A new state park in Central Texas is in the works. Why it matters: With so much of Texas property in private hands, the new park will be key to expanding public access to the state's natural spaces. Driving the news: The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has purchased 2,

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission recently approved nearly $31 million in grants toward creating and enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities in the state.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has purchased 2,020 acres of land in Burnet County, north-west of Austin, which it plans to use for a new state park. The land cost $35 million and was funded via money raised from sporting goods sales tax and a one-time funding appropriation,