Ord 2019-012/adopting the 2019 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan

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Recommendations GOAL RPE-1. MAXIMIZE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CREATING EDUCATIONAL AND RECREATIONAL AMENITIES. Action RPE-1.1. Evaluate further opportunities to increase multigenerational, passive recreation in existing and future City parks. The parks system in San Marcos contains over 1,480 acres of greenspace and natural areas.As set out in Figure 3.25,Importance of Passive Recreation in San Marcos Parks,around 75 percent of survey respondents would like to see additional preserved greenspace as well as more hike and bike trails throughout the City. Natural areas with wildlife habitat viewing, paddling trails, and other water-based recreation furthers a visitors opportunity to access and interact with nature,which in turn, increases their desire to protect the City's natural resources.As such, it is suggested that the City provide additional, multigenerational passive recreation opportunities throughout the parks system. Action RPE-1.2. Ensure adequate funds are budgeted for annual maintenance and upkeep of the San Marcos Activity Center. The San Marcos Activity Center is highly frequented,with wear and tear occurring earlier than anticipated(e.g., in the walking corridor and conference rooms).Adequate budgeting for maintenance and updates is needed to ensure customer satisfaction. Action RPE-1.3. Consider conducting a Recreation Programming and Event Assessment to determine gaps and overlaps in services. As set out in Figure 3.21, Which Age Group has the Greatest Need for Athletic or Other Recreational Programming?,on page 85, respondents identified the greatest need for additional athletics or recreational programming was for seniors over the age of 55.The next greatest need was for adults between the ages of 20 and 25,and then young children under the age of five.As such, the City should consider conducting a Recreation Programming and Event Assessment to review and analyze the City's public, private, or public/private recreational program offerings, making sure to include an inventory of both San Marcos'programs,services,and facilities,as well as those offered by other organizations within the City and ETJ.Analysis of the collected inventory data will identify gaps and overlaps and can also include an additional public survey to gauge the community's interest in specific programs. Action RPE-1.4.Consider an expanded agreement with the Greater San Marcos Partnership,the Chamber of Commerce,and other local partners to further establish the City's parks and recreation assets,events,and programming as destination attractions. The City's downtown district, historical areas,facilities, and natural amenities (e.g.,the San Marcos River)are all destination attractions which collectively enhance the overall economic health and wellbeing of the City. Improvements to these amenities provide numerous benefits, including increased sales 100 City of San Marcos, Texas I San Marcos Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan