The Hill at Sims Park is a landmark public investment and 100-acre regional park in South Houston serving Sunnyside, South Acres, Crestmont, and surrounding communities. It is the only major greenspace in or around Sunnyside—where Commissioner Rodney Ellis was born and raised—and reflects a long-term commitment to expanding access to high-quality public space in historically underserved neighborhoods.
Built on an active stormwater detention basin along Sims Bayou and Scott Street, the park transforms critical flood infrastructure into a vibrant community asset that continues to protect surrounding neighborhoods from flooding. Designed for both resilience and recreation, the park features 4.5 miles of new hike-and-bike trails and connects to nearly 20 miles of trails along Sims Bayou Greenway.
Murals Featured in the Park
- “Impression of Nature” by Emily Ding
- “Step Into the Wild” by Carlos Alberto
- “Birth from the Sea,” reproduction of John Biggers’ mural by Ade Odunfa
- “The Heron and the Fish” by Ana Marietta
- “Rêverie” by Amy Sol, inspired by Claude Debussy’s 1890 solo piano
- “Salt Marsh,” reproduction of John Biggers’ mural by Bimbo Adenugba
Championed by Commissioner Ellis, The Hill at Sims is a nearly $30 million community investment made possible by strong public and philanthropic partnerships. The Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis proudly contributed approximately $20.5 million. Other contributions included $7.5 million from the Houston Parks Board with support from The Brown Foundation, $1 million from Congressman Al Green, and $1 million from Representative Alma A. Allen. Additional support includes approximately $267,000 in trees and services from Trees for Houston and $59,000 from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Park Rules
- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited; except by permit.
- Control noise levels – please be respectful of others.
- Cook only on designated camp stoves or barbeque grills; no open fires.
- Fireworks are prohibited; except by permit.
- Metal detectors are prohibited; unless contracted with Harris County.
- Glass bottles or containers are prohibited.
- Harming wildlife is prohibited.
- Hunting is prohibited; except by permit.
- Littering or dumping is prohibited.
- Motorized vehicles are prohibited on grass areas, trails, and sidewalks.
- Park in designated lots. Vehicles parked overnight are subject to towing.
- Pet waste must be picked up and placed in trash bins.
- Pets must be on a leash at all times except in designated dog parks.