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Implementation strategy
Establish a regional commission to develop a master plan for a regional network of parks connected by greenways, trails, and blueways.
Why should we commit to that strategy?
Because it is consistent with the needs and values expressed by the citizenry during the visioning process.
What action steps do we need to take to implement the strategy?
- · First order of business is the appointment (by various counties) of Nine Counties Greenways, Trails and Parks “Commission.”
- · Once appointed, this group can move forward with development of a “master plan.”
- · Once completed, the Master Plan will serve as the blueprint for future “development” of regional network of parks connected by greenways, trails and blueways.
- · A full-time paid executive director will most likely be necessary to “make it happen.”
Who can lead the implementation effort?
Nine County Greenways, Trails, and Parks Commission should be the leadership entity for this initiative.
What will it cost to implement the action steps and strategy.
Employment of Executive Director and part/full time staff will cost in the $75,000 - $100,000 range per year. Endorsement of “Commission” (by County level elected officials), appointment of Commission members, and development of the Nine Counties Master Plan, will cost very little (the major expense will be development/printing of Master Plan – (est. $50,000, including public meetings, etc.). Actually implementing the Plan (land acquisition, trail and greenway construction, maintenance of developed parks, trails, and greenways, etc.) will be expensive. Actual cost would be hard to estimate at this time.
What should Nine Counties. One Vision. do next?
Since the first step is the institutional development of the “Commission”, this initiative will need a champion, or champions, within the political leadership of various counties. Nine Counties. One Vision. can help by providing the lobbying necessary to gain this “buy in” from local politicians.