San Rafael, CA – Marin County Parks is soliciting input and providing opportunities for interested persons to help shape the future of McNears Beach Park in San Rafael, Paradise Beach Park in Tiburon, and Stafford Lake Park in Novato.
Made possible because of Measure A funding, master plans for the three parks are in the beginning phases. Park master plans are comprehensive, long-term planning documents that guide the future direction of park facilities, improvements, and programs. Public participation in these new master plan projects is important to Marin County Parks, and will help landscape architects detail and shape the kinds of facilities and recreational opportunities the community wants and needs now, and to forecast future trends.
There are a variety of ways for members of the public to learn more and get involved. In particular, members of the public are now invited to attend a community workshop (dates soon to be released). In addition, online surveys for any or all of the three parks being master planned are available on the Marin County Parks website. Either or both are simple ways to participate.
McNears Beach Park Master Plan: This beloved 55-acre park is used by thousands of visitors each year for swimming, fishing, and picnicking, but it is showing signs of age and needs improvements. Focus group sessions with parks user groups are underway. Community workshops are in the planning stages and the first is slated for early 2015. Take the online survey.
Paradise Beach Park Master Plan: Steeped in history, the park has been a popular gathering spot for nearly 150 years. During World War II, the site was part of the Navy's net depot, along with the nearby California State University Romberg Center. Among objectives of the master plan is to weave this unique history into the park. Focus group sessions with park user groups are underway, and a community workshop is planned for early 2015. Take the online survey.
Stafford Lake Park Master Plan: The 139-acre park just west of Novato represents the largest upland area in the Marin County Parks lineup and is also unique in its rural setting. The park has opportunities for fishing, group picnicking, large events up to 5,000 people, hiking, and disc golf. In addition, Phase I of a 17-acre bike park is in the works and is to be completed in August 2015. The first community workshop was held in October 2014 and a second is slated for spring 2015. Take the online survey.
For more information and to subscribe to email updates, visit marincountyparks.org. Follow Marin County Parks on Facebook and Twitter.