Arlington's Meadowbrook Park was recently selected as a Lone Star Legacy Park by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS) in a ceremony at the association's annual institute in Corpus Christi on February 19, 2014.

A Lone Star Legacy Park is classified as a park that holds special prominence in the local community and the state of Texas. To qualify for consideration, the park must have endured the test of time and become iconic to those who have visited, played and rested on its grounds.

Built in the heart of Arlington in 1963, Meadowbrook Park seems to hold a special place in people's hearts. Whether it is memories of the 9-hole golf course that sits on the south side of the building or simply reminiscing about the neighborhood and programs they participated in in as a child at the center, many citizens express fond memories of this particular recreation center from their youth.

September 1, 2013 marked the 50th anniversary of Meadowbrook Recreation Center. For fifty years, this recreation center has provided recreational opportunities to north Arlington community residents - such as square dancing classes, basketball, volleyball, ping pong, and more.

Lone Star Legacy Parks must be a minimum of 50 years old. A Lone Star Legacy Park holds special prominence in the local community and the state of Texas. A designation as a Lone Star Legacy is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed on a park.

Eight parks in Texas received the honor in the third year of the program including Meadowbrook Park, Arlington; Fireman's Park, Brenham; Gussie Field Watterworth Park, Farmers Branch; Davis Mountains State Park and Indian Lodge, Fort Davis; Lindheimer Plaza, New Braunfels; Bergfeld Park, Tyler; Getzendaner Memorial Park, Waxahachie; and Emancipation Park, Houston.

Parks have played an important role in the development of our communities throughout history. Local parks help promote community, natural respite and social interaction as communities were founded, developed and prospered and all parks so designated will be included in a state-wide initiative promoting Heritage Tourism.

TRAPS is a non-profit 501(c)3 professional and educational organization founded 75 years ago with a membership of over 2,000 professionals. TRAPS is committed to advancing the field of parks, recreation and leisure services in Texas, while advocating for enhanced recreation opportunities and the increase of public green space for Texans. www.traps.org.