The Town of Eaton adopted a new Parks Master Plan as an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan at the June 13, 2024, Town Board Meeting. This plan culminated months of research, public input, analysis of current parks, and future goals for Eaton. Thank you for participating; we hope this new plan will guide the Town in developing public recreation spaces that all can enjoy and appreciate for years to come.
Background
The Town’s previous Parks Master Plan was adopted in 2003. In 2023, the Town began updating and replacing this plan. It will guide park growth and development and identify priorities to meet the community’s needs for recreation and leisure time opportunities.
The Parks Master Plan includes future planning for parks, trails, and open spaces. Having outdoor spaces positively impacts the community and our residents in a variety of ways by:
- Providing space for outdoor recreation which can improve physical and mental health
- Increasing the value of surrounding neighborhoods
- Contributing to cleaner air quality
- Providing spaces for events and gatherings to grow connections
- Improving groundwater quality
- And more!
Community Input
Active community participation was crucial in developing this master plan. Thank you to all the residents who took the surveys or attended an in-person listening session.
Participants were asked how they use existing parks, what they like/dislike about each park, and their preferred park improvements.
- Online survey (September 26 – October 16, 2023)
- In-person meeting (October 10, 2023)
- Online survey (December 29, 2023 – January 26, 2024)
- Eaton Commons Park Survey (December 29, 2023 – January 26, 2024)
Residents’ Top 10 Preferred Park Improvements
- Shade trees
- Trails
- Playground equipment
- Shelters
- Seating/tables
- Volleyball
- Dog parks
- Basketball courts
- Tot lot
- Plaza/event spaces
- Skate park
- Splash pad
What’s Included?
- Existing conditions analysis of current parks, natural resources, Great Western Trail, current uses, and more
- Recommendations for parks, funding, and community feedback
- Eaton Commons Park analysis, improvement recommendations, and cost estimates and options
Plan Goals
- Accessibility: Connect parks through a variety of trails, ensuring safe routes and accessibility for all, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
- Safety and Security: Ensure safety and security by designing parks thoughtfully, with attention to lighting, accessibility, and user demographics. Incorporate input from various departments to ensure efficient and appropriate maintenance and provide adequate circulation and access for all users.
- Design Framework: Develop a design framework for existing parks that includes various activities, different amenities, and desires.
Timeline, Funding, and Next Steps
The Plan outlines several recommended improvements for each park and grant opportunities for potential funding sources. The Town of Eaton will now seek funding and plan improvements over the next 20 years. The Eaton Commons site plan will begin to be implemented in 2025 and funded by the money received from the settlement with Xcel Energy.
The Town will update residents about potential park improvements through its Facebook page and email newsletter when more specific information becomes available. (Read more on pages 30-34 of the Plan.)