Jessica Salem

The Protect + Connect Plan is a comprehensive master plan outlining the strategic direction for Five Rivers MetroParks. It aims to guide the stewardship, investment, and evolution of the park system by focusing on five guiding principles: Protect natural features, Connect ecosystems and communities, enhance high-quality visitor Experiences, Sustain resources and partnerships, and Cultivate empowered leadership. The plan seeks to safeguard natural spaces, foster connections among people and nature, ensure long-term resource sustainability, and cultivate responsive, community-centered service.

This pre-final concept site plan for Sugarcreek MetroPark details extensive proposed modifications and improvements across the park. Key areas include reconfiguring the main parking lot, expanding restroom facilities, and significantly altering the park's trail systems to convert some equine trails to hiking paths and establish new multi-use paved trails. The plan also addresses the enhancement of various access points, improvements to the nature play area and operations facilities, and significant efforts in stormwater management, water quality, wetland restoration, and prairie restoration, all aimed at optimizing visitor experience and ecological health within the park.

This document, comprising appendices to a Comprehensive Master Plan, details strategic directions for Five Rivers MetroParks, informed by extensive community feedback. Key priorities include the maintenance and enhancement of existing parks and natural areas, strengthening community connections to nature, and promoting health and wellness. The strategy outlines the need to adapt programming to demographic shifts, leverage technology for modernized delivery, and expand engagement in underserved communities through initiatives like the Community Collective. The overarching goal is to foster stewardship, evolve programs for continued relevance, and enhance overall community experience by adopting a collaborative 'with community' engagement model.

The Comprehensive Master Plan for Five Rivers MetroParks outlines a 10-year roadmap to protect natural areas, provide world-class parks, facilities, trails, and attractions, and foster a nature-based community. The plan focuses on creating great parks and educational/recreational amenities, engaging the community through diverse programming, empowering staff, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. It aims to protect natural heritage and inspire personal connections with nature for the benefit of the region.

This Master Plan for Wegerzyn MetroPark outlines a comprehensive, ten-year strategy to enhance the park's facilities, programming, and conservation efforts, building upon the Five Rivers MetroParks' Comprehensive Master Plan. Key focus areas include improving visitor experience through expanded trails, renovated facilities like the visitor center, and enhanced garden areas. The plan emphasizes conservation, education, and recreation, with specific goals for gardening, local foods, cultural history, nature education, sustainable living, outdoor recreation, health and wellness, and community events. It aims to provide world-class amenities and services, ensuring the park's continued evolution and connection to nature through horticulture.