West Haven OKs $60,870 contract for parks master plan, to include placemaking and civic-center guidance

The West Haven City Council on March 4 approved Resolution 09-2026, authorizing a professional services agreement with Landmark Design, Inc. to prepare a Parks, Trails, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan at a negotiated cost of $60,870.

Staff described a scope that includes an inventory and needs assessment of existing parks and trails, community engagement (including QR-code surveys placed at parks), a placemaking analysis, civic-center concept guidance tying City Hall to nearby Sports Park, a strategic action plan, funding needs assessment and final deliverables such as brochures and an online parks map. Staff said prior budget planning allocated $25,000 toward the project; the higher contracted amount can be accommodated in the current line item but will require roll-over or budget carryover into the next fiscal year to complete the multi-stage project.

Nelson said the consultant expects a draft plan ready for review by the planning commission in December with likely final adoption in early 2027. Council discussed forming a steering committee led by the parks committee with invited planning commissioners and asked that a council liaison (Council Member Schwab offered to serve) be included. Staff said the steering committee will review outreach materials and the survey before public release.

The council voted to approve the contract by roll call; Council Members Dixon, Borch, Sha Durge, Cult and Schwab recorded votes in favor. Staff will present a redlined schedule and budget plan for the multi-year completion of the master plan.