Comal Creek Trail, and the Woman Hollering Creek Trail. Stay tuned to Schertz.com for more information on these exciting projects!

GREAT NORTHERN TRAIL

The Great Northern Trail is a trail project that is planned to follow the high-line utility easement along Wiederstein Road and stretches approximately 8 miles from Schertz Parkway to the Cypress Point neighborhood in northern Schertz. The first section of this trail already exists in Forest Ridge Park and the second section will be built as part of the Schertz Pedestrian Routes & Bike Lanes Project to connect Schertz Parkway to Forest Ridge Park. The

next section of trail in design phase is the connection from the existing trails in the Riata neighborhood to FM 1103 (near Cibolo Valley Baptist Church.) The next section to be designed will be the connection between the existing trails in the Belmont Park neighborhood to the Riata neighborhood (near Sippel Elementary.)

The

SCHERTZ TRAILS MASTER PLAN

Schertz residents have listed trails, and walking & biking opportunities, as their top priority in citizen surveys and the Schertz Parks Master Plan since at least 2013. In 2017 the City’s Master Thoroughfare Plan was completed and this provided a framework for future transportation needs in the city, including trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes. A copy of the Master Thoroughfare Plan can be found at Schertz.com/161/Engineering and the Trails Network can be found on Page 25 of the document. This master plan provides the framework from which city staff has been working to expand the trail network.

SCHERTZ PEDESTRIAN ROUTES & BIKE LANES PROJECT, CITY-WIDE

This exciting project for the Schertz community will install $1.1 million worth of trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes throughout Central Schertz. This project was also made possible due to applying for a federal fund match (80% federal/20% local) through the Transportation Alternatives Program. A 10-foot wide decomposed granite trail is planned off of Schertz Parkway that meanders through the LCRA easement roughly parallel to Wiederstein Road and connects to the established trail in Forest Ridge Park. The second part of the project includes striping compliant bike lanes (proper width, proper signage and striping) on both sides of Savannah Drive from the Selma/ Schertz city limits to FM 3009. Bicycle traffic in this area is heavy due to the elementary and intermediate schools along Savannah Drive. Compliant bike lanes will also be added to Woodland Oaks Drive from Schertz Parkway to FM 3009. The third component of the project is to install sidewalks along both sides of Live Oak Road from Schertz Parkway to FM 3009. This will complete a muchneeded connection for pedestrians between two-highly utilized corridors through the city. The project bidding was complete in December 2020 and construction is scheduled to start March 2021.

Chapter 2. Transportation System Needs 25

Figure 5 . Bikes, Trails and Recreation Network

PARK DEVELOPMENT

The City of Schertz strives to continue developing the areas around the City with more beautiful parks and facilities. With the growth of the City's population, the Parks & Recreation Department has many future projects.

ASHLEY PARK CONCRETE LOOP TRAIL

COMMUNITY CIRCLE PARK MASTER PLAN

City staff is working on a long-range master plan for the Community Circle area behind the city campuses on Schertz Parkway. The area includes the Johnie McDow Sports Complex, the Schertz Dog Park, the Schertz Skate Park, open field practice space, and parking. Currently, the parking in the area is insufficient for both the Johnie McDow Sports Complex and the nearby Schertz Civic Center and this plan addresses additional parking needed to serve both facilities. The plan also proposes redesigning the side entrance to the sports complex and adding more parking at that node, which also serves the second dog park entrance. The current Schertz Skate Park only includes Phase I of the original design, so the additional phases are included in this conceptual plan. Since the Skate

Park is heavily used by teens, the Master Plan was guided by the concept of teen-focused activities. Citizen feedback in the 2013 Parks Master Plan and at public meetings reflects the lack of teen programming or park facilities is a problem. The plan calls for a teen hangout space - “The Box” - seating areas, hammocks, public art spaces, open green space, basketball courts, and sand volleyball courts. The idea is that Teen and Adult Sand Volleyball leagues could be provided in the future. The plan does eliminate some practice fields for baseball and softball, so city staff is looking at ways to incorporate practice fields into other parks. Future public meetings will be scheduled to discuss the plans and gather stakeholder feedback. Questions can also be emailed to parksandrec@schertz.com.

In 2019, city staff completed Phase I of the renovation project at Ashley Park which included reconstructing the basketball court, replacing playground equipment, a cosmetic update to the restroom facility, and providing an accessible route to the new features. The existing asphalt loop trail was not replaced at that time due to limited funding. Phase II of the renovation includes demolition of the existing failing asphalt trail, reconstructing a concrete trail that is fully accessible the entire way, and extends the accessible route to the restroom, the toddler playscape, and one picnic area. Phase III of the Ashley Park renovation is scheduled for later this year and will include a public meeting to provide feedback on an additional playground feature to be added and a picnic pavilion which will be available for party reservations.

