Page 98 - parks-master-plan

P arks, greenways and open space development improve the City's aesthetics

and the public's quality of life. The development quantity and quality levels are pride points for residents and help increase property values. Design based upon environmental awareness is also an element used in attracting and retaining the corporate community. The parks and open space system helps residents and corporate citizens recreate and socialize. By enjoying the common spaces, they build bonds that strengthen the community and improve their fitness levels and overall health.

Dublin manages 52 parks and 435 acres of open space, equating to roughly 1,400 acres. The system is comprised of open spaces, greenways, cemeteries, neighborhood and community parks. Amenities included in the system are the Dublin Community Recreation Center, playgrounds, universally accessible playground, Miracle League Baseball Field, shelters, picnic grounds, soccer fields, bike paths, tennis courts, ball diamonds, basketball courts, lacrosse fields, bocce ball court, cricket field, fishing ponds, sledding hill, and a seasonal ice skating rink. The parks also feature key character elements like renovated barns, historic log cabins and dry-laid limestone walls.

Dublin maintains 34 acres of parks and open space per 1,000 residents, which exceeds the 10- to 20-acre-per-1,000 population national standards. The generous amounts of public land provide a visual tie to Dublin's settlement past and the high-quality park amenities create Dublin’s distinct sense of place.

The City has established solid working relationships with Washington Township, Dublin City Schools and the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park