Published on August 26, 2026
Tyler Parks and Recreation was awarded $150,000 in grant funding to create more opportunities for residents to learn, stay active, and enjoy City parks in new ways.
On Wednesday, August 26, the City Council accepted the grant funds that were administered by the Health Foundation of East Texas through the Building Belonging Challenge Grant Program. The initiative supports local projects that use evidence-based, innovative approaches to meaningfully improve community health.
A $50,000 portion of the grant will go toward the Rose Rudman Trail between the Donnybrook and New Copeland trail sections with interpretive signage and interactive educational features. The new elements will give trail users more opportunities to learn about the natural environment while they walk, run, or spend time outdoors. Tyler Urban Forestry will also host an Arbor Day-related educational event in the area.
The remaining $100,000 will support summer Parks and Recreation programming across the community. The funding will help expand existing programs and introduce new opportunities through activities such as Movies in the Park, camps, lessons, and other recreational offerings.
The two projects will provide community members with more opportunities to connect with Tyler’s parks and trails, as well as with one another. Families will be able to learn along the Rose Rudman Trail, create new memories at outdoor movie events, and participate in camps or lessons. The grant will allow Tyler Parks and Recreation to build upon existing programs while introducing new opportunities that encourage people to be active, spend time outdoors, and engage with the community.
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