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Housing Crisis, Efficient Government, Drug Abuse, Transportation and Economics, Parks and Recreation
PARKS AND RECREATION FOR THE PEOPLE
MORE THAN PLAYING FIELDS
The DC Department of Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of programs.
Right now; during the winter season they are offering nearly 250 different
programs and activities at about 90 different facilities throughout the
city. Ward 4 houses 13 recreational facilities, including the Takoma Aquatic
Center.
However distribution of the various recreational and cultural enrichment
programs across the city is not uniform. Only Ward 3 provides any significant
number of arts and cultural enrichment programs through its recreation
centers. Ward 4 recreation centers by comparison are sorely deficient
in arts and cultural activities for young people. This is something we
can improve upon.
We can provide culturally enriching arts and recreation activities to children in all areas of the Ward and the city.
The first step is to evaluate the usage data of our recreation facilities and provide balanced recreational opportunities in throughout the Wards. Increase opportunities for seniors to engage in activities and interaction within their community and ensure that the neighborhoods of Ward 4 provide a nurturing, enriching and stimulating environment for residents of all ages.
PARTNERSHIPS
Encourage partnerships between Parks and Recreation and locally based
arts and music organizations.
Increase support for libraries, taking advantage of new technology, but
with the realization that; sharing books and promoting reading and learning
are a library’s central mission.
RECREATION GOOD FOR BUSINESS
Creative and recreational endeavors should be part of our economic development
strategy.
What is unique about neighborhoods in Ward 4 is the proportion of unbuilt
acreage giving sections of the Ward an almost pastoral feel which many
long term residents and newcomrs find attractive. However unbuilt land
is attractive to development. We need to preserve the pleasant look and
feel of our neighborhoods.
look at the possiblity of implementing incentives for developers an open space enhancement, to manage development and to provide ameneties to communities affected by new projects. With several dozen acres of land slated for new uses in and near Ward 4, there are opportunities for creative projects serving the whole community; such as sports and recreation multiplexes, featuring amenities such as soccer fields, ice skating and fitness centers. Such a complex would enhance the values of surrounding properties and provide stimulating recreational opportunities for children and adults from all quarters of the city.
Reduce gang activity througn
a well structured
recreation system.
1. Channel energy in a constructive and creative endeavors.
2. Combat social isolation, boredom and consequent misbehavior.
3. Offers opportunities for Constructive engagement with adults.
4. Create a positive impression with youth that life in the city has something
good to offer not just to others more fortunate but to them as well.
5. Help young people develp team and organization building skills in a safe, positive and dynamic manner
We must involve the existing conflict resolution specialist to make kids
feel secure and safe when participating in recreational activities in
unfamiliar neighborhoods. We need to assure proper supervision to prevent
accidents.
WE CAN EACH PLAY A PART
According to Parks and recreation Department volunteers are sorely needed.
This is where the public can help. It’s more than just turning on
the lights at the basketball court and hiring security guards. The kids
need the adults to set a good example, to be involved with them. Disabled
people need help accessing the programsand activities. It might be a good
idea to create an award recognizing the commitment of volunteers who devote
a bit of their time to help out with children and seniors and others at
the City’s recreation centers.
Paid For By Marlena Edwards 2007
Calvin Lucas, Treasurer
