Public Forums to set Park, Recreation, and Open Space Priorities in Salem

From:Robert K McCarthy

Councillor Ward One

Public Forums to set Park, Recreation, and Open Space Priorities in Salem

February 9^th at 7pm at 120 Washington Street and February 23^rd at 6pm at 135 Lafayette Street community room

Salem has begun a planning process that will set priorities for its network of parks, recreation facilities, and protected open spaces. The City and its planning consultant, Gale Associates, will hold two public forums to gather community input on these matters and it is highly encouraged that residents voice their opinion during the open sessions.  

The first forum will be held Monday, February 9^th at 7:00pm in the City Hall Annex 3^rdfloor conference room, 120 Washington Street; the second forum will be held on Monday, February 23^rd at 6:00pm by the Point Neighborhood Association at the Community Room, 135 Lafayette Street.

“Robust public involvement in our park and open space planning process ensures that the City’s investments in its public spaces will meet the needs and aspirations of the community,” said Mayor Kim Driscoll. “In addition, having an updated Open Space and Recreation Plan keeps the City eligible for state grant funding that enables us to undertake park improvement projects that we otherwise couldn’t afford on our own.” 

Many goals and objectives of Salem’s 2007 to 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan have been achieved through the joint efforts of the City, state, and local volunteers. That plan, which expired in September, helped to catalyze a number of projects, including the new South River Harborwalk and Peabody Street Park, the renovation of Furlong and Splaine Parks, and the acquisition of the former Chadwick Lead Mills site. The plan also helped lead to the proliferation of community gardens, installation of bike racks at every Salem park, and the continued expansion of Salem’s network of multiuse off-road paths.

In addition to updating the Open Space and Recreation Plan, the City is concurrently conducting a Recreation Facilities User Needs Assessment and Master Plan. This entails a detailed analysis of how the City’s athletic fields are used and an assessment of what improvements are needed to better meet the demands of the community.

“It is important that we have a broad cross section of the community providing input,” said Park and Recreation Director Karen Partanen.  “Typically we hear from various youth groups and organizations which need access to parks and fields. Through the upcoming forums we hope to receive input from those individuals seldom heard, including coaches, parents, athletes, as well as senior citizens. All are welcome to share insights and request accommodations.”

For more information contact Karen Partanen, Director of Park, Recreation & Community Services, at 978-744-0733 or kpartanen@salem.com.