ST. GEORGE — The final round of public input for St. George’s parks, recreation, arts and trails master plan has begun.
Between now and July 8 at 5 p.m., St. George residents can review the final draft of the city’s parks, recreation, arts and trails master plan on the city’s website and offer input to leisure services director Shane McAffee.
The nearly 300-page document is the result of two open house events in September and October, as well as mail surveys, an online survey, focus groups, stakeholder interviews and other efforts. The fruits of those efforts produced the final draft that was presented to the St. George City Council for review last month.
The purpose of the meetings and surveys was to gain as much resident input as possible in order to gauge what activities, facilities and events held priority for the community. The findings thus far have helped city staff craft a master plan that hasn’t seen any major updates since 2006.
“This is the plan that will direct where the parks and rec for the city of St. George goes for the next 10 years,” McAffee previously told St. George News.
Read more: Final draft of St. George parks, recreation, arts and trails master plan slated for public review
If the final round of input produces something new or significant, it will be added to the final draft, McAffee added.
Results from the surveys and open house meetings have so far shown city officials and staff that trail connectivity throughout the city is a priority for many residents. Many also want to see more festivals and events related to art and music. There is also support for the city having a dedicated performing arts center.
Nearly all of the respondents – 98% – also feel parks and recreational opportunities are important to their quality of life.
“It’s been a good process so far,” St. George Mayor Jon Pike said. “Our leisure service department really looked for public input in various ways and received it. I’m looking forward to additional comments.”
It is estimated that around 12% of the city’s population – over 10,000 people – has participated in the public input process for the parks, recreation, arts and trails master plan update.
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