History
The Park, an area of 815 homes, was developed by W. C. Whelan beginning in early 1955. He purchased the property from Carlotta Townsend Alderman and it was deeded to him in fourteen separate parcels between 1955 and 1965.
In December of 1958, the Alderman Park Civic Association was incorporated. Concern about a dangerous traffic intersection at Townsend Boulevard and the Arlington Expressway was the major reason for the formation of the organization. The association's original objectives were stated as (1) traffic and safety, (2) influencing zoning changes, (3) neighborhood security, (4) beautification, and (5) securing and dissemination of community information.
During May of 1961, Carlotta Alderman deeded for ten dollars, the property at the corner of Westlawn and Lone Star to be used solely as a recreational area and civic center. A pool and pool building opened on the property one-year later. In 1970, a tennis court was built adjacent to the pool. The Swim Club and swim team were major sources of recreation and activity for the Park until 1983. At this time the pool property was deeded back to the Alderman estate. The reasons for this decision were that the twenty-one year old pool was in need of major repairs, operating costs had risen greatly and pool membership had declined. Today four homes are located on this property.
In 1971, the Alderman Park Civic Association was one of the charter members in establishing the Greater Arlington Civic Council (GACC). As a member of the council our representatives have gone to great lengths over the years to keep unwanted zoning, excessive traffic flow via rerouting and road expansion, etc. from infringing on Alderman Park and its residents.
In recent years many programs have been started for the benefit of Park residents. The Yard of the Month Program recognizes homeowners for their time and effort in beautifying the landscaping surrounding their homes. This award is given during the months of May through September with the Park divided into five areas. Residents are encouraged to make nominations and assist in judging for this award.
Another project involved the recurbing, paving, irrigation and landscaping of the Townsend Boulevard entrance to the Park. The project was a joint effort between the City and the Association. Presently, the association is responsible for paying the water bill, picking up litter and caring for the trees, shrubs and plantings on the two islands. This project is always in need of volunteer residents to help out.
A Welcome Neighbor Program was formed to greet new residents and to assist in maintaining current resident files.
The Neighborhood Watch Program was organized in 1982 and has annual meetings with the Sheriff's Office to renew our Neighborhood Watch signs.
In 2002 presentation of Tree Hill Summer Camp awards (when available) to neighborhood youths ages 8-11 began.
In 2004 Core Groups were added to enhance the effectiveness of the Civic Association. In 2005 the Park was further divided into 5 Core Areas to allow for better communication with residents. Each Core Area is represented by a Core Area Captain and with the help of Street Leaders helps promote Civic Association membership, Park activities and distribute flyers and directories.
A new Alderman Park website is being created to also better communicate Park activities and provide helpful information. Email will be provided so Park residents can communicate directly with the Officers.
In 2005 the Board of Directors set up two new Committees for the benefit of the residents. The Social / Outreach Committee plans park wide activities and sends Birthday and Anniversary cards to paid members. This Committee also sponsors the Youth Council that helps to get our youth involved in the planning of activities and the running of the Association.
The Business / Public Relations Committee was also added to increase advertising revenue to help offset printing costs for the Newsletter and Directory, enforce city codes, help with grant applications and encourage local businesses to support the Civic Association and its activities.
Currently
During the Christmas holidays, Luminary bags are given to all residents and the Yard and Door Decorating Awards are given in the five different areas of the Park. Neighborhood wide Yard / Garage Sales are advertised for the residents twice a year.
Newsletters are distributed quarterly to all residents to keep them informed about news and events concerning their neighborhood. A list of new Officers is published in the Newsletter following the annual meeting. The Officers, with the guidance of the Board of Directors and resident volunteers, will continue to serve Alderman Park.
The Directory is published annually and is available to those residents who have paid the dues of $30.00 each year. It includes names of Officers & Directors, addresses and telephone numbers of residents, a map of Alderman Park, frequently called telephone numbers and other neighborhood information. We know it will be beneficial to you in knowing your neighbors and neighborhood.
Revised 04-25-07
Updated 2008-09-22
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