The Houston Parks and Recreation Department has announced the extension of the operating agreement between the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Major League Baseball Youth Foundation, and the Astros Foundation for the MLB Youth Academy at Sylvester Turner Park and home to the new Bob Watson Education Building, located at 2801 Victory Drive. The agreement is now extended to June 2039 and will ensure youth participation and grassroots involvement in the games of baseball and softball, along with teaching life skills for young people in the City.
“I am grateful to MLB for its investment and commitment to the Youth Academy at Sylvester Turner Park. Baseball is America’s favorite pastime, and I want children from all communities to have access and an opportunity to learn the game,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “The agreement will allow us to keep building a foundation for young people who have a passion for playing baseball or to simply hone their skills as the ultimate sports fans.”
In March, a dedication ceremony was held for the new Bob Watson Education Building at the Astros Youth Academy at Sylvester Turner Park. Watson, who passed away on Thursday, was a former Astros All-Star and Major League Baseball pioneer. The center named in his honor offers educational tutoring, college readiness, and character building programs.
“The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is a big supporter of programs that provide opportunities for our youth,” said Steve Wright, Director, Houston Parks and Recreation Department. “Extending this agreement is something we wanted to do and now young men and women in Houston can look forward to many more years of physical and educational opportunities.”
The Astros Foundation funded the construction and design of the MLB Academy at Sylvester Turner Park and the Bob Watson Education Center.