The wait might finally be almost over. After years of planning and fundraising, Civic Park is just $400,000 shy of the $9.2 million needed to start construction. That means the dream of a brand-new, two-acre downtown park is closer to reality than ever before.
This has been a true community project from the start. The total goal is $12.4 million, which includes not only construction but also an endowment to help with ongoing operations and events. But here’s the good news — once the $9.2 million mark is reached, the first phase of construction can begin. Thanks to some generous recent donations, that milestone is now within reach.
The park will sit on the old LP&L site between Broadway and Avenue M, which has been an empty lot for the past two years. Soon, that space will be transformed into a lively, welcoming hub right in the heart of downtown.
Brad Moran, who has led the fundraising efforts, said it best: downtown needs a focal point, and Civic Park is set to become exactly that. Cities across the country have seen how green space can transform a downtown. It’s where people gather, slow down, and connect — and soon, Lubbock will have its own version of that.
So what can you expect to see when it’s done? The plans are exciting. At the center will be a large performance stage perfect for concerts, cultural events, and even school performances. Imagine warm summer nights with live music playing while families relax on the grass.
The design also includes a dedicated food truck area, which will make the park a natural spot to grab a bite while enjoying downtown. Add in splash pads, climbing rocks, rolling grassy hills, and even a pet relief area, and there’s something for everyone — kids, parents, and dog owners alike. Practical touches like picnic tables and year-round restrooms will make it a true everyday destination, not just an event space.
The vision doesn’t stop there. The park will be staffed once it’s open, with team members on-site to help organize events and programs. That means this won’t just be a space to visit — it will be a place where something is always happening, from school activities to seasonal celebrations.
If the remaining $400,000 is raised soon, construction could start as early as next year, with visible progress within six months. If all goes according to plan, Lubbock residents could be enjoying Civic Park by late 2026.
And the timing couldn’t be better. Downtown is already buzzing with restaurants, cultural spots, and new businesses. Civic Park will tie it all together, giving people one more reason to spend time downtown and experience everything it has to offer.
Momentum is on our side. With just a little more support, we could see groundbreaking in the very near future — and the countdown to a brand-new Civic Park officially begin.
