In a significant stride toward environmental stewardship, the Dallas Park and Recreation Department has achieved noteworthy recognition by joining the Certified Green Business list, in partnership with the Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability.
Within the Dallas Green Business Certification Program, the department has successfully certified eight of its facilities, with one attaining platinum status and seven reaching gold. All facilities achieved perfect scores in the waste and leadership categories, underscoring the city’s dedication to sustainable infrastructure and community enhancement.
Green Facility Achievements
| Name | Certification |
| Bachman Recreation Center * | Platinum |
| Fretz Recreation Center* | Gold |
| Kiest Recreation Center | Gold |
| Park in the Woods Recreation Center | Gold |
| Pleasant Oaks Recreation Center* | Gold |
| Samuell (East) Farms | Gold |
| Singing Hills Recreation Center | Gold |
| Willie B. Johnson Recreation Center* | Gold |
* Denotes facilities with rooftop solar arrays
The Bachman Recreation Center stands out with its platinum certification, following extensive renovations in 2021 that included water and electricity conservation measures, material reuse, and preservation of historic features. Meanwhile, Fretz, Pleasant Oaks, and Willie B. Johnson Recreation Centers are equipped with rooftop solar arrays to generate renewable energy, contributing to reduced energy consumption. Bachman also incorporates solar technology as part of a pilot project featuring battery storage for solar-generated energy.
Singing Hills Recreation Center is another exemplar of eco-friendly design. Located in south Dallas, its surroundings include native vegetation, and the site is optimized for energy efficiency, water conservation, and pollution reduction. The facility employs landscaping strategies like stormwater management and drip irrigation to save water and minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the building’s design enhances indoor air quality and supports waste reduction. Access to a nearby train station further aids in reducing air pollution.
These facilities exemplify the Dallas Park and Recreation Department’s dedication to sustainability, offering diverse experiences from the prairie habitat at Samuell (East) Farm to the trails of Kiest Park. To explore more Certified Green Businesses or visit a local recreation center, visit https://dallasparks.org/.
About the Dallas Green Business Certification Program
The Dallas Green Business Certification Program, relaunched in August 2025, aims to spotlight businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmental restoration. These green practices not only contribute to ecological preservation but also enhance business longevity by cutting costs and fostering community contributions. Businesses within Dallas are invited to apply for free at any time. For more details, visit dallas.gov/greenbusiness.
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