Our Parks: About the Process
“Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical [plan] will never die, but long after we are gone be a living thing, asserting itself with ever-growing insistency.” – Daniel Burnham
Creating a 5-year Strategic Master Plan is crucial for public park systems. It ensures that our shared public resources meet evolving and current community needs, it communicates the values and intended direction of the Parks and Recreation Department, while at the same time conserving the natural resources and cultural amenities.
These processes importantly align with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) planning requirements and is a key qualification for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants. By following the IDNR’s guidelines, the plan establishes clear goals, prioritizes funding, and guides sustainable development. Additionally, it helps parks secure LWCF grants, which require a long-term plan that demonstrates a commitment to preserving outdoor spaces and providing equitable access to quality recreation facilities.
Our Story
This strategic master plan for Elkhart Parks will tell the story of a community by reflecting the communities unique values, needs, and vision for the future. It captures the community’s history, culture, and identity through its goals for preserving natural spaces, enhancing recreational facilities, and promoting environmental stewardship. Public input during the planning process reveals residents’ priorities, such as increased accessibility, specific types of recreation, or conservation of local landmarks, showcasing the community’s desires and concerns. The plan also charts the growth and changes the community anticipates, telling the story of how the park system will adapt to demographic shifts, evolving lifestyles, and economic development, ultimately serving as a roadmap for improving quality of life over time.
Our Quality of Life
The City Parks Alliance notes how parks provide access to recreational opportunities, increase property values, spur local economies, combat crime, and protect cities from environmental impact.
This initiative will significantly improve quality of life for Elkhart by creating a well-structured vision for enhancing recreational opportunities, environmental stewardship, and public health. By assessing current park amenities and identifying areas for improvement, the plan ensures that parks and green spaces are accessible, safe, and aligned with community needs.
Our Public Health
From environmental indicators, like improved air quality, to physical, social, and mental health benefits – parks improve public health across all ages. The Center for Disease Control offers many examples of what other communities are doing to improve public health through parks.
It promotes physical and mental well-being by offering spaces for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction, while also preserving natural resources that contribute to environmental health. Additionally, it fosters social cohesion by providing spaces for community events and inclusive recreation, ensuring that all residents, regardless of age, ability, or income, have access to quality outdoor experiences.
Our Economic Growth and Development
The value added of the outdoor recreation economy accounted for $563.7 billion of current‐dollar gross domestic product (GDP) for the nation in 2022. This makes up a higher percentage of Indiana’s economy than most other states, according to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Through careful fiscal planning and responsible investment, this plan for Elkhart’s public parks and open spaces supports local development, property values, and serves as a significant economic engine for the region, all of which contribute to a more economically resilient and prosperous community.
Discover what’s next for Our Parks
We’d love to have you more engaged in this planning effort. Over the next few months we have much planned and your participation will make this a richer more beneficial process for our team. Fill out the contact form to stay connected throughout the process (Follow the link below).