2026 - City Council Retreat - Nature Center Design Process

The City of Lewisville City Council held a retreat focused on the Nature Center design process for the Leelah Lease area, a key component of the city's Green Centerpiece Master strategy. The discussion covered the project's background, including previous partnerships and plans, and emphasized the need for a 20,000 square foot facility to support educational programming, community events, and administrative functions. The council reviewed a competitive Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process that attracted 15 design firms, narrowing down to three finalists who presented high-level concepts. After thorough evaluation, the firm GFFMSR was selected for their comprehensive approach, alignment with the city's vision, and budget-conscious design. The project budget is estimated between $11 million and $13 million, funded through four B cash, bonds, and potential grants. The council plans to proceed with an AIA contract, identify project partners, and engage the community, aiming for construction to begin in late 2027 or early 2028, pending approvals from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.