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Parks master-plan survey: council asks consultants for two visual concepts and a digital follow-up to reach younger residents
Summary
Kotler & Herring presented results of a community parks survey. The council directed the consultants to prepare two conceptual visual designs and use targeted digital outreach to capture underrepresented younger demographics before finalizing the master plan.
Consultants from Kotler & Herring presented the results of a parks master-plan survey and asked how the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and council want to proceed.
The consultant, McKenna West, reported 189 survey responses and strong interest in passive features (walking trails, shaded seating), community gathering spaces and waterfront overlooks. Respondents skewed older: a majority were over age 55 and younger age groups (under 25) were underrepresented.
West said many respondents favored a blend of natural and structured spaces; “splash pad” also repeatedly appeared in open-ended responses. The firm proposed three options for next steps: (1) a public design charrette (in-person workshop); (2) two conceptual design options with images to be posted digitally for further comment; or (3) a first draft of the master plan.
Councilors and staff agreed to pursue option (2): the consultants will prepare two illustrated conceptual alternatives and a targeted digital outreach campaign so residents — including underrepresented younger age groups — can respond to visual options. Nicole Plunkett, the landscape architect on the team, recommended using social-media ads and curated visuals to reach younger residents and capture clearer preferences.
Staff said the designs can include possible waterfront features such as docks or kayak launches, but that some waterfront improvements will require permitting and additional feasibility review. The consultants will also incorporate prior RFQ ideas and provide an inspirational image board to accompany the concepts.
Ending: The CRA and consultants will prepare two visual concepts and a digital follow-up survey; staff will coordinate outreach and return to the CRA/council with concepts and a recommended engagement plan.
