The Willow Waterhole Greenway consists of six flood control detention basins and large greenspace areas, overseen by the Harris County Flood Control District and Houston Parks & Recreation Department (HPARD). The all-volunteer Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy, Brays Oaks Management District, and community donors have been making improvements to the greenspace since 2005.

The $2 million Kinder Foundation grant will support trail construction and amenities at Willow, Triangle, Scout, and Dog Lakes, as well as a neighborhood connection to Chimney Rock Road. The Foundation will also match up to an additional $2 million on a dollar-for-dollar basis for these projects. In addition to these improvements, Harris County Precinct One has recently announced plans to begin rebuilding and extending trails around Westbury Lake in 2022.

HPARD and the Brays Oaks Management District have agreed to collaborate on maintenance of the expanded recreational amenities within the property, which offers Houstonians flood relief, wildlife habitats in an urban setting, and educational and recreational opportunities. It’s beautiful rolling hills, sinuous lakes, large stands of trees, and areas of rare prairie grasses have made Willow Waterhole Greenway one of Houston’s best-kept secrets and most valuable assets.