Opportunity Park
Opportunity Park Map
About Opportunity Park in Dallas
Opportunity Park, now known as Leo V. Chaney Jr. Park, is a 19.9-acre community park located in South Dallas, Texas. The park was renamed in 2021 to honor Leo V. Chaney Jr., a former Dallas City Council member who served from 1999 to 2007 and was known for his contributions to the South Dallas community.
The park serves as an important recreational space for the surrounding neighborhoods, providing a variety of outdoor amenities for residents of all ages. It features both active and passive recreation areas, allowing visitors to engage in sports activities or simply enjoy the natural surroundings.
One of the notable features of the park is its connection to local history. The park includes artwork called "Our History," which was unveiled in 2017. This artwork consists of four oversized interpretive panels presenting information and photos by celebrated Dallas photographer R.C. Hickman. The panels are displayed in a semi-enclosed, cylinder-shaped structure of metal and steel, highlighting the area's legacy in four key areas: early neighborhoods, the first African-American high schools, African-American pioneers, and early African-American businesses.
The park's renaming ceremony in 2021 was a significant event for the community, recognizing the legacy of Leo V. Chaney Jr. and his impact on South Dallas. The park continues to serve as a gathering place for local residents and a symbol of community pride and history.