White Rock Lake has nearly always been a safe place to visit, neighborhood supporters say, and they want to keep it that way.
“What we want to do is make sure that (security) never becomes a problem,” says Susan Falvo, fundraising chairwoman for the White Rock Lake Foundation.
The city of Dallas Park and Recreation Department has a master plan for the lake, but it does not include adding lighting. The Foundation is developing a strategy to add light fixtures along trails, at the dock and pier, and in parking lots.
The lights must adhere to the master plan’s design and receive approval from the White Rock Lake task force, which comprises varies organizations interested in the lake and park, Falvo says.
The Foundation has installed sample lights, which were loaned by the supplier, along paths at the lake.
Although city bond packages have included improvements for the lake, lighting never made the cut, Falvo says.
“At this time, there are no funds for lighting at the lake,” she says. “You’re never going to get everything from public money.”
So the Foundation decided to raise the money privately. The group will need at least $400,000, Falvo says, but costs likely will hit $1 million.
Once the task force OKs the lighting project, which could happen within the next few weeks, the Foundation plans to begin installing permanent lighting fixtures. Installation will occur in phases, starting with areas recommended by the Police Department.
“Obviously we’re not going to have $1 million all at once,” Falvo says. “We’ll have to do it by sections. But if we can have a few up at a time, it will make a huge difference.”
The group already is recruiting sponsors for the White Rock’n Festival. Proceeds from the May 7 event will primarily benefit the lighting project.
For information or to make a donation, contact the foundation at P.O. Box 140277 Dallas 75214; 214-821-2077; or whiterocklakefoundation.org.
