Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 101

1995 Distribution
• The majority of the playgrounds under LMPRD jurisdiction were located within the
Urban Services Area (former City of Louisville) (Service Area A), with the greatest density
in the vicinity of Eastern Parkway between I-64 and the North-South Expressway (I-65).
• A lesser number of playgrounds under LMPRD jurisdiction were located in the middle
band of the county (Service Areas C, E, and G). These playgrounds were well dispersed,
with Service Area G having a strong concentration in its northeast corner (within the
Urban Services Area/former City of Louisville).
• Outlying areas (Service Areas B, D, and F) had the fewest playgrounds, ranging from six
in Area D to only two in Area B.
1995 Recommended Standard
• One playground per 5,000 population
Estimated 1995 Deficiency
• Twenty-five additional playgrounds under LMPRD jurisdiction would be required to
provide a total of 136 playgrounds in accordance with the recommended standard. This
deficiency does not take into account facilities managed by other providers (e.g.,
Jefferson County Public Schools).
Projected 2020 Deficiency
• Thirty-six additional playgrounds under LMPRD jurisdiction (the 1995 deficiency of 25
plus 11 more) would be required to provide a total of 147 playgrounds in accordance
with the recommended standard. This deficiency does not take into account facilities
managed by other providers.
1995 Recommended Actions
• Short-term: The LMPRD should develop a minimum of six playgrounds to serve
neighborhoods most deficient in this facility.
• Mid- and long-term: As new residential development occurs in Louisville, the
distribution of playgrounds within parks, along greenways, and at other locations such
as schools should be planned so as to ensure that all neighborhoods have access to a
tot-lot, older children’s play equipment, and equipment providing play opportunities for
handicapped children.
• General: In planning for individual parks, consideration should be given to locating
playgrounds next to picnic areas and other sites where groups with children may gather.
In addition, park designs should provide a variety of play experiences which are not
limited to use of traditional playground equipment.
Periodic replacement of playground equipment should be factored into budgeting and
parkland maintenance programs.
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IV. PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS ANALYSIS | October 2016 Update