Elkhart County Parks seek public feedback on 'Five-Year Master Plan'

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. - The Elkhart County Park and Recreation Board invites the public to a meeting on Monday, April 8, at 4:30 p.m. for a presentation and final review of the 2024-2028 Five-Year Master Plan.

Over that past year, county officials say they've spoken with staff, park board members, community leaders, and the public to receive feedback via surveys and meetings to determine the priorities for the next five years.

“The Master Plan is our guiding document,” stated Ronda DeCaire, Elkhart County Parks Director. “We accomplished much from the 2019-2023 Master Plan, including establishment of an Elkhart County Parks Legacy Endowment Fund, development of the new Corson Riverwoods County Park, and coordinated with the Commissioners and Council on a plan to replace latrines and restrooms with greater accessibility throughout the park system in 2024.”

After the 2024-2028 Elkhart County Parks Master Plan receives its final review and approval from the Park Board at the meeting, it will then be forwarded to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for official acceptance.

Officials say approved master plans are critical in the eligibility for state and federal grants, including the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which has helped the development of several local county parks, including Ox Bow, Cobus Creek, and Corson Riverwoods.

A presentation on the master plan by planning firm, Lehman and Lehman, will take place at the upcoming Elkhart County Park Board meeting April 8, at 4:30 p.m. in the gym of the Elkhart County Historical Museum, located at 304 W. Vistula St. in Bristol.