PARK MASTER PLAN PROJECT APPROVED

City Council approved the Park Board’s recommendation to retain Dallas-based consulting agency la terra studio, inc. to prepare a city-wide Park Master Plan at its May 23 meeting.

In presenting the Park Board’s recommendation, Chairman Mark King explained the study with an “Is, Means, Does” approach.

“This IS an action plan, not a study,” he said. “It MEANS an action plan that is demand based, needs based and resource-based. It DOES give true direction relative to parks, open space, and trails that is in line with current needs and future growth, and it will help put us on that track.

Specifically, the Master Plan will make recommendations for:

• Goals and policies
• Future land acquisitions (if needed)
• Capital Improvement items for both existing and future parks, trails and open space, with budget estimates and a prioritized timeline
• Funding options
• Review of current subdivision ordinances

“The process will involve citizens in concept and design, and will keep citizens informed through a variety of channels, such as social media, to ensure there is general awareness and transparency about the project,” King added.

An event to gather citizen input on the City’s parks, trails and open space has been set for August 31 at the Hidden Creek Special Events Center in Heath.  Mark you calendars now to participate! More details will be published soon in the City newsletter and on the City website and Facebook page.