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Welcome to the Columbus Parks Master Planning process!
Our parks, trails, facilities, and public spaces are an important part of what makes Columbus a great place to live, work, and play. They provide opportunities for recreation and wellness, bring our community together, support youth and families, and contribute to the quality of life that makes our community special.
We are excited to launch three important planning efforts that will help shape the future of Columbus Parks and Rec: an update to our Five-Year Parks Strategic Master Plan, a Donner Park Master Plan, and a Mill Race Park Master Plan.
While each plan has a different focus, together they provide an opportunity to take a thoughtful look at where we are today and where we want to go in the future. Our strategic master plan will help establish a broader vision and priorities for the Parks Department over the next five years, while the Donner Park and Mill Race Park master plans will take a closer look at two of our community's most important and well-loved parks.
Most importantly, these plans are about our community, not just our department. The best plans are created by listening to the people who use our parks, trails, and facilities every day, as well as those who may not be using them today but could benefit from them in the future. Throughout this process, we will be seeking input from residents, park users, community organizations, local partners, businesses, youth, families, and others who have a perspective on the future of our parks. Through surveys, public meetings, community conversations, and other opportunities to participate, we want to hear what is working, what could be improved, and what you would like to see in the years ahead.
Your voice will help us identify priorities, guide future investments, enhance programming and amenities, and ensure our parks continue to meet the changing needs of our community.
I invite you to explore this website, learn more about each of the three planning efforts, and most importantly, get involved. This is an opportunity for all of us to help shape the future of Columbus Parks and Rec.
Thank you for investing your time, ideas, and energy in our community. I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish together.
Director
Columbus Parks and Recreation Department
A Strategic Master Plan is a thoughtful, forward-looking five-year roadmap that helps us understand the current and future needs of our parks and recreation system. It’s about anticipating the spaces and programs our community will need as it grows, and crafting a shared vision for how to develop and enhance these spaces over the long term. Additionally, 5-year master plan update is a requirement to secure state and outside funding as well as seek or renew National Accreditation. At the heart of the process is you - the community. By actively involving residents and listening to their input, we ensure that the plan reflects the priorities, desires, and values of our residents, laying a strong foundation for a vibrant, sustainable parks system for future generations.
Through this plan, we'll prioritize what matters most to you - whether it's new programs, improved facilities, or accessible green spaces, laying the groundwork for a parks system that grows and adapts alongside our community for years to come. It's about creating spaces that bring people together, promote well-being, and enrich daily life. From property values to economic impact and rebuilding a sense of community pride, parks and recreation provide a tremendous benefit to our community. The value proposition is priceless.
Show up and ensure your voice is heard as we shape the future of Columbus.
NexusPark, Entrance 2
5pm – 7pm
5 – 6 pm :
General Parks Input Session
6 – 7 pm :
Mill Race Park Input Session
Donner Center
6pm – 8pm
6 – 7 pm :
General Parks Input Session
7 – 8 pm :
Donner Park Input Session
The planning process will actively involve the community, gathering feedback through surveys, public forums, and
stakeholder meetings to ensure that the priorities and concerns of our residents are reflected.
Help shape the future of your community parks and local recreation spaces by actively engaging with our planning team.
Online Survey Coming in October 2026
Tell us about your experiences at Donner Park, Mill Race Park, NexusPark or any other parks, programs and offerings.
Submit Feedback
Want to be in the know for future Master Plan events and engagements?
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