Cape parks launching online survey to shape master plan

Starting Wednesday, members of the public have an opportunity to shape the future of Cape Girardeau's parks and recreational spaces through an online survey.

The Parks and Recreation Department is updating its Parks and Trails Master Plan and requires public input.

Julia Thompson, director of the city's parks and recreation department, said in a previous interview staff already have spent several meetings evaluating parks and trails, but thoughts from the public are needed. Through the survey, individuals can share what they do or don't like about the city's parks and what they would like to see in the future.

The survey is available at 2015parksandrecsurvey.org. Hard copies may be picked up at the parks and recreation department offices at the A.C. Brase Arena, 410 Kiwanis Drive, or the Osage Centre, 1625 N. Kingshighway.

Thompson encourages people to take advantage of the survey so the new master plan accurately reflects public interests. The existing master plan the department works from was finalized in 2007, she said.

"Things change. We've got a more diverse population, the university is growing, we're a regional attractor and growing," she said. "What was popular eight years ago may not be popular now, and that takes some thought process."

The initial plan was created before a 2008 vote for the parks and recreation and stormwater tax. Residents approved the half-cent sales tax, which since has helped fund stormwater improvements and parks amenities such as Cape Splash. A three-eighth-cent portion of the tax will sunset Sept. 30, 2018. The remaining one-eighth-cent tax, set aside for operations, has no sunset.

Thompson said the newest Parks and Trails Master Plan will be complete before 2018 so people have a chance to weigh in and review new projects to be funded by the renewal.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

410 Kiwanis Drive, Cape Girardeau, Mo.

1625 N. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, Mo.