The Cedar Hill Library and Signature Park are the culmination of 5 years of diligent collaboration and planning between TELA and community partners, from master planning through construction. Designed as a central community gathering space, the new park connects to miles of regional trails and is carefully nestled within existing waterways and old growth hardwood trees. The Traphene Hickman Library sits on the site’s high point, overlooking the Signature Park, which steps with the natural topography down to Bentle Branch Creek. Parking gardens lined with native trees and understory greet visitors at the Library entry. Stone block walls curve throughout the landscape and create shaded pockets for group gatherings and music gardens. A bridge leads visitors across an ephemeral arroyo and connects to a promenade and amphitheater designed for large events. A structure with swinging site furniture invites people of varying ages to relax in a more secluded space, and a gracious lawn underneath existing mature red oak and bois d'arc trees provides open space and views of the native hardwood riparian forest. Fulfilling the city’s vision of “Keeping it Wild”, this project connects Cedar Hill residents to nature while providing a vital expansion of public resources and a vibrant outdoor community hub.