This timeline is being created to commemorate the department's 50th anniversary in 2018. Some dates are approximate. Images may be slow to load. There will be updates and new images added periodically, so come visit the site again!;xNLx;;xNLx;For a more interesting viewing experience, click on the 3D button in the lower left corner. Reopen the frame originally displayed in another window (by right clicking on the frame) to see the timeline in full screen mode.
1897 - 5 acres was acquired from the Plano Fishing Club to establish Harrington Park; 1925 - land for Haggard Park was donated; 1931 - additional land was added to Harrington Park
Plano's population in 1960 was 3,695
$150,000 in General Obligation bonds was approved; there were 85 acres in the park system at the time.
The first tract of land for Schell Park was acquired
A $630,000 bond referendum for park improvements passes in 1966 just prior to the formation of the department.
In September 1967 City Council passed an ordinance (67-9-4) authorizing the creation of the Parks and Recreation Department which would be established later in 1968.
Offered boxing, volleyball, and basketball.
In 1968 the City Manager acted on the City Council authority to create the Parks and Recreation Department by hiring the first director.
Richard Austin is hired as first Director
