Deerfield Township Parks Master Plan Progress Update
The Comprehensive Park Master Plan was approved by the Deerfield Township Board of Trustees on May 7, 2019.
T
he purpose of the Comprehensive Park Master Plan is to offer strategies and operational policies that provide guidance in order to meet the needs of current and future Deerfield Township residents. The Comprehensive Park Master Plan reflects Deerfield Township’s strong commitment to provide high quality recreational activities for the community. The plan provides guidance for future development and redevelopment of the Township’s parks, recreation programming, open space, trails, and facilities. It guides policy development, prioritizes demands and opportunities, and includes a strategic action plan to be updated every five years. Since its passage, the Parks and Recreation Staff has made significant progress toward hitting the goals set forth in the plan. From an administrative stand point, the Public Works and Parks Maintenance Staff were consolidated into the Deerfield Township Service Department in order to promote flexibility and efficiencies. Additionally, the Summer Camp Director was transitioned from part-time to full-time. This transition allows the department to evaluate our camps, create new programming, and ensure that our Summer Camps evolve to meet the changing needs of the community. Next, the Open Space and Parks Zoning District was created to help protect our park space. In our parks themselves, Deerfield Township staff have worked diligently to make the following improvements:
KINGSWOOD PARK At Kingswood Park, a pavilion was built. This shelter further enhances the ability of visitors to gather, reflect, and play. Furthermore, the pathways were improved and invasive species of plants have been, and continue to be, removed. Finally, pollinator gardens and a prairie were installed to promote the growth of native plant species and create a thriving ecosystem.
SCHAPPACHER PARK Several improvements were also made at Schappacher Park including the replacement of playground equipment, updates to the dog park area, the addition of lights and security cameras in the parking lot, and the installation of new water fountains.
COTTELL PARK At Cottell Park, the baseball backstops were replaced, as were the windscreens around the basketball and tennis courts. Additionally, shade structures were put around the baseball fields and all new water fountains, a pond fountain, and playground were installed.
FLECKENSTEIN PARK Staff at Fleckenstein park made several drainage improvements and added new pond fountains.
ROBERTS PARK Finally, at Roberts Park, pathways were connected and a rain garden was created thanks to generous support of the Warren County Soil and Water District, Deerfield Storm Water District, and Ms. Gayle Roberts. The Deerfield Township Staff and Administration will continue to work to bring the ideas and projects featured in the Parks Master Plan to life. To find out more information about this work and to stay up to date on the events and programs in the Deerfield parks, please visit www.deerfieldrec. com or www.choosedeerfield.com.
16 CenterPoint Fall 2021