Rockwall, TX – Gloria Williams Park and Pool, located at 801 Davy Crockett Dr, have undergone significant upgrades following damage sustained last year. The renovation projects, initiated due to a motor vehicle accident and necessary waterline work under the playground, have revitalized the park and pool over the past 12 months.
The extensive improvements include:
- Basketball Court: Repaired and resurfaced with new backboards and rims.
- ADA-Compliant Trails: New trails connecting the basketball court to the pool and the new playground.
- Park Amenities: Refurbished pergola and picnic areas within the pool area, a refurbished pump room and lifeguard area, and a new self-leveling compound joint on the pool deck.
- Playground: A brand-new playground with safety surfacing.
- Additional Features: Two new picnic tables, a new park sign, and drought-tolerant grass.
These upgrades, which cost approximately $130,000 excluding pipes and street department infrastructure, were necessary not only due to the accident but also because the previous pool was over 60 years old, and the basketball court and playground were over 25 years old. The entire park redesign was handled by the Rockwall Parks and Recreation staff, showcasing their dedication and talent in maintaining and enhancing community spaces.
The Legacy of Gloria Williams
Gloria Williams was born in Rockwall in 1932 and was one of eight siblings. Despite facing racial injustices, she was passionate about education and aspired to be a teacher. Rockwall’s segregated school system only offered education up to the 9th grade for Black students, forcing many, including Gloria, to quit school and start working.
Determined to continue her education, Gloria sought permission from the Rockwall Superintendent, Mr. Wilkerson, to attend the 10th grade in Garland. Although he couldn’t secure funding from the ISD, Mr. Wilkerson paid for her bus fare out of his own pocket. Gloria’s journey to complete her education involved taking multiple buses from Rockwall to Dallas daily. Despite these challenges, she graduated from Booker T. Washington in 1950 with triple honors. Gloria continued her education at Prairie View A&M College for two years before returning to Rockwall to support her family. She started working as a maid at Varo Incorporated and eventually rose to manager and supervisor roles over 34 years. She built her home near her childhood residence in Rockwall and played a pivotal role in establishing Gloria Williams Park.
Grand Re-Opening Event
The community is invited to celebrate the grand re-opening of Gloria Williams Park and Pool on Saturday, July 27th at 10:00 AM. The event will feature:
Free pool admission, free hotdogs, free drinks, and exciting giveaways while supplies last.
Join us in honoring Gloria Williams’ legacy and enjoying the newly refurbished park and pool
Press Release: Gloria Williams Park and Pool Reopen with Major Upgrades
Submitted by: Kate Sitzensatter, Public Information Officer – City of Rockwall
