You’ve probably driven past it a thousand times if you live in Flower Mound. It’s that 38-acre stretch of green tucked away off Timber Creek Road. Some folks still call it "Community Center Park" because that’s what it was back in the 80s. But honestly? Leonard and Helen Johns Park is currently undergoing the biggest identity shift in its forty-year history. It isn't just a quiet spot to feed ducks anymore.
If you haven't been lately, the place looks different. The old Lewisville ISD natatorium and administration buildings? Gone. Demolished. In their place, a massive $7 million transformation is taking root. This isn't just a "mow the grass and paint the benches" kind of update. We’re talking about a full-scale evolution from a neighborhood secret to a regional destination for tennis junkies and nature lovers alike.
The Big Tennis Takeover (And Why It’s Controversial)
Let’s get real about the tennis courts. For years, the local tennis community has been, well, vocal. They wanted a hub. They wanted a place for leagues. The Town Council listened, and now Leonard and Helen Johns Park is officially becoming the town’s premier tennis complex.
Five new courts are being added to the existing four. That brings the total to nine. For some, this is a dream come true. Imagine not having to hunt for an open court on a Saturday morning. But not everyone is thrilled.
Local residents, like Patricia Fager, have raised concerns about traffic on Timber Creek Road. It's a valid point. More courts mean more cars. More noise. More "thwack-thwack" sounds at 8:00 PM under the lights. The town is trying to balance this by building the new courts on the "footprint" of those old demolished buildings. Basically, they're trying to add amenities without eating up the existing green space.
More Than Just Rackets: The Nature Side
If you’re not into tennis, don't worry. The park isn't turning into a concrete jungle. The master plan, designed by MHS Planning & Design, is actually pretty heavy on the "nature" aspect.
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There’s a pond there that has always been the heart of the park. It's getting a serious upgrade. We’re talking a new boardwalk and a fishing pier. One of the coolest additions being discussed? Bird blinds. These are basically camouflage structures where you can sit and watch the local wildlife without them seeing you and flying off. It’s a bit niche, but for the birdwatchers in Denton County, it’s a big deal.
Then there’s the Pink Evening Primrose Trail.
It winds through the park and connects it to the larger Flower Mound trail network. You can actually trek from here all the way to Jake’s Hilltop Park if you’ve got the stamina. The current loop is about 1.2 miles. It’s easy. Mostly flat. Perfect for those days when you want to walk the dog without feeling like you’re climbing Everest.
Who Were Leonard and Helen Anyway?
It’s easy to ignore the names on the sign. Most people do. But the names tell the story of Flower Mound’s growth. Leonard Johns wasn't just some random guy; he was the Parks Board Chair and a Council member back when the town was starting to figure out its identity.
The park was renamed for him in 1990. Then, in 2019, the town added Helen’s name. It was a nod to the fact that community building is rarely a solo act. They were part of those early ranching-era families that saw the suburban wave coming and wanted to make sure there was still some dirt and grass left for the rest of us.
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The $7 Million Facelift: What’s Coming Next
The money for these upgrades isn't coming out of thin air. It’s funded through the 2025 bond program. Here is the reality of what’s hitting the ground by the end of 2026:
- A New Amphitheater: This is huge for the annual Independence Fest children's parade. It gives the town a dedicated spot for announcements and small performances.
- Nature-Themed Playground: Gone are the primary-colored plastic slides. The new vibe is "naturalized," meant to blend in with the trees.
- Creek Overlooks: The plan includes spots specifically designed for "undisturbed nature observation" along Timber Creek.
- Improved Parking: To address the concerns of neighbors, the parking lot is being redesigned to handle the tournament crowds.
The town even applied for a $750,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to help foot the bill. They’re trying to be smart about the budget, but let’s be honest—construction in North Texas is never cheap or fast.
The "Secret" Spots You Should Know About
If you visit today, before the heavy construction fully wraps up, look for the old pecan trees. Some of these are massive. They provide a canopy that keeps the park significantly cooler than the surrounding streets in the July heat.
The pond also has a fountain that isn't just for looks; it keeps the water oxygenated for the fish. People do fish here, mostly for sunfish and the occasional bass. It’s "catch and release" usually, but it’s a great spot to teach a kid how to cast a line without driving out to Lake Grapevine.
Is it worth the trip?
Depends on what you want. If you want a massive "destination" park with a splash pad and a dog park, you should probably head over to Heritage Park. That place is a circus on weekends.
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But if you want a place where you can actually hear the wind in the trees, or if you’re a serious tennis player looking for a home court, Leonard and Helen Johns Park is the spot. It’s transitioning from a "hidden gem" to a "community anchor."
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Parking is currently accessed off Timber Creek Road. It can get tight during league play, so if you're just there for a walk, try to go on a weekday morning.
The restrooms are generally well-maintained, which is a big plus for parents. Also, keep an eye on the weather. Because a good portion of the park is in a floodplain, the trails near the creek can get a bit muddy after a heavy North Texas thunderstorm.
If you're planning a picnic, there’s a pavilion, but you’ll want to reserve it through the Flower Mound CAC if you’re bringing a crowd. Otherwise, it’s first-come, first-served for the smaller tables scattered around.
Your Next Steps
- Check the Master Plan: Visit the town's official project page at
flowermound.gov/LHJPMasterPlanto see the latest construction timelines. - Tennis Reservations: If you want to use the existing lighted courts, keep in mind they are popular in the evenings.
- Trail Mapping: Use an app like Pacer or AllTrails to track your distance if you’re connecting to the Pink Evening Primrose Trail, as the signage can be a bit sparse once you leave the main park loop.
- Stay Involved: If you live nearby, attend the Parks Board meetings. They are still tweaking the final details of the landscaping and "interpretive signage," and local input actually carries weight here.