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IF WE DON'T CHANGE, <br />WE DON'T GROW. <br />IF WE DON'T GROW, <br />WE AREN'T REALLY LIVING. <br />-Gail Sheehy <br />TRENDS <br />The city, recreation, and our environment are changing and dynamic, and <br />recreation is constantly evolving. New technologies, trends, cultures, and <br />activities bring changing facility and program needs. Elk River must keep pace <br />with these changing needs. By building flexibility into recreation and park <br />facilities, the city will be able to adapt quickly and efficiently to new needs. The <br />following chapter outlines key trends influencing recreation and parks in Elk <br />River. <br />A GROWING COMMUNITY <br />Elk River has been, and continues to be a growing community. From 1990 to <br />2010 the population doubled from 11,143 to 22,974. The City anticipates <br />adding nearly 13,000 more people by 2035. Growth will put additional demands <br />for recreation of all types on the current park system. <br />AGING AND AGING ACTIVELY <br />Baby Boomers (born 1946 -1964) represent almost 25% population nationally. <br />In Elk River this demographic, specifically the over -55 population, grew 84% <br />from 2000 to 2010, significantly outpacing growth in the rest of the population <br />(31 %). <br />The Baby Boomers are aging, but are determined not to let it slow them down. <br />As the nation's largest generation gets older, they continue to hike, bike, walk, <br />and work out. A generation with significant economic resources, Baby Boomers <br />are a major consideration in parks and recreation. <br />City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan <br />Draft 11.25.14 <br />