After more than a year of restricted access, Shelby Park has quietly reopened to the public.
On or about April 3, 2025, Texas National Guard soldiers opened the gates to the 47.4-acre riverside park. Visitors can now access the ball fields, soccer fields, boat ramp, and parking areas, including the Ryan & Rio Grande lot, often used by flea market vendors and shoppers.
The park was seized by the State of Texas in January 2024 under Governor Greg Abbott’s emergency declaration as part of Operation Lone Star. Despite repeated state claims—some made under oath in a January 2024 U.S. Supreme Court filing—locals were consistently turned away at the gate for over a year.
Residents were threatened with arrest for entering, including during peaceful protests. Even small events like community vigils required special approval from the Texas Military Department, with soldiers remaining onsite and media access tightly controlled.
Now, more than a year later, no press release or public notice accompanied the change—but for the first time since the takeover, the public can freely enter and use Shelby Park.
