Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 139

5.
A philosophy of sustainability which promotes the conservation of natural and
cultural resources for current and future citizens should guide park and open space
planning, design, and management.
Park planning, design, and management should reflect a stewardship ethic
which sustains natural and cultural processes and protects nonrenewable resources. At
the broadest level, the park and open space system should preserve lands which
perform important ecosystem functions such as erosion and flood control, maintaining
water quality, and providing habitat for wildlife. The design of individual parks should
integrate protection and restoration of natural and cultural resources. Sustainable
practices such as the use of native plants, recycled or recyclable materials, renewable
energy sources, and innovative treatment systems for stormwater and wastewater
should be considered in the planning and design process. Affordable long-term
management plans should be developed for existing and new parks with the objective
of maintaining facility conditions and the original design intent while reducing waste and
resource consumption. For example, less frequent mowing of appropriately selected
non-intensive use turf areas can reduce energy use and encourage a more diverse
natural environment.
B. Goals, Objectives, and Policies
(These goals and objectives were adopted as part of the Cornerstone 2020 Comprehensive Land
Use Plan for Louisville and Jefferson County on June 15, 2000 by the Louisville Board of
Aldermen, Jefferson County Fiscal Court and all third and fourth class cities within Jefferson
County. The Plan remains in effect until the next Comprehensive Plan is adopted. K.R. S. 100
requires an update of the comprehensive plan every 20 years and the next planning process is
now underway. The policies below have been updated to reflect 2016 conditions and issues.)
B1. Open Space Definition
Open space is any area of land or water not developed for urbanized uses which
enhances the livability of the community. Such area may be predominantly in a natural
condition or improved or modified for uses such as recreation and may be either public land or
privately owned and conserved land. This definition encompasses the following types of open
space:
O PEN SPACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION :
•
•
•
•
•
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Public parks and recreation areas
School playgrounds and college athletic fields
Pedestrian, bicycle and equestrian paths, trails and greenways
Picnic areas
Golf courses
V. THE PLAN | October 2016 Update