Met Council asks residents to comment on draft plan for regional park expansion
Fall is upon us, and winter is coming. The search is on for outdoor fall and winter activities at regional parks.
“The region’s parks and trails are popular no matter the circumstances, but especially now as we brave COVID-19,” said Parks Ambassador Amanda Lovelee. “Science tells us that outdoor activities pose a lower risk of spread. So, explore and enjoy the parks and park activities, and keep safety measures, like physical distancing, in mind.”
Voice your ideas
At the same time, the Met Council is asking residents to weigh in on a draft plan that calls for expanding the region’s network of parks and trails, considering a couple “water trail” parks for paddling creeks and rivers, and new features that foster equitable access to parks by underrepresented populations, including people of color.
Regional parks include popular attractions like the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes and Como Park in Saint Paul. Together, the 56 regional parks, reserves, and special recreation features total nearly 55,000 acres and a trail system of 400 miles.
Take the video challenge
Residents may comment in all the usual ways -- email, written letters, and phone calls -- but this year parks staff have issued a “Video Challenge,” encouraging park enthusiasts to use their imagination to submit videos of comments recorded on their computer or cell phone.
“We’re asking people to share their stories about what they like about regional parks or features to include,” said Tracey Kinney, Parks Senior Planner. “Specifically, we want to hear from residents on one of four key topic areas included in an instructional video.”
- Proposed additions to parks and trails
- Ways to honor and recognize the original, indigenous stewards of the land
- How to improve access to regional park amenities
- The role of parks in mitigating climate change
Other ways to comment by 5 p.m., Oct. 30
- Participate in an online public hearing on Monday, Oct. 19 at 4 p.m.
- Fill out a public comment form and survey
- Write to Metropolitan Council, Public Information at 390 Robert St. N., Saint Paul, MN 55101
- Email info@metc.state.mn.us
- Record a comment on the Public Comment Line at 651.602.1500 (TTY 651.291.0904)
The draft plan is a proposed amendment to the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan, which establishes the long-range vision for regional parks and trails and identifies the steps to get us there. The draft plan is the work of many partners, including regional park agencies, the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission, Met Council members, resident park enthusiasts, and advocates throughout the region.
| 
