Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2026-042 designating and naming a fitness court to be constructed at the Farmers Branch Justice Center as the “L.C. Tribble Fitness Court”; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Parks and Recreation Department
Police Department
BACKGROUND:
On September 16, 2025, the City Council approved Resolution No. 2025-173, formally accepting a Blue Impact Grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, in partnership with National Fitness Campaign, in the amount of $60,000 for the construction of a public fitness court.
This project represents more than the addition of another recreational amenity. It is a strategic investment in public health, community connection, and public safety. Through the generous financial partnership of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, the City is leveraging external resources to expand access to free, high-quality fitness infrastructure for residents and first responders alike. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to preventive health, active lifestyles, and stronger communities.
The fitness court will be located on the west side of the Farmers Branch Justice Center campus. The structure will be situated adjacent to the existing trail along Marsh Lane and will provide pedestrian connectivity to Dallas College-Brookhaven Campus. Its placement reinforces accessibility, visibility, and integration into the broader trail system, encouraging daily use by residents, students, employees, and public safety personnel. The fitness court will feature stationary, bodyweight-based exercise equipment designed for residents of all fitness levels, as well as for public safety personnel to train and maintain physical readiness.
The Police Department and the Parks and Recreation Department have collaborated on this project and are coordinating construction efforts with the National Fitness Campaign. Construction began in February 2026 and is anticipated to be completed in early spring 2026.
DISCUSSION:
Officer L.C. Tribble was a dedicated member of the Farmers Branch Police Department who was killed in the line of duty in 1983 while serving and protecting his community. His service and ultimate sacrifice remain a defining part of the City’s public safety history. In recognition of his legacy, the roadway behind the Justice Center was named L.C. Tribble Way.
The new fitness court will be located adjacent to L.C. Tribble Way, creating a meaningful opportunity to further honor his service in a visible and enduring manner. Naming the facility the L.C. Tribble Fitness Court would establish a permanent tribute that reflects strength, resilience, discipline, and service values embodied by Officer Tribble and carried forward by today’s public safety professionals.
Unlike a purely commemorative structure, the fitness court will be actively used by residents, families, students, and first responders for generations. As a space dedicated to health, wellness, and preparedness, it symbolizes the City’s commitment to safeguarding both the physical well-being of its community and the readiness of those who protect it. In this way, the court's name transforms the facility into both a functional asset and a living memorial.
On October 20, 2015, the City Council approved Resolution No. 2015-080, adopting the “Policy for the Naming of City Facilities.” Section 4 of this policy provides that a non-living individual who provided exceptional service to the City, the City park system, or the community as a whole is eligible to have a City facility named in their honor.
Officer L.C. Tribble, having given his life in the line of duty in service to the City of Farmers Branch, clearly meets and exceeds this qualifying criterion. Naming the new facility the L.C. Tribble Fitness Court is fully consistent with City policy and reflects the Council’s authority to formally recognize extraordinary service and sacrifice.
By approving this naming designation, the City Council would reaffirm its commitment to honoring those who have served with distinction and ensure that Officer Tribble’s legacy remains visible and meaningful to future generations of Farmers Branch residents.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Blue Impact Grant approved in the amount of $60,000, with a City match of $145,000, available in the Parks Master Plan CIP Budget.
DISTRICT:
District 4
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-042 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-042, with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Resolution No. 2026-042
2. Resolution No. 2015-080
3. Fitness Court Exhibit
4. Presentation