Council Recap: Parks Long Range Plan

Published on August 13, 2025

At their Tuesday evening meeting, the City Council received and filed the report on the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Long-Range Plan.

During review of the report the Council wanted to ensure that residents were given ample time to review and provide feedback on the plan. Public review of the plan will be extended for another 30 days to allow for input to help steer goals and objectives and best meet the needs of Lakewood residents.

The public may review the draft and submit feedback at lakewoodca.gov/ParksLRP through Friday, September 12.

Background on the Plan

The Parks, Recreation and Community Services Long-Range Plan’s origins began in 2023, when the Lakewood City Council set out to create a comprehensive 10-year plan that would serve as a blueprint for maintaining and enhancing the city’s parks, facilities, programs and events well into the future.

To guide this effort, the city partnered with consultant MIG, engaging in a two-year process shaped by significant community input. Residents shared their ideas through a citywide survey, focus group meetings and interactive booths at major community events, with additional outreach through mailed notices, flyers, posters, social media and the city’s eMagazine.

These efforts highlighted both community pride in Lakewood’s park system, along with opportunities for improvement such as increased park access, more diverse facilities and enhanced safety and comfort.

Eight key goals of the final Plan

Safe and well-maintained facilities
Better park access
Diverse amenities
Improved connectivity
Inclusive programs
Sustainable green spaces
Forward-thinking management
Strong community partnerships

What happens next

While the plan will guide future decision-making, its acceptance does not mean immediate implementation. Instead, recommendations will be reviewed by Council subcommittees over the next year to set priorities and allocate resources strategically.

“We thank our community for the valuable input and priorities shared in this long process,” says Director of Recreation and Community Services Valarie Frost. “There’s still hard work ahead but by planning far in advance, Lakewood is taking a proactive approach—addressing current needs while preparing for the opportunities and challenges of the future.”