What does the future of Three Rivers Park District look like?
Three Rivers is asking for public input on ways to make the park more convenient, relevant and welcoming. The information will be compiled in a 20-year comprehensive plan.
Last fall, a revamped Schaper Park in Golden Valley debuted to an eager public. Three Rivers Park District, the city of Golden Valley, and a few other groups partnered together to offer a creative approach to a park in a developed suburb. The park had a first-of-its kind for the area timed obstacle course.
Three Rivers Parks also offered pop-up events that included a mobile zip-line and live animals in Sochacki Park. The park is located in both Robbinsdale and Golden Valley. The purpose of both events were to engage new people in a park that might possibly be overlooked and underutilized.
What other new concepts could help engage people in parks that are already developed?
“With the first tier already developed, it’s a little bit of a challenge,” says Dan Freeman, on the Three Rivers Park District Board. “But I think we’ve made some progress. It would be helpful to get more feedback from residents to find out are we on the right track? Are they seeing what they expect from Three Rivers?”
It’s a question that Three Rivers Park District hopes the public can answer. The public is invited to participate in an online survey on LetsTalkThreeRivers.org from now until September 30. You can also email your thoughts to 2040Plan@threeriversparks.org
Three Rivers Park District is developing the first 20 year plan in 20 years. This plan will determine the composition of parks, trail and facilities, and solidify the role and focus of resource protection and programming.
“A comprehensive plan is important to plan for the future and make sure you are meeting the needs of Hennepin County,” says Freeman. “We really want to see what people like from Three Rivers, what we can change or improve moving forward. Looking to 2040, what does Three Rivers embrace or modify so that we are always relevant?”
