Introducing Tierra Verde Community Commons (working title)
Tierra Verde Community Commons reimagines one of our community’s most valuable public assets by transforming an underutilized recreation area into a vibrant gathering place serving residents of all ages.
The vision enhances the existing park by creating new opportunities for recreation, wellness, community meetings, family activities, and special events. The following is an overview of the PROPOSED park amenities. See concept photo gallery below.
The Commons Green – A flexible community gathering space replacing the underutilized baseball field while preserving open green space. Think Farmers Markets, Art Shows, Small Community Concerts, Outdoor Movies, Holiday Events, Fitness Classes. Includes small Performance Stage
Community Meeting Center – A modern meeting space with professional AV technology for community organizations including HOA Meetings, Local Clubs, Educational Programs, Private Rentals.
Wellness Center – A professionally operated fitness center serving as both a community amenity and the financial engine supporting the park – Featuring Cardio Equipment, Strength Training, Free Weights, Group Fitness Classes for all ages, Personal Training – all managed by professionals reporting to a Non-Profit Board.
Expanded Racquet Sports- Building on the growing popularity of pickleball while preserving tennis. Existing Tennis Courts Retained, Expanded Pickleball Courts, Shade & Spectator Areas
Dog Parks – Dedicated spaces for both large and small dogs. Separate Enclosures. Shade, Water, waste bags, Seating Areas.
Family Recreation – Enhancing amenities for children and multi-generational families. Expanded Playground with New Equipment, Walking & Wellness Trail, Picnic Areas, Natural Gathering Spaces
Ongoing Operations – Unlike traditional parks that rely entirely on tax dollars, Tierra Verde Community Commons is designed with a self-sustaining operating model. The Wellness Center serves as the economic engine supporting park maintenance and programming. In fact, based on initial estimates, funds may be available for community projects outside the Park, including beautification of the Bayway Median.
Proven Demand – Would Tierra Verde support a community fitness center? It already has. The former Gym at Tierra Verde Fitness Center quickly grew to more than 250 members before losing its lease due to the Greenleaf Marina redevelopment—not because of a lack of demand.
Construction Funding – rather than an ongoing assessment, we’re closely studying options to fund the project in the shortest time frame possible, which may include offsetting with state and federal grants. Keep in mind…this is early-stage planning that will adjust as we gather community feedback.
What’s next? Watch for a Community Poll to get your feedback on the idea. Can’t wait to provide feedback? Send your questions/comments to Daryl Hively at dmhively@gmail.com
