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159 <br />Parks and Recreation Goals and Strategies <br />A Balance of Rural and Urban Character <br />• Preserve and enhance continuous open space corridors. <br />• Balance a variety of smaller neighborhood parks and larger community parks. <br />An Active Community <br />• Expand opportunities for community recreation programming. <br />• Expand recreation opportunities for aging population. <br />• Ensure equitable access to recreation programs and facilities. <br />A Connected Community <br />• Ensure connected regional and local parks and open spaces. <br />• Coordinated planning efforts across multiple jurisdictions. <br />Smart, Citizen -Focused Government <br />• Maximize joint use facilities and recreation opportunities. <br />• Strengthen relationships with local youth organizations. <br />Financial Stability <br />• Prioritize desired recreation amenities with goal for financial stability in complete the <br />Master Park and Recreation Plan. <br />Parks and Recreation Introduction <br />Ramsey recognizes parks, trails, and natural open spaces as vital to the quality of life and in many <br />ways define the community. In some ways, Ramsey's park system emerged from the conversion of <br />agricultural land to suburban in the 1970's with small park areas —often just open space, dedicated <br />with these subdivisions. Ramsey created its first prominent park in the early 1980's, largely to <br />meet the demand for youth athletics' play fields. Originally envisioned as a community park, <br />Central Park serves as our flagship park. In the 1990's trails were added to Ramsey's landscape — <br />and these were embraced every bit as much as parks. Citywide, the value of parks, trails and open <br />space continues to grow, mirroring the increasing population, and corresponding with the <br />conversion of open space to residential uses. <br />Taking advantage of its unique geography, cherished natural resources, and a diversity of <br />recreational venues, while responding to its history and recognized rural character, are both <br />determinants and opportunities for future public realm investments in the community. The Public <br />Realm is what gives cities and neighborhoods their identity —typically including streets, parks, <br />plazas, trails and other amenities. This network of connected spaces supports a host of broader city <br />goals, sets the stage for ongoing quality development, and at the same time; promotes Community <br />Parks and Trails, Regional Parks and The COR, to become a vibrant, dynamic, must -experience <br />destinations. <br />Remaking infrastructure (including public space), as Ramsey develops a stewardship plan for a <br />three decade -old 'built' park system, invites an opportunity to promote innovative design <br />Cily of RAMSEY <br />August 2018 Draft <br />Comprehensive Plan 2040 <br />