Planning for Parks & Recreation
The purpose of planning for parks and recreation is to create a strategic framework that ensures the development, maintenance, and enhancement of recreational spaces meet the needs of the community, both now and in the future. Thoughtful planning helps identify current resources, assess future demands, and establish clear goals for improving the quality and accessibility of parks and recreational facilities. It promotes sustainable land use, environmental stewardship, and fosters healthier lifestyles by providing diverse opportunities for physical activity and social interaction. Additionally, a well-structured plan can attract funding and support, ensuring long-term investment in community well-being and quality of life.
The Pleasant Ridge 5-Year Parks and Recreation Plan was developed by the city in conjunction with the community’s Recreation Commission accompanied by strong citizen participation. The plan seeks to build upon the high level of quality Pleasant Ridge residents and visitors have enjoyed in the park’s facilities and through the recreation programming.
Key Recommendations
Generations in Pleasant Ridge have enjoyed the tradition of a commitment to excellence when it comes to providing the highest level of parks and recreation opportunities. This plan seeks build on this legacy by charting a path forward that ensures the maintenance of existing facilities and by defining aspirational goals that address the present and future needs of the community. The planning process resulted in recommendations that highlighted the following principles:
- Sustainability
A dedication to environmentally responsible practices that will help our parks and recreation facilities flourish for years to come.
- Inclusivity & Accessibility
Ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy our parks, regardless of their background or abilities.
- Continued Improvement
Implementing gradual enhancements as needed, with a strong focus on maintaining existing facilities to ensure all resources are kept at the highest quality.
Goals & Objectives
As with previous City Parks and Recreation Master Plans, goals and objectives have been developed to guide staff, the Recreation Commission, and the City Commission. These goals and objectives are designed to be as impactful as the capital improvement priorities and will help steer the City’s efforts over the next five years. The following goals and objectives were created by drawing from past plans, brainstorming sessions with City staff and leadership, and feedback gathered through online questionnaires and input sessions. They are presented without a specific ranking of importance or priority.
