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SALT LAKE CITY — Mayor Ralph Becker ceremoniously welcomed residents to the launch of a public engagement period for the Salt Lake City parks, trails and open space initiative at a gathering of media and community members Thursday afternoon.
Becker was set to arrive at the get together, held at at the city's 9th South Constructed Wetland, in style: via a canoe ride down the Jordan River with several other residents.
The purpose of the ride, according to the mayor's office, was to "highlight just one of the many great city assets that could be enhanced through (the initiative)."
Avid runners, hikers, mountain bikers, golfers, bird-watchers and dog walkers were among the recreation enthusiasts were represented at the event, Becker's office said in a prepared statement.
The parks, trails and open space initiative is the longterm study of recreation and quality-of-life developments being considered by the city.
With the completion of several major planning studies, strong interest in preserving the foothills, and the immediate opportunity to repurpose two city golf courses, the timing is right for residents to think about how to revitalize and expand our natural offerings.
–statement from mayor's office
"With the completion of several major planning studies, strong interest in preserving the foothills, and the immediate opportunity to repurpose two city golf courses, the timing is right for residents to think about how to revitalize and expand our natural offerings," the prepared statement reads.
The city has until now coordinated hundreds of open houses and an online survey to gauge residents' ideas and reactions to specific proposals around Salt Lake. Beginning this month, seven larger public meetings will be held throughout the city's council districts for more input.
• Thursday, May 14, 4-7 p.m., Sunnyside Park Main Pavilion.
• Saturday, May 14, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Liberty Park, near main playground.
• Tuesday, May 19, 3–7 p.m., Sorenson Unity Center, outdoor plaza.
• Wednesday, May 20, 4–7 p.m., Lindsey Gardens Pavilion.
• Thursday, May 21, 4–7 p.m., Northwest Recreation Center, outdoor plaza.
• Wednesday, May 27, 4–7 p.m., Forest Dale Golf Course, clubhouse.
• Thursday, May 28, 3–7 p.m., Salt Lake City Library Square, outdoor plaza.
