Park
Dottie Jordan Park is nestled in the University Hills Neighborhood of Austin, Texas. The park offers a playscape, two lighted tennis courts, a lighted basketball court, walk/run trails, and the Dottie Jordan Recreation Center.
Dottie Jordan’s Legacy
Dottie Jordan was an orchestra public school teacher at Austin Independent School District (AISD) who lived across the street from the current park location. There was a looming threat to the park’s existence with a plan to build condominiums. Ms. Jordan spoke to the City Council in 1972. At this meeting, she shared her interest in preserving park space within the neighborhood. In March 1973, she died from complications of diabetes at the age of 32.
In November 1973, the City of Austin purchased 11.5 acres of land from developer Walter Carrington for $135,000. The park named after Dottie honored her hope and voice in establishing an inclusive green space for the community.
Recreation Center
The Dottie Jordan Recreation Center offers activities for youth, teens, and senior citizens, including a therapeutic recreation programs for teens and adults with disabilities. The center offers inclusive and adaptive programming and spaces such as pickleball, bowling, movies in the park, enrichment classes, fitness programs, a kitchen/computer lab area/multi-purpose room, a community garden, and a swimming pool.
Volunteer Opportunities
Monthly Clean-ups with Neighbors of Dottie Jordan Park & Garden
- When: Every 1st Saturday of the month, 9 am-11 am
- Where: Dottie Jordan Park, next to the playground
- What to bring:
- Water bottle, sunscreen, and hat
- Long pants (protect yourself from the poison ivy, yikes!)
- Wheelbarrow or cart if you have one
- Questions? Contact us: UniversityHillsNA@gmail.com
Joy and Friendship Community Garden Club
- When: Meets every other week at various times.
- Where: Dottie Jordan Recreation Center
- Questions? Contact us for details on our next meeting: UniversityHillsNA@gmail.com