Once Big Tex has been taken down and the last corny dog has been eaten, Fair Park will start undergoing some major renovations.
Fair Park First, alongside the Dallas Park and Recreation Department, announced this week a gift of $5 million from John and Helen Carona for the naming of the now Carona Plaza at the Cotton Bowl Stadium.
"My wife and I have loved Fair Park ever since we were both kids...this is something we truly wanted to do and would enjoy being a part of," Former State Senator John Carona told KRLD. "This is a historical treasure, and the fact that we happen to have it right here in Dallas, Texas, of course, makes it all the better."
Situated directly in front of the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium and Leonhardt Lagoon, Carona Plaza will receive upgrades including new concrete work, landscaping and sitting areas, as well as marquee signage at the north and south ends. To Carona, maintaining Fair Park's character and essence is extremely important.
"We'd much rather be part of preserving something that is such an integral part of this community and has been around for so long," Carona added.
The couple hopes that future generations will continue to enjoy the park as they have, cherishing it as a cherished Dallas treasure.
Carona's significant donation is only one component of a broader restoration initiative at Fair Park. The project encompasses various refurbishments, including the Cotton Bowl renovations and enhancements to other areas within the park.
"All aspects of the park are going to receive considerable dollars over the next few years...there's something in this for everybody," Carona said.
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