Garland showcases bond-funded projects: new pools, libraries and arts upgrades

City officials used a town-hall presentation and video to show what bond dollars have produced across Garland’s parks, libraries, public-safety facilities and downtown.

Amy Rosenthal, the city’s director of cultural arts, presented a short video and highlighted recent and planned projects: the new Holford Recreation and Aquatic Center with multiple pools and a surf simulator; remodeled and expanded libraries including the West Garland Library’s 18,000 square feet of interactive space; a rebuilt animal shelter opened in 2022; the John Comer Skate Park; the Bob Bay Tennis Complex; and planned renovations to the Granville Arts Center.

City Manager Mike Betts tied those deliveries to two bond packages—Build Garland (2019) and Grow Garland (2025)—and said the projects form the foundation for the city’s 10-year strategic plan, “Garland on the Rise.” He noted voters approved the bonds and that roughly 85% of the 2019 program projects are complete. Rosenthal added that recent attractions and events are drawing visitors and helping expand Garland’s local economy.

Officials encouraged residents to visit growgarland.com for details on street-level projects and said bond-funded amenities support cultural events that bring people and business to Garland.