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JULY 2026

TEMPLETX.GOV

H-E-B 4TH OF JULY FUN FEST 2025

TEMPLE - A PLACE YOU LOVE TO CALL HOME

Table of Contents 9 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Your gateway to discovering everything you need to know

13 DOWNTOWN TEMPLE

Unveiling the vibrant heart of our city

18 PARKS & RECREATION

Discover fun and adventure in Temple!

22 PUBLIC SAFETY:

FIRE AND POLICE Protecting and serving our community

25 TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Exploring the treasures of the public library

31 PUBLIC WORKS

Learn about City services and stay informed of the latest Public Works updates

FROM THE

Desk of the City Manager The City Manager’s Office oversees the daily operations of the City of Temple and carries out the goals and policies set by the City Council. The office coordinates City departments, manages the budget process, and helps guide planning for the City’s future.

America Celebrates 250th Birthday this Month This month, I’m excited to invite all Temple residents to join us in celebrating the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence.

On Saturday, July 4, Crossroads Park will come alive with community spirit, entertainment and patriotic fun during the 28th Annual H‑E‑B 4th of July Fun Fest & Fireworks Show. Gates to the event will open at 6 p.m., and this year’s Fun Fest will include a special opening ceremony in honor of the 250th anniversary. The ceremony will start at 6:45 p.m. and include daytime fireworks, skydivers and a welcome by Uncle Sam & Mayor Tim Davis. Following the ceremony, attendees can enjoy a live music performance by Groove Knight, an Austin-based band known for their high‑energy shows, stage sponsored by Superior HealthPlan. Festivities will continue throughout the evening with DJs stationed around the park, inflatable games and both the Recreation and Exploration Stations. Local food and beverage vendors will also be on-site with a variety of items available for purchase. The night will conclude with a spectacular H‑E‑B fireworks finale. As a reminder, fireworks are illegal within the City of Temple. We encourage you to celebrate without the bang and join the community festivities at Crossroads Park.

Please also be mindful of the heat during your 4th of July activities –a cooling station sponsored by Chad Jones Law will be available to guests throughout the H-E-B 4th of July Fun Fest. Additionally, we ask that you help keep your pets and our community safe by ensuring they remain safely inside, as many animals become frightened by fireworks and can be separated from their families. I invite you and your family to join us for an evening of celebration as we honor America’s 250th birthday. Bring a picnic blanket, your friends and plenty of energy. I hope to see you there!

Brynn Myers

Development Updates Exciting changes are happening in the City of Temple! New development projects are helping to shape the future of our community by bringing new opportunities and energy to the city. These projects will enhance the area while building on Temple’s rich history and creating a place residents are proud to call home.

Kegley Road Reopens, Final Phase of Poison Oak Road Improvement Project Begins June marked important milestones in the City’s road infrastructure development. Kegley Road reopened, reconnecting an important corridor for residents, businesses and visitors. The Kegley Road project included major improvements to mobility, safety and infrastructure including: roadway widening, drainage improvements, sidewalks, the addition of a second bridge over Pepper Creek and more. The opening isn’t permanent – Kegley will have to close when the BNSF rail and crossing panels are installed – but the current reopening has greatly improved our City’s connectivity. In addition to Kegley reopening, the final phase of the Poison Oak Improvement Project began. Phase One was completed in June 2024, followed by Phase Two planning. Phase Two will include a realigned roadway with four 13-foot lanes, improved drainage, a new 10-foot wide sidewalk, improved street lighting and a 12-inch water line. To learn more about ongoing City development, visit letstalktemple.com. 6

City Council June Highlights Big things are happening in Temple as City Council continues to shape the future of our community. From key infrastructure projects to longterm planning initiatives, this section highlights important actions that impact residents and support a thriving, resilient city. Stay informed on how your local leaders are working to move Temple forward.

Roads & Infrastructure

Authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with TxDOT to obtain funding for the Georgetown Railroad Trail Phase II project.

