Time to voice opinion on new Marble Falls city park
The property is located at Park View and Park Ridge drives. Though owned by the city for several years, the parcel has remained undeveloped.
That is changing and the city wants help from those who will use the park — residents and their children— to voice their opinions about how the space should be developed.
Johnson Park at 230 Ave. J South is already a prime example of what the city can do when the proper direction and designs are implemented. Johnson Park is a wonderful destination for families and their children, filled with challenging and engaging playscape equipment, shaded benches, a pavilion, recreational facilities, a ball park and even a bandstand.
The park weathered the tumultuous storm and floods of June 2007, and most recently a monument to fallen veterans was erected there. The park is gathering place and focal point for many community and nonprofit activities, which is exactly the role a good park should fill.
Robert Moss, the city’s parks and recreation director, said the new property on Mormon Mill Road has been designated as a city park and will be developed accordingly. But the city has no particular plans for the property, which is why officials are soliciting public input.
So far most of the suggestions have tended toward the less-disruptive, with suggestions including simple walking trails and away from playing fields and bright lights.
Others have voiced opinions supporting a full city park, just like Johnson Park.
The city’s Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee will discuss the park system in January, and they will have suggestions of their own.
Residents who weigh in with their own views might entertain visions of fully developed playscapes, bike trails, nature trails, a restroom, a public performance area and any other enhancements that give families and organizations a place to retreat where they can enjoy fellowship and the amenities of nature.
At some point the city will need a name for this park. Residents should also consider suggestions for that honor, keeping in mind any name submitted should reflect a person in good standing who has aided the community and given of themselves above and beyond the call of duty.
This is an opportunity to shape the destiny of a recreational site for today’s children and their children to come. The city is openly soliciting opinions and asking for ideas from the public.
The park will stand for generations once it is built. Open spaces are vital to the health of a community; Marble Falls residents have a unique opportunity to give voice to a blueprint for the future.
The city is asking for help, ideas and suggestions.
To send ideas to Moss, e-mail him at pard@ci.marble-falls.tx.us.
This is a chance to help design the next generation of city parks, to be enjoyed by children for years to come. Parks are important to the physical and mental health of a community.
Voice your opinion soon. What you have to say matters and it will matter to the children of tomorrow.