TEMPLE, TX (August 7, 2026) – The City of Temple is taking a significant step toward expanding outdoor recreation and preserving natural spaces for future generations following City Council’s unanimous approval to accept a landmark land donation from the estate of former Temple residents David and Peggy Chatham.
Through their estate, the Chathams donated approximately 178.683 acres of land located near the intersection of Highway 36 and Highway 317 to the City of Temple for use as a public park. The donated property, valued at approximately $7.55 million, will be preserved as a nature-focused park.
The property includes approximately 74 acres east of Highway 317 and approximately 104 acres west of Highway 317. The land features native prairie, elm and live oak groves, and other natural landscapes that provide opportunities for conservation, education, and passive recreation.
The two larger tracts of land are protected through conservation easements executed with the Texas Land Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. These easements preserve the natural character of the property and limit future use to nature-focused amenities, including natural-surface trails.
Additional portions of the property outside the conservation easements may support park-related amenities such as parking, restrooms, educational spaces, seating areas, existing structures, utilities, and other improvements that support the park.
As part of accepting the donation, the City of Temple is required to maintain the property as a public park. The deed restrictions include specific limitations on future uses, including prohibitions on sports facilities, camping, off-highway vehicle use, and other uses inconsistent with the conservation purpose of the property. If the City were to discontinue use of the property as a public park, the property would automatically revert to the Texas Land Conservancy.
"This donation represents more than just additional park acreage, it represents a long-term investment in the quality of life of our community. This space will provide opportunities for residents to walk, explore, observe wildlife, learn about the environment, and experience the benefits of being connected to nature."
Kevin Beavers, Director of Parks and Recreation
At nearly 179 acres, the Chatham property will become the second-largest city-owned park in Temple, behind Crossroads Park. The donation directly supports the goals outlined in the City’s 2020 Parks and Trails Master Plan, including preserving open space, cultural landscapes, and natural resources.
The City’s Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with the Central Texas Master Naturalists, whose members have already begun assisting with initial planning efforts. The organization will continue collaborating with the City to explore nature-based recreation opportunities, environmental education programs, and outdoor learning experiences for residents, schools, and community organizations.
The City of Temple thanks the Chatham family for their extraordinary generosity and their commitment to preserving natural spaces for generations to come.