HILLTOP/HOMESTEAD PARK CONCEPTUAL PLAN

City staff is working on a new community park in the northern region of Schertz between the Fairhaven and The Links at Scenic Hills neighborhoods and the new Homestead development. The city has owned an undeveloped 8.37-acre parcel known informally as “Hilltop Park” for over a decade. The respective Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs) for the surrounding neighborhoods own 3 contiguous parcels of 8.08 acres, 7.27 acres, and 6.07 acres, and city staff is working with those HOAs to donate the parcels to the project to be used as a match for grant funds for

development of this park. Also included in the project is the approximately 15acre park that is being dedicated to the city with the Homestead development. The new combined community park will have a total of 45 acres and will remain a largely nature-based park. Early conceptual plans call for a hilltop overlook/observation platform, a fishing pond with pier, walking trails, mountainbiking trails, nature-based playscape, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and interpretative signage. A public meeting will be held on May 10 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the North Center, 3501 Morning Drive, to discuss future plans and gather stakeholder feedback. Questions can also be emailed to parksandrec@schertz.com.

VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PLAZA PAVER RENOVATION

With the completion of the paver renovation portion of the project, the focus in 2021 is on landscape renovation of the Veteran’s Memorial Plaza. The new landscaping beds will be in a symmetrical ring around the plaza and feature various types of roses to give the plaza a more formal look. Limestone blocks and earthen berms will be used to create an amphitheater-effect two-tier seating area on both sides of the plaza. An accessible sidewalk will be constructed from the back of the plaza to the parking area at the Aquatic Center and accessible parking spots will be created. Pavers are now available to purchase online at Schertz.com and are installed twice a year in March and September.

JOHNIE MCDOW SPORTS COMPLEX SHADE STRUCTURES

COMPLETED! Since the initial ballpark expansion in 2013, the Buffalo Valley Youth Association (BVYA) was able to secure grant funding for the initial twelve (12) shade structures surrounding Fields 1-4 but was unable to construct shade structures surrounding Fields 5-7. City staff developed a plan to utilize leftover bond funds for the remaining nine (9) shade structures needed. The new shade structures were installed in December 2020 and the metal posts on the original twelve structures were also repainted for a fresh look just in time for the Spring 2021 season.

PICKRELL PARK LARGE PAVILION SPORT COURT RENOVATION

COMPLETED! In 2020 the sport courts at the Large Pavilion at Pickrell Park were renovated to include new postmounted basketball goals and new acrylic surface coating with newly striped lines. Additionally, pickleball court lines were installed on the new courts so it is now a multi-sport court. Pickleball game sets will be available to rent soon.

This guide should be reaching you during National Library Week, and this year’s NLW theme “Welcome to Your Library,” promotes the idea that libraries extend far beyond the four walls of a building – and that everyone is welcome to use their services. During the pandemic, libraries have been adapting to our changing world by expanding resources and continuing to meet the needs of their users. Whether people visit in person or virtually, libraries offer opportunities for everyone to explore new worlds and become their best selves through access to books, technology, multimedia content, educational programs, and résumé help.

We’d love for you to visit us in person or virtually. You can follow us on social media or visit our web page at schertzlibrary.org for a calendar of programs and information on the many resources available to you with your library card. Have questions? Contact us at (210) 619-1700 or at librarian@schertz.com.

Melissa Uhlhorn, Library Director

Bibliotheca’s cloudLibrary is the newest way for library customers to enjoy e-books and e-audiobooks. With a library card and the cloudLibrary app, customers have access to over 150,000 items!

The app offers features that make browsing and borrowing super easy. Users can favorite, mark as read, and sort a record of their borrowing history, helping them manage previously and currently borrowed items. Users can also view or cancel holds, renew items, and receive reminders.

cloudLibrary offers the convenience of a virtual library card. It can store a digital version of your card on your phone or device. The virtual card can then be used for any library transaction that traditionally requires a physical card, eliminating the frustration of a forgotten or misplaced card. Users can store multiple cards and switch between accounts with ease.

This service is free-of-charge to all Schertz Public Library patrons, requiring only a valid library card. The app is available through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store or by visiting yourcloudlibrary.com. Users will need to follow the prompts and log in using their library card number and PIN.

KEEP YOUR HANDS ACTIVE & YOUR MIND ENGAGED WITH OUR NEW RESOURCE CREATIVEBUG!

Creativebug inspires you to create and then teaches you how! Enjoy unlimited access to over 1,000 online art and craft classes, plus patterns, templates, and recipes with your library card. Topics include art & design, sewing, quilting, paper, knitting, crochet, food & home, jewelry, holiday & party, and classes for kids. Watch videos anytime, anywhere. This service is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and Texas State Library and Archives Commission (Grant #LS‐246561‐OLS‐20).