The first of three projects, costing more than $5 million -- $1.75 million of which come from grants from Texas Parks and Wildlife -- kicked off Wednesday with a groundbreaking ceremony that will see some much needed improvements to Mission County Park.

Bexar County officials say the center of the improvements is the restoration of a 60 foot by 60 foot rotunda pavilion.

A new stage will also be installed for smaller music venues, and a kitched area that will allow for food for larger events.

“This is probably the heaviest used parks for all of Bexar County. We’re really excited,” said Commissioner Sergio “Chico” Rodriguez. “We’re doing this as an area where people can come out and enjoy their outings here.”

New parking areas are also planned in the construction project, along with improvements that will help with flood draining on VFW Boulevard.