MontgomeryParks.org

Public Input

After the community needs have been identified for a park, the land has been acquired and earmarked for the appropriate type of use, it is time for facility planning. It is time for public participation in the process.

Facility planning marks the beginning of the design process. For a new or renovated park, community input is sought at the beginning to generate ideas about what should be included in the park. Estimated costs for construction and operation are identified and examined along with related environmental impacts.

Staff then develops concepts for use that take into consideration environmental constraints, stewardship opportunities, identified recreational needs, and public input. The ultimate objective is to create options that provide needed recreational amenities while minimizing the impact on the natural environment.

Once we have gathered all of this information, we incorporate it into a design concept for the park. As soon as the design concept plans are ready, we hold a second public meeting to review these ideas with the community. The concepts are also reviewed with the regulatory agencies to obtain additional input and make sure nothing is being overlooked. Staff then studies all of the feedback and a preferred plan is developed and refined.

The preferred facility plan and cost estimate are presented to the Planning board for approval in a public session. Anyone interested in voicing their opinion of the plan in person or in writing may do so at this time. The Planning Board reviews all public comments and will sometimes recommend revisions to a proposed plan in response. Once the Board approves the plan, the cost estimate is used to prepare a request for final design and construction funding through the Capital Improvements Program. This request is submitted to the Montgomery County Council for approval. Once the Council approves the budget, the project is ready to move ahead!

Projects in Facility Planning Stage
To view projects in the Facility Planning Stage click here.

Meetings

Projects currently seeking public input:

Josiah Henson Special Park - Facility Plan

Playground Renovation Program