Commemorating “fourward” progress
Celebration is an important, yet overlooked, milestone in any project. There is something to be said about hitting pause to reflect on a job well done, cementing best practices into memory, and strengthening the bonds of those who contributed to collective success. As Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) sets sights on new horizons, it’s only appropriate to celebrate the organization’s recent success in implementing the 2020-2024 Comprehensive Parks & Recreation Master Plan.
Few professions grant the opportunity to touch the lives of nearly all populations within their community. Parks and recreation is a field uniquely positioned to address today’s most pressing issues and deliver community benefits like health and wellness, social connection and ecological resilience. Unlocking the potential for high-impact programs, facilities, parks, and services come from CCPR’s understanding that to go far, we must go together.
“It takes thoughtful effort to collectively move an organization and community toward major goals like what is outlined in the 2020-2024 Master Plan,” explains Michael Klitzing, CCPR director of parks and recreation/CEO. “By creating a strong foundation from the start via focus groups, surveys, interviews, and more, we are able to use the perspectives of many to make holistic decisions.”
CCPR’s 2020-2024 Master Plan outlined recommendations relating to four main areas of focus: Carmel White River regional corridor, west regional corridor, reimagining existing parks, and celebrating nature.
“We’ve made great strides in all ‘fourward’ focus goals,” says Klitzing. “Thanks to generous financial investments from the Clay Township Impact Program totaling nearly $30 million, and other community stakeholders who have collaborated with the department, we’ve seen great success in accomplishing what we set out to do just a few short years ago.”
Carmel White River Corridor
This goal is aimed to enhance community access to the region’s most significant natural resource – the White River. Updates to reimagined River Heritage Park included an accessible nature trail leading to the river. Newly acquired Thomas Marcuccilli Nature Park is positioned in the floodplain of the river. CCPR also worked closely with other entities to establish relationships for future joint projects along the river.
Reimagine Existing Parks
The Reimagining Parks initiative updated and enhanced six existing parks by making them more accessible, safer and available year-round. Reimagined parks include Flowing Well Park, West Park, River Heritage Park, Carey Grove Park, Meadowlark Park, and Lawrence W. Inlow Park. This initiative was made possible by funding from the Clay Township Impact Program.
West Regional Corridor
Expanding recreation opportunities for community members in west Carmel has been a long-time focus for CCPR. Reimagined West Park received several million dollars in enhancements, including a new splash pad, playground, restored prairie, and perimeter trail which allows safe passage for parkgoers. CCPR also purchased Bear Creek Park in northwest Carmel. This 27-acre park will be developed over the next several years.
Celebrate Nature
This goal was achieved in a few ways: dedicating staff to oversee the planning and development of natural resources, providing access to natural resources and open spaces and engaging community members of all ages and abilities in the stewardship of our park system. CCPR incorporated immersive nature experiences in the Reimagining Parks initiative and continues to build educational nature and volunteer programs that share ownership of our natural resources with community members.
Next Steps for CCPR: 2024-2028 Master Plan
Every five years, the department develops a new parks and recreation master plan utilizing internal assessment, data collection and community input to help determine how to best serve an ever-changing and growing community. This feedback allows CCPR to create a snapshot in time of the wants and needs of its residents.
Due to CCPR’s incredible success in implementing its 2020-2024 master plan as well as operational changes because of the pandemic, CCPR has begun the process of developing its 2024-2028 master plan.
