Parks, Progress & Passion with John Jenkins

Deconstructing Dallas

🏞️ Episode OverviewIn this inspiring episode, Ryan and Shawn sit down with longtime friend and Director of Dallas Park and Recreation Department John Jenkins to talk about the incredible progress of Dallas Parks and Recreation. From a rising national ParkScore to summer programming that changes lives, this episode celebrates the green spaces that bring Dallas together and the man helping lead that charge.

Interview begins at 6:40

✨ Highlights

• Dallas ranks #34 nationally in the Trust for Public Land’s ParkScore — now with 81% of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park.
• John Jenkins reflects on 32 years of service and his rise through the Dallas Park system.
• Updates on major park developments: Southern Gateway (now Hensley Park), Bachman Lake enhancements, Glendale Park renovation, and more.
• The impact of recreational programs and summer camps, especially for underserved youth and therapeutic programs.
• Jenkins' vision for equity and inclusivity: making every park feel like a “backyard” and every rec center like a “country club.”

🛠️ Featured Projects

• Southern Gateway Park (Hensley Park)
• Oak Cliff’s Glendale Park Renovation
• Bachman Lake Skatepark & Aquatics Center
• Spraygrounds & pickleball courts (now over 70!)
• East Dallas’ Willie B. Johnson Recreation Center transformation
  

🎧 Listen & SubscribeAvailable on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.📲 Stay ConnectedLearn more: DallasParks.org
Follow: @DallasParkRec on social media