About Us
Friends of the Katy Trail is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates and maintains the Katy Trail for the benefit of Dallas citizens and visitors.
Friends of the Katy Trail
In 1997, a group of visionary neighbors gathered around a kitchen table to discuss the idea of turning an abandoned railroad line into a greenbelt park. The group formed Friends of the Katy Trail and partnered with the City of Dallas, the landowner. Today we all benefit greatly from their vision and this public-private partnership. The Katy Trail has become one of our city’s greatest assets and a beloved destination for exercise, recreation, community connection, and alternative transportation.
The Katy Trail is community-funded by private individual and corporate donations. Friends of the Katy Trail raises the funds needed to maintain and enhance the landscaping, provide lighting, water for people and pets, daily security patrols, amenities such as benches on the Trail, and more.
To help ensure the Katy Trail stays clean, safe, and beautiful, please join us. There are so many ways to support the Katy Trail you use and love.
Annual Report
Learn more about Friends of the Katy Trail and see how we put your dollars to work. View our 2023 Annual Report.
There are currently no job openings at Friends of the Katy Trail.
Board Members
OFFICERS
Blake Shipp
President
Ruthie Shor
Vice President
Dan Chesnut
Treasurer & Audit and Finance Committee
Chair
Peggy Zilbermann
Secretary
Eric Bing
Safety Committee Chair
Sarah Dodd
Major Gifts and Membership Committee Chair
Cricket Griffin
Governance Committee Chair
Ben Ralston
Construction and Development Chair
Brian Callahan
Special Appointee
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kellie Adkins
Bonner Allen
Robyn Bayne
Bela Cooley
Ken Elmgren
Lara Francis
Michael Frantz
Faisal Halum
Paul Howell
William James
Crystal Jareske
Wade Johns
Suzan Kedron
Adam Mengacci
Preston Paine
Jill Rareshide
Gaby Rawlings
Baxter Underwood
Newt Walker
Ray Washburne