Greensboro Plan2Play Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2019

166 - FEBRUARY 2019

Mid-term Actions Action items identified as 5-10 years include strategic staffing additions, long- term planning, and multiple built projects. It is important to note, that these goals were set outside of budgetary restraints and represent more of a BIG VISION for the future of Greensboro's parks and recreation system. Successful implementation

of these priority projects will require matching commitment and funding from the Department and the city as a whole. Various funding streams to pursue include increased fees, grants, public/private partnerships, bonds, and fees in lieu of land donation for new developments.

Plan2Play Strategy

Progress

Mid-term (5-10 years) Key Projects

LEGEND: Future In Planning Complete

e Assess the quality and location of existing playgrounds. Work with Greensboro communities to identify the best locations for investments in new play structures or removal of play structures. e Address major identified deferred maintenance needs including life safety and ADA upgrades to all facilities. e Identify an additional 10-15 neighborhood parks for upgrades and begin outreach with neighborhoods that surround these parks to ensure the park upgrades meet community needs and aspirations. e Using existing GIS resources, develop a GIS-database to track investments in Department assets. e Upgrade at least one lake facility to create revenue generating activities and promote environmental education. e Strategically plan for new park infill in areas of high need and acquire land near existing parks. e Continue to train staff on program offerings, registration, communication, and social media. e Pilot signage in ten parks throughout the system, including neighborhood parks receiving basic amenity upgrades. e Use a marketing effectiveness tracking system to improve marketing efforts and better allocate resources. e Reduce the need for formal landscaping or mowing in regional parks by developing ecologically appropriate landscapes in passive areas not used for recreation. Replace mowed lawn with native forest plantings and managed grasslands. e Expand collaborations with Water Resources, Greensboro Beautiful, and environmental science programs at UNCG and NC A&T to expand implement invasive species management plans for key parks. e Formally adopt all drainageways and strategically acquire land near parks, greenways and gardens that help with connectivity and resource protection. e Renovate a space in one recreation center to install the Department's first maker-space.

#1: ENHANCE Bring up the Basics

#2: ENHANCE Create a Strong Brand

#3: ENHANCE Bring Nature into our Backyards