Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 7

2. A network of open spaces and greenway corridors which protects significant
natural resources;
3. A parks and open space system which preserves and enhances visual quality,
protects historic and archaeological resources, and provides opportunities for
education; and
4. An open space network which incorporates land needed to protect public health
and safety.
(A series of objectives and policies which elaborated on these 1995 goals are included in
Chapter IV of the Master Plan and have been updated to more closely reflect 2015
conditions).
1995 Plan Recommendations
To accomplish these goals, the 1995 plan recommended that nearly 6,000 acres of
greenways and regional parkland and over 2,000 acres of local parkland, distributed in areas of
most need, be added to the park system over the next 25 years.
The plan also recommended that a wide variety of recreational facilities be developed to
meet the needs of existing and future residents of Louisville. Table A identifies 1995 and 2015
parkland acreage and recreational facilities along with additions proposed in the 1995 Plan to be
achieved by the year 2020.
Priority in the location and development of new parks and facilities should be given to
those neighborhoods and communities most in need of public park and recreational amenities.
The 1995 Plan
recommended that the parks and
open space system be developed as
a multi-functional and
interconnected system. Each park,
recreation and open space area
should be located, designed, and
managed so as to fulfill many
functions such as providing
recreation, protecting natural and
cultural resources, managing storm
water, safeguarding health and
safety in floodplains and on steep slopes, and defining an attractive open space structure that
meets the park and recreational needs of residents and prepares for future urban development
in Louisville. The Plan recommended that linear greenways be developed to connect parks and
open space areas to each other and to surrounding neighborhoods. Trails were to be developed
Parks and Recreation System Master Plan | SUMMARY
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