HomeMy WebLinkAboutPARKS-M-C-Areafinal, 3-10-0220
Challenge #9- Parks & Recreational Opportunities
Meridian residents depend on adequate developed and maintained open space,
characterized by pathways, sports fields, playgrounds and passive areas, to satisfy
their recreational needs. The City does not currently own enough land to build future
parks to provide at least 5 acres of park space per thousand residents (eight acres per
thousand is the national average). Without the land there will continue to be
insufficient developed parks to keep pace with the growing community demand.
There is an insufficient number of indoor recreation facilities to keep pace with the
growing demand for the organized and informal activities. Casual users, recreating
adults and youth involved in organized sports have inadequate space to participate in
organized or informal activities. Since the City does not have enough indoor facilities
to accommodate public recreational needs, Meridian residents are forced to travel
outside the city to meet their demands.
Developed Park Acreage
Population Park
Acreage
Acres per
1000 Pop.
1998 Meridian 30,000 20 0.067
National Average 30,000 300 10
2002 Meridian 36,000 86 2.39
National Average 36,000 360 10
2008 Meridian 45,000 180 4
National Average 45,000 450 10
Major Long-Term Goals
To increase the amount of developed park space available in the community, and
the amount of future parkland owned by the City.
To increase the amount of funds dedicated to acquiring land and building indoor
and outdoor public recreation facilities.
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To increase the number of organized recreation programs offered to the
community and increase participation.
To reduce the number of program or facility requests turned down due to
lack of services, space, or facilities.
Key Strategies
Increase the number of long-term collaborative relationships with youth sport
groups, service clubs and other organizations that promote and sponsor
organized recreational activities.
Increase the number of successful community partnerships in an effort to jointly
develop parks and indoor recreational facilities within the City.
Develop innovative funding strategies that will assist in developing new
recreation facilities.
Include community input when developing parks comprehensive plans.
Work with the Mayor and City Council, Parks, Planning and Zoning
Commission, developers and other community organizations to develop
guidelines and plans that promote open space in new commercial and
residential developments.