> Xtreme Teens > Safe Summer Blog

Planning For The Future at Formula 2040 Open House

1 Digs

In order to keep up the successful Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission’s community programs and outreach going strong, the organization held the first of three “Open House” forums at the Sports and Learning Complex where citizens can learn about and provide suggestions on the Formula 2040 plan. Formula 2040, or the Master Plan for Parks, Recreation and Open Space, is the M-NCPPC’s initiative that will guide the future of the department for the next 30 years. Combining the three key parts – land, facilities and programs – needed to make the park system an “experience,” the community, on the evening of September 12, could hear about the plan’s goals for the future as well as suggest what they feel needs to be changed or strengthened about the plan. Among other things, the plan involves acquiring more land for community centers and conservation as well as focusing on individual versus community-based programs. Of the programs offered, there are over 5,000 courses offered for children, Pre-Teens and Teens, including the Xtreme Teens program! At Wednesday’s open house, the plan was first presented to community members, lawmakers and fellow Parks and Recreation Representatives. Then, using electronic “clickers,” those at the presentation could vote on how effective they think the plan will be in the future. Next, people could speak to these representatives, like Linda Lonzer in the Outreach Corp. who was manning the “suggestions” board. Suggestions included lowering fees for those with limited income, increasing nutritional programs, having community history posted in facilities and much more. If the department wasn’t in charge of a particular section, the representatives would be sure to pass it on, Lonzer said. In February 2013, a draft will be presented and a final product will be published in Spring 2013. The final goal is adoption of the 2040 plan in early 2014. Weren’t able to make it to Wednesday’s Open House? Two more will be held, on Wednesday, September 19 at The Show Place Arena and on Thursday, September 20 at the Deerfield Run Community Center, both from 5:30-8:00 pm. Come out for light refreshments and to become involved in your community’s Parks and Recreation master plan!