The North Texas Aquatics Association (NTAA) named the Parks & Recreation department the 2022 Agency of the Year for its exceptional aquatic venues. The department also earned NTAA’s 2022 Program of the Year Award for the Adapted FlowRider classes offered at Jack Carter Pool.
Department Director Ron Smith said, “Plano Parks & Recreation gained its reputation for excellence over the years in large part due to its history of quality aquatic classes. More than 13,000 individuals benefitted from our aquatic offerings in 2022, with 86% of them being Plano residents.”
One of only five agencies nationwide to maintain national accreditation for more than 25 years, Plano Parks & Recreation continues to serve as a model for park systems across the country. The system has been ranked No. 1 in Texas by the Trust for Public Land since 2015.
- NTAA Agency of the Year Awards recognize community impact through programs, quality of life and wellness, and safety and innovation.
- NTAA Program of the Year Awards highlight programs that have significantly impacted youth and families within a community.
The department’s recreation division has made great strides in expanding its services to underserved populations to include:
- Aquatic offerings like adapted FlowRider lessons
- Traditional learn-to-swim classes
- Sensory Friendly Days for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Red Cross Learn to Swim classes
The NTAA consists of 71 agency members including 39 North Texas municipal parks and recreation agencies throughout Dallas, Ft. Worth and surrounding neighbors.
“Working together with our community to improve the health and well-being of all is key to everything we do,” Smith said.
Learn more about Plano Parks & Recreation at planoparks.org.