Public Safety

Authorized the purchase of a Police/Fire Rescue Boat. Approved contract for the renovation and expansion of Fire Station No. 2.

Community Development

Held a Public Hearing on the proposed Community Development Block Grant 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan and budget which would allocate $757,065 toward housing improvement, homelessness and mental health programs, administration, low to moderate income demolition, and public facilities.

To learn more about council meetings, upcoming agendas, and City Council members, visit templetx.gov/citycouncil.

Neighborhood Enhancement Grant Program

The City of Temple continues to accept applications for the Neighborhood Enhancement Grant Program, adopted by City Council to promote residential investment and stimulate business and commercial activity in the City of Temple’s Neighborhood Planning Districts. The Neighborhood Enhancement Grant Program will match a percentage of funds for certain improvements on both residential and non-residential properties within the City’s Neighborhood Planning Districts and Corridors. Funding is available for eligible activities associated with new construction, rehabilitation, adaptive reuse and accessory dwelling units. Applicants must own or lease property located within an adopted neighborhood planning district, be current on property taxes and City fees, confirm whether permits or other City approvals are required, submit all required documentation, schedule final inspection & approval and must complete the project within the required one-year timeframe. Grant recipients are eligible for reimbursement of up to $10,000 for approved project costs incurred and paid by the applicant. Reimbursement will be issued upon successful completion of the project and submission of the required documentation. Applications will remain open until all available funding has been awarded. Interest Forms are available online and and will be reviewed by city staff once submitted to verify eligibility.

For more information about grant requirements and eligible projects, please visit templetx.gov/neighborhoodgrant.

Community Happenings

Our community plays an important role in making Temple a great place to live, work, and grow. Through volunteering, supporting local businesses, and participating in community events and initiatives, residents help strengthen connections and contribute to the city’s continued success.

templetx.gov/newsroom

Celebrate Without the Bang Fireworks are illegal within Temple city limits. For the safety of yourself and others, the City of Temple asks you to consider your neighbors during the July 4th celebrations, including pets, veterans and children. Grab a free yard sign from one of our pick-up locations. We have signs to help promote Celebrate Without the Bang in your neighborhood. Sign Pick Up Locations: City Hall, 2 N Main St. Municipal Court/UBO, 401 N 3rd St. Still looking to enjoy fireworks this season? Celebrate safely by joining us for the 28th Annual H-E-B 4th of July Fun Fest & Fireworks Show on Saturday, July 4, at Crossroads Park. To report the use of fireworks in Temple, residents can call the Temple Police Department’s nonemergency line at 254.298.5500. Please reserve dialing 911 for life-threatening emergencies.

Lunch at the Airport Saturday, July 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mark your calendar for July 25 and head to DraughonMiller Central Texas Regional Airport for a day of food and fun! Stop by between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to grab a delicious meal from Texsubs and enjoy exciting aviation activities, including: Airplane Rides (Available for purchase at the event through an external vendor – Ages 5+ with adult supervision for minors) Flight School Info – Learn how to take to the skies! Aircraft Tours – Get a closer look at impressive planes! Indoor seating is available, and this free event is open to the public. Don’t miss this chance to experience the airport like never before!

June 26 | July 10 | July 17 | July 24

Downtown Temple

Downtown Temple is a evolving gathering place that brings the community together. With local restaurants, unique shops, and events held throughout the year, it offers residents and visitors a variety of ways to connect, celebrate, and enjoy all that Temple has to offer.

discovertemple.com/downtown

First Friday July 3 Join us for First Friday in Downtown Temple on July 3! Enjoy great drinks, delicious food, and exclusive specials as downtown comes alive with parotic fun and excitement with the All American Block Party on 4th Street. In honor of America's 250th birthday, we're throwing a block party right in the heart of Downtown. Enjoy live performances by Samantha Lynn from 5–6:30 p.m., followed by Members Only - the Ultimate 80s Cover Band from 7–9 p.m. Explore downtown businesses, visit the kid zone, grab a bite from local food vendors and soak in the festive atmosphere. Don't miss out, explore the full list of happenings here: bit.ly/3vAXira. 14

Trackside Cinema

Santa Fe Plaza | 301 W Ave A The summer movie series continues and July brings two more chances to catch a free movie under the stars in Downtown Temple. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and appetite for a night of family fun. Food trucks will be on-site at both screenings, fun starts at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at dusk.

