The Village Council of Ridgewood convened on December 4, 2024, to discuss various topics, with a focus on enhancing community access to local parks and their amenities. The meeting highlighted the importance of a user-friendly system for residents to locate parks based on specific features.

One of the key discussions revolved around the development of a searchable database for parks in Ridgewood. Council members emphasized the need for a standardized taxonomy to categorize park features, such as playgrounds, seating options, and sports fields. This approach aims to simplify the search process for residents looking for specific amenities within the parks.

During the meeting, it was demonstrated how residents could easily find parks with particular features. For instance, a search for parks with playgrounds yielded a list of four parks equipped with such facilities. Additionally, the system allows for more complex searches, enabling users to find parks that offer multiple amenities, such as both playgrounds and ponds.

The council also discussed the inclusion of detailed information about sports facilities, noting that there is only one 50/70 field available in the area. This specificity in the database is intended to provide residents with clear and accessible information about recreational options.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to improving community engagement and access to local resources. The next steps involve finalizing the database and ensuring it is user-friendly for all residents, enhancing their ability to enjoy Ridgewood's parks and recreational facilities.