Library in a Park Project Receives Beautify Texas Award

Keep Texas Beautiful recently announced Cedar Hill's Library in a Park as a winner of the 2024 Outstanding Project Award for its work to preserve and enhance Texas's environment and make the community stronger. The Beautify Texas Awards recognize the efforts of those working to enhance their community and protect the Lone Star State. These awards range in honoring extraordinary volunteers, professionals, youth, educators, businesses, local/civic governments, organizations, and specific projects and programs. "We are proud to honor and recognize Texans who are making a difference in our state," says Suzanne Kho, Executive Director of Keep Texas Beautiful. "Their actions do more than protect the environment; they inspire community members to get involved and help us keep Texas beautiful." Cedar Hill's Library In A Park project exemplifies community collaboration and environmental stewardship. This innovative initiative provides a state-of-theart public library integrated seamlessly with its natural surroundings, enhancing Cedar Hill's environmental beauty while promoting education and community engagement. The Traphene Hickman Library is surrounded by the city's new Signature Park featuring lush green spaces and nature trails. The city planted 231 new trees and 14,342 native plants during park development, contributing significantly to local biodiversity and ecosystem health. The City's commitment to green space is also evident in an allocated plot of land across from the Library In A Park with a full treescape. The exclusive use of plants native to the region ensures the park remains in harmony with the city's environment. The entire project was designed to LEED standards and was built with sustainability at the forefront of all efforts. A full list of winners and award descriptions can be found at ktb.org