In October 2013, the Kinder Foundation announced plans to donate $50 million to the non-profit Houston Parks Board for the Bayou Greenways 2020 project. The grant would make it the largest donation in the history of Houston’s park system and one of the largest grants to a public greenspace in the United States.

The Kinder Foundation was inspired by the visionary project to create new parkland and trails to connect greenspaces along Houston’s bayous. The creation of parkland, trails and natural areas along major bayous – while enhancing protecting and preserving water quality, natural habitat, and native wildlife – promotes the overall health and welfare of the city.

The seven-year Bayou Greenways 2020 project will be funded through a public-private partnership. In November 2012, voters approved a bond referendum allowing the City of Houston to fund $100 million to complete the Project. The Houston Parks Board has committed to raising a matching $120 million.

Once Bayou Greenways 2020 is complete, it is estimated that 6 out of 10 Houstonians will live within a mile and half of a bayou park or trail.