The City of Killeen Parks & Recreation Department proudly announces three significant achievements that will enhance local recreational offerings and improve water safety within the community.

“These accomplishments underscore Killeen’s dedication to community safety and recreational improvements,” said Antonio Murphy, Executive Director of Killeen Parks & Recreation. “By expanding access to life-saving water safety resources and enhancing recreational facilities, we are creating a safer and more enjoyable environment for residents of all ages. The Parks & Recreation Department is excited to implement these programs and continue enhancing the quality of life for all residents.”

The City of Killeen’s Parks & Recreation Department has been selected to participate in the American Red Cross Centennial Campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing drowning rates and expanding access to swim lessons. This recognition comes as the Killeen Aquatics division ranks among the top 100 American Red Cross swim lesson providers in the country.

Drowning remains the leading cause of death among children aged 1-4, with Bell County’s rates exceeding the national average. Thanks to Killeen’s commitment to water safety education, efforts have significantly mitigated these risks. By joining the Centennial Campaign, Killeen will increase swim lesson availability and affordability while ensuring its staff receives advanced training in aquatic safety and emergency response.

As part of this three-year partnership, Killeen Aquatics will:

• Expand swim lesson availability from 800 slots to 1,050 annually
• Offer 250 low-cost lessons ($5 per participant) for qualifying low-income families
• Maintain 800 standard swim lesson slots at $50 per participant
• Receive state-of-the-art training and resources for lifeguards and instructors
• Provide all participants with American Red Cross-sponsored water safety kits
• Gain national recognition as an “Ambassador to Water Safety”

The Killeen Parks & Recreation Department has been awarded a grant from the Sea Tow Foundation, in partnership with the United States Coast Guard, to provide state-of-the-art lifejackets for use at city aquatic facilities and local boating areas. To further address Bell County’s drowning rate, the department will implement a mandatory lifejacket station managed by the Aquatics Supervisor at Lion’s Club Park. This initiative is expected to save the city up to $6,200 annually on lifejacket replacements and an additional $908 in signage and station upkeep costs while promoting water safety through training and public awareness.

Killeen has been awarded a Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Local Park Grant Program (LPGP), a 50% matching reimbursement program that assists municipalities in developing recreational areas. Killeen ranked eighth out of 58 Non-Urban Outdoor Applicants, with only 22 projects receiving funding. The grant will allow for significant improvements at Long Branch Park, including the resurfacing of one existing tennis court into four new pickleball courts, complete with plated nets, new net posts, sidewalk repairs and curb ramp enhancements. The estimated project cost is $25,000.