Senator Charles Schwertner, MD
Senate District 5
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 6, 2023
Contact: Drew Graham (972) 816-4287
Senator Schwertner Files Bill to Protect Fairfield Lake State Park and Reservoir from Becoming Gated Community Development
Senate Bill 1656 would allow the state to acquire the park for continued public use and crucial conservation efforts to benefit generations to come
AUSTIN, TX — Senator Charles Schwertner (R-Georgetown) filed Senate Bill 1656 to protect Fairfield Lake State Park (Fairfield) and its natural resources from a planned housing project pending the sale of the land to real estate giant Todd Interests. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) leased and operated the 1,800-acre park for more than 50 years, investing millions of taxpayer dollars to preserve the area and support its popular recreation spaces. Fairfield attracted 80,000 visitors each year with its public boat ramps, fishing pier, and safe camping and hiking opportunities.
“The permanent closure of Fairfield Lake State Park is a tremendous and heartbreaking loss for the many visitors who enjoy boating, horseback riding, and hiking in this beautiful space,” said Schwertner. “Importantly, the park’s impending development will forever compromise our state’s precious land, water, and wildlife. Protecting the public’s interest in Fairfield is a top priority of mine this legislative session.”
Senator Schwertner continues to work with numerous allies in the Texas Senate and House of Representatives to preserve Fairfield, including the House bill author, Representative Angelia Orr (R Itasca). He also remains engaged with TPWD, which identified funding to purchase the park. Senator Schwertner encourages Texans to email his Capitol office to share memories of time spent at Fairfield Lake State Park.
In November 2022, Dr. Charles Schwertner was reelected to serve the citizens of Senate District 5, an eleven-county region of central and east Texas.
###