Hanover County seeks community input on 2035 Parks and Recreation Master Plan
VENN
HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Hanover County officials are turning to the community for input as the Parks and Recreation Department updates its 2035 Master Plan.
The department has released a draft of the plan, outlining the future of Hanover's park system over the next decade.
The comprehensive plan includes an internal assessment and community engagement that revealed challenges in the county's parks and recreation system. Key findings include the need to improve aging facilities, expand parks to underserved areas and meet residents' demand for trails and youth programs.
According to demographic data presented in the plan, Hanover has experienced steady population growth. The county says this will increase pressure on existing parks, and require expansion of infrastructure.
The demographics also highlight diverse age groups within the county, which officials say indicates a need for broader recreational services.
Hanover also analyzed gaps in its parks and recreation system by evaluating how it compares to nationally recognized benchmarks. The National Recreation and Park Association suggests Hanover should provide 10 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. The county currently provides 6.3 acres per 1,000 residents.
The NRPA benchmark for operations suggests an investment range of $90 to $120 per resident. The draft outlines a plan to acquire land and develop at least four new parks across the county to align with national benchmarking.
Hanover also invests about $48.50 per resident annually in parks and recreation operations. The county says increased investment in operations will be necessary to strengthen Hanover's park system.
Residents are encouraged to view the plan and share their feedback in-person or online.
Hanover's parks and recreation department is hosting several community meetings to allow the community to review the plan one-on-one with staff:
- Oct. 21 at Pole Green Elementary, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 23 at Montpelier Recreation Center and Library, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 30 in the Martha Ann Fields Building, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
For more information, click here.
