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Chapter 3: The System Today 34 <br />T <br />O <br />D <br />A <br />Y <br />Elk River Parks and Recreation Today <br />Elk River has a growing and engaging parks and recreation system that meets <br />the needs of many residents and contributes to the character and identity of the <br />community. Neighborhood parks provide opportunity for residents walk, or <br />bike short distances to utilize them. Destination and area-wide parks serve as <br />gathering spots for the entire region and are becoming increasingly popular. <br />Recreational offerings appeal to community members of all ages. The city is host <br />to many unique recreation opportunities, including outstanding mountain biking <br />and cross country skiing facilities. Active youth athletic associations make good <br />use of the sports facilities and residents recognize the value of good maintenance. <br />At the same time, Elk River is a growing and changing community. Just as the <br />parks and recreation system of twenty years ago would not adequately serve the <br />community today, new parks and recreation programs and improvements will be <br />needed to serve the community for the next twenty years. Providing safe access <br />to parks and trails, continuing to maintain facilities at a high level, and preserving <br />the lakes, rivers, and other natural features that define the city are all challenges <br />Elk River will need to meet in the future. <br />What We are Doing Well <br />• High resident satisfaction <br />• Accessible neighborhood parks in the urban service area <br />• Clean, safe, well-maintained parks <br />• High quality, unique park activities <br />• Strong and varied recreation programs <br />• Access to natural areas for all residents <br />What We Need to Do <br />• City parks must keep pace with growth in the community <br />• Better connect to trails, parks, schools, downtown, and other destinations <br />for walkers and bicyclists <br />• More active natural resource management <br />• Better integrate arts into the park system <br />• Provide more opportunities for access to the Elk River and the Mississippi <br />River <br />• Partnerships are good but can be further developed to improve park and <br />recreation offerings for residents <br />• Ensure maintenance is sustainable by matching resources with future needs <br />and desires <br />• Continue to support volunteer efforts to ensure continuation of volunteer <br />support