From left to right: Aaron Martinez, Parks and Facilities Director; Leslie Black, City Manager; Stephanie Nichols, Assistant to the City Manager; James Wansley, Mayor; Connie Shackleford, Shahan family; Nancy Shahan Coats, Shahan family; and Maurice Shackleford, Shahan family. Back: Matt Lazarine, City Council Place 5.
WHITEHOUSE, Texas — In a move that feels less like government planning and more like neighbors building a legacy together, the City of Whitehouse is bringing a longtime dream to life: Shahan Park.
For years, residents have asked for a larger outdoor gathering space, and Mayor James Wansley, a third-generation Whitehouse native, heard them loud and clear. In 2023, the city council purchased more than 30 acres in the Shahan Ranch neighborhood to turn that dream into a reality. Using COVID-19 relief funds and partnering with Halff & Associates, the city launched the project with a vision of creating a true community centerpiece.
“Parks don’t cost a ton to build or maintain, but they offer a huge return in quality of life,” Wansley said. “It’s a blank canvas for the community to paint its story on.”
The planning process has been deeply community-driven. Two open houses invited residents to vote on amenities, sketch ideas, and leave notes about what mattered most to them. For those who missed the events, an online survey and email feedback option remain open, keeping the door wide for everyone’s voice.
And the wish list? A blend of practical fun and natural beauty. Shahan Park will feature improved and unimproved trails for everything from stroller walks to mountain biking, open play fields for flag football and soccer, splash pads for little ones, and even zip lines. Interestingly, while a pool seemed like a natural fit, Wansley said residents surprised officials by prioritizing flexible outdoor spaces instead.
“Our community told us what they wanted: open spaces, trails, playgrounds — and we listened,” he said.
Rooted in tradition, the park honors the Shahan family, early Whitehouse pioneers known for their generosity and leadership. Alvin and Nell Shahan’s family store once stood as a symbol of trust and togetherness — the same spirit the city hopes Shahan Park will embody.
The timing couldn’t be better. Whitehouse has been growing rapidly, not just in size but in spirit. Thanks to smart financial planning that balances property and sales tax revenue, the city has the means to invest in big, meaningful projects without overburdening residents.
“Because of our growth, we can now build and maintain spaces like this,” Wansley said.
For Wansley, who rose through the ranks from parks commissioner to mayor out of sheer love for his hometown, this park is personal.
“Our vision is to create places where people can come together, where kids have safe spaces to grow, and where community ties deepen,” he said. “Shahan Park is a big step toward that future.”
Citizens are encouraged to continue sharing their ideas and hopes for the park by completing the ongoing survey or emailing feedback to amartinez@whitehousetx.org. Together, Whitehouse is building more than a park — it’s building a future.
The summary is available for public review on the City’s website at https://www.whitehousetx.org/
New Survey!
In the previous survey, we gathered valuable insights into the community’s overall needs and interests. This second survey aims to dive deeper into specific amenities and priorities to better understand what matters most. Your input will help shape future Shahan Park plans and ensure we focus on the features that best serve our community. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
