Killeen News Now

Killeen has recently introduced a designated “graffiti wall” at Conder Park. The wall is part of an improved skate park that includes a large concrete ramp, and it’s open for anyone to “tag” with spray paint without fear of vandalism charges.

The city’s Recreation Services team designed the skate park with new ramps, rails, and a graffiti wall for public use. They recognize that street art, independent art, punk rock, and skateboarding cultures overlap, and the wallride feature of the new park provides a legal and safe space for artists to express themselves. However, city officials have emphasized that the art should not be offensive or vulgar. The initiative is a positive step towards supporting local artists and promoting creative expression and cultural diversity in Killeen. The wall is covered in spray paint as of last Friday.

The Ellison Eagles lost to the Dallas Kimball Knights, 69-48, in the Class 5A state basketball championship game.

Despite a valiant comeback attempt, the Ellison Eagles couldn’t overcome an 11-point deficit with two quarters to play. Kimball took the lead for good in the second quarter. The Eagles cut it to one. Kimball got hot again and maintained their lead throughout the rest of the game. Ellison shot just 1 of 10 from the field during the second quarter, and the starters for Kimball produced 65 of the team’s 69 points.

Jamyron Keller was the Eagles’ leading scorer with 12 points, despite nursing an injury later diagnosed as a broken foot. Keller played nearly all 32 minutes of the game. It was a gutsy performance that head coach Alberto Jones Jr. praised in his post-game news conference. Keller finished his high school career as the all-time leading scorer for Ellison. With the loss, Ellison finished the season 38-4 and as runners-up of Class 5A basketball, the best finish in Killeen ISD boys basketball history.

Killeen City Council is considering a plan to use over 200 acres off of East Stan Schluter Loop and Martin Luther Killeen Boulevard to create Anthem Park.

Anthem Park will feature a mix of new businesses, affordable housing, sidewalks, and a minimum five-acre park area. CSW Development of Austin gained interest from Dave & Busters, an entertainment center. The project could attract many shoppers, and developers estimate that Anthem Park could generate almost $124 million in property and sales tax revenue through 2041. Within three years, The development could be complete. The city council plans to prioritize the quality of life for its citizens through the project.

Following the renaming of one of the largest military installations in the country, the Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport is anticipated to do the same. Director of Aviation Mike Wilson mentioned to City Council members on Tuesday that he has been receiving numerous inquiries regarding the airport and its services. As such, the city has budgeted for a rebranding program with Jeremiah Gerald and ASM Global Route Development to begin this process.

The process will include market research, such as consulting with airlines, chambers of commerce, economic development corporations, hospitals, colleges, Fort Hood and major employers in the area. Furthermore, citizen surveys and focus groups will be used to narrow down the top recommended names. After the data has been collected and analyzed, a briefing will be provided to the Council for a final decision.

It is noted that Gerald previously worked with Killeen officials in 2018 when Sixel Consulting of Oregon was helping to find other airlines to service the region. Gerald has since left Sixel to join ASM Global Route Development of the United Kingdom.