Open Space Plan
November 15th, 2006
The park space acquisition plan outlined in the recently approved 2004 Master Plan identifies 20 acres that must be immediately protected from redevelopment or a zoning change. Many of these properties are still zoned industrial. Any change in zoning, from industrial to commercial or residential may increase the value of the property toward levels prohibitive for acquisition as a park. If these properties are developed there will be no more parks. This is why the City needs to act now to acquire the land for its future. These parcels are the last remaining sites where adequate parks can be developed in town.
The Master Plan
The Master Plan park space Plan attempts to service neighborhoods that are in the most need of parks using the remaining lots available. To lose any one of these identified lots is to underserve those neighborhoods forever. park space and recreation for children is most important in higher density neighborhoods where children typically do not have access to a backyard, patio or deck. Multi-unit housing may meet certain needs of the City, it does not, however, afford children, kids and adults the opportunity to spend time outdoors to play, converse and relax. Often, parks are the ONLY opportunity a family has to spend time together outside. This is why it is critical that more parks be located within walking distance of older, multi-family units and newer developments.