Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 02/08/2018

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several strategies to enhance equitable use. While the strategies are highlighted briefly below, each bulleted summary is further described in the associated policy and strategy section that follows. To summarize, in an effort to enhance equitable usage of the Regional Park System, the Council will: • Create a set -aside competitive Park Equity grant program for capital projects, specifically targeted toward projects that would enhance equitable usage of the Regional Parks System. • The Metropolitan Council and regional park implementing agencies will work together to ensure the 25-year Parks and Trails Legacy Plan's intent to "connect people to the outdoors" is achieved. • Work with regional park implementing agencies to prioritize funding requests, using equity as a key factor. • Conduct studies to inform Regional Parks System planning and management. Such efforts will include: A region -wide visitor survey every five years to monitor changes in Regional Parks System use. Targeted studies to better understand and provide for the outdoor recreational needs and preferences across social classes, age groups, racial, ethnic, and educational backgrounds, and ability status. • Create a Regional Parks System ambassador program to assist with expanding awareness of the Regional Parks System and bring parks to the people. • Convene stakeholder meetings with regional park implementing agencies, partners, community - based organizations, and advocacy groups to enhance knowledge and continuous improvement. Information shared will be systematically collected and shared electronically • Require regional park implementing agencies to incorporate a public engagement process that includes involvement from individuals representing diverse races, ethnicities, classes, ages, abilities, and national origin when developing a regional park or trail master plan. To that end, the Council will provide staff assistance, where appropriate. • Encourage regional park and trail design that conforms to changing recreational preferences. Examples of recreational preferences include: Amenities suited for the aging population and those with limited mobility. Non -fee picnic areas that accommodate mid -sized groups (for example, 15-25 people). Clustering of amenities for multigenerational family gatherings. Informal ball fields for pick-up games. Recreation Activities and Facilities - Strategy 4: Bicycle and pedestrian facilities should be coordinated between the Regional Parks System and the transportation system. Safe, high -quality, continuous, barrier -free bicycle and pedestrian systems shall be developed, maintained, and improved to function as integral parts of the Council's Regional Parks System and