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IMPLEMENTATION <br /> The Master Park and Recreation Plan provides the City of Elk River with a detailed framework <br /> for the orderly growth and development of the Park and Recreation System. Implementation of <br /> the Plan requires thoughtful consideration of priorities, policies, phasing, financing, maintenance <br /> and operation. The following discussion and recommendations for implementation should <br /> provide a sound foundation for proceeding with the Park and Recreation Plan. <br /> PRIORITIES <br /> The community survey conducted by Decision Resources, Ltd., in December, 1989, provides the <br /> basis for establishing priorities that are consistent with the current preferences of the residents of <br /> Elk River. <br /> The survey indicated a very strong demand for park and recreation facilities. The most popular <br /> activity was hiking or walking, followed by bicycling and nature walks. All of these activities <br /> suggest that trails should be a very high priority in the Park and Recreation Plan. <br /> The survey also indicated strong demand for a broad range of activities, including swimming, <br /> fishing, golfing, softball, picnic areas, sliding hills and soccer. The concept of a downtown river <br /> walk was favored by 74% of the residents. A nature trail was favored by 74%, an outdoor <br /> swimming pool 65%, a nature area/interpretive center 66%, and play equipment 44%. Sixty-five <br /> percent of the residents supported the concept of acquiring land for park development along the <br /> Mississippi River. Seventy-four percent of the residents supported the construction of an Elk <br /> River Community Center. <br /> In summary, the community survey clearly indicated that the residents of Elk River desire an <br /> improved and expanded park and recreation system. Support for financing an expanded park and <br /> recreation system is more difficult and points out the importance of having well-planned park <br /> proposals that are in line with resident preferences. <br /> The determination of park and recreation priorities is also influenced by other factors. <br /> Additional considerations may include the following: <br /> Existing Ci& Ownership of the Land <br /> Land that is currently owned by the City of Elk River may be a higher priority for improvement <br /> simply because it is available and can be developed more quickly and at a lower price. <br /> 120 <br />