The City of Tomball is honored to announce that Louie’s Together Playground was selected for recognition in the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) 20th Annual Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program.

Louie’s Together Playground was inspired by Louie Munson, a child born with achondroplasia whose love of construction and big dreams sparked a powerful story of inclusion. After Louie’s story was shared on social media, author Dr. Nichole Julia was inspired to feature dwarfism in her Ables Fables children’s book series. One of the stories includes Louie as a construction-loving llama who builds an inclusive playground with friends of all abilities.

Inspired by the book, the Munson family partnered with the City of Tomball and Lone Star Recreation to bring the story to life. The result is Louie’s Together Playground: an intentionally inclusive space designed to ensure children of all abilities can play, imagine, and grow together.

Established in 2006, the H-GAC Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program highlights best practices and innovative approaches to parks planning and implementation throughout the region. Over the past two decades, the program has recognized more than 300 projects. Award recipients are selected by a panel of expert judges and industry professionals.

This recognition reflects the dedication of City staff and the strong support of the Tomball community, whose collaboration and commitment helped make the project possible.

The City of Tomball formally received the award during a recognition ceremony on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the Houston-Galveston Area Council.

To learn more about Louie’s Together Playground, click here!
For additional information about the H-GAC Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program, click here!