Zootopia July 9 Anyone can be anything, especially on a free summer night in Downtown Temple. Join us for this fan-favorite animated adventure that's as fun for adults as it is for kids.

Cars July 23 Ka-chow. The Pixar classic comes to the Plaza for a night of speed, heart, and good food. Fuel up at the food trucks and settle in for a summer night done right. For more information, check out the Trackside Cinema page! 15

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum is a Blue Star Museum

March 20–July 10, 2026

Active military personnel and their families can visit the museum free of charge from May 16 (Armed Forces Day) through September 7 (Labor Day).

Explore the deep roots of cowboy culture through photographs by distinguished Texas photographer and writer Bill Wittliff. The exhibition highlights the enduring traditions of vaqueros—Mexican horsemen whose skills, tools, and working methods shaped ranching life in Texas and the American West. Through documentary-style images and bilingual interpretation, visitors gain insight into daily ranch work, horsemanship, and the cultural exchange that gave rise to an enduring symbol of the region.

For more information visit templerrhm.org.

May 16–September 7, 2026

The museum is proud to be part of Blue Star Museums, a national appreciation program to thank our military families for their service and share with them America’s cultural treasures.

Vaquero: Genesis of the Texas Cowboy

Save the Date:

Dig It! Family Day Saturday, August 1, at 10 a.m. | Santa Fe Depot Dig into discovery and unearth the world of “ologies!” Kids can become junior scientists with hands-on activities inspired by archaeology, geology, paleontology, and more. This event will be held at the Santa Fe Depot and is free to the public. For more information, please visit templerrhm.org. 17

Parks & Recreation

Parks and Recreation plays an important role in building a strong community by providing parks, facilities, and programs for residents of all ages. Through recreational opportunities, community events, sports leagues, and activities, they create spaces for people to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors.

templeparks.com

Swim Lessons Temple Parks & Recreation is offering Summer swim lessons for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Whether your child is just getting started in the water or building on existing skills, our certified instructors focus on safety, confidence and steady progress in a supportive and encouraging environment. Swim lessons are a great way to help kids stay active, learn an important life skill and enjoy time in the water this summer. To learn more and register, visit templeparks.com/swimlessons.

The BIG Catch The BIG Catch takes place on Saturday, July 11, from 8-11 a.m. at Lions Park pond! Temple Parks & Recreation and Texas Parks & Wildlife are stocking Lions Park Pond to the gills with catfish. Families are invited to come out and fish together. There will be prizes for the biggest fish caught! Fishing licenses will be waived by Texas Parks & Wildlife during the event with a signed waiver. For more information, visit templeparks.com/playtemple. 20

Play the Temple Way Join us at Santa Fe Plaza on Saturday, July 18, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. as we celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month! Meet Parks & Recreation staff, connect with community partners and learn more about the parks, programs, events and amenities available throughout Temple. City divisions and vendors come together for a morning of games, hands-on activities and family-friendly fun. This event is free and open to the public. To learn more, visit templeparks.com/playtemple.

Parents’ Night Out: July 24 Parents’ Night Out is coming up on July 24 at Wilson Park Recreation Center. Enjoy an evening out while your children take part in a safe, fun-filled night of activities. Kids will enjoy games, arts and crafts, dinner and tournaments, all under supervised care. The program is open to children ages 612, runs from 5-8:30 p.m. and costs $16 per participant. Space is limited. Register at templeparks.com/pno. 21

Public Safety

Our police and fire departments play a vital role in keeping the community safe. Through emergency response, public safety services, community outreach, and education efforts, first responders help protect residents, provide assistance during emergencies, and promote a strong sense of safety and security throughout Temple.

templetx.gov/police | templetx.gov/fire

COMMUNITY CHATS:

See Something, Say Something Coffee with a Cop Saturday, July 11 at 10 a.m. Sunglo Building, located at 301 S. 4th St.

