Pittsboro Parks & Recreation System Master Plan

Pittsboro Parks has just begun work on a Parks and Recreation System Master Plan!

What is a System Master Plan?

A System Master Plan is a strategic guide that outlines the goals and vision of a community’s parks, recreation and greenway system. It is the broadest public document for parks and recreation planning and typically sets forth a long-range vision and implementation plan after a methodical analysis.

Why does Pittsboro need a System Master Plan?

In general, planning represents good stewardship. With the ongoing development of the Town’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), new polices and action items are being defined for parks, greenways, open spaces, and natural areas. Updating these ordinances requires a new focused look at how best to meet the needs of a rapidly growing and diversifying population. This plan will provide that focused look via a systematic community-driven planning process.

How long is the planning process?

The process should take approximately ten months to complete. The project kicked-off in January, 2017 and includes five main phases:

• Existing Conditions (Winter, 2017)
• Needs & Priorities Assessment (Spring, 2017)
• Long-Range Vision (Summer, 2017)
• Implementation Plan (Summer, 2017)
• Final Plan Development (Fall, 2017)

Adoption or approval of a final, publicly vetted Parks System Master Plan is targeted for the fall of 2017.

Why should I care?

A well connected, robust parks and recreation system, or lack thereof, can play an instrumental role in shaping the essential character of a community. As a member of this community, whether you’re a newcomer, a longtime resident, a business owner, or a frequent visitor for work or play, your input is vital to help craft the community that you desire. The rapid growth anticipated for our small town underscores the importance of this endeavor as well as the necessity of YOUR input.

Who is guiding this planning process?

The Town of Pittsboro Parks and Recreation Department is working closely with a team of planning consultants who  bring national expertise and local knowledge to the planning process. Public participation will play a key role in the planning effort, with residents and visitors providing input and feedback throughout each phase of the project. A project steering committee, made up of community stakeholders, is also guiding the development of the project. Finally, for extra transparency, each phase of the planning document will be posted online to allow for public input and review.

What is the most important thing I can do to help?

The most important thing you can do is to participate in the planning process. Participate in as many events as you can and be sure to provide your thoughts online as well at www. PittsboroParks.org. Help us network this important planning process through emails, Twitter, Facebook, etc., with friends, family and co-workers.

When should I participate?

Feel free to participate in as many events as you would like and that time permits. Even if you can participate for an hour, please free feel. Be sure to check the project website for upcoming opportunities.

Where can I get more information?

Be sure to visit www.PittsboroParks.org  to find additional information, discussion topics and ideas. This website will be active throughout the entire planning process. Draft sections of the report will be posted on that website. Bookmark the site and visit often!