In order to revitalize the historic Buddy Holly recreation area Highlands park focuses on transforming a neglected public park along the first dam of the Canyon Lake system in Lubbock, Texas. The Canyon Lakes, part of one of the largest water reclamation projects in the U.S., act as a crucial chain of reservoirs for severe droughts. Once a dumping ground in the 1970s, the area has since evolved into a popular park, with notable features like prairie dog watching.

A primary design element of the park is its interconnected trail system, with a hierarchy of paths including a promenade, sidewalks, and trails, offering accessibility while preserving the natural beauty of the landscape. Play structures and berms for a high activity space for children, integrated along the main promenade for ease of access. In contrast, peaceful quiet pockets of space are created along trails, including a hammock grove, overlooks, and picnic zones near the waterfront. Varying levels of activity create dynamic spaces, offering a wide variety of amenities for visitors while enhancing the park’s aesthetic.

Highland park also emphasizes green infrastructure and water management. Shallow vegetated floodplains manage runoff from nearby industrial facilities, while recycled perches provide resting spots for migratory birds from the Central Flyway. A reinforced shoreline, supported by riparian planting and recycled rock, combats erosion. Thick filter strips will follow the shoreline to address eutrophication, using a variety of native aquatic plants to target excess nutrients and increase biodiversity.

Added retaining walls will stabilize the trails, further preventing erosion and ensuring their durability helping to preserve a historic Lubbock park. These measures are integral to sustaining the park’s beauty and future ecological health, ensuring its long-term viability.