Saturday, July 11 at 7:30 a.m. Black Rifle Coffee Company

Temple Police will host an educational scam awareness seminar on Saturday, July 11, at the Sunglo Building located at the MLK Fair Grounds. The session will cover how the bystander effect can influence decision-making during emergencies and everyday situations. This interactive discussion will provide practical information on how individuals can make a positive difference and help strengthen community safety through awareness and engagement.

Come enjoy a great cup of coffee and take a few moments to connect with the officers who serve our community. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to chat, ask questions, and get to know each other. This event is open to everyone — you don’t have to be a Temple resident to attend.

Backpack Buddies Temple Fire & Rescue is proud to support the annual Backpack Buddies program, helping students in Temple and Belton start the school year with the supplies they need to succeed. We’re now accepting donations of school supplies — items can be dropped off at a Temple fire station near you. Donations will be delivered to students in mid-August. Thank you for helping support local students and families! For more information about Backpack Buddies, visit templetx.gov/backpackbuddy.

Temple Public Library

The public library is a place for learning, discovery, and community connection. Beyond books, the library provides valuable resources, programs, and opportunities that support education, personal growth, and community engagement. Join us at the Temple Public Library as we bring people together and inspire lifelong learning.

exploretpl.com

Join the Temple Public Library Summer Reading Challenge and make reading part of your summer fun! Readers of all ages can track their reading, complete activities and earn prizes while building lifelong reading habits. The challenge runs throughout the summer and is a great way to stay connected to books, learning and your community. To join the challenge, visit exploretpl.com/summer or stop by the library to pick up a reading log and start tracking your progress.

Summer Meals Program June 1–July 31 Library 3rd Floor | McLane Room Breakfast 8:30–9:30 a.m. & Lunch 12–1 p.m. In partnership with Temple ISD, the Temple Public Library will be open for free breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday for children up to 18. Parents may purchase plates to eat. Children do not need to be enrolled in TISD to participate. Learn more about the Summer Meals Program at exploretpl.com/summer.

Silly Sparkles July 8 at 10:30 a.m. Third Floor | Ages 3+ Get ready for a morning of pure joy! Silly Sparkles is bringing her whimsical world of magic and ventriloquism to the library on July 8. With her hilarious puppet friends and a "warm and fuzzy" personality that parents adore, this show is guaranteed to keep the kids mesmerized and the grown-ups grinning. Registration is not required for this event. For more information about summer programs, visit exploretpl.com/summer. 27

The Singing Zoologist July 18 at 10 and 11:15 a.m. Third Floor | Ages 5+ Brace yourself for a wild musical adventure through the natural world! With witty songs and cool animations, Lucas brings biology to life. Kids will dance and sing along to science-themed raps about wetlands and metamorphosis. Science has never been this melodious or fun! Registration is not required for this event. For more information about summer programs, visit exploretpl.com/summer.

BK Bones - Real Life Paleontologist! July 29 at 10:30 a.m. Third Floor | Ages 5+ Are you ready to "Unearth a Story"— and a few dinosaur secrets? Join us as we welcome real-life paleontologist BK Bones! See incredible fossils, explore eye-catching replicas, and learn what it’s really like to dig up the past. Registration is not required for this event. For more information about summer programs, visit exploretpl.com/summer.

Special Programs for Adults

Crafterpalooza! Join us on July 11 for a creative free-for-all! We’re opening our craft supply vault for you to create anything you can imagine using unique "one-off" materials. This event will be held at Saturday, July 25, at 12 p.m. on the third floor. We hope to see you there! Register online on the Temple Public Library website.

Mammoth Ranger Talk: Fossils of Central Texas

Join us on the second floor on July 18 at 2 p.m. for a Mammoth Ranger Talk. Meet Rangers from the Waco Mammoth National Monument to unearth the secrets of local paleontology and ancient history. Participants will enjoy interactive elements, hands-on exploration of real and replica fossils and the chance to ask questions of a working park ranger. Register online on the Temple Public Library website.

Special Programs for Adults

Sound Journeys

with Josephine Ashford Join us on July 25 at 2 p.m. on the third floor as we relax with certified sound healer Josephine Ashford. Use vibrations from singing bowls and gongs to promote stress relief. Guests are encouraged to bring a yoga mat or pillow. This event is open to guests ages 18+ and registration is not required.

Whimsical Wonderland: A Garden Tea

Save the date! Saturday, August 15, the library will host a garden tea party on the third floor. Join us for a three-course tea experience by Ruby Tea Room featuring sweets, scones and trivia. Dress in your garden party best! Registration is required and will open on August 1. Only 24 spots available.

Public Works

Public Works plays an important role in maintaining and improving the services and infrastructure our community relies on every day. From roads and bridges to water systems and public spaces, their work helps support safety, accessibility, and a high quality of life for residents.

templetx.gov/publicworks

Water Conservation The temperatures are rising, and conserving water is more important than ever. As we move through the hottest part of the year, please do your part to use water wisely. Here are a few simple ways to conserve: Water lawns only twice a week – before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m. Run full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving Repair any leaks as soon as possible To learn more, visit templetx.gov/waterconservation.

Help Us Keep Storm Drains Clear As spring and summer storms roll in, keeping storm drains clear is more important than ever. Stormwater runoff flows directly into our local waterways, and anything left in the streets like grass clippings, leaves, trash, or oil, can clog drains and pollute our water. You can help by: • Never dumping anything into a storm drain • Cleaning up after your pets • Reporting blocked or flooded drains Let’s work together to reduce flooding and keep our stormwater systems flowing clean and clear. Learn more at templetx.gov/stormwater.

HOLIDAY GARBAGE & RECYCLING

Collection Schedule Independence Day Collection Schedule Garbage, recycling and brush/bulk collections will run on a regular schedule on Friday, July 3, Independence Day. Please have your items to the curb by 7 a.m. City offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, and will reopen Monday, July 6, at 8 a.m. REMINDER As delays may occur, we appreciate your patience.

Help Prevent Illegal Dumping We know some areas continue to face ongoing dumping and trash overflow challenges. Your reports are essential to helping us identify and resolve these issues quickly. Please report any illegal dumping to the City of Temple at 254-298-5000. Let’s keep Temple clean and safe together!

What Can You Recycle? KEEP ITEMS LOOSE! Remember, no plastic bags and no Styrofoam in your recycling bin. The following items are accepted in your recycling bin: Aluminum and metal cans Paperboard boxes (cereal, cookies, crackers, pizza boxes without liners or food) Junk mail Magazines Corrugated cardboard boxes Newspapers Office paper Telephone directories Detergent boxes Plastic beverage containers (empty) Plastic soda bottles Plastic water bottles Milk jugs Plastic detergent bottles (rinsed and clean)

DID YOU KNOW? Recyclables collected in Temple are transported to the Balcones Recycling Facility in Taylor, Texas, where items are hand-sorted. Keeping items loose helps ensure more materials can be properly recycled. For more information on what is allowed in your recycling bin, visit templetx.gov/recycling. 34

Want to contact the City of Temple? TTX Connect is designed to enhance communication and streamline service requests for residents. With a live chat feature, upgraded service request tool, call service, and a mobile app, getting assistance has never been easier! Residents can chat with customer service agents Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., via ttxconnect.com, submit and track service requests, and access an interactive map of active issues. TTX Connect replaces Track Temple and offers improved tools for reporting concerns like missed garbage collection or broken traffic signals. For phone assistance, dial 3-1-1 (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) or 254-298-5000 (other providers). Plus, download the TTX Connect app on the App Store or Google Play.

Dial 3-1-1 or 254-298-5000

TEMPLE TALK: