Parks Master Plan

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

To the Community of Woodstock,

I am pleased to introduce Woodstock's 2024 Parks and Recreation Plan—a visionary initiative that aims to transform our parks into vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic spaces that truly reflect the spirit of our city, and that will guide our future development. This plan is the result of dedicated community input, thoughtful planning, and a deep commitment to enhancing the quality of life for every resident.

Here’s a glimpse of the exciting initiatives within this plan:

1. High Quality Spaces: We are committed to investing in our existing parks, ensuring they are well-maintained and meet the evolving needs of our community. This includes updating amenities, improving trails, and enhancing green spaces for community gatherings.

2. Recreation Facilities and Features: Our plan includes recommendations for developing recreational spaces that cater to the diverse interests of our residents. From sports fields and courts to picnic spots and community gardens, we aim to foster recreation and togetherness.

3. Connectivity: We are focused on making Woodstock a place that fosters community connections. This plan includes initiatives to enhance the connectivity of our parks and regional values, making it easier for everyone to access and enjoy our green spaces.

4. Enhanced Safety and Maintenance: The safety and enjoyment of our community are top priorities. We are investing in improved lighting, regular maintenance, and clear signage to ensure our parks are welcoming and secure for all.

I believe you’ll share my enthusiasm for the opportunities and improvements we have in store for our parks. I encourage you to stay involved and look out for upcoming events where we’ll share our progress and next steps. Together, we can make Woodstock’s parks the heart of our vibrant city.

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Erica Poremba

Dan Malone

Brad Ball

Renee Torrez

Becky Vidales

Alex Baker

Lisa Haderlein

Alan Dunker

Timothy Schroeder

CITY OF WOODSTOCK

Mark Pentecost

Christina Betz

Danielle Gulli

Dave Zinnen

Brent Aymond

Nicole Lewakowski

John Mecklenburg

WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL

Darrin Flynn

Melissa McMahon

Tom Nierman

Bob Seegers

Gordie Tebo

Natalie Ziemba

WOODSTOCK PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION

Mark Pentecost

Mike McCleary

Jason Cohen

Karen Gutierrez

Shannon Jackson

Peter Riis

WOODSTOCK HIGH SCHOOL

Jason Huber

Liam Hanson

Lucas Rubio

Peter Muschong

Hunter Vassar

Arthur Vallicelli

Michael Moan

A. Celentano

Sheila King

CONSULTANT TEAM

DESIGN WORKSHOP

Anna Laybourn, Principal in Charge

Manisha Kaul, Principal in Charge

Sara Egan, Project Manager

Ashley McKnight, Planner

Alexandra Pollock, Planner

BALLARD KING & ASSOCIATES

Scott Caron

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS...

D200

Master Plan Advisory Committee

Focus Group participants

LIST OF FIGURES

WEXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PLAN OVERVIEW

The City of Woodstock has consistently planned for parks and open space from the very inception of the community with the siting of Park in the Square or “Court House Square” in the original community of Centerville in 1844. The city continued its commitment to providing proper planning for parks and open space through the most recent Parks Master Plan, adopted in 2006. As many of the goals within that guiding document were worked towards and accomplished, Woodstock’s dedication to parks planning is now being modernized and refocused once again. This document will support ongoing efforts to expand and improve park and recreational facilities for Woodstock residents. As Woodstock continues to grow and change, it is imperative that the park system receive the level of investment necessary to meet the social, cultural, and recreational needs of the community, and to ensure long-term sustainability and resiliency of these lands.

Input from citizens and community leaders has made clear that this plan must focus on addressing a backlog of maintenance projects and updating recreation amenities in poor condition, yet almost equally important to the community is the development of new recreational opportunities and improving connections between parks, community destinations and natural areas (Figure 1).

As the city looks to the future, its biggest hurdle is obtaining funding and staff resources needed to care for parks, recreation, open spaces, and trails as well as support programming and events. With additional resources, community support, and prioritization of investments, the city can continue to take transformative actions to ensure the park system is flourishing for generations to come.

"We

PLAN PURPOSE

WHY PLAN?

"The

"Every park should be fully accessible."

"I would love a

The Parks Master Plan is a guide for the future of Woodstock’s parks over the next 10-15 years. The plan will model a high-quality, unique park system that serves the community equitably, promotes health and wellness, improves quality of life, and connects people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Building on Woodstock’s rich history, natural beauty, and strong sense of community, the plan will communicate the city’s commitment to preserving, enhancing, and balancing distribution of parks, open spaces, and recreational amenities for the benefit of all community members.

This plan addresses the following questions: Where should there be new parks?

• How can park facilities be improved?

• How are the current parks functioning? How can they better serve the community?

• How can the Recreation Department programming better serve the community?

• How can the park system be more accessible and welcoming to all? How will the City fund the plan?

• How does the plan’s priorities impact the capital budget?

• What capital projects should be prioritized within the next decade?

Figure 1: Community Survey Question Responses

Groundhog Day Celebration at Park in the Square

"Have features such as bike trails and hiking trails that bring people to town."

"I would like to see accessible playgrounds and recreation with soft surfaces and plenty of shade."

need to focus on the existing parks and the maintenance they require."

park department should work with Woodstock to develop an ADA plan."

park with more to do for bigger kids."

PLAN OVERVIEW

PLAN FRAMEWORK

The plan is organized by a series of “themes” identified through community and stakeholder engagement. The document provides:

1. A brief history of the park system.

2. A summary of recreation trends and user groups.

3. An overview of related planning efforts.

4. A summary of the existing state of parks and recreation including an inventory and level of service analysis.

5. A description of the plan principles and key takeaways from stakeholder and community engagement.

6. A clear set of priorities for short, near and long-term implementation to aid City staff, Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council in decision-making.

7. A set of goals, actions and policy recommendations to address the opportunities outlined by the community.

Equity

ALIGNMENT WITH THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

This plan should be considered a supporting element of the Comprehensive Plan as a path to achieve the vision set forth: “Public facilities, such as schools and parks, provide high quality services to residents and have the capacity to support growth.” This plan provides additional details to achieve comprehensive plan goals related to the maintenance, management and enhancement of Woodstock’s parks and open spaces as well objectives related to safe pedestrian and bicycle paths, management of natural resources, environmental preservation, and maintenance related to the parks and recreation system. The Comprehensive Plan identifies lands for new residential development, while this plan provides guidance as to how the parks and recreation system can maintain National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) level of service standards as the community grows.

CITY SERVICE AREA

The City of Woodstock's official jurisdiction extends to the corporate limits of the city. However, the role of the city's park and recreational services extends well beyond these political and taxation boundaries. The city is situated in the center of McHenry County and is surrounded mostly by unincorporated land. These surrounding unincorporated residents are part of, and served by, the McHenry County Conservation District, but there is no other park district or adjoining jurisdiction that offers the variety of facilities and recreation programs offered by the City of Woodstock. The result is that the City's facilities and programs are also used extensively by these non-residents. The primary planning area has a population of 25,630, while the school district takes in a population of 38,189. For this plan to be realistic and meaningful, it must account for this additional population. The Parks and Recreation Commission advises and provides recommendations to the CIty Council to assist with the planning and operation of the city's Park and Recreational facilities.

VISIONING PROCESS

VISION

This Park System Master Plan is Woodstock’s first park system master plan in nearly 20 years. This process offered the planning team the opportunity to understand residents’ perspectives on values, current park use, recreational needs and opportunities for improvement. Engagement included a community-wide survey, focus groups, youth workshops and a community workshop. Additionally, the Advisory Committee, representative of Woodstock’s diversity from across the city—provided invaluable guidance and leadership through the process. Around 1,000 community members provided their input during the planning process.

This Plan is a culmination of community engagement and thorough analysis. The following process indicates how engagement opportunities were woven into the plan’s creation:

Existing Conditions: This phase served to gain a thorough understanding of existing conditions to develop an inventory, review past planning efforts, review the parks system per NRPA standards and compare local trends to national trends centered on engagement with the Parks and Recreation Departments.

Analysis: During this phase, the team completed an analysis of current conditions through the lens of equity, access and distribution of parks and recreation opportunities as well as any gaps in park space, amenities and programming. This phase concluded with the identification of challenges and opportunities through focus group and Advisory Committee discussions and a city leadership briefing.

A Shared Vision: The visioning phase included additional focus group discussions, Advisory Committee meetings, youth engagement at Woodstock High School, a community workshop and open house, and a communitywide survey. Through the culmination of this phase, a set of plan themes, listed on the following page, were established and endorsed.

1. EQUITY

Promote inclusion in our park spaces, facilities, and programs ensuring that all persons have equitable and appropriate access to Woodstock’s park and recreation system.

2. PLACEMAKING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Coordinate park system strategic direction with Woodstock’s economic development objectives.

3. NATURAL RESOURCES

Strengthen the coexistence between nature and community through preservation and enhancement of the natural beauty of parks, fostering biodiversity, and encouraging environmental consciousness among residents.

4. ACCESS

Ensure all residents are within a safe 10-minute walk from parks.

5. INVESTMENT

Invest in Woodstock’s future.

PLAN CONTEXT PLAN PURPOSE

PAST,

OF THE PARK SYSTEM

Woodstock's commitment to parks has not faltered throughout its history, despite the many changes that have occurred to the system over the last 150 years. The City of Woodstock’s long-term dedication to public open space is apparent with the establishment of the city being centered around the Park in the Square back in 1844. Today, the Park in the Square still serves as a central focal point for the community and a crucial portion of the park system. Following the development of Park in the Square, the City issued a permit for Olson Park in 1939, then purchased land for Emricson Park (then called City Park) in 1945 before unveiling the plans for Ryder’s Woods in 1965. The commitment to serving residents and visitors was further solidified through the

development of the Parks and Recreation Commission in 1996, though this commission took on several names prior, with the intention to serve as a recommending and supporting body to City officials regarding parks and recreation activities for the City of Woodstock.

The Parks System continues to evolve and advance, as seen in the completion of the Merryman Fields Park and the near completion of the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground. Consistent dedication to catering to the needs of system users has laid the groundwork for a valuable network of parks and open spaces. This Plan will guide decision makers to ensure that this commitment to providing high-quality opportunities for all remains at the forefront of future planning processes.

It is critical to take community demographics into consideration when planning for the future of parks and recreation in order to provide opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Woodstock’s population is 25,538 (ESRI, 2023). Over the past 20 years (between 2000 and 2020) Woodstock’s population rapidly grew by over 70%. Growth steadied between 2010-2021, however was still larger than the growth experienced across McHenry County. The average household size of Woodstock is 2.52 and estimated to decrease to 2.48 by 2025. Although the household size is estimated to decrease, according to Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) Woodstock is projected to grow by approximately

4,300 households. In terms of ethnicity, the population is largely White (69.3%) followed by Hispanic (26.9%), and Black (2.9%). Woodstock Parks and Recreation must continue to implement strategic actions to welcome, support, and cater to the current and future population. For instance, steps that Woodstock can take include providing signage in multiple languages, parks near new home development, and multi-generational recreation programs.

Historic Woodstock

Source: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning Woodstock Community Data Snapshot (2024), ESRI Business Analyst, US Census Bureau

Figure 3: Community Profile Metrics

CONNECTION TO OTHER PLANS

This Plan supports and works together with foundational planning efforts that came before it. This ensures that the efforts put into previous plans are brought forward and grown upon. Existing planning efforts include the Comprehensive Plan, Green Infrastructure Plan, Environmental Plan, Streetscape Design Guidelines, Downtown Business Historic Preservation District Guidelines, Downtown Development Plan, 2005 Parks Master Plan, Branding Survey Outreach, and Public Arts plan.

Existing recommendations and goals that affect Woodstock’s park and recreation system, either directly or indirectly, were documented and used to inform this plan. There were multiple recurring recommendations across each of the plans. These include:

• Utilize private development to gain parks and open space and/or necessary recreation to meet the needs of a growing population.

• Preserve the historic aspect of the Square and Woodstock.

• Continue to emphasize the Square as a unique asset for the City of Woodstock by highlighting it through future development guidelines.

Work with partnerships to preserve natural assets and create local and regional trails.

RECREATION TRENDS

Nationwide recreation trends are an important consideration for the future of Woodstock’s park and recreation system as they outline recurring desires and opportunities that Woodstock will likely see. This plan places Woodstock in the wider context of regional and nationwide trends. By examining regional patterns, Woodstock can align goals with neighboring communities to ensure collaboration towards shared goals and resource management, promoting both accessibility and regional collaboration. Additionally, integrating national trends allows Woodstock to incorporate best practices in sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, ensuring that its park and recreation facilities remain relevant and appealing.

Public parks and recreation agencies have been challenged in the last 10 to 20 years to alter their approach to providing parks and recreation services. This has been based on the following:

• Increasing Demands: Ever-increasing facility, program, and service demands from the public.

Inclusiveness: The requirement that agencies provide access to facilities, programs, and services to an increasingly diverse population. This includes meeting the needs of different ethnic groups, economic status, age, and ability.

• Cost Effectiveness: A demand that parks and recreation agencies be more cost effective in their development and operations of services and facilities.

• Measurable Outcomes: A strong need to be able to quantify the results and benefits of the programs and facilities that are provided. Establishing well defined levels of service (LOS) are critical.

Youth basketball

PLAN CONTEXT

Table 1: Nationwide Recreation Trends

AREA

SPECIFIC PROGRAMS

Sports   Youth Lacrosse

Adult Soccer

Adult Cricket

Youth & Adult Rugby   Pickleball

Youth Camps and Clinics

Individual Sports (Fencing)

Adventure/Non-Traditional (BMX, Mountain Biking, Disc Golf, Ultimate Frisbee)

E-Sports Competitions and Tournaments

Youth Sports Specific Training   Fitness/Wellness   Functional Training Classes

Personal/Small Group Training

Yoga

Nutrition/Cooking

Healthy Lifestyle Education   Cultural Arts

Youth

Music Production for Youth

Digital Media

Before and After School Programs at Recreation Centers, Specialty Summer Camps   Education   Camps, STEAM    Outdoor   Eco-Tourism

Environmental Education   Seniors

Fitness/Wellness

Sports (pickleball)

Baby Boomer Focused Activities   Aquatics   Therapy

Triathlon Training

General Interest   Personal Finance

Cooking

Special Events   Community Wide Events   Health and Wellness

Social Services   Feeding Programs, Job Training, Educational Support, Childcare   Other   Virtual Programming

Youth ballet

WTHE EXISTING STATE OF THE SYSTEM

CURRENT PARKS AND RECREATION

ECOSYSTEM OF PROVIDERS

STAFF

With limited staff and planning time, the city has a rather disjointed approach to maintaining parks and facilities as well as providing recreation programs, handling special events and operating facilities. The Parks Division operates within the Department of Public Works under the umbrella of Operations. The Recreation Department operates under the umbrella of Business Development. Other departments and divisions handle various aspects of providing parks and recreation to the community with Facilities and Fleet Maintenance in Operations and Marketing and Communications in Business Development.

Staffing within Parks and Recreation is limited and is divided into a number of areas as follows:

Parks Maintenance: This area has 10.5 full-time staff to maintain the park system. Two staff members are dedicated to Park in the Square leaving the remainer (8.5) to the rest of the system. Worthy to note is that special events are staffed by Parks Maintenance, creating time and staff conflicts for scheduled maintenance.

Special Events are also most often held on weekends requiring staff to work overtime.

Recreation Programs: There are 4 fulltime staff that oversees the aquatic center, playground program, sports leagues, swim lessons, special events and all other programs provided by the City.

Recreation Center: There is 1 full-time staff that is responsible for the operation and management of the recreation center.

Aquatic Center: There is not a full-time staff that is responsible for the operation and management of the aquatic center.

Facility Maintenance: There are 2.5 full-time staff that is responsible for the maintenance of all city facilities.

Fleet Maintenance: There are 3 full-time staff responsible for the maintenance of all city vehicles and equipment.

Marketing and Communications: There are 4 full-time staff responsible for the development and promotion of information related to services provided by the City of Woodstock. Given that they are not dedicated specifically to parks and recreation, a portion of marketing content produced by recreation is done by the existing recreation staff.

Benchmarking serves as a guide to assess staffing levels. Parks and recreation services are complex due to the differences in the approach and standards of each community. Parks staff in Woodstock is under Public Works (Figure 5) so there are shared resources, but analysis has highlighted that parks are often a lower priority. In general, this is a relatively low level of staffing for current operations of parks and other facilities. With the commitments that this plan requires, including the development of additional parks and trails and improvement of programming, additional staff is be required.

One full time employee in parks (2,080 hours of work) can be accomplished with 2 part-time or seasonal staff working 1,000 each or 1 fulltime working year-round. With full-time staff, there is an additional cost-benefit to balance with the appropriate tasks during the winter months. Typically, full-time staff more reliable, consistent and held to a higher standard. Parttime/Seasonal staff provide flexibility to work during the busiest times of the year, but filling positions can be difficult. As a result, in order to consistently meet the needs of the community and address the current staffing challenges, Woodstock needs additional year-round fulltime park staff.

Figure 4: Recreation Department Organizational Chart

Figure 5: Public Works - Parks and Streets Organizational Chart

CURRENT PARKS AND RECREATION

ECOSYSTEM OF PROVIDERS

With financial and staff capacity constraints, Woodstock cannot provide all of the opportunities that the community utilizes alone. There are many recreation programs in Woodstock that are offered by organizations outside of the Parks and Recreation Department. By taking advantage of relationships with community partners, Woodstock can continue to increase the programs available to the community. Those that currently exist and are provided by other organizations in the community outside of, or in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Department or the City include:

• McHenry County Conservation District

Dorr Township

• Woodstock Opera House

• Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)

• Marian Central Football

Woodstock Thunder Football (Flag & Tackle)

• Woodstock Thunder Cheer

• Woodstock Dolphins Swim Team

• Woodstock Hoops Feeder Basketball

Travel Girl’s Basketball

Woodstock United Soccer Association

• Woodstock Cyclones Wrestling Club

• Woodstock Square Dance Club

• Woodstock Girls Softball

Sportscity Heatwave

• Woodstock Little League

• Woodstock Challenger League

• Heat Travel Baseball

Rawlings Tiger Baseball/Softball

Adult Men’s Baseball

PARK CLASSIFICATIONS

The City of Woodstock’s parks and open space system is comprised of 24 park properties constituting approximately 644 acres. The system is classified into five distinct park types, based on characteristics of the park such as size, amenities offered, purpose for use, access and length of stay. Table 3 provides a description of each classification type. Neighborhood parks, which range from 1.5 – 10 acres in size, are the most common park type found in Woodstock, followed by natural areas. Natural lands make up the largest portion of the system by acreage, encompassing over half of the system with 355 acres (55%).

- 10 acres

Park

Neighborhood Parks are relatively small parks located in residential neighborhoods. These parks serve specific neighborhoods and have amenities that reflect those neighborhoods' characteristics and needs. Neighborhood Parks should be welcoming and accessible for children, family groups, small neighborhood gatherings, and senior citizens.

Community Park

10 - 30 acres

Community Parks meet the day-to-day park and recreational needs of Woodstock residents. These parks are a focal point for communitywide activities and group gatherings. They provide facilities that serve a broad audience and balance active and passive recreation needs. Community Parks usually have both day and evening activities and are distributed throughout the city.

Regional Park

10 - 50 acres

Regional Parks serve the entire community, including those in and around Woodstock, with their unique amenities. These parks bring people together at community- wide events and promote tourism and economic development.

Special Use Facility

Size Varies

Open

Special Use Facilities are parks with recreational facilities that serve specific types of users from across the city and region - such as soccer and softball teams, disc golf players and skateboarders.

Space/Green Space

Size Varies

These spaces typically provide environmental benefits, natural scenery, and unique features. They afford a pleasant environment to engage in passive recreation; preserve significant views and wildlife habitat; and provide outdoor and nature-oriented activities for residents and tourists. These lands protect sensitive environmental features such as steep slopes, floodplains and wetlands.

Conservation Area

Children's summer camp and sponsors.

Table 3: Park Classifications

Raintree Park

Emricson Park

Merryman Fields

Hennen

CURRENT PARKS AND RECREATION

Figure 6: Park Classifications

Hennen

CURRENT PARKS AND RECREATION

SYSTEM INVENTORY

Table 4 identifies metrics for Woodstock’s existing inventory as it compares to recommendations from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). This assessment considers amenities per number of 1,000 residents. Comparing these numbers is important in providing the residents of Woodstock with adequate level-of-service.

According to table 4, the city exceeds NRPA level of service recommendations with the exception of soccer fields. The level of service analysis on the following pages will further discuss Woodstock’s current conditions and future needs.

It should be noted that while NRPA national averages have set the tone and direction for park planning efforts for many years, it is increasingly becoming a best practice to develop multiple measures of quality of parks provision to evaluate level of service. In addition, establishing goals for level of service could consider comparison to benchmarked communities that are comparable in characteristics, such as size, regional location, culture/recreational trends, or climate.

Table 5 identifies the existing amenities within Woodstock’s parks. Please see the Appendix for the full park inventory. While there may be an ample amount of amenities, it is important to note the difference between quality and quantity. For instance, while there are multiple soccer fields at Davis Road Park, these fields do not have amenities that provide opportunities for hosting tournaments such as bathrooms, benches, and lighting.

CURRENT PARKS AND RECREATION

VISITOR DATA AND USER PROFILES

An online software system, NEAR, was utilized during this planning process to better understand the system users. NEAR is a provider of mobility data that analyzes historical visitation patterns for individual sites or systems of sites based on aggregate location data from cell phones. The data analyzed captured visitors from 7 months up to 12 months. The time captured was strategically selected to capture all seasons and high-traffic holidays. NEAR data has important considerations worth noting:

NEAR uses data that comes from cellphone users. Therefore, data does not accurately represent park users without cellphones, such as those under a certain age or visitors who cannot financially obtain one.

NEAR data should also be reviewed alongside the number of park users (See Analysis #1). Parks with higher annual visitors, such as Emricson and Park in the Square, likely have visitors that vary more in demographics. However, parks such as Apple Creek Park, that are tucked away in neighborhoods, are likely utilized by residents surrounding it and therefore, vary less in demographics such as income and age.

• NEAR data represents the park visitors, not the residents living around the parks. The park users may reflect a different story than that of the surrounding residents.

There were several key findings from this analysis identified below.

1. In general, park visitors throughout the entire system are reflective of the overall demographics in the city with three exceptions. One exception is that the median household income of park visitors which is $10,132 over Woodstock’s median household income. Hispanic visitors are also underrepresented as park users, making up 17% of park visitors but 22% of the citywide population. Lastly, the percentage of people visiting parks with high school education

(27%) is much lower than the percentage of Woodstock residents with a high school degree (34%).

2. The majority of park visitors are under 18, and the number of park visitors this age is likely larger when visitors without cellphones are considered. Most visitors under 18 have visited Castle Road Park. This is interesting because this reflects that more children are visiting an undeveloped park, rather than parks with amenities such as a playground or courts. On the other hand, McConnell Road Park has the highest percentage of visitors over the age of 65. This may be in part due to the passive and active amenities offered here. The park is comprised of open land for multi-uses, a path that can be utilized by bikers, walkers, and runners, tennis courts, as well as a playground. Mary Ann Street Park has the lowest percentage of visitors under 18 and over 65. However, it does see the highest percentage of visitors ages 18-24 and 45-54. This can speak to the importance of this park for young adults and families, given its centralized location in a neighborhood and its amenities: basketball, open field, and a playground.

3. The percentage of visitors by race across every park aligns with all the city’s overall demographic breakdown. The highest percentage of African American visitors, which is significantly higher than the city’s percentage (2%), were captured in Raintree Park (6%). Raintree Park features a playground and an open space that is being transformed into a meadow.

4. "Common Evening Location" identifies where a device rests in the evening and can be used to estimate where park visitors live. This location is derived based on where it rests during “non work” hours (6pm – 8am) and weekends. Table 6 displays the most common zipcodes for Park in the Square visitors. Unsurprisingly, a majority of visitors live in Woodstock (37.82%). This is followed

by visitors from Crystal Lake (5.48%) and Greenwood (5.36%). Users may be visiting Park in the Square for a variety of reasons. However, because it does not have parklike amenities, such as courts or playgrounds, it is likely that they may be visiting for events. The overall system can leverage adjacent visitors who are already visiting Woodstock by considering what amenities and events can be offered in other city parks that adjacent neighborhoods do not have.

Figure 7: NEAR Visitation Map

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

Currently, 89% of households in the City of Woodstock are within a 10-minute walk of a public park or natural land. While this is significantly higher than the national average of 55%, it is not the only measure of a complete parks, recreation, and natural lands system. This chapter evaluates Woodstock’s current parks, recreation offerings and natural lands to identify gaps in service, under-served areas or populations, and shortfalls in quality or maintenance. The analysis is reviewed through multiple equity lenses to ensure that changes to the park system do not have disproportionate consequences on people

based on their race, income, disability, gender, age, where they live, and more.

Closer examination of eight questions below point to aspects for improvement:

» Do we have enough parks?

» Are parks located in the right places?

» What are the conditions of parks and recreation?

» Are facilities meeting program needs?

» Are we managing natural lands to meet environmental goals?

» Is our system equitable and inclusive?

» How well are parks funded?

PARK ACREAGE

A common measurement to assess level of service (LOS) is park acreage compared to the population. Woodstock currently offers 644 total acres of parkland for its 25,538 residents, or a LOS of 25.21 acres of parks per 1,000 residents. This is significantly higher than the NRPA average of 10.8 acres per 1,000 residents, and even exceeds the NRPA average of 11.3 acres per 1,000 residents for cities with populations between 20,000 and 49,999.

Woodstock is projected to add approximately 4,300 residents by 2050, bringing the total population to approximately 29,838. If no additional parkland was added, Woodstock’s LOS would be 21.58 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, which would still exceed NRPA standards.

This data provides a baseline understanding of Woodstock’s parks and indicates that the City has an appropriate amount of parkland for its current population and projected growth. However, park acres must be designed, distributed, and programmed effectively to ensure the system is working as it should.

PARK CLASSIFICATIONS

Park classifications provide a deeper assessment of the system that goes beyond total acres. Woodstock’s parks can be classified into neighborhood parks, community parks, regional parks, natural areas, and special use parks, described in further detail in Table 3.

Emricson Park is the only regional park in Woodstock. Regional parks are larger in size and have more amenities and programming, and are therefore costly to maintain and operate. Emricson is not centrally located and can be considered as overprogrammed., so many areas of the city are not in close proximity to the unique amenities offered by Woodstock's regional park.

Woodstock has numerous natural areas within the city boundary, making up 55% of the parkland. This is typical compared to park systems nationally: according to the Natural Areas Conservancy, a majority of city parkland is natural, rather than designed (68% in 2019).

While natural areas are a key element of a city’s park system, they typically offer few opportunities for active recreation and must be balanced with other types of park to ensure the community’s needs are met.

The majority of parks in Woodstock are neighborhood parks. These parks are typically small with only a few amenities. Many of Woodstock’s neighborhood parks are currently comprised of open turf with little active recreation uses such as sports courts or walking paths.

While 9 of the city’s 24 parks (38%) are classified as neighborhood parks, it is notable that neighborhood parks make up the smallest portion of the system in terms of acreage (4%) (See Table 2). In contrast, the regional park classification makes up 19% of the system’s acreage, despite there only being one regional park (Emricson Park).

Figure 8: Park Inventory Map

Hennen Conservation Area

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

ARE PARKS IN THE RIGHT LOCATIONS?

WALKSHED

A walkshed is a representation of how far a pedestrian can travel to a destination. This walkshed analysis considered barriers that limit safe walking to parks including railroads, rivers, lack of sidewalks, and roads with a speed limit exceeding 45 miles per hour. These barriers can have a major impact on which households are within a safe and accessible distance from a park.

A significant majority of households in Woodstock are within a 10-minute safe walk from parks (83%). Compared to the national average of 55%, this number is considered very high. While this is a positive benchmark, it does not consider access to specific amenities or programs within the parks or the size of that park compared to the immediate surrounding population (acres per capita). For instance, although residents may live next door to a park, that park may lack amenities. Like park acreage, the ten-minute walk analysis must be examined alongside more targeted metrics to determine if residents truly have adequate access to parks.

ACCESS

The majority of Woodstock is serviced by sidewalks and there are numerous paths throughout the parks. However, there are few trail connections between parks. Some parks lack sidewalk connectivity, including Westwood Natural Area, Dufield Pond Conservation Area, Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Park, and Silver Creek Natural Area. The lack of sidewalks in some cases and quality of existing sidewalks in others is also a concern around A.J. Olson Park. Identifying areas that lack access allows the plan to identify potential future easements, trail connections and sidewalk connections.

In terms of regional connectivity, the only existing regional trail connection is Ridgefield Trace, which follows Route 14 south to Crystal

Lake. This indicates an opportunity for added greenways that connect more people to each other, to nature, and to city and regional destinations.

PARK ACCESS GAPS

Several residential areas have limited park access due to the barriers described above. For example, there is a residential area in close proximity to Silver Creek Natural Area and Bates Park that is bordered by McHenry Ave, a fast-moving road with a high traffic volume. Although Hickman Lane connects to Broadway Court, crossing over the large thoroughfare, there are no crosswalks, stop lights, or sidewalks, resulting in an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe pedestrian environment.

Similarly, although many homes are close to Westwood Natural Area, there is no dedicated accessible path that connects homes from inside the cul-de-sacs to the open space. Currently, residents must walk through private yards to access the space and as such the area is not included within the 10-minute walkshed.

Another large residential area that is underserved is in the eastern portion of the city, north of McConnell Road. While McConnell Road Park is intended to serve this neighborhood, the residences lack connections to the park. Currently, there is one park entrance along McConnell Road and two along Greenview Drive. There is also a golf course just north of the park, which limits park access from the residences to the north. As a result, some residents, including those who live along Harrow Gate Drive and Mallard Lane, are required to walk up McConnell Road, which lacks sidewalks, to access the park.

Schools with playgrounds are highlighted on the map to demonstrate that although some residents may not have safe, close, or comfortable access to Woodstock-operated parks, they may be able to access school district playgrounds.

ACCESS ZONES

To determine how well park acreage is distributed across Woodstock in terms of access, the plan utilizes major roads (Route 47, 120, and 14) and the Metra railroad line to create distinct park access zones within Woodstock. Considering these major barriers allows for a better understanding of park acreage per capita and reveals how different areas of the city are served by parks and open spaces. For instance, Zone C has the largest number of parks (8) but has only 58 acres. In contrast, Zone H has only one park with 64 acres. Zones

D and A have similar acreage, but Zone A is three times the size of Zone D. Zone E has 4 acres of parkland while Zone H has 64, despite a difference of only 100 residents. Zone F is the only zone with no parks, but this is adequate given the low population in the zone and the incompatible manufacturing uses in the area.

Analyzing access by zone reveals that some areas of the city do not meet NRPA standards, despite there being adequate park acreage citywide. Zones B and G are short 20 and 10 acres respectively to meet the NRPA average of 10.8 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.

Boundary

Railroad Waterbodies City of Woodstock Parks

Conservation Areas

Other Park Facilitator Parks

Boundaries

Figure 9: Walkshed Map

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS OF PARKS AND RECREATION?

QUALITY

Park quality is an essential factor when considering park access and equity. A highlevel analysis conducted by staff and the consultant team provides a point-in-time picture of park quality. Each park in the system was evaluated during a site visit and given a score based on the condition of amenities and any safety concerns.

Silver Creek Natural Area and Westwood Conservation areas are the only parks that were given a 1 (Poor/In Disrepair) in Woodstock. Silver Creek park is challenged by invasive species and currently does not offer public access.

Neighborhood parks, special use parks, and regional parks have an average rating of 4 (Exceptional). Natural areas and community parks have an average rating of 3 (Good).

The majority of the parks rated 2 (Fair) are located in downtown Woodstock. This is generally due to aging amenities and facilities and maintenance needs related to restrooms, trash, and water fountains. The Implementation section provides more detailed guidance for the future of parks that received a lower quality rating.

ATHLETIC FIELDS

In addition to the quality of parks, an important factor to consider is the quality of their amenities. There are several athletic fields used for programming throughout Woodstock.

An analysis was completed to determine the form, function, and quality of these fields (See the Appendix for the full analysis). In general, several key findings were emphasized through this analysis.

1. Entrance and park signage is inconsistent. At Bates Park, signage for connectivity to adjacent areas is lacking. Additionally, signage for internal wayfinding is also missing.

2. There are few permanent restrooms. Permanant restrooms are key to providing opportunities for large tournaments and games. Fields are limited in these, therefore minimizing their opportunities.

3. Amenities are inconsistent. The amenities offered at the numerous city fields differ. For instance, 4 of the 5 diamonds in Emricson have lighting, while none in Bates are illuminated. Similarly, some fields have dugouts and seating while others do not.

4. Accessible routes are limited. Routes accessible to all mobility types (biking, walking, wheelchairs, etc. ) are inconsistent at these fields.

To summarize, while many of the parks can provide opportunities for program offerings and the level of service is met in terms of quantity, there is room for improvements to the quality of these spaces.

Figure 10: Park Quality Map

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

ARE FACILITIES MEETING PROGRAM NEEDS?

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

The Parks Department offers a variety of recreational programming including aquatics, cultural arts, fitness, and senior programs. Most of the programming is targeted towards youth. Programs, activities, and special events typically take place at the Recreation Center and other city facilities, with a portion offered at private facilities.

Woodstock’s facilities are typically wellmaintained. However, the condition of the Woodstock Recreation Center has deteriorated with age which impacts programs. Some of the spaces are no longer appropriate for the City’s recreation needs and the Center lacks essential amenities. In general, there is a lack of programmable indoor space.

Another factor that contributes to the program challenges is that there are limited operational policies and procedures to ensure a uniform and consistent approach to providing programs and facilities. Formal agreements with user groups such as Thunder Football, Girls Softball, and Little League, should be established to standardize quality, consistency, and offerings. Ithe following outline is standard for such formal agreements. While an agreement can be incorporated into the normal license agreement, it may need to be separate.

In general, it is typical for the city (Woodstock) to provide standard facilities and amenities including fields, seating, lighting, restroom, benches, parking, etc. If the user/spectator experience is to be elevated, those improvements should be made by the user group.

PROGRAM DELIVERY

The Department currently uses multiple models to deliver programs to the community. The primary models can be described below. Table 7 identifies the challenges and opportunities of each model.

Staff Run: These programs are offered by the Department and are run by staff, both full-time and part-time, and can take place on a seasonal or annual basis. Examples include learn to swim, playground programs, etc.

Third Party: These programs may or may not appear in the Department’s seasonal program brochure but are run by a thirdparty contractor. These instructors are paid on a contract basis and there is typically a revenue split between the contractor and the Department. Examples include gymnastics, horseback riding, and golf.

Rental: These programs may or may not appear in the Department’s seasonal program brochure and are run by an outside group that is renting facility space from the Department.

OPPORTUNITIES

Run

Third Party

The Department has maximum control over the program, its content, and the instructors. They can also maximize revenue generation.

Using contract instructors/programmers allows the Department to pivot as trends shift. It also means that the Department does not have to hire additional part-time staff.

The Department is only renting the space, there is minimal staff time required, and it is transactional in nature.

CHALLENGES

The Department is responsible for managing and maintaining the staff.

The biggest challenge is managing the contract as to how the program is run will be a reflection on the Department.

The programs taking place during the rentals can be associated with the Department which can cause challenges if not done properly.

Although nationwide standards and trends help provide a baseline for the park system's offerings, it is important to note that each community is unique, which creates a strong bearing on individual trends and other operational factors. While Woodstock may not need to offer or provide many of the programs listed, in Table 1, recognizing current and future programming needs places additional stress on facilities and staff. Table 8 identifies activities that are emphasized in different ways by the city. Those that are high program areas have strategic focus by the city. However, areas listed under Limited Program Areas should have a prioritized focus for filling gaps such as programming for seniors and cultural arts. When compared with the list above, it is clear that the limited program areas should be prioritized as a focus in the future to align with the nationwide wants and needs. Programming offered by the city is limited, but outside service providers including McHenry County Conservation District and Dorr Township fill gaps in service. Nevertheless, there are several

programming areas that are not covered, including programs for teens.

The programs with the largest emphasis in Woodstock are aquatics, fitness/wellness, special events, and programming for residents with special needs. Programming is limited in the cultural arts, education, and outdoor recreation areas, as well as programming for seniors.

Table 9 summarizes participation in recreation activities over the past 2 years. The number of programs offered, and total participants, have increased by 14 and 118, respectively. Similarly, the number of programs full has also increased, however a portion of the programs are still not full. Coupled with 20% on the waitlist, Table 9 emphasizes the demand for programming that is proving to be a challenge to be met. This is due to lack of facilities to host the program, full time staff to coordinate programs, or a lack of instructors to teach. This analysis describes the importance of completing an evaluation on programs and their strengths and shortfalls.

Table 8: Program Emphasis

Table 9: Program Capacity

MODEL

Staff

Table 7: Department Model Challenges and Opportunities

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

ARE WE MANAGING NATURAL LANDS TO MEET ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS?

The City of Woodstock is situated in a broader ecological system and its parks can play a key role in protecting that system. The City includes many important environmental assets, including mature oak woodland, wetlands, and restored prairies. Its parks protect these landscapes, encourage biodiversity, and provide essential habitat for wildlife.

Tree canopy is an essential component of the City’s green network. Woodstock’s tree canopy is fairly low overall, with only 23% coverage citywide. There are several parks within the city with notably low coverage where planting additional trees should be prioritized, including Davis Road Park, Apple Creek Park, Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Park, Emricson Park, Raintree Park, Merryman Fields Park, Silver Creek Natural Area, Sonatas Park, and Westwood Natural Area.

Alternatively, many areas of clustered oak stands are contained within park boundaries, including Donato Conservation Area, Ryders Wood, and Westwood Natural Area. Preserving oaks and planning for their succession should be a priority in these areas.

A significant portion of Woodstock and the surrounding region is considered prime farmland or farmland of local or state importance. This can be an important consideration for opportunities such as developing community gardens within parks or preserving natural land as open space.

An overlay analysis in GIS was used to define high-value ecological land in and around Woodstock. The data layers include oak woodlands and prime farmland along with existing protected areas, flood zones, and wetlands. Much of this land is contained within existing park boundaries; however, there are expanses of high-value ecological land that is

not protected within the current system. These areas, identified on the map using a blue circle, are opportunities to be preserved as natural open space or activated as a park.

The Comprehensive Plan indicates that residential growth is planned for several areas containing high-value ecological land. It is critical to ensure that ecological priorities are considered in the planning and design of new growth areas.

Figure 11: Ecological Priority Zones

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

IS OUR SYSTEM EQUITABLE AND INCLUSIVE?

The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to the provision of parks and recreation services that meet the needs of all Woodstock residents in an equitable way, particularly providing strategic opportunities for those who stand to benefit most from the positive impacts of parks. To identify which areas of the city should be prioritized for park development from an equity standpoint, a weighted overlay was conducted using demographic, environmental, and health variables (Table 10).

DRAFT EQUITY ZONES - DEMOGRAPHIC

This DRAFT equity map identifies zones in darker blue that may be prioritized from an equity standpoint in the parks planning process.

This map includes demographic layers:

• Poverty rate

• % non-white population

• Population density

• Median income

The outcome of that overlay can be seen in the Composite Equity Map. This map indicates that the central portion of Woodstock requires additional attention and/or investment from an equity perspective. This part of the city contains multiple parks, including Park in the Square, Sesquicentennial Park, Raintree Park, Ryders Woods, and Dick Tracy Way Park. These parks represent various classifications and are generally in good condition. However, the relative inequitably of the surrounding neighborhoods indicate that these parks should be evaluated closely to ensure they are meeting user needs.

This DRAFT equity map identifies zones in darker blue that may be prioritized from an equity standpoint in the parks planning process.

LEGEND

This map includes demographic layers:

Woodstock Boundary

Other Municipal Boundaries

Waterbodies

Parks

Railroad Tracks

EQUITY PRIORITY

Highest Priority

Lowest Priority

ZONES - DEMOGRAPHIC

This DRAFT equity map identifies zones in darker blue that may be prioritized from an equity standpoint in the parks planning process.

SOURCES: McHenry County, Esri, HERE, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, EPA, NPS, USGS, FEMA

This map includes

SOURCES: McHenry County, Esri, HERE, Garmin, SafeGraph,

Figure 12: Composite Equity Map

Figure 13: Demographic Overlay

LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

Future equity investment may include targeted engagement to ensure that specific parks reflect the surrounding neighborhood’s diversity, that amenities are aligned with residents’ preferences, that recreation opportunities are affordable and accessible, and that all residents feel welcome.

CASE STUDIES:

1. Murphy Park, Phoenix, Arizona: Located in a historically diverse neighborhood, Murphy Park mirrors the multicultural character of the surrounding community. The park features culturally themed events and amenities that cater to a variety of ethnic groups, including play areas and community gardens.

2. La Villita Historic Arts Village, San Antonio, Texas: This park is located in a historic district with a strong Latino influence. As a result, it features cultural and artistic displays. It is also the host location for local Hispanic heritage events.

3. Teardrop Park, New York City, New York: Located in the Battery Park City neighborhood, Teardrop Park is a park designed with input from local residents. It includes unique play areas and art installations that reflect the demographic mix of the area.

4. Ping Tom Park, Chicago, Illinois: This park is located in Chinatown, famously known for its ethnic diversity. The community was encouraged to provide input on the park and ideas for its future. The park reflects the surrounding community through pagodas and Chinese-influenced gardens.

HOW WELL ARE PARKS FUNDED?

There are several budgets that cover recreation facilities and facilities maintenance, including the following:

General Fund: Budget for the recreation department, facilities, fleet, community events and marketing and communications.

• Aquatic Center Fund: Budget for Woodstock Water Works.

• Recreation Center Fund: Budget for the operations and maintenance of the recreation center.

• Parks Fund: Budget for the operations and maintenance of the parks.

Parks Development Fund: Budget for development and improvement of park facilities. Financed through new residential development.

• Special Recreation Fund: Budget for programming for individuals with special needs. Financed through property taxes. The majority of funds are allocated to the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association.

Approximately 55% of revenue for Parks and Recreation comes from taxes, while 43% comes from fees and charges. This is higher than the national average of operating expenditures that

comes from non-tax revenue ( 24.6%). This is beneficial in reducing reliance on public funds and providing flexibility in allocating funds. 56% of Parks and Recreation expenditures are for staff salaries, which is on par with the national average of 55%. However, there is a relatively low level for the current operations of parks and other facilities. In general, operations and maintenance funding is inadequate and do not cover the costs of expenses (Table 11). Operational budgets need to better reflect the true costs of providing services and maintaining facilities.

Considering the amount of activity and number of events that take place at Park in the Square and Emricson Park, expenditures related to these parks should be tracked separately. This is considered best practice for Parks and Recreation agencies. Additionally, the Department should consider adopting a Comprehensive Maintenance Plan to standardize how facilities are maintained and to determine what additional funding is needed to achieve adequate levels of maintenance.

Table 11: Parks and Recreation Funding

Ping Tom Park, Chicago IL Source: Wikimedia Commons

WCOMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY INPUT

WHAT DID WE HEAR?

One of the primary goals of this planning process was to ensure that recommendations were driven by community input. The planning team asked residents to envision their future parks and recreation system and to describe how it may fall short in meeting the community's needs. This plan and its recommendations reflect what the planning team heard — that Woodstock residents envision a “high-quality, unique park system that serves the community equitably, promotes health and wellness, and connects people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.”

The Woodstock community clearly recognizes the importance and value of parkland, park facilities, recreational facilities, and open space as a critical and essential part of the overall quality of life. Input from community members, staff, and stakeholders has made clear that this plan must focus on the care and maintenance of existing assets first and foremost, in addition to improving safe connections between recreation assets.

This Plan is both pragmatic and visionary. It seeks to build on and complete previous planning efforts, close gaps in the park system, anticipate future growth, ensure all residents have a high-quality park or green space close to home, and lay the groundwork towards achieving an exemplary park system that Woodstock community is proud to call their own. The recommendations of this plan reflect community priorities, both short- and aspirational.

Several tactics were used to gather input from community members, technical stakeholders, advisory committee members, and staff to inform the plan. Community members were encouraged to participate in these engagement strategies through several advertisements including yard signs posted around town, flyers, and social media postings.

FOCUS GROUPS

Three 60-minute focus group meetings were hosted at the onset of 2024. Over 30 individuals representing different organizations, interests, clubs, and groups in Woodstock were invited to attend. The meetings provided an overview of the current conditions and analysis findings and engaged in live polling and discussion about user challenges and opportunities. Focus group discussions reflected a variety of perspectives and user experiences. Maintenance, diversity of amenities and opportunities, and the need for restrooms across the park system came up in nearly every discussion. Input from these conversations laid the foundation for creating a shared community vision and for formulating community survey questions.

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

Two youth-specific sessions were hosted on April 25th, 2024 at Woodstock High School. The students were informed about the project and what the plan would entail and asked to share their thoughts for the future as well as existing challenges through map exercises focused on future amenities, access and connectivity throughout the park system. Of note was the detailed input from the Project Lead the Way class regarding specific recommendations for improved walkability to and between park assets.

COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

One 90-minute workshop was held on April 25th, 2024, at the Community Opera House. Through a series of small group exercises and facilitated discussion, 25 attendees provided feedback on the proposed plan themes and goals. A group mapping exercise encouraged participants to communicate desired future park amenities across the park system, which was organized into four quadrants of

Woodstock. Participants were provided with a set of maps displaying Woodstock’s current park system and a sheet of stickers containing different park amenities or improvements. They were instructed to place stickers on the maps at the locations they wished to see future park investments or enhancements.

COMMUNITY SURVEY

A community-wide survey process helped establish a collective vision and understanding of park spaces according to system users. All community members, regardless of their connection to Woodstock, were encouraged to participate in the survey. The survey was open for a total of ten weeks throughout the visioning phase of the plan creation. In that time, the survey captured input from 960 respondents.

Community members providing input at the Plan Workshop

ENGAGEMENT TAKEAWAYS

Figure 16: Engagement Takeaways of survey respondents live in the City of Woodstock

87%

46% of respondents have lived in Woodstock more than 20 years

35-44 is the age range of most respondents (25%)

35% of respondents live in central Woodstock

When you imagine what Woodstock’s park system could look like in 25 years, what are the most important community benefits you hope become part of the vision and roadmap provided by this Master Plan?

Parks that promote social connections (6%)

Parks that improve residents’ health and wellness ( 15%)

Parks that protect environmental health and natural resources (e.g. stormwater, air quality and habitat) ( 17%)

Destination’ parks and outdoor areas that promote economic development (5%)

Neighborhood parks that meet the daily and year-round needs of nearby residents (15%)

Sports and recreation opportunities that are strategically located to meet local and regional demand (12%)

More park and recreation programs (e.g. fitness classes, etc.) (6%)

High-quality and connected system of greenways and other bike/pedestrian amenities (paved trails) for getting around (20%)

Other (4%)

1. Which of the following Woodstock parks did you visit in the past year?

2. Based on your experience in Woodstock’s parks, are there any parks that you feel are in poor condition?

For each of the types of facilities or places, please indicate whether you have too much, too little, or the right amount. (Top 3 from each category)

Not Enough Right Amount

What, if anything, prevents you or others in your household from utilizing Woodstock’s recreation facilities, programs, parks or natural lands more often?

Suppose that an extra $1 million was made available, and you were able to determine how it was spent. How would you distribute that budget among the possible choices listed below?

Development of new

Increase maintenance and quality of

1. Splashpad/spray water 2. Plumbed restrooms

W

PRINCIPLE EQUITY

Equity was reviewed through multiple lenses during the planning process, including an examination of park and amenity distribution, demographic representation, and accessibility. The intersections between population density, income, and experiences of environmental injustice in Woodstock are significant for park planning purposes. This theme represents promoting inclusion in park spaces, facilities, and programs. Through implementation of this theme, all persons in Woodstock will have equitable and appropriate access to the park and recreation system.

WHAT WE HEARD

“Expand the number and/ or size of the parks and trails system to provide more recreational opportunities” was selected as one of the top priorities for the future.

A majority of respondents selected “Parks that improve residents’ health and wellness” as an ideal community benefit of this plan.

The Intergenerational Inclusive Playground provides opportunities for users of all abilities.

RECOMMENDATIONS

PROMOTE INCLUSION IN

PARK SPACES, FACILITIES, AND PROGRAMS THROUGH EQUITABLE AND EFFECTIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN PARK PLANNING PROCESSES TO BALANCE VARIOUS PERSPECTIVES AND PREFERENCES.

An inclusive system begins with creating ownership during the planning process. An inclusive parks system considers the physical, cultural, social, and economic needs of various groups. It works to reflect specific, unique needs in park facilities, amenities, and programming opportunities. Community engagement and relationship building will be central to Woodstock's pursuit of an equitable and inclusive parks system.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Require that all new park development and existing park improvement projects are driven by a robust and community-based engagement and design process.

2. Continue to build relationships with trusted community partners to reach under-represented groups and young people.

3. Develop a partnership with the local Homeowners Associations to ensure that parks and recreation needs of neighborhood associations are being met.

4. When creating a park plan, continue engaging community members to understand the features and amenities that will best serve neighborhoods.

5. When replacing elements in poor condition or at the end of their life cycle, replace with options that meet Universal Design and Accessibility Guidelines.

6. Collaborate with City leadership and social service providers to promote and support education and roles regarding unhoused populations in park spaces.

7. Incorporate diverse cultural and historical education opportunities in both new and existing programming, where appropriate.

8. Create and/or maintain partnerships with organizations focused on accessibility and inclusivity.

HONOR THE CULTURE, STORYTELLING, ART, AND HISTORY OF WOODSTOCK’S DIVERSE POPULATION, PAST AND PRESENT.

Park design and programming should reflect and celebrate the identity and histories of the entire Woodstock population, particularly those of traditionally marginalized communities. Highlighting and recognizing histories and diverse cultures within park design and cultural activities can increase diversity of users, foster civic identity, and attract new audiences to the parks.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Honor culturally and historically diverse stories and language through partnerships, programming, ceremonies, land management, signage and interpretation, art, and proactive community engagement.

2. Partner with Woodstock’s arts initiative and Arts Commission to implement aspects of the Woodstock Public Art’s Plan including the exploration of financially sustainable options for the creation and enjoyment of public art in park spaces that honors the diverse heritages and histories of the community including Hispanic culture. Consider the creation of a percent dedication to arts in all park design/capital project budgets.

3. Ensure that diversity is reflected in all public-facing advertisements and communication of parks and park programming through all images that include people and text choice. Avoid language that could be interpreted as biased, exclusionary, or insensitive.

RECOMMENDATIONS

PROVIDE ADDITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS WITHIN EQUITY PRIORITY ZONES.

Page 29 identifies Equity Priority Zones within city boundaries., those with high portions of demographic, environmental, and health factors. This goal focuses on expanding access to parks and recreation by establishing additional neighborhood parks within the Equity Priority Zones. Through the strategic development of parks in these underserved communities, all Woodstock residents will have equitable access to quality green spaces and recreational opportunities.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Prioritize providing amenities and additional neighborhood parks within underserved areas, or areas farthest from Emricson Park, and in areas targeted for future residential growth.

2. Provide intergenerational park programming to promote health and mental wellbeing by providing people of all ages and abilities opportunities for physical activity, time in nature, social connection, and respite.

PROVIDE EQUITABLE, HIGH-QUALITY OUTDOOR EDUCATION AND PROGRAMMING THAT ENCOURAGES MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS WITH NATURE IN PARK SPACES AND ENSURES IT MEETS THE NEEDS OF ALL WOODSTOCK RESIDENTS.

Conversations with focus groups and survey responses indicated that Woodstock is lacking outdoor education opportunities. More efforts are needed to educate system users on proper stewardship and the importance of natural lands. Educational efforts might include wildlife observation, learning about local ecosystems, and teaching users seasonal best practice for care and upkeep. By encouraging residents to learn about the parks and open space system and participate in initiatives that steward, enhance, and maintain open space, Woodstock’s parks system will improve and promote more value for the system.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Address current programming gaps through programming targeted towards seniors and teens as well as general interest programming.

2. Support a dynamic programming evaluation process for all program offerings and options for adjusting programs and/or resources, as needed, based on evaluation outcomes.

3. Apply consistent program metrics and benchmarks, such as a minimum number of registrants, to ensure enrollment, attendance, budget, and cost recovery are meeting established goals.

4. Monitor program trends against regional and national offerings to ensure that programs are current and reflect evolving recreational interests.

5. Survey residents annually to ensure that park programming meets the needs of the population.

6. Expand the current cost recovery system to determine if it adequately covers the cost for recreational programming.

7. Develop a comprehensive athletic field use policy.

8. Execute an audit in all parks to ensure that they meet ADA requirements.

WPLACEMAKING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PLACEMAKING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Investing in a city's park and recreation system is a strategic initiative that speaks to contributing to Woodstock’s future. This theme encompasses the enhancement and expansion of green spaces, recreational facilities, and community programs through the prioritized allocation of resources and capital to create and maintain a vibrant park system that contributes to the overall wellbeing of the community.

A majority of respondents selected “Events and programming that respond to communityspecific needs” as one of the top park investment priorities for the future.

A large majority of respondents selected that there are not enough community centers in Woodstock.

Woodstock is regionally known for its Groundhog Day celebrations, bringing many visitors to the city.

RECOMMENDATIONS

CREATE “DESTINATION PARKS” AND ENSURE THAT EACH HAS ICONIC CHARACTERISTICS AND DISTINCTIVE QUALITIES.

Community feedback strongly emphasized the desire for park improvements that are focused on creating destinations. This includes the implementation of unique attractions that push the boundaries of typical park elements such as playgrounds and benches. A variety of play types, both exciting and adventurous, will make parks a special destination worth traveling to for children and families. Destination amenities encourage taking advantage of the spaces already available in Woodstock and incorporating transformative elements that invite activity.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Offer diverse user experiences throughout the parks and open space system.

2. Position the park system to host regional recreation events and tournaments to bolster tourism. If the City wishes to maintain or increase their foothold in the tournament market, moving some fields to synthetic turf would be appropriate including at least 2 of Merryman and 2 at Bates. Consider developing a field house at these parks.

ACTIVATE PARK SPACES TO SUPPORT LOCAL, SOCIAL, AND CULTURAL INTERACTIONS.

As the responsible party for activating park spaces, it is important that Parks and Recreation have sound policies, procedures, and communication channels that allow events and programming to bring people together with relative ease. Park activation can occur through city- or partner-led programming that is well-planned and marketed, supervised, and helps people feel comfortable in park spaces. Park activation should be tailored to neighborhood demographics and cultures and should range in offerings for different opportunities for all.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Collaborate with local organizations to expand and strengthen opportunities for third-party entities to provide small-scale, pop-up park amenities that invite social interactions. Host popular activities in under-utilized park spaces that are well-maintained to better activate and increase awareness of those park spaces.

2. Review and revise plans, policies, and ordinances to better facilitate commercial operations and activate community spaces, including operations for food trucks, market vendors, e-mobility, beer gardens, and entertainment providers.

3. Identify opportunities for amenities that can be used by all ages to enhance areas for colocation across ages.

4. Incorporate Universal Design guidelines in all new and updated parks and open spaces.

5. Increase benches/picnic tables/seating in parks system-wide.

6. Incorporate “court games” to enhance community gathering/interaction such as horseshoes, bocce courts, outdoor ping pong tables, and chess tables for example.

7. Encourage parks to be important sites for civic gathering and activity. Establish a communitybased process using arts and cultural expression to create or rejuvenate parks and open spaces.

8. Explore adding pocket parks in the equity priority zones that focus on authentic placemaking and convert unwanted, remnant spaces into highly cherished and beloved areas that all can enjoy.

9. Consider the consolidation of events under one department. Establish a policy around how events occur and are executed based on the intent and impact of the event.

10. Track expenses related to non-City hosted events and consider passing along the costs to the organization hosting the event.

WNATURAL RESOURCES

NATURAL RESOURCES

Woodstock City has an extensive park system with over 600 acres of park land at 24 different locations. Of these, 6 parks are natural lands, equating to 355 acres of natural area. There is often a misconception that these spaces require little to no work for upkeep. However, nature near urban areas requires strategic planning to not only be protected or maintained, but to thrive. Thriving natural areas offer environmental benefits, such as supporting diverse wildlife, providing resilience to natural disasters, and improved air and water quality. This theme encourages the coexistence between nature and community through preservation and enhancement of the natural beauty of parks, fostering biodiversity, and supporting environmental consciousness among residents. In connection with the Comprehensive Plan, this plan intends to ensure the preservation and protection of cherished natural resources and amenities.

WHAT WE HEARD

In general, community members would like to see more opportunities to engage with nature such as an increase in nature trails and preserves.

Enjoying nature or wildlife was the top “extremely important” reason selected why survey respondents utilize Woodstock’s parks and recreation.

A majority of survey respondents believe that there are not enough environmental education opportunities available in Woodstock.

Community members would like to prioritize “Expanding the number and/or size of parks and open spaces to protect habitat and benefit the environment” in the future.

A majority of survey respondents would like a beneficial result of this plan to be “Parks that protect environmental health and natural resources (e.g. stormwater, air quality and habitat)”.

Woods Walk

RECOMMENDATIONS

ENSURE THAT ECOLOGICAL PRIORITIES ARE CONSIDERED IN THE PLANNING AND DESIGN OF NEW GROWTH.

This goal aims to integrate ecological considerations into the planning and design processes for new developments and expansions within Woodstock. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, the City will continue to protect and enhance local ecosystems, preserve natural habitats, and promote biodiversity. This goal emphasizes the commitment to a balanced approach to harmonizing the inevitable future growth with environmental stewardship, fostering spaces that are both livable and ecologically responsible.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. There are numerous ecologically sensitive areas that are currently outside of a park or conservation area that should be considered in future planning. There are opportunities for these areas to be preserved as a natural open space or transformed into a park as development occurs. Coordinate with US Fish and Wildlife Service, IDNR, TNC and MCCD to connect these areas to the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge along Woodstock’s northern planning boundary. In conjunction with the 2024 Comprehensive Plan, establish management and Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) updates to reflect these priorities.

2. Develop a land acquisition policy and identify green infrastructure priorities within the City’s planning jurisdiction.

3. Encourage and support landowners to establish voluntary preservation easements.

4. Identify areas in parks, green spaces, or along waterways that can be restored to native habitats such as prairies, wetlands, or woodlands.

5. Expand the existing partnership with McHenry County Conservation District and Land Conservancy.

6. Encourage development to support and enhance Woodstock’s biodiversity through the following actions:

• Require the use of native landscape.

• Encourage the installation of pollinator gardens in schools and public spaces.

• Encourage the installation of edible landscapes in schools and public spaces.

INCREASE TREE CANOPY THROUGHOUT PARKS AND NATURAL AREAS CITY-WIDE AND PLAN FOR TREE SUCCESSION.

Trees have many benefits for a community including improved air quality, reduced urban heat island, and enhanced aesthetic. By prioritizing the planting of diverse tree species and implementing a succession plan, the plan aims to not only plant future trees, but also proactively maintain the existing canopy for the health and longevity of the City's trees.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Continue to work towards increasing the City's tree canopy to 86% as recommended by The Chicago Region Trees Initiative. Several parks may benefit from increased tree canopy coverage including Davis Road Park, Apple Creek Park, Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Park, Emricson Park, Raintree Park, Merryman Fields Park, Silver Creek Natural Area, Sonatas Park, and Westwood Natural Area. Merryman Fields Park, in particular, has the lowest tree coverage of any city park, though this can be attributed to its primary use for baseball fields. Tree planting should ensure diversity of species. Additional tree plantings and tree succession should be applied to Park in the Square.

2. Outline a position for staff dedicated to year-round tree maintenance in collaboration with arborists and The Land Conservancy.

3. As future development occurs, continue to preserve clustered oak stands contained within park boundaries, including Donato Conservation Area, Ryders Wood, and Westwood Natural Area.

4. Establish a Tree Planting Program.

5. Evaluate current forestry budget and workforce to determine necessary resources to accomplish tree canopy goals.

6. Incorporate interpretive signage to support environmental education to support educational programming. Incorporate infrastructure to improve the experience and exposure to natural areas such as bird blinds.

7. Pursue the designation of Tree City USA through the following steps:

• Establish a Tree Board or Department

• Develop an ordinance reflecting tree preservation and maintenance

• Maintain a Community Forestry Program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita

• Celebrate Arbor Day

RECOMMENDATIONS

RETROFIT EXISTING PARKS TO ACCOMMODATE RAINWATER WHERE PROGRAMMING ALLOWS.

Several of Woodstock’s parks are susceptible to flooding. This goal aims to mitigate flood hazards by integrating rainwater management solutions into their design and layout. In turn, these recommendations aim to enhance the resilience and functionality of the overall park system. Such adaptations not only contribute to sustainable water management and alleviative hazards, but also create more diverse and engaging natural spaces.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Target priority parks to accommodate rainwater including those at regional low. Target rainwater management in parks identified as having a history of flooding.

2. Identify opportunities for low maintenance design, such as low-mow areas and native plantings, to decrease the necessary upkeep.

CARE FOR AND ACTIVATE THE WATERWAYS THAT RUN THROUGH THE CITY.

Kishwaukee River is an important asset to Woodstock. It runs through the heart of the city and provides opportunities for connections to nature and recreation, when leveraged to its full extent. Through stewardship and revitalization of the city's waterways, their ecological health can be enhanced and their recreational and aesthetic potential can be maximized. This goal seeks to transform the city's waterways into vibrant, accessible, and sustainable features of the landscape, fostering a stronger connection between residents and their natural environment.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Implement measures to protect and improve water quality in the Kishwaukee River, such as riparian buffer zones and stormwater management practices.

2. Annually monitor the city’s rivers and creeks to ensure that water quality is not being negatively impacted.

3. Offer programming for the City’s waterways such as the creation of boardwalks and increase access to water resources for recreation.

4. Develop additional fishing access points and water access.

5. Restore degraded aquatic habitats by removing barriers to fish migration, stabilizing stream banks, and planting native aquatic vegetation.

W

ACCESS

Access in a city's park and recreation system focuses one ensuring that all residents are not only able to safely and comfortably access parks, but that they also have the ability to utilize and benefit from amenities and recreation opportunities. Elements that play a role in access may include fences, pedestrian and sidewalk connectivity, ADA development, park hours, and signage. This theme emphasizes the removal of barriers and promotes an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their backgrounds or physical and financial circumstances, can enjoy the benefits of parks, open spaces, and recreational activities.

WHAT WE HEARD

A majority of survey respondents selected that a barrier to park use is a lack of “Information – Not sure where to find good information about parks and activities.”

A general concern amongst survey respondents was the lack of amenities and recreation offerings for both youth and adults with mental and physical disabilities, such as fully functional park bathrooms.

A majority of survey respondents would like “Highquality and connected system of greenways and other bike/ pedestrian amenities (paved trails) for getting around” to be a beneficial result of this plan.

Respondents expressed their desire for recreation offerings to be offered at additional times and for parks to stay open during additional hours.

Access is also analyzed through connections to the city's waterways.

RECOMMENDATIONS

ADDRESS BARRIERS TO CURRENT AND FUTURE PARK AND RECREATION ACCESS SUCH AS MAJOR HIGHWAYS, RAILROADS, AND AREAS LACKING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY MEASURES.

Woodstock has several major barriers to walkability. This includes the Metra rail line, Kishwaukee River, and state highways (Routes 47, 120, and 14). By addressing these barriers, we seek to promote equitable access, encourage active transportation, and ensure that all community members can fully enjoy the benefits of our parks and recreational facilities.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Collaborate with IDOT to install missing pedestrian safety measures at signalized intersections including pedestrian signals with countdown timers, high visibility crosswalks, and ADA compliant curb ramps as part of the IL Route 47 widening improvements.

2. The intersections below were highlighted in the Comprehensive Plan as intersections in need of these pedestrian enhancements. The City should address these and any other intersections identified as high priority through its annual Capital Improvement Program or through coordination with IDOT.

• US Highway 14 with Dean Street

• US Highway 14 with Kishwaukee Valley Road

• US Highway 14 with Lake Avenue

3. The need for additional pedestrian facility enhancements were identified in the Comprehensive Plan at the following intersections within the downtown area. Along with any other intersections identified as high priority, the city should evaluate:

• IL Route 120 and North Throop Street

• West South Street and South Throop Street

• West South Street and Dean Street

• Clay/North Benton Street and East Church Street

• North Jefferson Street and East Church Street

4. Require that all newly developed parks and ammenities are ADA accessible to promote an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their backgrounds or physical and financial circumstances, can enjoy.

RECOMMENDATIONS

IDENTIFY FUTURE TRAIL, GREENWAY AND SIDEWALK CONNECTIONS THAT CONNECT MORE PEOPLE TO EACH OTHER, TO NATURE, AND TO CITYWIDE DESTINATIONS.

This goal aims to expand Woodstock's already-high level of connectivity. As the City continues to grow, it is critical to continue to improve the city's network of trails, greenways, and sidewalks to foster greater connectivity and accessibility across Woodstock's built and natural environments. Future connections between neighborhoods, parks, and key destinations create a cohesive system that encourages active transportation and strengthens community ties. New routes must work to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, enhance access to natural areas, and provide convenient pathways to essential services and recreational facilities.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Conduct a comprehensive inventory of all existing connectivity infrastructure to identify areas that are in need of repair. Perform regular assessments to continue evaluating the condition, performance, and capacity of each asset.

2. Continue to work with Woodstock Community Unit School District 200 to develop a Safe Walking Route plan.

3. Per the 2010 Woodstock Environmental Plan, create a city-wide greenways plan. See South Woodstock recommendations.

4. Align the preservation of sensitive ecological lands with the need for new trail alignments and regional ecological connections.

5. Create an acquisition plan to prioritize parcels that link and create contiguous green network with goals around wildlife habitat provision, conserving and enhancing vegetation quality and water quality management.

6. New or improved sidewalks are needed to improve park access at the following locations: Greenwood Ave, between Wheeler St and Clay St

• Tappan St, between Greenwood Ave and Bagley St

• Bagley St, between Tappan St and Clay St

Raffel Rd, between Banford Rd and IL Route 120

• Country Club Rd, between Route 47 and Queen Anne Rd

• McConnell Rd, between Route 47 and Red Barn Rd

US Highway 14, between Dean St and Lake Ave

• Dean St, between US Highway 14 and Hercules Rd

• South St, between Dakota Dr and US Highway 14

Kimball Ave, between Blakely St and Dean St

• Conway St, between Hill St and Becking Ave

RECOMMENDATIONS

CONNECT WOODSTOCK’S MOBILITY NETWORK TO REGIONAL TRAILS AND NEIGHBORING COMMUNITIES.

Establishing strong connections between local pathways and broader regional networks is a key component of enhancing the city’s accessibility and connectivity, enabling residents to easily travel to and from surrounding areas and enjoy a larger network of recreational and transportation options. These connections will not only improve mobility and convenience for residents, but will also foster greater regional cohesion, support local businesses, and promote shared outdoor recreation across adjacent areas. This goal aims to integrate infrastructure seamlessly for a connected network that strengthens Woodstock’s ties with its neighboring communities and the broader regional landscape.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Connect Ridgefield Trace, which follows Route 14 south to Crystal Lake, to Woodstock’s park system and larger region.

2. The city, with the participation of other local governments and open space organizations such as McHenry County, MCCD, and TLC, should work together to link local open spaces to existing and planned green infrastructure networks.

3. Where green infrastructure and natural features extend across municipal boundaries, the City of Woodstock should work cooperatively with other jurisdictions on resource protection and greenway connectivity.

RECOMMENDATIONS

SUPPORT VISITOR NAVIGATION AND ENGAGEMENT THROUGH A COHESIVE AND USER-FRIENDLY SYSTEM OF TRAILHEADS, SIGNAGE, WAYFINDING, SOCIAL MEDIA AND OTHER COMMUNICATION TOOLS, AND INTERPRETIVE ELEMENTS.

Directional elements are important aspects of park branding and placemaking. Signage helps define and orient users to a space. Wayfinding combines signage and map design, trail markers, symbols, color, and typography to help users or visitors easily navigate through a space. With such an extensive park and trail system, users can easily become disoriented without proper directional signage. Throughout engagement, the lack of knowledge regarding park access, or parks as a whole, was made clear. Through implementation of signage, users can easily identify usable accessible parks and recreation spaces.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Develop a universal park sign displayed throughout the system that allows residents and visitors to easily identify Woodstock’s public parks and open spaces.

2. User groups have placed advertising signs on field fences on a limited basis. A uniform policy for advertising on field fences should be implemented. Components could include sign materials and size, content of advertisement, removal and cost sharing.

3. Provide park identification signage at all parks and maintain consistent branding.

4. Provide internal wayfinding signage at larger parks (i.e. Emricson Park).

5. When planning trailheads and interpretive elements, follow themes of context sensitive design, which calls for designs that are tailored to preserve, enhance, or respond to the local community and environment.

6. Incorporate Playground Communication Boards at playgrounds.

7. Incorporate engaging and educational interpretive signage in natural areas to encourage land stewardship.

8. Enhance existing reporting tools for documenting community needs, safety, system concerns, issues, and ideas.

W

INVESTMENT

Investing in a city's park and recreation system is a strategic initiative that contributes to its future. This theme encompasses the enhancement and expansion of green spaces, recreational facilities, and community programs through the prioritized allocation of resources and capital to create and maintain a vibrant park system that contributes to the overall wellbeing of the community.

WHAT WE HEARD

Community engagement respondents feel that the parks system does not leave a lasting impact on visitors.

“Support for basic maintenance and repairs equally across all parks” was selected as a top priority for the future by survey respondents.

Survey respondents would like to see investment in greening the city through the addition of more plants and tree in urban areas and out in nature.

A majority of residents stated that a barrier to park use is the “Condition – Amenities I want are available, but they’re in poor condition (e.g. littered, dilapidated, dirty).”

Survey respondents desire more funding to go into the maintenance and upkeep of parks.

There was a strong desire for “increasing maintenance and quality of existing recreational opportunities” when asked to prioritize funding dollars.

Woodstock Farmers Market Source: Creative Commons License

RECOMMENDATIONS

INCREASE PARK SYSTEM FUNDING TO CREATE AND MAINTAIN A HIGH-QUALITY, FOUR-SEASON PARK SYSTEM.

The struggle to meet or exceed national standards with finite resources is a challenge facing all Parks and Recreation Departments. Nonetheless, it is important to aim to meet this goal through continually assessing the system to identify and address weaknesses. Aligning funding priorities with industry standards will enable Woodstock to provide a well-maintained and accessible park system that meets the evolving needs of the community, enhances user experience, and supports the long-term vitality of recreational spaces. Through this goal, the City can commit to investing in the future of Woodstock's parks and recreation to ensure they meet the needs of the community.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Allocate funding and staffing to meet the maintenance demands of existing athletic fields of one full-time maintenance staff dedicated to every four fields or 9 total. Increase staff per acre of active recreation space for at least 18 full-time employees.

2. Publish a yearly annual ‘State of the Parks' report in alignment with the template for all city departments. This report should compile existing financial and performance reporting, to build public trust and transparency in how allocated dollars are spent. Explore the creation of a system to benchmark against other quality parks and recreation providers.

3. Expand revenue generating activities in park spaces by creating a coordinated marketing strategy utilizing staff resources to promote activities, events, and activity rentals.

4. Annually evaluate new opportunities for revenue generation at sites where user, parking or event fees might be appropriate.

5. With the Development Services and Economic Development Departments, convene school board, public utility service providers and public and private institutions for a coordinated review of vacant or surplus landholdings to determine highest and best use, including identification of lands for parks, open space, and resilience. Repeat this exercise every three to five years to identify opportunities for efficient use of existing parkland, creating new parkland, open space preservation and the allocation of public amenities such as parks, housing, and schools.

RECOMMENDATIONS

PROMOTE AND SUPPORT VOLUNTEERISM AND PARTNERSHIPS TO SUSTAINABLY ENHANCE, GROW AND MAINTAIN THE PARK SYSTEM.

Supporting a culture of volunteerism and partnerships in the park system helps with upkeep, shared responsibility, civic pride and belonging, championing, and stewardship of the city’s expansive parks and recreation system. With focused dedication to engaging volunteers and partners, Woodstock can increase efforts to move towards shared goals.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Define and expand viable volunteer opportunities that support the stewardship, and/or care of park spaces for both one-time volunteer groups (e.g., litter clean-ups) and on-going volunteers (e.g., adopt programs). As a component of this effort, the number of volunteers and hours spent should be tracked in the annual report and demonstrate the "savings" to the City.

2. Nurture relationships with local user groups, such as trail groups, advocacy groups, environmental partners, and volunteers supporting project development, implementation, programming, and maintenance efforts. Examples may include the U of I 4h/Master Naturalists. Consider the creation of formal partnership agreements to spell out responsibilities.

3. Support a culture of volunteerism, and help keep parks, trails, and open spaces in a state of good repair throughout all seasons, by providing educational opportunities for trail users on how to become trail stewards (i.e., proper trail etiquette, adapting to seasonal changes, leave no trace etc.).

4. Within the UDO update following the approval of the Comprehensive Plan, consider the potential to require private development to support parks and open space development within the zoning code.

5. Evaluate internal and external program offerings to identify community recreation programming gaps, potential new program offerings, and areas for expanded and more formalized partnerships between Recreation and other community recreation service providers.

6. Foster connections among community recreation providers by offering open communication to receive and respond to feedback and inform the community of recreation opportunities.

RECOMMENDATIONS

PROVIDE A PARK SYSTEM THAT IS INVITING AND WELL-MAINTAINED, BY MEETING THE COMMUNITY'S CURRENT EXPECTATIONS AND EXCEEDING THEIR FUTURE NEEDS.

Through implementing the following recommendations, Woodstock will strive towards developing a park system that stands out for its quality, appeal, and upkeep. By investing in maintenance, increasing park acreage in areas where it is needed most, adhering to best practices in park management, and implementing high-quality offerings and design standards,, the City will create and maintain parks that are not only welcoming and aesthetically pleasing but are also functional and safe for all users.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Provide permanent restrooms at athletic complexes with 4 or more fields. This includes Davis Road Park, Emricson Park, Bates Park and Merryman Fields.

2. Utilize standard maintenance guidelines for all park classification types to establish a service standard for new park and park improvement projects.

3. Develop a standard for type and quantity of amenities and furnishings at fields, including bleachers, dugouts, trash cans, benches and batting cages to ease replacement logistics.

4. Maintain the existing Recreation Center facility but assess how the spaces are utilized such as when, where, and in what manner.

5. Maintain the existing Woodstock Water Works as a regional aquatic center asset that continues to serve the city and adjacent communities.

6. Complete an annual review of amenities by park to ensure that all necessary updates or additions are reflected in the Capital Improvements Plan and annual maintenance schedule.

7. As growth occurs per the comprehensive plan, ensure new parks are established to adequately serve the recreation needs of residents.

8. Retrofit additional amenities within existing parks to meet level of service standards as detailed in this plan.

Investment includes maintaining opportunities already within the park system.

SYSTEM-WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS

NEW PARKS

The new parks proposed in this map consider Woodstock’s existing boundaries as well as future growth areas to promote the 10-minute walk goal for all residents as the City expands.

In addition to future growth areas, new park locations take into account high-priority ecological land. Several of the new parks indicated on the map are within or directly adjacent to priority ecological land. This allows the City to manage and preserve important natural areas, promotes habitat connectivity, and offers residents opportunities for passive recreation and environmental education. The proximity of new parks to the planned Kishwaukee River Greenway, Ridgefield Trace, and other protected lands promotes regional connectivity.

Current Woodstock Boundary and Future Development

Metra Railroad

Waterbodies

Existing Parks

Existing Trails

Ecological Priority Land

Future Parks

Option for New Regional Park

New Neighborhood Park

Ridgewood Trace

New Neighborhood Park New Neighborhood Park CONSERVATION OPPORTUNITY

Figure 17: New Parks Map

SYSTEM-WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS

NEW GREENWAYS

New greenways promote regional connectivity from both a human and ecological standpoint. The draft locations shown are suggested paths for further study, and do not represent actual proposed trail alignments. The Kishwaukee River Greenway identified on this map is explored in further detail on the following page.

Current Woodstock Boundary and Future Development

Metra Railroad Waterbodies

Existing Parks

Existing Trails

Ecological Priority Land

Future Parks

Greenway Options

0 0.3 mi 0.6 mi 1.2 mi

Figure 18: New Greenways Map

Proposed Kishwaukee River Greenway

Potential New Greenway

SYSTEM-WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS

PROPOSED KISHWAUKEE RIVER GREENWAY

The proposed Kishwaukee River Greenway follows highvalue ecological land along the Kishwaukee River and connects the Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Area to the Ridgefield Trace Trail, connecting Davis Road Park, Castle Road Park, and a proposed new park along the way. One of the most significant projects in the McHenry County Connection Plan is the proposed path along Route 47, to which the proposed Kishwaukee River Greenway offers a connection.

Current Woodstock Boundary

Future Development (Identified in Comprehensive Plan)

Metra Railroad

Waterbodies

Existing Parks

Existing Trails

Ecological Priority Land

Future Greenway

Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Area

Davis Road Park

Ryders Woods

Dick Tracey Way Park

Castle Road Park

Donato Conservation Area

McConnell Road Park

Apple Creek Park

Figure 19: Proposed Greenway Map

Elementary School

Woodstock High School

Dean Street Elementary

Creekside Middle School

SYSTEM-WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS

PROPOSED PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS

This map shows proposed pedestrian improvements - new sidewalks and crosswalks. Students enrolled at Woodstock High School contributed to this map through their capstone project. Survey responses (see Appendix), the Comprehensive Plan, and the McHenry County Connection Plan were also used to develop this map. The final recommendations were validated. Those shown here are critical in connecting parks to surrounding residential neighborhoods and key amenities.

Current Woodstock Boundary

Metra Railroad Waterbodies

Existing Parks

Existing Trails

Schools

Libraries

Priority Sidewalks Identified by Woodstock High School Students

Priority Sidewalks Identified by Community

Priority Crosswalks Identified by Woodstock High School Students

Priority Crosswalks Identified by Community

Priority Crosswalks Identified in Comprehensive Plan

ADD SIDEWALKS AROUND AJ OLSON PARK

IMPROVE

Figure 20: Proposed Pedestrian Improvements

ACTION PLAN

The Woodstock Parks and Recreation Master Plan is a visionary, community-driven guidebook for the future that addresses the complex challenges facing parks, open spaces, and recreation, ranging from required maintenance to equitable amenities. Initial action steps have been woven into each of the chapters (Equity, Access, Placemaking and Economic Developoment, Natural Resources, and Investment).

This chapter serves to transform visionary goals into tangible outcomes. This breaks down action items into system-wide efforts as well as breaks them down by city quadrant for more detailed recommendations. Achieving these goals will require a concentrated effort by Parks and Recreation Staff, and collaborative support and contribution from other City departments and partners. This chapter serves as a playbook, outlining steps and actions to achieve plan goals and the visions identified throughout the planning process. Through a detailed roadmap of prioritized actions, timelines, and resource allocations, the Action Plan provides clear direction for stakeholders, guiding efforts towards implementation.

TIMING

The action items are identified in five phases. This helps to prioritize the staff's limited capacity to ensure that actions are realistic and feasible.

RESPONSIBLE PARTY

It is important to identify the entity in charge of initiating the action. This helps assign responsibility and consider opportunities for crossover and collaboration between city departments. This can also help maintain momentum for implementing the plan. The matrix also identifies key partners that may help support implementation.

ORGANIZATION

SYSTEM WIDE ACTION ITEMS

CONSIDERATIONS

Document and track maintenance schedules for diamonds to include turf grass fertilization and aeration, infield top dressing and leveling, lip removal, etc.

Document and track maintenance schedules for rectangles to include turf grass fertilization and aeration, sand/top dressing, turf repair, etc.

Develop an asset management plan along with a capital equipment plan.

Develop a fee policy to guide budgeting and fee setting for programs and membership that takes into consideration residents versus nonresidents.

Balance programs and services at the Recreation Center with the need for drop-in use by pass holders and residents.

Audit the number and variety of membership types to simplify the membership structure.

Increase awareness of fitness opportunities in the recreation center, such as personal training.

Establish an overall staffing philosophy that is taught to new staff and valued by all existing staff. This should be tied to levels of service for the facility as well as for recreation programs. This should cover center staffing requirements to open the facility, ratios of staff to participants, requirements for full-time staff presence, and the appropriate role and authority of part-time staff. This should also outline roles and responsibilities for each staff position, specifically for the Recreation Center.

Develop a marketing plan specific to the Recreation Center and Woodstock Water Works.

Review fees on an annual basis and adjusted to maintain the financial goal.

Have a staff member become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI).

Refine the playground replacement schedule based on the recommendations in the master plan.

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Table 12: System-Wide Operations Matrix

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation

EQUITY ACTION ITEM RESPONSIBLE PARTY

EQUITY ACTION ITEM

PARTY

GOAL: Promote inclusion in park spaces, facilities, and programs through equitable and effective opportunities for public participation in park planning processes to balance various perspectives and preferences.

Require that all new park development and existing park improvement projects are driven by a robust and community-based engagement and design process.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning and Marketing and Communications

Continue to build relationships with trusted community partners to reach under-represented groups and young people.

Develop a partnership with the local Homeowners Associations to ensure that parks and recreation needs of neighborhood associations are being met.

When creating a park plan, continue engaging community members to understand the features and amenities that will best serve neighborhoods.

When replacing elements in poor condition or at the end of their life cycle, replace with options that meet Universal Design and Accessibility Guidelines.

Collaborate with City leadership and social service providers to promote and support education and roles regarding unhoused populations in park spaces.

Incorporate diverse cultural and historical education opportunities in both new and existing programming, where appropriate.

Create and/or maintain partnerships with organizations focused on accessibility and inclusivity.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning and Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): City Manager's Office and Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

GOAL: Honor the culture, storytelling, art, and history of Woodstock’s diverse population, past and present.

Honor culturally and historically diverse stories and language through partnerships, programming, ceremonies, land management, signage and interpretation, art, and proactive community engagement.

Partner with Woodstock’s arts initiative and Arts Commission to implement aspects of the Woodstock Public Art’s Plan including the exploration of financially sustainable options for the creation and enjoyment of public art in park spaces that honors the diverse heritages and histories of the community including Hispanic culture. Consider the creation of a percent dedication to arts in all park design/capital project budgets.

Ensure that diversity is reflected in all publicfacing advertisements and communication of parks and park programming through all images that include people and text choice. Avoid language that could be interpreted as biased, exclusionary, or insensitive.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications · ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

GOAL: Provide additional neighborhood parks within Equity Priority Zones.

Prioritize providing amenities and additional neighborhood parks within underserved areas, or areas farthest from Emricson Park, and in areas targeted for future residential growth.

Provide intergenerational park programming to promote health and mental wellbeing by providing people of all ages and abilities opportunities for physical activity, time in nature, social connection, and respite.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning and Public Works ·

"Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning ·

EQUITY ACTION ITEM

RESPONSIBLE PARTY

GOAL: Provide equitable, high-quality outdoor education and programming that encourages meaningful connections with nature in park spaces and ensures it meets the needs of all Woodstock residents.

Address current programming gaps through programming targeted towards seniors and teens as well as general interest programming.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning

Support a dynamic programming evaluation process for all program offerings and options for adjusting programs and/or resources, as needed, based on evaluation outcomes.

Apply consistent program metrics and benchmarks, such as a minimum number of registrants, to ensure enrollment, attendance, budget, and cost recovery are meeting established goals.

Monitor program trends against regional and national offerings to ensure that programs are current and reflect evolving recreational interests.

Survey residents annually to ensure that park programming meets the needs of the population.

Expand the current cost recovery system to determine if it adequately covers the cost for recreational programming.

Develop a comprehensive athletic field use policy.

Execute an audit in all parks to ensure that they meet ADA requirements.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Finance

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Finance

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Finance

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works

Table 14: Placemaking and Economic Development Action Plan

PLACEMAKING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTION ITEM RESPONSIBLE PARTY

GOAL: Create “destination parks” and ensure that each has iconic characteristics and distinctive qualities.

Offer diverse user experiences throughout the parks and open space system.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works"

Position the park system to host regional recreation events and tournaments to bolster tourism. If the City wishes to maintain, and likely increase, their foothold in the tournament market, moving some fields to synthetic turf would be appropriate including at least 2 of Merryman and 2 at Bates. Consider developing a field house at these parks.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Economic Development"

GOAL: Activate park spaces to support local, social, and cultural interactions.

Collaborate with local organizations to expand and strengthen opportunities for third-party entities to provide small-scale, pop-up park amenities that invite social interactions. Host popular activities in under-utilized park spaces that are well maintained to better activate and increase awareness of those park spaces.

Review and revise plans, policies, and ordinances to better facilitate commercial operations and activate community spaces, including operations for food trucks, market vendors, e-mobility, beer gardens, and entertainment providers.

Identify opportunities for amenities that can be used by all ages to enhance areas for colocation across ages.

Incorporate Universal Design guidelines in all new and updated parks and open spaces.

Increase benches/picnic tables/seating in parks system-wide.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Economic Development"

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Economic Development and Building and Planning"

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Marketing and Communication"

:ead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works"

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works"

Incorporate “court games” to enhance community gathering/interaction such as horseshoes, bocce courts, outdoor ping pong tables, and chess tables for example.

Encourage parks to be important sites for civic gathering and activity. Establish a communitybased process using arts and cultural expression to create or rejuvenate parks and open spaces.

Explore adding pocket parks in the equity priority zones that spaces that focus on authentic placemaking and convert unwanted, remnant spaces into highly cherished and beloved areas that all can enjoy.

Consider the consolidation of events under one department. Establish a policy around how events occur and are executed based on the intent and impact of the event.

Track expenses related to non-City hosted events and consider passing along the costs to the organization hosting the event.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Economic Development and Building and Planning ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Economic Development and Marketing and Communications

Lead: Economic Development Partner(s): Finance

GOAL: Ensure that ecological priorities are considered in the planning and design of new growth.

There are numerous ecologically sensitive areas that are currently outside of a park or conservation area that should be considered in future planning. There are opportunities for these areas to be preserved as a natural open space or transformed into a park as development occurs. Coordinate with US Fish and Wildlife Service, IDNR, TNC and MCCD to connect these areas to the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge along Woodstock’s northern planning boundary. In conjunction with the 2024 Comprehensive Plan, establish management and Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) updates to reflect these priorities.

Develop a land acquisition policy and identify green infrastructure priorities within the City’s planning jurisdiction.

Encouragement and support for the establishment of voluntary preservation easements should be given to landowners.

Identify areas in parks, green spaces, or along waterways that can be restored to native habitats such as prairies, wetlands, or woodlands.

Expand the existing partnership with McHenry County Conservation District and Land Conservancy.

Encourage development to support and enhance Woodstock’s biodiversity through the following actions:

• Require the use of native landscape.

• Encourage the installation of pollinator gardens in schools and public spaces.

• Encourage the installation of edible landscapes in schools and public spaces.

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

GOAL: Increase tree canopy throughout parks and natural areas city-wide and plan for tree succession.

Continue to work towards increasing the City's tree canopy to 86% as recommended by The Chicago Region Trees Initiative. Several parks may benefit from increased tree canopy coverage including Davis Road Park, Apple Creek Park, Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Park, Emricson Park, Raintree Park, Merryman Fields Park, Silver Creek Natural Area, Sonatas Park, and Westwood Natural Area. Merryman Fields Park, in particular, has the lowest tree coverage of any city park, though this can be attributed to its primary use for baseball fields. Tree planting should ensure diversity of species. Additional tree plantings and tree succession should be applied to Park in the Square.

Outline a position for staff dedicated to yearround tree maintenance in collaboration with arborists and The Land Conservancy.

As future development occurs, continue to preserve clustered oak stands contained within park boundaries, including Donato Conservation Area, Ryders Wood, and Westwood Natural Area.

Establish a Tree Planting Program.

Evaluate current forestry budget and workforce to determine necessary resources to accomplish tree canopy goals.

Pursue the designation of Tree City USA through the following steps:

1. Establish a Tree Board or Department

2. Develop an ordinance reflecting tree preservation and maintenance

3. Maintain a Community Forestry Program with an annual budget of at leas $2 per capita

4. Celebrate Arbor Day

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Parks and Recreation · ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Partner(s): Public Works ·

NATURAL RESOURCES

ACTION

ITEM

RESPONSIBLE PARTY

Incorporate interpretive signage to support environmental education to support educational programming. Incorporate infrastructure to improve the experience and exposure to natural areas such as bird blinds.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

GOAL: Retrofit existing parks to accommodate rainwater where programming allows.

Target priority parks to accommodate rainwater including those at regional low. Target rainwater management in parks identified as having a history of flooding.

Identify opportunities for low maintenance design, such as low-mow areas and native plantings, to decrease the necessary upkeep.

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Parks and Recreation ·

GOAL: Care for and stimulate the waterways that run through the city.

Implement measures to protect and improve water quality in the Kishwaukee River, such as riparian buffer zones and stormwater management practices.

Annually monitor the city’s rivers and creeks to ensure that water quality is not being negatively impacted.

Offer programming for the City’s waterways such as the creation of boardwalks and increase access to water resources for recreation.

Develop additional fishing access points and water access.

Restore degraded aquatic habitats by removing barriers to fish migration, stabilizing stream banks, and planting native aquatic vegetation.

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Parks and Recreation

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works

The City maintains 6 parks classified as "Natural Area".

GOAL: Address barriers to current and future park and recreation access such as major highways, railroad, and areas lacking pedestrian safety measures.

Collaborate with IDOT to install missing pedestrian safety measures at signalized intersections including pedestrian signals with countdown timers, high visibility crosswalks, and ADA compliant curb ramps as part of the IL Route 47 widening improvements.

The intersections below were highlighted in the Comprehensive Plan as intersections in need of these pedestrian enhancements. The City should address these and any other intersections identified as high priority through its annual Capital Improvement Program or through coordination with IDOT.

• US Highway 14 with Dean Street

• US Highway 14 with Kishwaukee Valley Road

US Highway 14 with Lake Avenue

• Raffel Road with Broadway Court

The need for additional pedestrian facility enhancements were identified in the Comprehsive Plan at the following intersections within the downtown area. Along with any other intersections identified as high priority, the city should evaluate:

• IL Route 120 and North Throop Street

West South Street and South Throop Street

• West South Street and Dean Street

• Clay/North Benton Street and East Church Street

• North Jefferson Street and East Church Street

Raffel Road at Banford Road Park

Require that all newly developed parks and ammenities are ADA accessible to promote an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their backgrounds or physical and financial circumstances, can enjoy.

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation

GOAL: Identify future trail, greenway and sidewalk connections that connect more people to each other, to nature, and to citywide destinations.

Honor culturally and historically diverse stories and language through partnerships, programming, ceremonies, land management, signage and interpretation, art, and proactive community engagement.

New or improved sidewalks are needed to improve park access at the following locations:

• Greenwood Ave, between Wheeler St and Clay St

• Tappan St, between Greenwood Ave and Bagley St Bagley St, between Tappan St and Clay St

• Raffel Rd, between Banford Rd and IL Route 120

• Country Club Rd, between Route 47 and Queen Anne Rd

• McConnell Rd, between Route 47 and Red Barn Rd

US Highway 14, between Dean St and Lake Ave

• Dean St, between US Highway 14 and Hercules Rd

• South St, between Dakota Dr and US Highway 14

• Kimball Ave, between Blakely St and Dean St Conway St, between Hill St and Becking Ave

Continue to work with Woodstock Community Unit School District 200 to develop a Safe Walking Route plan.

Per the 2010 Woodstock Environmental Plan, create a city-wide greenways plan. See South Woodstock recommendations.

Align the preservation of sensitive ecological lands with the need for new trail alignments and regional ecological connections.

Create an acquisition plan to prioritize parcels that link and create contiguous green network with goals around wildlife habitat provision, conserving and enhancing vegetation quality and water quality management.

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation · ·

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation

Lead: Public Works

Partner(s): Building and Planning and Parks and Recreation

GOAL: Connect Woodstock’s mobility network to regional trails and neighboring communities.

Connect Ridgefield Trace, which follows Route 14 south to Crystal Lake, to Woodstock’s park system and larger region.

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation

The city, with the participation of other local governments and open space organizations such as McHenry County, MCCD, and TLC, should work together to link local open spaces to existing and planned green infrastructure networks.

The Cities of Woodstock should work cooperatively on resource protection and greenway connectivity across boundaries where green infrastructure features extend across municipal boundaries.

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation ·

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Parks and Recreation ·

GOAL: Support visitor navigation and engagement through a cohesive and user-friendly system of trailheads, signage, wayfinding, social media and other communication tools, and interpretive elements.

Develop a universal park sign displayed throughout the system that allows residents and visitors to easily identify Woodstock’s public parks and open spaces.

• User groups have placed advertising signs on field fences on a limited basis. A uniform policy for advertising on field fences should be implemented. Components could include sign materials and size, content of advertisement, removal and cost sharing.

Provide park identification signage at all parks and maintain consistent branding.

Provide internal wayfinding signage at larger parks (i.e. Emricson Park).

When planning trailheads and interpretive elements, follow themes of context sensitive design, which calls for designs that are tailored to preserve, enhance, or respond to the local community and environment.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Incorporate Playground Communication Boards at playgrounds.

Incorporate engaging and educational interpretive signage in natural areas to encourage land stewardship.

Enhance existing reporting tools for documenting community needs, safety, system concerns, issues, and ideas.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

GOAL: Increase park system funding to create and maintain a high-quality, four-season park system.

Allocate funding and staffing to meet the maintenance demands of existing athletic fields of one full-time maintenance staff dedicated to every four fields or 9 total.

Publish a yearly annual ‘State of the Parks' report in alignment with the template for all city departments. This report should compile existing financial and performance reporting, to build public trust and transparency in how allocated dollars are spent. Explore the creation of a system to benchmark against other quality parks and recreation providers.

Expand revenue generating activities in park spaces by creating a coordinated marketing strategy utilizing staff resources to promote activities, events, and activity rentals.

Annually evaluate new opportunities for revenue generation at sites where user, parking or event fees might be appropriate.

With the Development Services and Economic Development Departments, convene school board, public utility service providers and public and private institutions for a coordinated review of vacant or surplus landholdings to determine highest and best use, including identification of lands for parks, open space, and resilience. Repeat this exercise every three to five years to identify opportunities for efficient use of existing parkland, creating new parkland, open space preservation and the allocation of public amenities such as parks, housing, and schools.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Finance

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Finance

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Building and Planning and Economic Development

GOAL: Promote and support volunteerism and partnerships to sustainably enhance, grow and maintain the park system.

Define and expand viable volunteer opportunities that support the stewardship, and/or care of park spaces for both one-time volunteer groups (e.g., litter clean-ups) and on-going volunteers (e.g., adopt programs). As a component of this effort, the number of volunteers and hours spent should be tracked in the annual report and demonstrate the "savings" to the City.

Nurture relationships with local user groups, such as trail groups, advocacy groups, environmental partners, and volunteers supporting project development, implementation, programming, and maintenance efforts. Examples may include the U of I 4h/Master Naturalists. Consider the creation of formal partnership agreements to spell out responsibilities.

Support a culture of volunteerism, and help keep parks, trails, and open spaces in a state of good repair throughout all seasons, by providing educational opportunities for trail users on how to become trail stewards (i.e., proper trail etiquette, adapting to seasonal changes, leave no trace etc.).

Within the UDO update following the approval of the Comprehensive Plan, consider the potential to require private development to support parks and open space development within the zoning code.

Evaluate internal and external program offerings to identify community recreation programming gaps, potential new program offerings, and areas for expanded and more formalized partnerships between Recreation and other community recreation service providers.

Foster connections among community recreation providers through keeping open communication to receive and respond to feedback and inform the community of recreation opportunities.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications and Finance ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Building and Planning ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Marketing and Communications ·

INVESTMENT ACTION ITEM RESPONSIBLE PARTY

GOAL: Provide a park system that is inviting and well-maintained by meeting the community’s current expectations and exceeding their future needs.

Provide permanent restrooms at athletic complexes with 4 or more fields. This includes Davis Road Park, Emricson Park, Bates Park and Merryman Fields.

Utilize standard maintenance guidelines for all park classification types to establish a service standard for new park and park improvement projects.

Develop a standard for type and quantity of amenities and furnishings at fields, including bleachers, dugouts, trash cans, benches and batting cages to ease replacement logistics.

Maintain the existing Recreation Center facility but assess how the spaces are utilized such as when, where, and in what manner.

Maintain the existing Woodstock Water Works as a regional aquatic center asset that continues to serve the city and adjacent communities.

Complete an annual review of amenities by park to ensure that all necessary updates or additions are reflected in the Capital Improvements Plan and annual maintenance schedule.

Hire at least an additional 4 full-time employees dedicated to parks and recreation.

As growth occurs per the comprehensive plan, ensure new parks are established to adequately serve the recreation needs of residents.

Retrofit additional amenities within existing parks to meet level of service standards as detailed in this plan.

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Engineering ·

Lead: Public Works Partner(s): Building and Planning

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works ·

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Engineering

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Engineering

Lead: Parks and Recreation Partner(s): Public Works and Engineering

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning Partner(s): Public Works and Engineering

PLACE-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS

Participants of both the community workshop and youth engagement, were given a map of the four quadrants of the city (Figure 18) and asked to place stickers representing different needs and desires such as activities, restrooms, new parks, and maintenance, at each park. With this input, planning analysis, best practices, existing goals, and staff input, placebased recommendations were developed.

Figure 21: Planning Quadrants

Community Workshop East Woodstock map results.

PLACE-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS

NORTH WOODSTOCK

North Woodstock has 9 parks which equates to 204 park acres. These park types are comprised of 1 community park, 2 natural areas, 3 neighborhood parks and 3 special use parks. The area is not a high priority in terms of environmental equity, but has large pockets of areas that are high priority areas for demographic and health equity overlays. This area is ethnically diverse compared to the City.

Figure 22: North Woodstock Current Inventory

NORTH WOODSTOCK

Table 18: North Place-Based Actions

ACTION ITEM

Develop a temporary rink that may be utilized year-round (ice and roller).

General maintenance and updates to all amenities and lighting in AJ Olson Park, particularly to the splashpad. Create both handicap and permanent restrooms.

There are some blocks immediately adjacent to AJ Olson that lack sidewalks. This park should be prioritized for connectivity developments.

BANFORD ROAD PARK

It was noted by the public that an audit must be done on the playground equipment.

Increase accessibility for residents across N Seminary Ave.

BATES PARK

At least an additional 100 parking spaces are needed.

Consider irrigation on ball fields.

Enhance the connection from Bates into Silver Creek via the existing parking lot.

Give consideration for providing concessions given the park as a destination for baseball and softball.

Expand the existing garage to meet the daily storage needs.

Renovate field two to address issues with backstops, upgrades to dugouts and deferred maintenance.

MERRYMAN FIELDS

At least an additional 100 parking spaces are needed.

New access to the east for safety and accessibility as new development occurs. Opportunity to connect to the newly acquired land by The Land Conservancy and a newly sited neighborhood park.

Future consideration for extending Haydn Street to the East for north Queen Anne road should be given when future residential growth occurs to the east.

Continue to explore possibilities to connect to the highschool as development expands in this area.

Add or update restrooms, field lighting, concessions, and tree shade.

RAINTREE PARK

Add interpretive signage.

Consider the potential to develop bird blinds for passive recreation.

Add benches and seating for nature watching.

SILVERCREEK PARK

Wetland mitigation and educational signage.

Improve connectivity between Bates and Silver Creek if, and when, investment is made in the trail system at Silver Creek.

Continue invasive species management to enhance this park as a nature education resource. Education can include signage and birdwatching areas.

Given its proximity to Marian Central Catholic Highschool, opportunity exists to enhance the environmental education. Increasing accessibility to the high school would also improve access for residents to the south of 120 which was significantly underserved.

Increase signage to promote the park and educate the community about its opportunities.

SESQUINCENTENNIAL PARK

Provide dog waste station.

Continue to maintain this park as it currently exists.

SONATAS PARK

Develop a community garden.

Create a neighborhood-level park plan.

Increase the tree canopy at this park.

Consider the potential to utilize water bodies for recreation opportunities.

Add or update restrooms, field lighting, concessions, and tree shade.

SWEETWATER PARK

Develop a multi-use sports court that provides opportunities for tennis and basketball with adequate parking for usability.

Create a neighborhood-level park plan to determine amenities to better utilize the space.

Increase tree canopy shade and seating.

As playground equipment is updated, it should meet universal design standards and incorporate accessible play amenities for all ages, specifically older children.

This would be an appropriate location on the north side to accommodate a dog park.

AJ OLSON

PLACE-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS

EAST WOODSTOCK

East Woodstock includes only one park, McConnell Road Park. This area is the only quadrant that is lacking in park acreage (by 22.7 acres) as determined by National Recreation and Parks Association. However, as compared to other quadrants, excluding South Woodstock, this area is less populated. The area is a priority in terms of environmental equity, specifically in areas south of the railroad.

Figure 23: East Woodstock Current Inventory

McHenryAve

EastwoodDr

EAST WOODSTOCK

Table 19: East Place-Based Actions

ACTION ITEM

QUADRANT WIDE

A new park a minimum of 15 acres in size to meet the quadrant's level of service shortfall but could be larger to accommodate the range in programming within a regional park. Consideration should be given to the addition of water play in this location. Additionally, consider opportunities for this park to include a pavilion/bandstand, skate/bike park, parking, restrooms, and dog park. This regional park should be positioned in order to preserve the ecological priority zones. This park has immediate access to the intersection of 47 and 14. This regional park allows Emricson to become the sports venue (pickelball courts, diamonds, disc golf, rectangles). The community events could shift to this new regional park creating a different focus. It could provide relief to Emricson and perhaps Park in the Square. This regional park starts to take on its own "brand."

MCCONNELL ROAD PARK

Increase opportunities for passive and active recreation such as a multi use rectangle to provide opportunities for soccer, lacrosse and football and yard games

Create new accessibility paths as indicated in the walkshed map to close gaps to the neighborhoods north of this park

Increase tree canopy, accommodate stormwater, and increase native plantings

There is opportunity to expand the play area in Mcconnel park to meet universal needs and accommodate all ages

DUFIELD POND CONSERVATION AREA

Community engagement indicated a desire for additional fishing access within the community.

The city should continue to work with the county to improve access to, and through, Dufield Pond

A new park will continue to provide opportunities for community gathering and outdoor play.

PLACE-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS

SOUTH WOODSTOCK

South Woodstock has 4 parks totaling 187 acres of parkland. Parks in this quadrant range from neighborhood to special use and natural areas. This quadrant has the lowest population of all the quadrants, with an estimated 1,600 people, reflected in the smallest persons per acre (8.5). This area is considered an environmental and demographic equity priority zone.

SOUTH WOODSTOCK

Table 20: South Place-Based Actions

ACTION ITEM

APPLE CREEK PARK

Leverage the park's location to connect it to the Kishwaukee Conservation area.

CASTLE ROAD PARK

Given the popularity of the community gardens, expand this programming to the south along Castle Road.

Enhance the park as a community gathering area.

Leverage the park's existing location next to the Kishwuakee River and highdensity housing and current ecological components, as well as its adjacency to significant future growth areas to the south, expand the park to the east.

Given the future population growth of the community, consider this as an opportunity to provide ac tive recreational programming through an iconic regional attraction, such as a nature-based playground.

DAVIS ROAD PARK

Coordinate where the greenway touches the park and enhance connectivity to Kishwaukee Park.

Develop permanent restrooms.

Provide ammenities for every-day use including flex-spaces and walking paths through the back and sides of the property.

Increase maintenance amenities including restrooms, trash, and lights to make the fields more usable.

KISHWAUKEE HEADWATERS CONSERVATION AREA

Continue to partner with the McHenry County Conservation District regarding greenway improvements and enhancing accessibility.

Continue to partner with the McHenry County Conservation District to elevate awareness of the park through emphasized signage.

Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Area

PLACE-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS

WEST WOODSTOCK

West Woodstock has 9 parks totaling 234 acres. It has the most amenities of all of the quadrants. It also has a wide range of park types including neighborhood, community, regional, and natural areas. West Woodstock is not considered an equity priority zone for any of the overlay factors. This quadrant has several areas that may be considered flood hazards which are, for the most part, within or surrounding parks.

WEST WOODSTOCK

PARK IN THE SQUARE

A component of this planning process included a focus on Park in the Square. Platted in 1844, Park in the square is a significant asset of the City of Woodstock. It is the only community park within the core of the downtown and as such serves a very critical role within the overall park system. Park in the Square has historical significance and its valued structures – the Spring House, and Bandstand – remain standing and utilized today, having gone through various renovations in the past.

Today, the area around the Park is ripe for development opportunities. The park is the stage that hosts numerous events in all seasons throughout the year (over 57 annually). The park's visual connection to the train station and the plethora of significant historic structures around it and the potential future new developments that are anticipated, present an opportunity to rethink and innovate and make the park more resilient for the future.

To continue to support community events in a resilient way into the future, what type and degree of change is needed?

38% Rehabilitation of the historic structures and some "light touch" additional changes

The space should be recognized into something completely new while restoring irreplaceable elements

The process began through an analysis of current conditions, including events and uses. While the square is roughly 2 acres, the usable space is about one and a half acres. There are 12 benches, and tree canopy covers 50% of the space. In several outreach efforts, Park in the Square has come up as Woodstock's greatest asset for the residents, as well as for the regional community. As a result, the analysis asked the following questions to determine the path forward for Park in the Square: How can we maintain the historical integrity of the Park in the Square while ensuring it can support community needs and events in a resilient way? What is the primary role of the park?

Several work sessions were hosted with City staff and a focus group was held with key stakeholders in order to attempt to answer those questions. Two concepts were explored based on community feedback. Ultimately, Park in the Square requires further, immediate, analysis to best meet community needs and desires.

Share 1-3 words that describe what Park in the Square means to you.

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

• The park is a historical asset.

• The park's axial relationship to the train station and Opera House are historically treasured.

• The park's location and events in the middle of the City brings regional and national visitors.

The park spurs surrounding economic development, but can impact parking.

The park hosts daily use by residents as well as large-scale weekend event use for visitors.

• The park hosts the city's largest events.

• The Bandstand and Spring House are in need of repair.

• Drainage could be better accommodated to mitigate potential for floods.

• The park cannot accommodate the 5,000+ crowd that attends some events (Groundhogs day, Lighting of the Square, etc.)

Restrooms are not provided directly inside of the park.

Electric and water are not available as utilities in the park.

• Large events are likely causing soil compaction.

• The streets surrounding the park cannot accommodate the event traffic.

CONCEPT EXPLORATION

1. REHABILITATE THE SQUARE

Highlighted through engagement is the importance of Park in the Square as a historical asset to the community. As such, one concept that was explored is to rehabilitate the park.

Rehabilitation is defined by the National Park Service as "the act of making possible a compatible use for a property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its historical and cultural values." This would include restoring structures, adding pop jet water feature to the Spring House, converting some open space lawn to planting, creating gateway elements into the square, and restoring the bandstand in its current place.

2. RE-IMAGINE THE SQUARE

The word most commonly used in descriptions of, and responses about, the park was "events". Currently, the park is being used to host regional events that can bring upwards of 5,000 people. While the park is hosting these, it is not accommodating this number of people and activity in a high-quality way. As a result, one concept that was explored is to completely re-imagine the Park in the Square to enable it to better fit the needs of the community and events. In addition to addressing all recommendations from the rehabilitation concept, this would include all re-imagining the park outside of its boundaries, such as into Benton Street and by the Metra Station. Potential revisions might include cafe dining areas, a romance garden, festival lighting, bandstand relocation, and a new performance area.

Table 21: Park in the Square SWOT

Figure 26: Park in the Square Focus Group Responses

WEST WOODSTOCK

ACTION ITEM

DONATO CONSERVATION

Continue to research opportunities to purchase surrounding parcels for increased access.

Make more welcoming to adjacent neighborhoods through sigange on West South street to inform residents and visitors of Donato's proximity to Emricson.

Develop additional multi-use paths.

If and when additional land is acquired, explore better connectivity with Emricson and additional parking.

DICK TRACY WAY (CHILDREN'S PLACE PARK)

Improve signage to enhance connectivity with Ryders Woods.

Develop a community garden and leverage the proximity to the police department through a partnership.

Consider the addition of a pavilion.

EMRICSON PARK

Consider developing the following amenities:

• Off-leash dog park

• Additional restrooms

• Skating rink

• Sledding hill signage

• Public art

• Pedestrian connectivity

• Enhanced fishing - docks/access to water

• Event pavillion/ampitheater

• Yard games

Develop more permanent restrooms.

Increase trails for better connectivity throughout the park.

Consider expanding irrigation to to all diamonds.

Improve the indoor pool to better meet the needs of the community through a 25-yard pool with the ability to have multiple programs (swim lessons, water fitness, lap swimming) going on concurrently.

Upgrade amenities for concessions and restrooms for Thunder Football and Cheer

MARY ANN STREET PARK

Preserve existing park amenities.

RYDERS WOODS

Improve signage. ·

Provide nature education opportunities. ·

Increase trail maintenance and expansion; Connect the trails to Dick Tracy.

PRAIRIE RIDGE DRIVE

Provide more seating for passive outdoor recreation. ·

Provide more tree canopy.

Expand the playground given the park's proximity to high density residential.

Increase the maintenance of existing amenities.

PARK IN THE SQUARE

Repair the Bandstand and Spring House. ·

Address drainage issues near the Bandstand.

Reconfigure the Bandstand to remove the pole in the center to expand programming.

Develop restrooms within or near to the park.

Add more benches, tables, and trees into the park. ·

Add electric and water to the park. ·

Initiate a Park in the Square planning process and/or designate a specific part of an update to the Downtown Development Plan towards planning for the Park.

SUNNYSIDE PARK

Increase accessibility opportunities.

Increase quality/maintenance.

Increase seating.

TARA DRIVE PARK

Continue to research opportunities to purchase surrounding parcels for access.

WESTWOOD

Partner with the land conservancy to develop new access points.

Develop multi-modal connectivity with Yonder Prairie.

Develop signage, increase parking, and wayfinding for increased education.

·

·

POLICY CONSIDERATIONS

Effective policies are essential for fostering an environment where parks and recreation facilities can thrive. This section was developed in collaboration with City staff and stakeholders, and was informed by community desires. It is intended to address critical areas where existing policies can be refined or new policies introduced to ensure that parks and recreations are well-maintained, equitable, and responsive to community needs.

FUNDING AND OPERATIONS

CURRENT FUNDING AND FRAMEWORK

The City of Woodstock provides and maintains all park facilities and recreational programs to residents as part of the local city government services. As a result, residents do not pay any additional property taxes to a separate taxing body (i.e. a park district). Funding for park facilities, park maintenance, and recreational programs is derived from user fees and from general property taxes collected by the City of Woodstock. In addition, the city collects a fee with the issuance of each building permit for new residential construction that is used to fund the annual Capital Improvement Program for park facilities.

This agreement would allow the City to expand its available parkland without taking on any additional maintenance responsibilities.

Sales Tax / Food and Beverage Tax: The City could impose a sales tax on retail sales to fund capital improvements, as well as for general operations, maintenance, and management of the parks system.

Consider establishing a list of park and open space activation and stewardship items for developers to choose from. A menu of items would ensure a base level of park and open space activation while providing developers with the flexibility needed to customize parks and open space to the surrounding residents’ needs.

Integrate ecological priority considerations into the development processes by incorporating green infrastructure elements as incentives in the zoning code.

Per the 2010 Woodstock Environmental Plan, develop a Comprehensive Tree Ordinance or Urban Tree Renewal Plan, including tree removal policies and invasive species mitigation.

Identify opportunities to incentivize tree planting and preservation by private developers.

Create a comprehensive, formal agreement template that outlines the terms and conditions for regular park usage by organizations. This should include sections on access, scheduling, maintenance responsibilities, and ammenities.

Lead: Building and Planning

Partner(s): Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning

Partner(s): Public Works

Lead: Public Works (Forestry)

Partner(s): Parks and Recreation

Lead: Building and Planning

Partner(s): Public Works

Lead: Parks and Recreation

Partner(s): Public Works

The daily operation of the City's park and recreational services is performed by two separate departments - the Recreation Department and the Parks Division of the Public Works Department - working together under the guidance and overall responsibility of the City Manager. The City Manager reports to the City Council. The members of City Council have complete control of all policy decisions, setting regulations and ordinances, approval of the annual budget, and ultimate responsibility for coordination and communication with the residents and park users.

FUNDING STRATEGIES

Parkland Dedication Ordinance: Dedication of open space or payment of fees for park development by private developers can be negotiated in exchange for developmental considerations beyond those customarily permitted by planning and zoning requirements.

Foundations: Foundations support charitable activities focused primarily on local needs. The advantages of a foundation include tax exemptions and tax deductibility.

Cooperative Use Agreements: A cooperative use agreement is an agreement between the school and parks department to share facilities.

User Fees: Indoor recreation facilities, athletic complexes and aquatic facilities have high staffing and maintenance obligations. In Woodstock, the recreation center and aquatic center generate income to fund the operations. While this practice should continue, the ability to raise significant funding is limited. Fees from athletic fields and other parks should be reviewed to capture additional operational expenses, but will not generate substantial funds for capital improvements.

Bonds: The City could utilize its bonding capacity to raise capital for development, repair, improvements to the park system. Taxes are raised appropriately to retire the bond over the term of the bond.

Lease / Purchase Financing: Facilities for public use can be financed and built through an entity separate from the municipality – either another public entity, a non-profit corporation set up for that purpose, a bank or leasing company, or joint powers authority.

Public Private Partnership (PPP): With a PPP project, the public entity develops a relationship with a private enterprise to jointly fund, construct and operate a recreation facility. In some cases, the public entity contributes the land that can be used for the facility and there may be tax advantages involved for the partnership.

Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Tax: The Hotel, Motel and Restaurant tax is based on gross receipts from charges and meal services or a per-room / night rate and may be used to build and operate golf courses, tennis courts, and other special park and recreation facilities or

Table 23: Policy Considerations

be put to use in general park operations. The advantage to such a tax source is that virtually all of it is generated by visitors, not local residents. Currently, the Opera House implements this tax.

Special Improvement District/Benefit District: These taxing districts are established to provide funds for certain types of group of affected properties. Grant funding programs have been available at both the state and federal levels.

Open Space and Land Acquisition

Development (OSLAD): Funding can be used to assist local government agencies in Illinois with the acquisition and development of land for public parks and open spaces. Funding can be used for acquisition of open space, development of new parks, and renovation of existing recreational facilities. Projects can include playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and trails.

Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program: The Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program can be used to provide financial assistance for developing, maintaining, and upgrading bike paths. Examples include the construction of new bike paths, maintenance of existing paths, and related support facilities such as signage and parking.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF/ LAWCON): Land and Water Conservation Fund can help local municipalities through supporting the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Funding can be utilized for parks and recreation areas, development of outdoor recreational facilities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.

Recreation Trails Program (RTP): The Recreation Trails Program funds eligible communities and organizations to support the development and maintenance of recreational trails and related facilities.

Park and Recreational Facilities Construction Program (PARC): Specific to Illinois, the Park and Recreation Faciliities Construction Program can be an option to provide grants for

the construction and renovation of park and recreational facilities in the state.

Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program Funds: ITEP funds can be used for transportation-related projects. Relevant to parks and recreation, funding can be used for the development of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as bike lanes, trails, and pedestrian bridges, as well as safety improvements and accessibility enhancements.

Illinois Youth Recreation Corps Program: While not specific to parks and recreation funding, this program can be leveraged to fund summer employment programs for youth, focusing on recreational and educational activities.

Community Development Block Grants: CDBG funds may be used for community development projects, including recreation programs and facilities. Development and improvement of parks and recreational facilities, programs targeting low- and moderate-income populations can fall under this category.

National Recreation and Parks Association: NRPA grants are used nationwide to secure funding for innovative and impactful park and recreation projects such as health and wellness programs, conservation initiatives, and social equity projects.

Illinois Arts Council Agency Grants: Grants can support arts-related programming, which may include funding for arts and cultural programming in parks and recreation settings.

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning Grants: The purpose of the CMAP Technical Assistance programs is to assist communities with planning and implementation, provide them interagency expertise that can build up their capacity, and help them better leverage the region's transit network. Project examples include bicycle and pedestrian plans, capital improvement plans, and site planning.

Appendix A: Past Plans Summary

Landscape Architecture Planning

Urban Design Strategic Services

Environmental Graphic Design

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designworkshop.com

Woodstock Past Plans Summary

To: City of Woodstock Staff

From: Design Workshop

Date: 10/23/12

Project Name: Woodstock Parks Master Plan

Subject: Previous Plan Review

Below is a study of plans that have been completed in and around the City of Woodstock that were identified as relevant by City staff. This is intended to be an internal document to assist Design Workshop in understanding past planning efforts and how they interact with the Parks System Master Plan. Comments are confined to a brief summary of the plans and recommendations from the plans that directly and indirectly impact the current planning process.

The following plans have been reviewed:

1. Comprehensive Plan update

2. Green Infrastructure Plan

3. Environmental Plan

4. Woodstock Streetscape Design Guidelines

5. Historic District Considerations

6. Downtown Development Plan

7. City of Woodstock Parks Master Plan 2005

8. Existing Survey Outreach

There are multiple recurring recommendations throughout these plans. These are as follows:

1. Utilize private development to gain parks and open space and/or necessary recreation.

2. Preserve the historic aspect of the Square.

3. Continue to emphasize the Square as a unique asset for the City of Woodstock by highlighting it through future development guidelines.

4. Work with partnerships to preserve natural assets and create local and regional trails.

Plan / Document Name: Comprehensive Plan Update

Publication Year: 2023

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

In the 2023, the City of Woodstock began the process of updating its Comprehensive Plan. The Woodstock Comprehensive Plan will serve as a foundation for decision making and help guide where the City wants to be in the future. It will provide goals for the future of Woodstock and recommendations to help the City get there. The City’s last comprehensive plan was last adopted in 2008. Woodstock has chosen to update its Comprehensive Plan to ensure that City staff and elected officials have a strong foundation and guidance to lead the community into the next 20 years.

1. Maintain a parks and open space system that meets the recreational and environmental needs of Woodstock residents.

2. Ensure the preservation and protection of cherished natural resources and amenities such as parks, open spaces, water resources, natural areas, and night skies.

3. Outreach participants stated that Woodstock has the opportunity to position itself as a recreation destination, which will enhance its local tourism. However, it was stated that some of the City’s community assets need improvements, such as Emricson Park. Participants felt that Emricson Park needs maintenance to its pool, a bike path, and other unique features, such as a pickleball court. It was also suggested that Emricson Park could be utilized through the addition of amenities, such as ice skating, sledding, and a warming house.

a. Within its existing and new parks, the City should ensure that recreational facilities and opportunities are available for all ages. Parks should include features such as ample seating options, modern playground equipment, and outdoor exercise equipment – features that appeal to a wide age range.

4. To ensure that new park sites are adequately serving the recreation needs of neighborhood residents, the City should consider establishing a menu of park and open space activation items for the developer to choose from.

a. A menu of items would ensure a base level of park and open space activation while providing developers with the flexibility needed to customize parks and open space to the surrounding residents’ needs

5. Emricson Park could use better maintenance to its pool, and improvements such as a bike path and other amenities, like a pickleball court or ice-skating rink. The Parks and Streets Division should work with the City government to identify necessary improvements, replacements, and expansions over time to its parks, focusing on providing opportunities for all. These types of additions would promote the City as a family-oriented community as it provides an adequate space to host family-friendly events.

6. Though the City meets NRPA standards for parks, the community should continue to increase distribution of public parks and green spaces whenever possible. Currently, the majority of the City’s core residential areas are within a 10-minute walk of a park.

a. Some of the existing residential areas on the periphery of the City and the new residential area identified by the Land Use Plan are outside the existing park service areas.

b. The City should consider their acquisition to develop public spaces such as neighborhood parks, tot lots, or community gardens

7. Third places, such as small plazas and parklets can serve as focal points for future pedestrian activity, functioning as an amenity to business patrons as well as residents and visitors. Third places should be integrated into all new commercial development, including in Downtown and within neighborhoods.

a. Public gathering spaces such as plazas and parklets should be used in combination with decorative signage and lighting, seating areas, planters, and other beautification elements to create

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

Key takeaways:

cohesive and inviting destinations that can host the events that Woodstock residents enjoy

8. The City’s 2009 Master Bicycle Plan identifies a series of improvements to the City’s roadway system to improve bicycle travel, close gaps in the pedestrian network, and improve safety at intersections. The improvements include various types of pedestrian and bicycle facilities to provide an interconnected network that connects commercial corridors, parks, schools, civic facilities, and religious institutions. While the recommendations outlined in the plan have been incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan, consideration should be given to updating the bicycle plan to suit the current needs of the community and to align with the recently adopted McHenry County Connection Plan.

9. The City should continue to support the growing landscape of electric vehicles. To do this, the City should consider installing charging stations for public use and public facilities, including at City-owned lots, parks, and municipal buildings.

1. The city can develop more parks and open spaces in newly developed areas, as well as smaller nodal parks and green space such as tot lots and plazas to enhance the sense of community.

2. The city should prioritize sidewalk and road maintenance for the easy and comfortable access of parks and open spaces.

Plan / Document Name: Green Infrastructure Plan

Publication Year: 2013

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

This Plan provides a further demonstration of the City’s ongoing commitment in this area. Its purpose is to inventory and map natural resources in and around Woodstock and to show how they can be connected. It is intended to “start the conversation” and provide direction for natural resource protection and buffer creation efforts. It can also be used to identify the location of sites that should be protected and managed as open space, and to show how our natural features relate to future land use and development within Woodstock and its planning jurisdiction.

It will allow residents and property owners to become informed of the existence of green infrastructure in the vicinity of their property and how their land can be managed so as to protect and enhance adjoining green areas. This information can also be used to create guidelines and recommendations for the preservation, protection, and linking of natural features which comprise green infrastructure.

Acquisition of Green Infrastructure by Public Agencies:

1. The City of Woodstock should develop a land acquisition policy and identify green infrastructure priorities within the City’s planning jurisdiction. Opportunities for protecting local natural areas that are part of the green infrastructure network should be identified, and efforts to educate residents and property owners about the value of these natural resources and the networks they comprise should be made.

2. The City should coordinate with US Fish and Wildlife Service and MCCD efforts in the implementation of the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge along Woodstock’s northern planning boundary.

3. Woodstock, either by itself or with other municipalities interested in preserving natural areas as public open space, should consider utilizing the resources of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

4. The City should continue working with private land owners, TLC, and similar organizations to protect critical natural areas, buffers, and connections within the City and its planning jurisdiction.

Planning and Zoning Initiatives

1. The Cities of Woodstock and Crystal lake should work cooperatively on resource protection and greenway connectivity in the southeast part of Woodstock and northwest Crystal Lake where green infrastructure features extend across municipal boundaries.

2. Green infrastructure elements and information should continue to be incorporated into the City’s land use plans and zoning maps, with a priority on protecting critical natural resources, open space, and linked greenways.

3. Woodstock should link development priorities to natural resource amenities, particularly streams, lakes, wetlands, and their respective watersheds and recharge areas. Development should be avoided or restricted in the most sensitive of these areas.

Greenway Connections

1. Qualified conservation organizations and public land agencies should promote public awareness and provide technical assistance regarding greenway protection to private landowners and homeowners associations.

2. The City, with the participation of other local governments and open space organizations such as McHenry County, MCCD, and TLC, should work together to link local open spaces to existing and planned green infrastructure networks.

3. The City should require the connection of adjacent buffer zones and existing natural and open space areas when new development projects are proposed.

Trails and Bikeways

1. Along with McHenry County, local governments, and the McHenry County Department of Transportation, the City should coordinate efforts to plan and implement trail corridors throughout Woodstock and the County to provide clear, safe connections between communities and existing and future open space areas.

2. When evaluating locations for trail corridors, the City should identify multiple-use riparian (i.e., streamside) greenway opportunities to accommodate trails, wildlife corridors, and vegetative buffers.

3. The City should encourage and plan for improved walkability throughout the community.

4. Existing pedestrian pathways should be identified and connected.

Buffer Zones

1. Utilize natural areas, dedicated open space, public and private parks and recreational sites, trail systems, and conservation areas to designate areas for buffer zones between the City and neighboring municipalities.

2. The City and local conservation organizations should evaluate land which provides a connection between significant natural areas and environmental resources for designation as a potential buffer zone.

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

Landscape Retrofitting of Developed Land

1. Woodstock should identify retrofit opportunities to preserve and restore natural base-flows in local streams and water bodies to protect their ecology and quality.

2. Educate and encourage property owners’ associations to allow the use of natural landscaping under their covenants and deed restriction documents.

Acquisition of Green Infrastructure by Public Agencies

1. Where appropriate, the City and neighboring municipalities should work for the adoption of intergovernmental partnerships and leverage their resources to create and preserve natural communities.

Easements:

2. Encouragement and support for the establishment of voluntary preservation easements should be given to land owners.

3. The City and other municipalities, with support from the TLC and other environmental organizations, should promote the joining together of areas subject to conservation easements and in close proximity to each other, in order to establish or enhance the green infrastructure network.

Dedication of Nature Preserves

1. The City and local conservation organizations should continue their efforts to educate private landowners and land developers about opportunities to set aside land for natural resource conservation and protection purposes

Planning and Zoning Initiatives

1. Regulatory tools and techniques, such as overlay protection districts and the general review procedures set out in the Unified Development Ordinance, should be reviewed and revised by the City to clearly require the identification of sensitive areas where development intensity should be limited.

2. The City should add provisions for commercial and industrial conservation design standards in its Unified Development Ordinance

3. The City should continue to utilize a variety of creative greenway preservation tools such as linkages identified in land use plans, intergovernmental agreements, buffer zones, and conservation design principles.

4. The interconnection of open space and greenways should be required by Woodstock during the subdivision and development approval process.

Trail and Bikeways

1. Where appropriate and as part of mandatory public improvements, Woodstock should require the installation of pedestrian and bicycle trail amenities that will contribute to or result in linear connections between buffer zones.

Landscape Retrofitting of Developed Land

1. The City should increase its capacities to protect, restore, and manage watershed resources with effective and consistent regulations, leadership, and public education.

2. Develop written direction and guidelines regarding the use and benefit of natural landscaping and publicize this information as part of the City’s “good neighbor” brochure program

Key takeaways:

Questions:

• Green infrastructure preservation and enhancement is not an activity that can be successful without intergovernmental cooperation and partnerships among several diverse groups and organizations, as well as the involvement and support of private landowners and the development community.

• Green infrastructure planning should be an integral part of each community’s planning and development activities and strategy, and should be acknowledged as linked and interconnected to the “built” environment.

• Priorities may include policy changes such as land acquisition, revising the zoning code to expand requirements for the development and protection of green infrastructure and natural resources, and improved connectivity.

1. Have any of the intergovernmental recommendations been implemented?

2. Have there been any green infrastructure zoning code updates since this plan’s creation?

Plan / Document Name:

Publication Year: 2010

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

The Environmental Plan is intended to function as both an educational resource and as a planning tool. Each chapter is broken down into discussions on the key issues related to the main topic. The discussion of each key issue is then followed by specific goals and actions that are recommended to foster environmental responsibility and move the city toward sustainability.

1. Ensure environmental quality. Understand environmental linkages when decisions are made regarding growth, land use, natural areas, transportation, energy, water, housing, air quality and economic development.

2. Goal: Maintain the unique character of Woodstock’s agricultural heritage.

a. Establish community garden sites.

b. Continue and enhance support of the agricultural events and venues such as farmer’s market and harvest fest.

3. Goal: Identify, protect and enhance environmental features within Woodstock’s green infrastructure.

a. Create a Woodstock green infrastructure map which identifies the important elements and creates buffers around them.

4. Goal: Create a greenways plan.

a. Create bike and hiking trails and protect linking corridors.

b. Pursue cooperative agreements with other entities to create these trails.

5. Goal: Promote pedestrian and bicycle traffic near transit stations and throughout the community

a. Require sidewalks and pedestrian trails in proximity to transit stations to provide connectivity between transit stations and other land uses.

6. Enhance Woodstock’s biodiversity.

a. Take appropriate measures to enhance those areas which provide habitat for native species.

7. Goal: Acquire lands to protect or enhance Woodstock’s biodiversity.

a. Develop a land acquisition strategy.

8. Goal: Educate the public and City staff on the value of wetlands and use of best management practices for wetland enhancement and protection.

a. Include trails, where environmentally sound, along stream corridors to enhance public use and education.

b. Provide City personnel with training opportunities.

9. Goal: Promote maintenance of existing urban trees and the planting of native trees throughout the City.

a. Develop a Comprehensive Tree Ordinance or Urban Tree Renewal Plan, including tree removal policies and invasive species mitigation.

b. Establish a Tree Planting Program.

c. Perform an inventory of existing urban trees.

d. Enroll and/or update the City of Woodstock as a Tree City USA member.

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

10. Goal: Provide long-term protection for Woodstock’s six Locally Significant Natural Resource sites.

a. Develop and implement a restoration-management plan for each site currently owned by the city (West Woodstock Prairie, Emricson Park Woodland, Ryders Woods, Silver Creek, and Alberts Meadow). Each plan should include management needs as a priority, as well as identifying user needs such as trails, benches and interpretive signs or displays.

b. Identify a long-term protection strategy for the Lamb Road wetland. Apply for state and federal grants to promote acquisition, restoration, recreation, and management activities.

11. Goal: Identify and protect other high quality natural communities within Woodstock. Develop a GIS-based inventory of existing Locally Significant Natural Resource sites remaining within the City.

a. Continue to work with conservation agencies and land trusts to manage Locally Significant Natural Resource sites*

12. Goal: Promote local volunteer stewardship as part of natural areas management.

13. Goal: Reduce existing airborne pollutants.

a. Plant trees and protect / increase green space to improve air quality.

14. Goal: Curb air-polluting emissions by providing alternatives to and/or reducing automobile travel and other gasolinepowered motor use.

a. Encourage natural landscaping in lieu of turf grass lawns to reduce the need for mowing.

15. Create more opportunities for safe and inviting bicycle and pedestrian transit.

a. Increase the availability of bike racks and “rest area” type amenities around the city.

b. Investigate grants and develop partnerships for building pedestrian bridges, bike lanes, and trails/sidewalks.

c. Identify and connect existing pedestrian pathways.

d. Create a Bicycle Transportation Plan for the city.

16. Goal: Develop an agritourism and ecotourism strategy for the City.

a. Identify destinations that currently provide agritourism and ecotourism opportunities

1. Goal: Maintain/redevelop Woodstock as a center of agricultural commerce.

a. Encourage the creation and sustainability of agricultural businesses in the economic development plan.

2. Goal: Support additional venues for the production, marketing and sale of local foods.

a. Include local food production in the economic development plan

b. Explore establishing an indoor year-round farmer’s market.

3. Goal: Ensure long-term maintenance and management of protected natural areas within Conservation Design developments.

a. Identify responsible party to provide funding and long-term maintenance, including detailed management plans which clearly define the roles of the developer, property owner and local unit of government or qualified third party.

4. Goal: Redevelop underutilized or contaminated properties.

a. Provide assistance to developers through streamlined development approval procedures and/or specific economic incentives which are revenue-neutral to the community.

5. Goal: Encourage economic development of community brownfields.

a. Continuously seek access to funding for State and Federal brownfield mitigation programs and implementation/remediation strategies.

6. Goal: Protect West Woodstock Prairie.

a. Adopt protective land use practices in the upland recharge areas as depicted in the Comprehensive Plan’s Resource Conservation Corridor.

b. Provide permanent protection to this site, e.g., dedication of an Illinois Nature Preserve.

7. Goal: Educate City staff on prairie vegetation.

a. Sponsor training sessions for Parks Department Personnel in prairie restoration and maintenance techniques

8. Goal: Protect Woodstock’s remaining wetland resources.

a. Require the location of natural resources within the watershed be provided when reviewing proposed new developments. Review existing ordinances and revise to require new developments in proximity to Woodstock’s wetland system to address specific on-site wetland needs.

b. Explore how to provide adequate naturalized buffer zones within all new developments located along Woodstock’s wetland system.

c. Provide long-term maintenance of Woodstock’s wetland system.

9. Goal: Protect groundwater quality and quantity for use by current and future generations as well as natural systems

a. Establish Wellhead Protection Areas (WHPA) under the Illinois Groundwater Protection Act which gives local governments the authority to protect groundwater recharge areas and community wellhead zones via ordinances and zoning controls.

b. Explore the viability of adopting a Regulated Recharge Areas and develop a Recharge Area Suitability Assessment policy

10. Goal: Limit surface water runoff and reduce water runoff pollution.

a. Promote the retrofit of existing conventional stormwater systems with naturalized BMPs.

Key Takeaways:

Questions:

b. Install/identify demonstration sites on public or private property within the city (raingardens, rainbarrels, BMPs etc.).

Key themes include protection, connectivity, and education. This takeaways reflect how the parks and open space system can be utilized to take environmentally sustainable actions.

1. Have any brownfields sights been redeveloped since this plan?

2. Have any cooperative agreements with other entities been pursued?

3. Are there current metrics for trail development?

4. Have any of the actions for identifying biodiversity been accomplished?

a. Compile data from existing bird, frog, and butterfly counts.

b. Conduct a survey (bioblitz) of species inhabiting Woodstock

5. What is the current process for land acquisition? How does it appear in subdivisions and PUD regulations?

a. Who is required to maintain it?

6. Has the city conducted an Ecological Footprint analysis?

Plan / Document Name: Downtown Sub-Area Plan

Publication Year: 1996

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Downtown revitalization is based on four overall goals: Economic Vitality, Sense of Place, Spirit of Community, and Neighborhood Integrity.

Downtown is and must remain the premier mixed-use business and civic center in the city and its market area. However, the mixture of the 21st century will be different than that of the mid 20th century and that of the 19th century. It must, nevertheless, emphasize interrelationships between uses that are not only compatible, but exhibit synergism, or as others might call it, "the power of cumulative attraction."

The original town was designed in accordance with traditional concepts: a centrally located public square; a grid system of streets and blocks; and an array of highways leading from the square to outlying areas. The railroad was constructed at a later date, bisecting several blocks, and connecting Woodstock to Chicago's Loop. This system continues to serve the City today.

The Downtown Sub-Area Plan is intended to build on existing conditions to help propel Woodstock into the future, while highlighting the valued elements that make it unique today.

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

1. Downtown approach routes must be direct, well marked, uncongested, and attractive.

2. A new collector-distributor street shouId be developed between McHenry Avenue and Washington Avenue to relieve the pressure on Church Street.

3. The City should remain alert to every opportunity to enhance commuter rail (Metra) service and Pace bus service in the Downtown.

4. limited number of bicycle stalls should be provided with the Woodstock Square area or in nearby parking lots.

5. The area bounded by Washington-Church, Throop, Calhoun, and Jefferson should remain as the pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use business and "cultural" core of Downtown.

6. No single use is more critical to the Square than the Opera House. The City should support efforts to expand supporting activities and facilities on properties west of the principal structure, including a possible rear entrance from Calhoun Street and the City Hall parking lot.

7. A visitor center should be located on or adjacent to the Square.

8. Buildings around the Square should be adapted to provide retail uses and facades facing Washington-Church, Throop, Calhoun, Benton, and Jefferson Streets.

9. The commuter station must remain at its present location to preserve the historic relationship with the Square and to form a focal point between the Square and new development north of the tracks.

10. All streets intersecting the Square should be paved with brick similar to streets around the Square. Historic, pedestrian-oriented lighting fixtures, which now exist on light poles near intersections, should be provided on virtually all light poles around and near the Square. Landscaped planter

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

boxes can be introduced in selected locations on sidewalks around the Square to add color and soften the harshness of concrete.

11. Historic lighting fixtures should also be installed along perimeter streets around the Square area, and banners should be hung from rear building facades.

12. Compatibility and synergism are not as well evidenced as they could be, nor as they need to be for Downtown to compete with other business districts in the future. The primary weakness is that functions located off the Square do not relate as well as they could to functions on the Square. A secondary weakness is that uses of properties near the Opera House do not exhibit the synergism that could and should be achieved.

13. Street trees are recommended to be added where possible on the north side, and that property owners be requested and encouraged to improve the appearance of their buildings and sites.

14. Development in this area should be sensitive to adjacent residential neighborhoods.

15. The commuter rail station must remain at its present location to preserve the historic relationship with the Square and to form a focal point between the Square and new development north of the tracks.

16. In addition to the Park-in-the-Square, several new public open spaces are recommended, including small "gateway" parks at the intersections of McHenry and Madison, Church and Jefferson, Calhoun and Jefferson, and South and Lake.

17. An even more dramatic and historically correct open space is recommended between the commuter rail station and Washington Street. This landscaped open space will restore the visual connection between the rail station and the Square which existed at the turn of the century. It will also provide a hospitable setting for visitors who will arrive by train to shop, be entertained, and/or stay overnight in Downtown.

1. Intersection improvements, including landscaping, are recommended for the intersections of McHenry Avenue, Madison Street, and Mewell Street, and for the intersection of Washington Street and Throop Street.

2. Public off-street parking facilities in the Downtown should be expanded.

3. Ground floor space should be occupied by retail shops of modest size the more the better.

4. Offices, other than those serving walk-in customers, residences, and bed and breakfast inn accommodations should be encouraged on upper floors looking over street level activity.

5. Mid-block pedestrian ways should be upgraded and installed where appropriate to connect blocks.

6. Land use arrangement and density shou Id provide a natural transition from the Square to adjacent residential neighborhoods, based on a grid system of streets.

Key takeaways:

A key objective is to respect the classic land use pattern of Downtown, and to expand the character of the Square to outward encompass a larger area. This

Questions:

plan serves to implement actions that honor the historic nature of the city and square, while making modern updates that best prepare it for the future.

1. Has a new collector-distributor street been developed between McHenry Avenue and Washington Avenue to relieve the pressure on Church Street?

2. Have any of these recommendations been implemented?

Plan / Document Name: Woodstock Square Streetscape Design Guidelines

Publication Year: 2007

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

On June 1, 2004, URS completed the “City of Woodstock Streetscape Manual for Signed Corridors”. The plan addressed signage and streetscape standards for Woodstock on a large scale. The City of Woodstock used this manual as a basis for the upgrades of Main Street and Calhoun Street. Since the manual dealt with a larger scale, staff had difficulty determining how to apply the improvements on a smaller scale to the Square area. Hitchcock Design Group was hired to create a more detailed plan for how the Square area streetscape and improvements should proceed to assist in a more refined application.

1. Square streets - At the heart of Woodstock, the Square Streets have a very high quality of detail and character.

a. Maintain and restore historic architecture and site design.

b. Repair wall around the Square and enhance the surrounding streets.

c. Improve pedestrian access and upgrade streetscape character.

d. Upgrade streets and intersections to identify Square and direct traffic.

e. Unifi ed streetscape elements to transition into Square Streets.

f. Clean up visual obstructions and enhance visual aesthetic of approach.

g. Upgrade existing alleys into pedestrian corridors where applicable.

2. Perimeter Streets - Found along the outskirts of the Square, the Perimeter Streets are important traffic routes. They bring visitors to the Square area as well as direct traffic around it. They are the first point of contact with the Square area.

a. Strategically upgrade intersections to identify Square Access Streets.

b. Create shared refuse areas and buffer alleys for more inviting streets.

c. Upgrade pedestrian access and upgrade streetscape aesthetics.

3. Streetscape - The main objective is to improve the overall environment and encourage visitors to enter the square.

a. Enhancements and improvements build on the existing character and add to the sense of place and excitement.

i. This is achieved through wayfinding details incorporated into the street pattern, unified elements and pacemakers which are complimentary to the historic character, and an escalading level of detail as visitors approach the square.

- Preserve historic features, details and architecture

- Enhance Square Park retaining wall

- Landscaped bump-outs and pavers at crosswalks

- Repeat historic ornamental rail as furnishing feature

- Define walkway zones for consistency throughout square

- Include site furnishings where space allow

4. Streetscape materials

a. Throughout the project, various pieces of coordinated site elements are used to help unify the entire project.

5. Overall

a. Streetscape elements are high quality and highest historic details have been repeated.

Key takeaways:

b. The sidewalks have been organized to promote a more consistent approach and walkable area.

c. Zones are established to provide for a transition area, walkway area, and store frontage area

1. Enhance major access points to help guide users into the square and establish character.

2. Establish streetscape guidelines to create a more consistent, aesthetic, and pedestrian friendly environment.

3. Identify implementation priorities to construct the improvements systematically over time.

Plan / Document Name: Design Review Guidelines for Properties in the City of Woodstock Downtown Business Historic Preservation District

Publication Year: 2011

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

The following design guidelines are intended to guide design decisions in the City of Woodstock Downtown Business Historic Preservation District and to provide an applicant with an understanding of the historic context for the buildings in the district. As additional properties are added to the district or designated as historic landmarks, or new districts are established these same guidelines will be applied.

It is recognized, however, that each building has its own unique circumstances relating to construction, maintenance, and use which needs to be taken into consideration when reviewing proposed building or site changes.

1. Over the years, streets and sidewalks around the Square have been raised, resulting in changes in storefront entrances. Where a customer may have had to step up a couple stairs to enter a building, a handicapped accessible slope now exists.

Questions:

1. What should the key considerations from this plan be?

Plan / Document Name:

Publication Year: 2020

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

The Downtown Development Plan is a guide for the future development of Downtown Woodstock. The plan encompasses four planning districts; each with unique characteristics that separate one from another.

Downtown Woodstock truly stands among America’s central business districts as a wonderfully distinctive place. Building upon the legacy of past planning efforts, and with particular emphasis on aligning the community’s vision, the Downtown Woodstock Development Plan formulates a place-based strategy for enhancing the character, heart, diversity and strength of Downtown Woodstock.

1. Develop the civic heart of the community.

a. Downtown Woodstock will be a cultural capital attracting and promoting entrepreneurs.

b. Arts, culture and community events will continue to drive visitors and spending in the community, contributing greatly to the local economy.

c. Woodstock’s downtown will be recognized as one of the top downtowns in the Midwest.

d. With the historic square as the centerpiece of Woodstock, tourism will bring more visitors to the area, making Woodstock one of the state’ s most visited and celebrated places.

• Park in the Square recommendations: Careful management should continue, as has been the case with recent improvements including the entry arches, the stonework on the perimeter wall, and the repair of the soldier memorial. The events schedule would benefit from an improved, permanent sound system throughout the Park in the Square, with possible extensions to the entire downtown district. Multiple formal plans should be developed for the closure of various streets and spaces surrounding the Square at various levels of intensity based on the size of the event. The City should explore the provision of permanent public restroom facilities at key locations, consistent with the quality of the Historic District, to better accommodate festivals and events.

2. Preserve the historic character.

a. Design guidelines will maintain the historic and vibrant architectural integrity of downtown Woodstock. We will create a strong sense of place that is unlike other downtowns.

b. Crosswalks, benches, trees, landscaping and other public infrastructure will contribute to a unique downtown experience.

3. Strengthen the Central Business District.

a. Downtown Woodstock will continue to be a strong walkable environment for residents.

b. Infrastructure for all modes of transportation will improve, making downtown Woodstock mobility and pedestrian friendly.

c. A new, off -street trail will be constructed, leading from IL Route 47 at Country Club Road, through Raintree Park, then northwest

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

Key Takeaways:

Questions:

along the railroad tracks through Sesquicentennial Park and the Woodstock Station site, to Wicker Street

1. Design guidelines will maintain the historic and vibrant architectural integrity of downtown Woodstock. We will create a strong sense of place that is unlike other downtowns.

2. Downtown will experience residential growth.

3. Every new development will be designed to contribute to the strength of the Downtown as a valuable public space.

This plan intends to utilize the downtown as the civic heart of the community, preserve the historic character of Woodstock, and strengthen the CBD. It aims to result in economic development and an enhanced sense of community pride.

1. Have any of these numerical thresholds been achieved?

Plan / Document Name: City of Woodstock Parks Master Plan 2005

Publication Year: 2006

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

One of the principal objectives with the preparation of this formal Master Plan is to establish a process of communication and joint decision making involving the City Council, the Parks and Recreation Commission, the City staff, current user groups, future user groups, and interested residents. The final product is a planning document to aid in the future development and management of the City's facilities and resources that will serve the needs of all interested groups and the residents of the City of Woodstock within practical fiscal limits.

The Plan is divided into multiple sections beginning with an overview of the current structure of the City's services. Subsequent sections describe current facilities, and the user groups, standards for park and recreational uses, and specific recommendations for improvements.

1. In order to meet the needs and requests of existing park users and organized sports activities, the City should carefully review and evaluate the dedication of neighborhood park sites for the next five years if the dedication will reduce the cash payment from the development.

2. After five years, the City should again assess the need and importance of neighborhood park sites and evaluate the goals for these facilities.

3. The City should, as early as funding allows and as soon as improvements have been made for the expansion of athletic fields and recreational facilities, continue to evaluate and acquire land for neighborhood parks.

4. The City should plan for the development of neighborhood park sites already approved and/or dedicated to the City based on the priorities of park projects and the availability of funds.

5. The City should consider requiring the dedication of park land for a neighborhood park in addition to cash payments with all proposed residential annexations.

6. The City should continue to evaluate new development projects and support the acquisition of public open space and unique landscape areas that supplement and enhance existing open space and landscape areas or that create linkage between such areas.

7. In order to meet the needs and requests of existing park users and organized sports activities, the City should not accept the dedication of open space and/or unique landscape areas for the next five years in lieu of any cash payments

8. The City should annually review the maintenance, repair, and replacement of existing park facilities in order to preserve the existing facilities and to provide continued use by the residents.

9. Maintenance funding and maintenance plans should consider the importance and financial value of preserving existing facilities versus the cost of new construction.

10. In general, funding for the proper and necessary maintenance of existing facilities should be given higher priority than funding for the expansion of park facilities or the construction of new facilities. The City should avoid postponing necessary maintenance and upkeep as a means to fund new improvements.

11. The City should protect existing park sites from the encroachment of conflicting land uses.

12. The City should evaluate and encourage new developments to provide convenient access with an emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle access to existing park sites.

13. The development and improvement of existing park sites and facilities shall generally follow the recommendations contained in Chapter Six. Minor changes to these development plans and concepts should be accommodated, but major changes should be carefully evaluated by the Commission and the City. Care should be taken to avoid overdevelopment of any park site and to also avoid “special request” facilities that do not fall within the goals and objectives of this plan.

14. Since it will generally be more cost effective to improve existing park land, the City should consider the construction of new improvements that increase park facilities prior to the development of similar facilities on new land.

15. Work with the McHenry County Conservation District and neighboring communities to develop connections with their greenway and bike plans.

16. Continue to work with District 200 and Marian Central Catholic High School for the expansion of athletic facilities through the use of the ‘Outdoor Facilities Committee’ which has already been established. The goal will be to plan, fund, and develop additional sport fields through a joint effort.

17. Continue to work with District 200 and Marian Central Catholic High School for the shared used of indoor school facilities by the City for recreation programs and activities. The goal will be to provide the widest range of use possible of existing facilities with the least cost to our common residents.

18. Continue to work with local businesses and private ventures to sponsor joint recreational programs and to encourage private facilities as an option for recreational and sports choices. Wherever possible, the City will encourage the private development and operation of sport and recreational facilities and work with private providers to plan and implement joint activities and programs.

Key Takeaways: This plan provides good strategies for implementation, such as reassessments and regular audits, but does not include funding or partnership sources to help realize these programs. This plan also seems to be constrained in terms of “Big Ideas” and has a focus on maintenance and upkeep of the current system.

Questions:

1. Has the city completed an assessment for the need and importance of neighborhood park sites and evaluated the goals for these facilities?

2. Is the city still not accepting open space dedication in lieu for cash payments? Has this been effective in meeting the needs of recreation?

3. Has the Outdoor Facilities Committee been successful?

4. For all new paths and trails developed since this plan, have the general guidelines and standards been followed?

5. What, if anything, do you feel that this plan is missing?

6. How are the different areas of the city referred to?

a. Ex: Neighborhoods, quadrants, districts, etc.

7. Should the city still prioritize funding for maintenance over new development?

Plan / Document Name: Engagement Summary

Publication Year: 2023

Summary (50 – 100 words):

Recommendations that directly impact this plan:

This survey summary outlines key takeaways from previous engagement outreach efforts.

A. Recreation Center Survey:

1. Most participants use the Recreation Center daily (46%) and weekly (49%)

2. A majority of participants would not utilize the recreation center with extended hours

3. Interesting to note is that a majority of participants rarely use the pool, sauna, and whirlpool, but aquacise is the fitness class taken by most participants

4. Indoor pool, free weight stations, full size gym, aerobics room, are the most important amenities according to respondents

5. Many open comments about street and sidewalk maintenance

a. Comments regarding poor accessibility

B. Northstar Research and Strategy Discussion

1. Missing amenities:

a. Bike paths and sidewalks

b. Farm to table

c. Larger musical events

d. Professional venues

2. Important to identity:

a. The Square

b. Urban green space

c. Environmental activism

d. Welcoming nature

3. Key takeaways:

a. Downtown Square and events was selected as the greatest asset by a significant number of participants

b. Distinguishing aspects include The Square and its events, preserving history, and the quaint city size

c. Priorities should include beautification (36%) and maintenance (34%)

d. The Opera House (24%) was selected as being more iconic than The Square (19%)

e. Crystal Lake was rated more positively for opportunities than Woodstock

f. Assets to leverage:

• Downtown

• Safety

• Diversity

• Balance of nature

• Arts and culture

g. Challenges to overcome:

• Empty storefronts

• Little advertisement about events

• Limited shopping

Recommendations that indirectly impact this plan:

Questions:

• Representation beyond the square

• Natural water areas

A. Northstar Research and Strategy Discussion

1. Woodstock is best described as safe, historic, and comfortable/quaint

B. Consumer Awareness and Perception Study (CAP)

1. Woodstock is the most highly known city in McHenry County

2. Woodstock is associated with Groundhog Day, rural/farms, and music festivals

3. Woodstock is not seen as a place good for Gen Z and Young Millenials

1. Would you say that Crystal Lake is Woodstock’s biggest “competitor” in terms of economic development and residents?

a. What currently differentiates the two?

Appendix B: Park Classifications

Neighborhood Park

1.5-10 acres 1/2 mile radius (10-minute walk)

Neighborhood Parks are relatively small parks located in residential neighborhoods. These parks serve specific neighborhoods and have amenities that reflect those neighborhoods' characteristics and needs. Neighborhood Parks should be welcoming and accessible for children, family groups, small neighborhood gatherings, and senior citizens.

Relatively small parks in residential areas. Mixed large and small amenities-such as open lawns, pavilions, playgrounds, sports courts and fields-provide both active and passive recreation for nearby residents for daily leisure periods. May have wide range of amenities depending on neighborhood needs. Onstreet parking is typically adequate. Should be centrally located within the neighborhood, with safe walking and bicycle access.

Olson Park

Community Park

10-30 acres 1-mile radius (20-minute walk)

Community Parks meet the day-to-day park and recreational needs of Woodstock residents. These parks are a focal point for communitywide activities and group gatherings. They provide facilities that serve a broad audience and balance active and passive recreation needs. Community Parks usually have both day and evening activities and are distributed throughout the city.

Common facilities include Community Centers, large play structures and sports fields, plus restrooms and lighting. Often allow for group activities not feasible nor desirable at the neighborhood level due to noise, lights, traffic, etc. May include paved areas for court games, picnic tables and shelters. Portions of land may include natural areas for outdoor recreation.

Raintree Park

Regional Park

10-50 acres City and broader region Regional Parks serve the entire community, including those in and around Woodstock, with their unique amenities. These parks bring people together at communitywide events and promote tourism and economic development.

Open Space/Green Space

Size varies City and broader region These spaces typically provide environmental benefits, natural scenery, and unique features. They afford a pleasant environment to engage in passive recreation; preserve significant views and wildlife habitat; and provide outdoor and nature-oriented activities for residents and tourists. These lands protect sensitive environmental features such as steep slopes, floodplains and wetlands.

Special Use

Size varies City and broader region Special Use Facilities are parks with recreational facilities that serve specific types of users from across the city and region -- such as soccer and softball teams, disc golf players and skateboarders.

Park amenities, special events and unique landscapes make these parks destinations and attractions. Special features such as stages, waterbodies or historic sites may add to the park's character. Amenity expectations may include restrooms, parking, lighting, concessions, facilities for rental/ reservation, and expression of history, art and culture.

Natural land area with environmentally sensitive habitat and features, and riverfront areas and floodplains and creek corridors. Hennen Conservation Area

Characteristics and amenities vary based on special use purpose.

Emricson Park

Merryman Fields

Appendix C: Organization, Operations and Maintenance Assessment

Organization, Operations and Maintenance Assessment

With limited staff and planning time, the city has a rather disjointed approach to maintaining parks and facilities as well as providing recreation programs, handling special events and operating facilities. The Parks Division operates within the Department of Public Works under the umbrella of Operations. The Recreation Department operates under the umbrella of Business Development. Other departments and divisions handle various aspects of providing parks and recreation to the community with Facilities and Fleet Maintenance in Operations and Marketing and Communications in Business Development.

Staffing

Staffing within Parks and Recreation is limited and is divided into a number of areas. These include:

Parks Maintenance - This area has 10.5 full-time staff to maintain the park system.

• 2 full-time staff are assigned to the Square along with 1 seasonal staff for watering.

• Weekend coverage is provided by a staff from Parks and/or Streets.

• Maintenance staff works Monday-Friday. For tournaments full-time staff gets paid overtime for weekend work.

• Staff is responsible for areas outside of parks such as City Hall, Library, medians and various city parking lots.

• Oversees contract work including annual plantings, weeding, snow removal, and portable toilets.

• Forestry moved to Streets in FY 22-23.

Recreation Programs - Has 4 full-time staff that oversees the aquatic center, playground program, sports leagues, swim lessons, special events and all other programs provided by the City.

• Staff manage a number of part-time staff that act as supervisors.

• Staff coordinates with NISRA for providing programming for those with special needs.

• Staff also oversee the local sports organizations that utilize city fields.

Recreation Center – There is 1 full-time staff that is responsible for the operation and management of the recreation center.

• All other staff directly related to the operations are part-time, including on that is responsible for light maintenance and cleaning.

Aquatic Center – There is not a full-time staff that is responsible for the operation and management of the aquatic center.

• All other staff directly related to the operations are seasonal.

Facility Maintenance – Is responsible for the maintenance of all city facilities. There are 2.5 fulltime staff.

• The staff is not responsible for contract cleaning of buildings but do contract HVAC, electrical and other trades.

• Staff time is not charged to other departments, but any maintenance supplies are.

• The division maintains several facilities in separate funds (Aquatic Center, Recreation Center, and Library) Costs are not charged back to these facilities either.

Fleet Maintenance – Is responsible for the maintenance of all city vehicles and equipment. There are 3 full-time staff.

• The staff is responsible for a total of 153 items (vehicles and equipment), 48.5 within the Parks Division and 1 within Recreation. The equipment within the Parks Division is 54% of the overall equipment owned by the City.

• Staff time is not charged to other departments, but any maintenance supplies are.

Marketing and Communications – Is responsible for the development and promotion of information related to services provided by the City of Woodstock. There are 4 full-time staff.

• The staff develops and distributes the City Scene three times per year.

• Social media and website content is coordinated with Parks and Recreation.

Other

• The typical park and recreation department has 8.9 full-time employees per 10,000 residents. For Woodstock, this would equate to 22.8 positions. The positions are generally:

o Parks Operations & Maintenance – 46%

o Recreation – 30%

o Administration – 17%

o Capital/Other – 7%

• A number of community events are held within City parks and coordinated by staff. A budget is identified within the General Fund for services provided to City events without a full-time staff person associated with it.

• Staff lacks an on-going training program.

• There is not a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) on staff and at least one is needed.

• The department’s organizational chart needs to be streamlined and reorganized.

• There is no comprehensive staff manual in place.

• Establishing a succession plan for staff is important. This will provide staffing continuity and help with retention and development.

Operations

Various operational factors are noted in the following section.

Maintenance: The maintenance of parks and facilities is reviewed below.

• The general level of maintenance for facilities and parks needs to be increased to meet community demands and expectations.

• It is recognized that a portion of park maintenance functions are contracted.

• With the Parks Division under Public Works, staff often handles non-park related tasks.

• The city does not have a computerized maintenance management system.

• There is also no maintenance plan or standards in place for parks or facility maintenance as a whole or for individual locations.

• There needs to be a capacity/use analysis completed to determine the acceptable level of use for athletic fields to minimize turf damage.

• All playgrounds in the city need to be on a replacement schedule that ensures that there is a system in place for keeping playgrounds safe and useable.

• Staff opens and closes most parks daily including restrooms. This is a significant undertaking, and it impacts other maintenance tasks.

• Parks lacks an adequate maintenance facility/yard.

• There are strong contracts in place for all contract maintenance and programs.

Budgets: For Parks and Recreation, there are a number of budgets that cover recreation facilities and facilities maintenance, this includes:

General Fund – This is the budget for the recreation department. In addition, facilities, fleet, community events and marketing and communications are within this fund.

Aquatic Center Fund – This is the budget for Woodstock Water Works, and it covers most of the expenses related to the operation

Recreation Center Fund – This budget covers the operations and maintenance of the recreation center.

Parks Fund – This budget covers the operations and maintenance of the parks.

Parks Development Fund – This fund is designated for development and improvement to park facilities and funded through new residential development projects.

Special Recreation Fund – The purpose of this fund is to collect property taxes to provide for programming for those with special needs. Majority of the funds are provided to the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association.

• Taxes account for 55% of the Revenue for Parks and Recreation. General Fund Tax support and dedicated levies typically account for 69%.

• Fees and charges account for 43% of the Revenue for Parks and Recreation, which is greater than the national average of 24.6%. 1

• Salaries (Personnel) accounts for 56% of the expenditures by Parks and Recreation, which is similar to the national average of 55%.

• Operating expense add up to 41% with the remaining 3% for Capital. Nationally, approximately 5% is spend on capital expenditures annually.

• This is not an unusual budget breakout as Recreation is within the General Fund, although Parks typically is as well. Often specific facilities are broken out to track their individual performance which is the case with the Recreation Center and Aquatic Center.

• Considering the amount of activity and events that take place at the Square and Emricson, these parks should be tracked separately, or at least with line items within the Parks budget. This is now considered as a best practice for parks and recreation agencies.

• Recreation revenues within the General Fund are shown as a single category only with no linkage back to the expenditure accounts. The Recreation Department does track revenue and expenses per program however.

• Parks and Recreation should have a 5-year CIP plan that is updated yearly.

• Parks has received grant funding to make improvements to ballfields.

• Without significant residential development, funding for park improvements and development will not be available for capital projects through the Park Development Fund.

• There is no fee policy in place and as a result there is no consistency in how fees are charged. However, rental rates for most facilities are set at a level that is generally commensurate with the value of the amenity.

• The department will need to plan for increasing costs, especially for staff. The department will need to pay more to attract and keep staff but also plan for minimum wage increases.

Policies and Procedures: There are minimal operations and management policies and procedures in place for Parks and Recreation. The city itself has policies and procedures that cover human resources (employee manual), purchasing and other management functions but this is the extent of most policies.

• There needs to be standard operating procedures for the department as a whole and also for individual parks and facilities.

• It is critical to have safety and security measures in place for all parks and facilities as well as an emergency action plan.

• A comprehensive athletic field use policy should be developed.

• The department does have a continuity of service plan.

• The department needs to develop a diversity, equity, and inclusion plan (DEI).

• Key performance metrics for parks/facility maintenance and recreation services are included annually in the budget.

Marketing: Parks and Recreation receives a fair amount of support for promoting programs and services.

• The city’s web site is being updated along with overall city branding.

• A marketing strategy or plan for parks and recreation should be in place to guide marketing efforts.

Existing Organization, Operations and Maintenance Concerns:

• While the communication and coordination within the various divisions is adequate, it does lead to differences of priority of resources.

• This is a relatively low level of staffing for current operations of parks and other facilities.

• If the City is going to commit to the development of additional parks and trails, additional staff will be required. In addition, to increase the foothold in tournament play, additional maintenance staff will be required to service the fields on the weekends.

• With the Woodstock Water Works a significant operation, a full-time staff position should be dedicated to the facility in order to recruit, retain and train staff. This would allow current staff to focus their efforts on increasing recreational programming.

• The department has an organizational structure that is not well identified. There is a tremendous amount of coordination that must take place between different divisions to serve residents and users.

• The major area of focus is on the Square and Emricson but there is very little emphasis on recreation programming.

• There is a strong need for a comprehensive maintenance plan.

• A maintenance management system in place for both parks and facilities that would serve as a work order system and an accounting of maintenance by task and amenity would be helpful. Also adding an asset management plan would establish a lifecycle cost assessment for key amenities and assets.

• Operations and maintenance funding is inadequate. Consider contract mowing some of the parks and providing a full-time position to conduct inspections and monitor all contracts for snow removal, mowing, landscape maintenance, spraying herbicides, etc.

• Operational budgets need to better reflect the true costs of providing services and maintaining facilities. There needs to be a greater focus on cost center budgeting practices, specifically for the Square and Emricson.

• While there is recreation software available, all pavilion reservations are only taken in person at the Recreation Center. This function can be moved to on-line requests and approved by staff.

• Formal agreements with user groups (Thunder Football, Girls Softball, Little League, etc.) need to be established.

• The department needs to establish a fee policy to guide fee setting for programs, facility use and rentals, especially for events that take place at the Square. The City incurs expenses related to the event (utilities, portable toilets, road closure, posting flyers, etc.) that are not reimbursed by the host organization.

• There are limited operational policies and procedures to ensure a uniform and consistent approach to providing programs and facilities.

Appendix D: Facilities Assessment

Recreation Facilities Assessment

The City has a number of facilities that can support a variety of recreation services.

Based on metrics from the NRPA and the population (2023 projection), the City could support the following number of facilities:

• Courts (basketball) – 4.0

• Courts (tennis) – 7.0

• Courts (pickleball) – 2.8

• Diamonds (baseball/softball) – 10.1

• Rectangles (football) – 1.4

• Rectangles (soccer) – 10.9

Current Facilities Inventory:

• Courts (basketball) – 7.5

• Courts (tennis) – 7

• Courts (pickleball) – 2

• Diamonds (baseball/softball) – 19

• Rectangles (football) – 2

• Rectangles (soccer) – 7

• 9-hole disc golf course, and a maintenance building.

Athletic Fields

• A.J. Olson Park (115 Greenwood Ave.):

o This park contains a lighted diamond ballfield, a basketball court and 2 tennis courts. The field is only used for practices. The tennis courts are going to be renovated with 1 converted to 2 pickleball courts.

o The lights on the ballfield do not work.

o There are no dugouts or bleachers.

o There is no off-street parking or restrooms.

• Bates Park (1450 N. Seminary Rd.):

o This park contains 6 diamonds (1 lighted) with a batting cage, 2 basketball courts and a restrooms/concession/storage building.

o Fields are primarily used for t-ball and girls softball. 1 field has a grass infield, while the others are dirt.

o Fields have bleachers and uncovered dugouts and a central pavilion.

o Batting cage on site.

o Bathrooms are unlocked by Parks staff in the morning and locked in the evening by Public Works staff at the adjacent water plant.

o Infield material storage on-site.

o Vandalism often occurs at the park.

• Davis Road Park (800 Davis Rd.):

o This park contains 6 soccer fields with fence controlling access to the park and a gravel parking lot. A maintenance/storage building is on-site.

o As the site of an old landfill there is consistent settling and need for surface maintenance with sand.

o Only 3 fields are used at a time to allow for resting and rotation.

o Remote location that has a dumpster for trash.

o Portable toilets are on-site.

o There are no lights.

o Fields are used for games.

• Emricson Park (900 W. South St.):

o This park contains 5 diamonds, 3 rectangles (1 soccer and 2 football), 5 tennis courts, 2 basketball courts, a 9-hole disc golf course, and a maintenance building.

o 4 of the 5 diamonds have lights. The fields have bleachers and dugouts (2 covered).

o 2 of the diamonds have grass infields and the other 3 have dirt. There are batting cages at one field and bullpen/warmup area at one field.

o 1 of the 3 rectangle fields has lights (football).

o Parking is near the fields although not adequate in some cases. Accessible routes are not available to all fields.

o Permanent restrooms are not provided but portable toilets are spread throughout the park.

• Merryman Fields (2800 Raffel Rd.):

o This park contains 7 diamonds (no lights) with a maintenance building.

o Primarily used for baseball as all infields have grass.

o Fields have covered dugouts, bleachers, and bullpen/warmup areas.

o User group has a small storage building.

o There is ample parking.

o There are no permanent restrooms.

• Prairie Ridge Drive Park (320 Park Ridge Dr.):

o This park contains 1 diamond (no lights), a basketball court and a tennis court.

o Primarily used for t-ball with dirt infield.

o There are no dugouts or bleachers.

o There is no off-street parking or restroom.

• Other parks with courts

o Banford Road Park – 1 basketball court

o Mary Ann Street Park – 1 basketball court

o McConnell Road Park – 1 basketball court (half) and 1 tennis court

Considerations:

• The facilities are maintained in good condition.

• Entrance or park signage is inconsistent.

• Internal wayfinding signage would be beneficial at Emricson Park.

• Parking should be adequate for the usage and improved surfaces. For diamonds hosting games, the minimum should be 20 spaces per field. For those hosting tournaments, organizers prefer a minimum of 50 per field. For rectangles, the minimum should be 30 spaces, preferably 75.

• While portable toilets are provided at many locations, permanent restrooms should be located at athletic complexes with 4 or more fields.

• A separate, larger maintenance building should be constructed to store equipment and materials at Emricson.

• Fields. The current fields are all natural grass For improved turf quality, irrigation systems should be installed. If the City wishes to maintain, and likely increase, their foothold in the tournament market, moving some fields to synthetic turf would be appropriate.

o Diamonds – develop a maintenance schedule to include turf grass fertilization and aeration, infield top dressing and leveling, lip removal, etc.

o Rectangles – develop a maintenance schedule to include turf grass fertilization and aeration, sand/top dressing, turf repair, etc.

• Additional rectangle fields, specifically soccer, are needed to serve the current and future population.

• Develop a standard for amenities at fields, including bleachers, dugouts, and batting cages.

• Irrigation is inconsistent with athletic fields. Bates Park does not have irrigation. Emricson has irrigation on 2 diamonds (Dream & Sullivan) and soccer fields. Merryman and Davis have irrigation on all fields. A centralized irrigation system could be installed to reduce staff time, schedule watering, monitor systems for leaks, etc.

• Lights should be added to fields to extend season and use.

• User groups have placed advertising signs on field fences on a limited basis. A uniform policy for advertising on field fences should be implemented. Components could include sign materials and size, content of advertisement, removal and cost sharing.

• Accessible routes should be provided to each field.

Indoor Facility

Woodstock Recreation Center (820 Lake Ave.):

The current Woodstock Health, Fitness & Recreation Center is a membership-based facility, that also offers the opportunity for daily admission, and participation in programs sans membership.

The operating hours of the facility are:

• Monday-Friday 5:00A-9:00P

• Saturday-Sunday 7:00A-5:00P

Recreation center amenities include:

• Weight Room

o Machine Weights

o Free Weights

o Cardio Equipment

• Group Fitness/Aerobics

• Play Room

• TRX/Spin Studio

• Racquetball court

• Gymnasium

o Space could be considered a middle-school sized gymnasium.

• 2 Meeting Rooms

• Swimming Pool

o Indoor

4-lane, 20Y lap pool

Hot tub

Sauna

Admission Rates:

• These are reasonable pass rates for the recreation center.

• Typical public facility fee options including options for youth, adults, seniors, and families.

• These admission types include water and land-based group fitness classes, racquetball, supervised playroom and tanning.

• There are day passes, extended visit options (10 punch, temporary and monthly) as well as annual passes. These fee options are greater than normally offered by municipal recreation centers.

• Full members have access to the facility, racquetball courts and supervised playroom. These members must pay for additional services such as group fitness classes and tanning.

• Executive members have access to the facility as well as group fitness classes and tanning.

• There are also corporate and insurance-based passes.

Within the Recreation Center the department offers a number of programs in the following categories:

• Sports

• Fitness

• Aquatics

• Cultural Arts

• Youth

• Special Events

• Teens

Unique characteristics of the recreation center include:

• Opened in 1998 as a private facility, but closed in 2001. City purchased and remodeled/expanded with gymnasium and 2 multipurpose rooms in 2003.

• A Pace Suburban Bus has a bus shop shelter located in the parking lot.

Challenges:

• While the facility is well-maintained, it is starting to show its age. The age and condition has made it difficult to keep up with maintenance and results in impacts on programs. The age also means that some of the spaces themselves are no longer appropriate or have the amenities to support today’s recreation programs.

• The facility is a separate fund with the intent of operating at full cost recovery. Most years the facility is able to achieve this, however labor costs are creating additional stress.

• In general, there is a lack of programmable indoor space.

• The layout of the facility has users walking through program spaces to access different parts of the facility.

• The fitness area has been expanded multiple times and is cramped. This expansion is consistent with the demand for the facility to perform better financially. At this point, there are no opportunities to further expand fitness, without cannibalizing another portion of the facility.

• Racquetball is rarely used.

• There is limited office space and needs to be expanded.

• A conference room should be provided to adequately serve the needs of staff.

• Storage space is limited, and has been added outside including pool chemicals.

• The front desk allows for great control/access to the facility but is challenging to manage the entire facility.

• The gymnasium space is small and does not have appropriate storage.

• The pool is not the proper size for lap swimming and is shallow. The temperature is kept warm to accommodate water fitness and exercise. It has limited recreational value. Mechanical equipment is cramped and does not have proper ventilation.

Considerations:

• The facility is focused on fitness but provides recreational programming and rental opportunities for the community.

• Programs and services must be balanced with the need for drop-in use of the center by pass holders and residents.

• Traditional fitness programming is provided, however, the center does not offer personal training.

• Recreation Center staff has additional responsibilities for programs and special events. Roles and responsibilities are not specifically outlined for each position.

• Establishing an overall staffing philosophy is important. This should be tied to levels of service for the facility as well as for recreation programs. This should cover center staffing requirements to open the facility, ratios of staff to participants, requirements for full-time staff presence, and the appropriate role and authority of part-time staff.

• The Recreation Center has identified goals and objectives each year through the Annual Budget. Performance indicators are tracked annually.

• Staff receives feedback from members through surveys.

• A fee policy should be in place to guide budgeting and fee setting for programs and membership.

• The number and variety of membership types should be reviewed and simplified.

• An asset management plan should be developed along with a capital equipment plan.

Based on metrics from the NRPA and the population (2023 projection) the City could support the following number of facilities:

• Recreation Center 1.0

• Community Center 1.0

• Senior Center 0.8

B*K would recommend the City maintain the existing facilities, and consider how the spaces are utilized.

Woodstock Water Works (1313 Kishwaukee Valley Rd.):

The season for the outdoor aquatic center is Memorial Day through the middle of August. The operating hours of the facility are:

• Monday-Friday 1:00-6:00P

• Saturday-Sunday 12:00-7:00P

Aquatic center amenities include:

• Lockerroom

• Concession stand contracted by Napoli Pizza

• Zero Depth Pool

o Mushroom

o Dumping buckets

o Play structure

o Totslide

o Slide tower with 2 water slides

• Sand Play Area

• Wading Pool

• Competition/Lap Pool

o 8-lane 25 yards

o 1-meter diving board

o 3-meter diving board

The aquatic center is located in Emricson Park on the southwest side of town. The facility is wellutilized by residents and non-residents.

Challenges:

• Woodstock Water Works was constructed in 2001. While the facility continues to be in good condition, no new significant improvements have been made to generate additional revenue.

• A full-time staff position has responsibility of the facility along with other duties throughout the year. The day to day operations are provided by seasonal pool supervisors.

• Along with many other communities across the country, lifeguard staffing has become a greater challenge.

• The facility is a separate fund with the intent of operating at full cost recovery.

Considerations:

• The facility is well-run and managed.

• American Red Cross is utilized for Lifeguard Certifications and Water safety Instructors.

• Woodstock Water Works has identified goals and objectives each year through the Annual Budget. Performance indicators are tracked annually.

• The facility serves as a regional aquatic center as there are limited pools in the area, especially to the west.

• The bulk of attendance and use is from drop-in participation. Consistent efforts have been made to increase programs and special events.

• Continue to work with the City’s marketing team to promote the facility, programs and services.

• Fees should be reviewed on an annual basis and adjusted to maintain the financial goal.

• An asset management plan should be developed along with a capital equipment plan.

Based on metrics from the NRPA and the population (2023 projection) the City could support the following number of facilities:

• Aquatic Center 0.8

Appendix E: Program Assessment

Recreation Programs Assessment

The Woodstock Recreation Department has programming available to the community.

• Programs, activities and special events primarily take place at the Recreation Center and City facilities with a portion offered at private facilities.

• Almost all programs listed in the Department’s program guide have fees associated with them. At the same time the fees fluctuate by program and instructor/program intensity. It is also important to note that the associated fees appear to be market-based to facilitate high levels of participation.

o Programs with fees have a resident and non-resident rate. The application of fees resident v. non-resident is standard within the industry.

o Discounts are provided for early registration.

• All programs that have a fee require registration. The registration process can be completed online and at the Recreation Center. Again, having the option of registering both online and in person is within industry standards.

• Much of the programming efforts are on youth.

• The department utilizes RecTrac as their recreation software program.

Recreation Program Participation

The chart below summarizes participation in recreation activities over the past 2 years.

Program Delivery

The Department currently uses multiple models to deliver programs to the community. The primary models can be described as follows:

• Staff Run. These programs are offered by the Department and are run by staff, both fulltime and part-time, and can take place on a seasonal or annual basis.

o Benefit. The Department has maximum control over the program, its content, and the instructors. They can also maximize revenue generation.

o Challenges. The Department is responsible for managing and maintaining the staff.

o Examples: learn to swim, playground program, etc.

• Third Party. These programs may or may not appear in the Department’s seasonal program brochure but are run by a third-party contractor. These instructors are paid on a contract basis and there is typically a revenue split between the contractor and the Department.

o Benefit. Using contract instructors/programmers allows the Department to pivot as trends shift. It also means that the Department does not have to hire additional part-time staff.

o Challenges. The biggest challenge is managing the contract as to how the program is run will be a reflection on the Department.

o Examples: gymnastics, horseback riding, golf, etc.

• Rental. These programs may or may not appear in the Department’s seasonal program brochure and are run by an outside group that is renting facility space from the Department.

o Benefit. The Department is only renting the space, there is minimal staff time required, and it is transactional in nature.

o Challenges. The programs taking place during the rentals can be associated with the Department which can cause challenges if not done properly.

It is important to note that the program delivery model does not impact whether a program is a core service.

General Program Categories

The following is a listing of general program categories where programs are often offered by a full-service parks and recreation agencies. It is unusual for an agency to directly offer programs in all of these areas, but there are usually either agreements with other providers for some of these activities or a referral to them.

Area

Aquatics

Cultural Arts

Education

Fitness/Wellness

General Interest

Outdoor Recreation

Self-Directed

Seniors/Older Adults

Social Services

Special Events

Special Needs

Sports

Teens

Youth

General Description

Learn to swim classes, aqua exercise classes, competitive swimming/diving.

Performing arts classes, visual arts classes, music/video production and arts events.

Language programs, tutoring, science (STEM) classes, computer, and financial planning.

Group fitness classes, personal training, education, and nutrition.

Personal development classes.

Environmental education, hiking, camping, kayaking, and other activities.

This includes the opportunities for individuals to recreate on their own.

Programs and services that are dedicated to serving the needs of seniors.

This can include nutrition and feeding programs, job training, life skills training, and other activities such as health screenings.

City wide special events that are conducted throughout the year.

Programs for the physically and mentally impaired. Also, inclusion programs.

Youth and adult team and individual sports. Also includes adventure/non-traditional sports.

Programs and services that are focused on serving the needs of teens.

Before and after school programs, summer/school break camps, and preschool.

City Recreation Program Determinants: Based on the programs listed above, the following are general classifications of programs by degree of emphasis.

High Program Area

Aquatics

Fitness/Wellness

Medium Program Area Limited Program Area

Self-Directed Cultural Arts

Sports Education

Special Events Youth Programs General Interest

Special Needs Outdoor Recreation

Seniors/Older Adults

Social Services Teens

Programs Offered by Other Organizations

Beyond city programs, recreation programs that are provided by other organizations in the community that have a relationship with the Recreation Department, or the city include:

• McHenry County Conservation District

• Dorr Township

• Woodstock Opera House

• Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)

• Marian Central Football

• Woodstock Thunder Football (Flag & Tackle)

• St. Mary’s Fighting Irish Football (Flag & Tackle)

• Woodstock Thunder Cheer

• Woodstock Dolphins Swim Team

• Woodstock Hoops Feeder Basketball

• Woodstock North Jr. Thunder

• Travel Girl’s Basketball

• Woodstock United Soccer Association

• Woodstock Cyclones Wrestling Club

• Woodstock Square Dance Club

• Woodstock Girls Softball

• Sportscity Heatwave

• Woodstock Little League

• Woodstock Challenger League

• Heat Travel Baseball

• Rawlings Tiger Baseball/Softball

• Adult Men’s Baseball

There are also travel youth sports teams that utilize city fields for their practices as well as other youth sports organizations that rent fields.

Program Opportunities: When the recreation services that the city and the other organizations are providing are analyzed, only a few of the general program areas are not being covered.

Program Areas City Other Organizations

Aquatics

Cultural Arts

Education

Fitness/Wellness

General Interest

Outdoor Recreation

Self-Directed

Seniors/Older Adults

Social Services

Special Events

Special Needs

Sports

Teens

Youth

For the program areas that the city or organizations are not providing, the community has to be reliant on other agencies or private providers in the area for these services.

Recreation Programming Summary:

• There are limited recreation programs being offered by the city. Even when the programs being offered by other organizations in the community are included, there are a few program areas that are not being covered.

• With limited staffing and program space, the focus area of programs is Aquatics, Fitness and Sports. A high percentage of programs are provide by contractors.

• No program plan is in place to guide the delivery of services by the city and other organizations and ensure that the needs of the community are being met in all program areas.

• There is not a fee policy in place to guide fee setting for internal programs and facility use.

• There are no existing program metrics that detail the number of people being served by inhouse programs or ones offered by contract providers.

• There is not a comprehensive athletic field use policy.

• There are program opportunities that seem to be missing in a number of areas. These include:

o General Interest

o Seniors/Older Adults

o Teens

Appendix F: NEAR Assessment

Landscape Architecture Planning

Urban Design Strategic Services

Environmental Graphic Design

125 South Clark Street Suite 660 Chicago, Illinois 60603

312.360.1736

designworkshop.com

Introduction

Woodstock NEAR Data Analysis

To: City of Woodstock Staff

From: Design Workshop

Date: December 1, 2023

Project Name: Woodstock Parks Master Plan

Subject: NEAR Data Analysis

This memorandum describes the NEAR Data analysis. NEAR is a provider of mobility data that can help assess historical visitation patterns for individual sites in addition to systems of sites based on aggregate location data from cell phones. These analyses include visitors from 7 months up to 12 months. The time captured was strategically selected to capture all seasons and high-traffic holidays.

As you review this analysis, please note the limitations of, and considerations for, NEAR data. NEAR uses data that comes from cellphone users. Therefore, data does not accurately represent park users without cellphones, such as those under a certain age or visitors who cannot financially obtain one. NEAR data should also be reviewed alongside the number of park users (See Analysis #1). Parks with higher annual visitors, such as Emricson and Park in the square, likely have visitors that vary more in demographics. However, parks such as Apple Creek Park, that are tucked away in neighborhoods, are likely utilized by residents surrounding it and therefore, vary less in demographics such as income and age. Lastly, NEAR data represents the park visitors, not the residents living around the parks. The park users may reflect a different story than that of the surrounding residents.

Key Considerations

1. Visitor Count by Park – Visitor Counts can be assessed to reveal low counts and understand how amenities are, or are not, being utilized.

2. Park Visitor Demographics – Park spaces should be tailored to reflect the demographics of its users. This includes assessing a visitors age, race, and income. Taking into account visitor demographics will ensure that spaces are welcoming, enriching, and accessible to everyone, fostering a more connected and vibrant society.

3. Visitor Evening Locations (Park in the Square) – Identifying where park users are coming from can be used to attract more visitors and keep them in the area. This information can be used to assess what Woodstock’s system has, or could have, that adjacent systems do not.

Analysis

1. Visitor Count by Park: Park Visitation | Flourish Visitor County by Park is split up based on unique and overall visitors. Overall visitors refers to every person who visited a park within a time frame, while unique visitors refers to a distinct park visitor. For instance, if one person visits Merryman Park 5 times, it will be counted as 5 visitors, but one unique visitor. According to NEAR, Emricson park, Raintree Park, and Park in the Square are the most visited parks. This may be a correlation to their location in the middle of Woodstock, as well as their high levels of activation. Both Emricson Park and Park in the Square have events throughout the year, attracting both residents and visitors. Another site that captured a large amount of visitors in relation to other parks is Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation. Because this area is untouched nature and is not activated with events to draw people to it, the high visitor count may speak to the value of open, natural areas. Similarly, Raintree Park is going through rewildling and becoming a meadow and therefore currently has no amenities though does have a cement pad and a bench. Parks that have the lowest number of visitors are also important to

consider. It is necessary to ask why visitor counts are low and to understand if these facilities are being underutilized. A way to answer this may be to review other assessments in this atlas and identify factors such as poor condition, flood risk, lack of tree canopy, and lack of comfortable and safe access.

2. Overall Park Visitor Demographics: Woodstock Park Visitor Demographics | Flourish

In general, park visitors throughout the entire system are reflective of the overall demographics in the city with two exceptions One exception is the median household income of park visitors which is $10,132 over Woodstock’s median household income. Another exception is in the percentage of Hispanic users which indicates five percent (5%) of Hispanic park visitors (17%) versus the citywide percentage of Hispanic residents (22%). Lastly, the percentage of people visiting parks with high school education (27%) is much lower than the percentage of Woodstock residents with a high school degree in(34%).

3. Visitor Age by Parks: Visitor Age by Park | Flourish

The majority of park visitors are under 18 and most of these visitors have visited Castle Road Park. This is interesting because this reflects that more children are visiting an undeveloped park, rather than parks with amenities such as a playground or courts. On the other hand, Mcconnell Road Park has the highest percentage of visitors over the age of 65. This may be in part due to the passive and active amenities offered here. The park is comprised of both open land for multi-uses, a path that can be utilized by bikers, walkers, and runners, as well as a playground. Mary Ann Street Park has the lowest percentage of visitors under 18 and over 65. This is likely due to the large number and diverse amenities offered there –basketball, open field, and a playground. However, it does see the highest percentage of visitors ages 18-24 and 45-54. This can speak to the importance of this park for young adults and families, given its centralized location in a neighborhood. Examining the age distribution throughout the system has important implications for parks planning; each generation can exhibit differing preferences regarding leisure, entertainment, and recreation. Park designs and offerings can be tailored to, and/or reflective of, the demographics of its users.

4. Visitor Household Income: Visitor Household Income by Park | Flourish

Users with the highest median household income are captured in Apple Creek Park ($100,023.84). Users with the lowest median household income are captured in Castle Road Park ($75,235.47). An important disclaimer when reviewing this data is that there were only 104 users captured at Apple Creek Park. This is the lowest number of visitors seen in all parks throughout the system. This park is also in a newly developed neighborhood. Household income can be utilized to show where financial barriers may exist for recreational use. It can also provide insight on where more strategic effort should be placed on developing amenities and spaces available to all users.

5. Visitor Race by Park: Visitor Race by Park | Flourish

The percentage of visitors by race across every park aligns with all the city’s overall demographic breakdown. The highest percentage of African American visitors, which is significantly higher than the city’s percentage (2%), were captured in Raintree Park (6%). Raintree Park is currently a decommissioned park that has an empty cement pad and is being transformed into a meadow. Understanding the race breakdown of park visitors can help to identify any patterns in visitation to ensure that the park is reflective of, and welcoming towards, its users.

6. Visitor Evening Locations: Park in the Square

The Common Evening Location identifies where a device rests in the evening. This location is derived based on where it rests during “non work” hours (6pm – 8am) and weekends. For this reason, this location can be anticipated as where the visitor lives. These locations have been split up by zipcode and Table 1 displays the zipcodes from the highest portion of visitors. Unsurprisingly, a majority of visitors live in Woodstock (37.82%). This is followed by visitors from Crystal Lake (5.48%) and Greenwood (5.36%). Users may be visiting Park in the Square for a variety of reasons. However, because it does not have parklike amenities, such as courts or playgrounds, it is likely that they may be visiting for events. The overall system can leverage adjacent visitors who are already visiting Woodstock by considering what amenities and events can be offered in other city parks that adjacent neighborhoods do not have. For

instance, in addition to Park in the Square events, what can the system offer that Crystal Lake and Greenwood does not have? Considering this will help to both attract and keep visitors from neighboring areas.

Appendix G: Park Inventory

Appendix H: Community Survey Results

WoodstockParksMasterPlan/Page1

WhatisyourrelationshiptoWoodstock? (Selectallthatapply) 944

Iamafull-timeresident

Iamapart timeresident

Ilivein unincorporatedWoodstock

Ivisit Woodstock,but liveelsewhere

Iworkin Woodstock,but liveelsewhere

Ilivein an adjacent community(writein response)

Other(writein response)

WhatisyourrelationshiptoWoodstock? (Selectallthatapply) 944

1-WhatisyourrelationshiptoWoodstock?(Selectallthatapply)-Selected Choice

Ilive inunincorporatedWoodstock

IvisitWoodstock,butlive elsewhere

IworkinWoodstock,butlive elsewhere

Ilive inanadjacentcommunity(write inresponse)

Other(write inresponse)

WhatisyourrelationshiptoWoodstock? (Selectallthatapply)

Toomanyresults,please addafilter.

Emricson ParkHighlandson the Park

Lindenhurst

1/2 mile

BullValley

WonderLake

crystallake

wonderlake

WonderLake

Wonderlake

Wonderlake

wonderlake

WonderLake

WonderLake

Wonderlake

WonderLake

wonderlake

WonderLake

WonderLake

Wonderlake

Wonderlake

wonderlake

WonderLake

WonderLake

Wonderlake

Wonderlake

Wonderlake

WonderLake

WonderLake

huntley

crystallake

Wonderlake the formiscreatedincorrectly - you cannotselectmore than one radiobutton,butquestion #1 saysto"Selectallthatapply"

I spendseveralmonthsin AZin winter.I own my home in Woodstock.

Grewuphere andvisitoften

I visitWoodstockoften butamhopingtomove there soon

I live andworkin Woodstock.

Membersofthe StametsandConway families,ofwhomI amaproudmember,have livedin Woodstocksince the early 1900’s.I livedthere from1964 - 1970,andvisitoften.

MountProspect

I workin the community

I workin Woodstockandvisitoften,butlive in Huntley

My Hometown

I grewupin Woodstockandvisitoften!

Formerresident0 to45 years

My children gotoschoolin Woodstockandwe live in WonderLake

Doesn'tactually letyou pickallthatapply.C andE

How manyyearshaveyoulivedinWoodstock? 944

manyyearshaveyoulivedinWoodstock? 944

2-HowmanyyearshaveyoulivedinWoodstock?

Lessthan2years

2-5years

6-10years

11-20years

More than20years

Idonotlive inWoodstock

How manyyearshaveyoulivedinWoodstock? 944

Howmanyyearshaveyoulivedin Woodstock?

Lessthan2years

2-5years

More than20years

Idonotlive inWoodstock

25-34years

35-44years

45-54years

55-64years

65-74years

75-84years

85+

Inwhichagerangedoyoufall? 943

Inwhichagerangedoyou fall?

18-24years

25-34years

4-Whatethnicitygroupbestdescribesyou?Pleasechooseonly one.-SelectedChoice

Asian/PacificIslander

BlackorAfricanAmerican Hispanic

White /Caucasian

Multiple ethnicity/Other(please specify)

Whatethnicitygroupbestdescribes you?Pleasechooseonlyone.

AmericanIndianorAlaskanNative

Asian/PacificIslander

BlackorAfricanAmerican Hispanic White /Caucasian

Multiple ethnicity/Other(please specify)

Whatethnicitygroupbestdescribesyou? Pleasechooseonlyone.:Multipleethnicity/Other(pleasespecify)

Othet

PrefernottoAnswer

Prefernottoanswer.Why doesthismatter?

Irrelevant

Why doesitmatterI'mjustaresident

Na

White American Indian

Polish Mexican

None ofyourbusiness

Blackandwhite

White

American

Black/White

Hispanic/Caucasian

HispanicandSwedish

Hispanicandwhite

European mix

White/hispanic

White/African American

American

Native/ white/ Hispanic

Hispanicandwhite

Itshouldn'tmatter

I'drathernotsay

Pleaseselectthearea ofWoodstockinwhichyoulive. 940

Pleaseselectthearea ofWoodstockinwhichyoulive. 940

Pleaseselectthearea ofWoodstockinwhichyoulive. 940

PleaseselecttheareaofWoodstockin whichyoulive.

Idonotlive inWoodstock

PastareaG

unincorporatedWoodstockunincorporatedWoodstock

Can'tfigure map.I live nearDean StSchool.

UnincorporatedWoodstock

Corn fields,mayor.Unincorporatedwoodstockisstillwoodstock,unlessyou don'twantthe tax dollarsanymore.

UnincorporatedWoodstock

Mountprospect

Greenwood Rose FarmShannonwood

offkishwaukee @Rosefarm

bullvalley

Unincorporated

BullValley

Wonderlake

Wonderlake

Wonderlake

WestWonderLake

WonderLake

WestUnincorporated

We live off176&timberlane/pleasantvalley

Variousfir45 yrs

Westoftown

Unincorporated

Outside city limits

Unincorporated

Raycraftrd

Outside ofareaH

Unincorporated120/Thompson

RuralWoodstock

Heartlandunincorporated

Hartlandtownship

Justoutside the Westcity limits

Off176

Live in WonderLake currently use tolive in Woodstock

Bullvalley golfcourse development

6-WhichofthefollowingWoodstockparksdidyouvisitinthepastyear?(Selectall thatapply)

A.J.Olson

ApplecreekPark

DonatoConservation

BanfordRoadPark BatesPark

DickTracyWay

EmricsonPark

HennenConservationArea

Raintree Park

RydersWoods

SilverCreek

ParkInthe Square

Sesquicentennial

Sonatas

7-BasedonyourexperienceinWoodstock’sparks,arethereanyparksthat youfeelareinpoorcondition?(Selectallthatapply)

7-BasedonyourexperienceinWoodstock’sparks,arethereany

areinpoorcondition?(Selectall

What,ifanything,preventsyouorothersinyourhouseholdfromutilizing Woodstock’srecreationfacilities,programs,parksornaturallandsmoreoften? (Select upto5biggestreasons) 900

Availability– Amenities and/oractivities that interest mearenot ...

Condition – Amenities Iwant areavailable,but they’rein poor...

Cost – Amenities and/oractivities Iwant requirefees or...

Crowding– Parks oractivities Iwant areoffered,but they’retoo ...

LimitedAccess byWalking/Cycling– Parks oractivities arenot ... Parking– Not enough nearbyparkingavailable.

Timing– Activities orevents arenot offeredat times that are... Safety– Don’t feelsafeat parks oractivities. Information – Not surewhereto findgoodinformation about ...

Offering– Facilities lacktheright equipment/amenities

Accessibility– Not accessibleforpeoplewith disabilities Welcoming– Ido not feelwelcomed Lackof shade Lackof restroomfacilities None– Iuseit without anybarriers.

Other(writein response)

What,ifanything,preventsyouorothersinyourhouseholdfromutilizing Woodstock’srecreationfacilities,programs,parksornaturallandsmoreoften? (Select upto5biggestreasons) 900

8-What,ifanything,preventsyouorothersinyourhouseholdfrom utilizingWoodstock’srecreationfacilities,programs,parksornatural landsmoreoften?(Selectupto5biggestreasons)-SelectedChoice

Availability–Amenitiesand/oractivitiesthatinterestme are not offered.

Condition–AmenitiesIwantare available,butthey’re inpoor condition(e.g.littered,dilapidated,dirty).

Cost–Amenitiesand/oractivitiesIwantrequire feesorequipment thatare notaffordable.

Crowding–ParksoractivitiesIwantare offered,butthey’re too crowded.

8-What,ifanything,preventsyouorothersinyourhouseholdfromutilizingWoodstock’s recreationfacilities,programs,parksornaturallandsmoreoften?(Selectupto5biggest reasons)-SelectedChoice

LimitedAccessbyWalking/Cycling–Parksoractivitiesare noteasytogettoby walking/cycling.

Parking–Notenoughnearbyparkingavailable.

Timing–Activitiesoreventsare notofferedattimesthatare convenientforme.

Safety–Don’tfeel safe atparksoractivities.

Information–Notsure where to findgoodinformationaboutparksandactivities.

Offering–Facilitieslackthe rightequipment/amenities

Accessibility–Notaccessible forpeople withdisabilities

Welcoming–Idonotfeel welcomed

Lackofshade

Lackofrestroomfacilities

None –Iuse itwithoutanybarriers.

Other(write inresponse)

NeedparkswithoutsandNeedtouse the recycle moldedtire

The roadsgoingtoOlsen Park- specifically alongBagley St- are in extremely poorcondition andthere are nosidewalks..pushingastrollerin the middle ofthe streetwhile expecting speedingvehiclestosee usandshare the roadisnotan option forus.We needanewroadatthe very least.Curbsandsidewalkswouldbe nice also.It’svery strange howthisentire neighborhoodhassporadicanddisconnectedsidewalks

Only visitEmricson Park

Lackoftime

Lackofhikingtrails

More benchstostopandrestwouldbe nice.

There are nolightsin oraroundthe park.Therefore itisdangeroustowalkthrough oraroundthe parkatorafterdusk

Bike parking/ routes.Shade/tables/water

Lackofpicnictablesin variouslocationsatEmricson

Didn’tknowWDST hadsomany parks.

Noswings- greatforkidswith sensory issues.Rundown basketballcourt

Prairie Ridge noshade

I wouldlive tosee an offleash shadesdogpark.

Whathappenedtoparkon Dean Street

Ourreccenterisgrossly undersizedforourcommunity.THere doesn'tseemtobe any creative thoughtatthe leadershiplevel.

Plantlife needstobe maintained

The only reason I don’tfeelsafe isthe lackofoffstreetparking.I live in the pondsofBullValkey.When drivingtothe parkwith ourgrandson,I have toparkalongthe side ofanarrow streetandunloadmy younggrandson in the street.There isplenty ofroomalongtoadd2-3 offstreet,pullin parkingspots.Alsothe roadcurvesin thisspotwhich makesparkingin the streetallthe more unsafe.Please add2-3 pullin parkingspots(where there iscurrently grass) toaccesson GreenviewDrive.

I live elsewhere

Apple CreekParkissmallforthe neighborhoodneeds.Itneedsaface-lift,more parkactivitiesandmore playgroundspace.,basketballcourtetc.The parkisonly bigenough for5 kids

Weedstoothick

The high population ofhomelessatthe typesofparksI enjoy,woodedconservation,seemstoattractbadelements.

rippingoutallthe tenniscourtsatone time wasavery baddecision

Some playgroundsatEmricson lackedfallclean upornewmulch sobase ofplaygroundwasdirtandleaves.Kidswouldget filthy.

Mostofthe parkshave drinkingfountains,butoften they are shutofforbroken

NosidewalksleadingtoOlson park,you have towalkin the road-unsafe

FORBIDBIKES &Scooters

Loose Dogs

Restrictionson swimmingwith kids

Lackofbenchesandpicnictables.

Weatherisaginormousfactor,obviously.

Streets!!

Appropriate changingfacilitiesforindividualswith specialneeds.Lackofsensory appropriate bathrooms.

We needdogparksandadoglake

Sidewalksare in needofrepairtoandfromcertain parks

The parklacksshade,we needmore trees.Large trees

Notfun forolderkids

I’ve on pathways

WalkingpathsatMerryman are in terrible andunsafe shape.Please fix before someone getshurt.

Skate park

I live within walkingdistance toEmricson,andusually justwalkthere asit’sclosest

Mulch needsreplacing

Noskateboardingparks

I donthave any children whowoulduse playground- type parks

toiletsandsnowremoval

We have aspecialneedsson whoisgettingtoolarge forthe equipmentbutstillenjoysthem

I don’thave time

NO LIGHTINGAT EMRICSONPARKAT NIGHT

soccerfields

Soccerfields

Firstletme say I amacasualdrinker,however,I believe you shouldbe allowedtoconsume alcoholatapicnicin ourparkswith aminimumfee permit.

Foremricson park,make more waterslides��������

Mudeverywhere

Lackofpicnictables,grills,horse shoe pitsandclean bathrooms

Bugsin the summer/springtime

DrugparaphernaliaalloverALLparksin town.Horrible foryoungchildren tosee and findneedles.

Petfriendly areas

Placestosit

Picnictables/ benches

When I checkedCondition I’mreferringtothe RecCenter.Why can’twe buildanewfacility thatisnotsosmallandold.My Grandkidsparticipate alotin theirprogramshoweverit’sjust notasnice orasbigasI thinkitcouldbe

BAKETBALLCOURTS

Notmany options

I wenttomany ofthemwith kiddosI tookcare ofduringthe day.I have calledtoreportequipmentneedingrepairtonoavail.I’mhopefulmore fundingwillgointoMaintainingthe parks annually.Andsomeone needstobetterplan the placementofbenches/trees/slides.I have been visitingparksallaroundWoodstockforthe past20 years.While I love thatwe have so many…some thingscouldreally use more thoughtanddefupkeep

Mary Ann isn’tage appropriate forlittle kids.The equipmentisforbiggerkids,which makesnosense cause thisneighborhoodhasaton ofyoungerage kids.

Wouldlove apublicsplash pad

RecCentertoosmall

Emricson Parkisagreatspottoplay tenniswith some friends,butyearsago,the courtlightswentout&were neverrepaired.These are amustforany outdoorcourt.

The sandatdicktracy every yearthe beesputtheirhomesin sandandthere are millionslastyearthey actually putupyellowwarningtape because wassobad.The otherparkswith sandnotasbad.

I have twoChildren under3 andit’sachallenge goingtoparksby myselfwhen they aren’tenclosedwith fences

Coldweather,more adultsocialactivities,activesforteenagers

Some ofthe programshave been poorly organizedandmanaged.

No,gooddogpark.The one ee dohave isjustaboring field.

Wouldlike more Recprograms/classesofferedforseniors(chairyogaisan example) andmore beginnerclasses

Noskate orBMXpark.The pondsneedsserverly help.

Inadequate fishinglocations.

Mosquitoes

A splash padwouldbe an incredible assettothe sonataspark.There’ssomuch open space forit!There’ssomany kidsin the neighborhoodwhowouldlove itanduse it.AlsoI have an almost3 andalmost2 yearoldandthe sonatasparkhasway toomany dropoffsectionsofthe playground.Dangerous.

The roadsgoingtoOlsen Park- specifically alongBagley StandGreenwoodSt(avery main roadthrough the neighborhood) - are eitherin extremely poorcondition (Bagley) and/or there are nosidewalks(bagley andGreenwood)..pushingastrollerin the middle ofthe streetwhile expectingspeedingvehiclestosee usandshare the roadisnotan option forus.We needanewroadatthe very leaston Bagley.Curbsandsidewalkswouldbe nice also.It’svery strange howthisentire neighborhoodhassporadicanddisconnectedsidewalks.Alsothe sidewalksare in such poorcondition generally speakingrhatitmakespushingastrollerquite atask.Which isunfortunate when we justwanttogoforaquickwalkratherthan packup the cartogotoemricson.

Plantmore treesin the newerparks.There needstobe more shade.Repairstepsin the BanfordRoadParkclimbinggymthatleadsothe slide.Provide swingsin more parks.Include swingsforhandicappedandtoddlers.

ThisisspecifictoBatesPark.There isnocrosswalktogetacross47 tothe park.I've witnessedalotoffamilieshavingtorun acrossthe busy road.Ifwe hadacrosswalkwith those flashinglights,itwouldgreatly improve accesstoBatesPark.I alsowouldlove tosee more drinkingfountainsthathave the dogbowlfountain atthe base.

Ourparkisvery smallforoursubdivision thathasdoubledin size.Nobasketballhoops,very smallplay area

Age appropriate andmodern equipmentare notavailable.They offerthe same extremely basicequipmentandbeyond5 yearsofage there isn’tmuch available.

I'masingleton withoutkids.Notspmuch abarrieraslackofinterest.

Some areasdon'thave nice restroomsavailable.With my smallgranddaughter,itwouldbe nice tohave anicerfacility thatboth can fitit(port-a-pottiesare notreally made foran adult andachild).

More treesandshade in Emricson andBateswouldbe nice

Lackofhikingtrails,

I use aswimmingpoolformy exercise andrecreation

A croquetfieldisnotyetavailable

Cyclingisnotsafe aroundWoodstockprimarily due toroad-sharingwith aggressive and/orspeedingdrivers.Have been harassedby driversbefore.The pavedpath alongRt14 towards CrystalLake isexcellent,howeveritisVERYDIFFICULT togettoitsafely.

There shouldbe acommunity subsistence garden programatDickTracy Parkwith collaboration with the police station,there’sopen landtocreate agarden fornearby residentsand police.I thinkaprogramwouldbe greatforcitizen andpolice collaboration anditcan be anexusforgrowth in ourcommunity.

I wouldutilize otherparksbutthey are outdatedandunsafe .

We love BanfordParkbecause it'sbiggerthan the Sonatas,butunfortunately it'scondition itspoor.Itgotworse thispastyears,it'sareally fun parksince ithasmore stufftoplay in.The basketballParkit'snice aswell.Andthe table isnice with itsshade unfortunately it'salsoin poorcondition.We wouldlike tosee aParkwith atenniscourtspecially fortweens.

When the kidshave togotothe bathroomwe have todrive allthe way home it’sfrustrating.Alsothisparkisn’tvery wellforkidswhoare disabledwhen my niece comesovershe can’t goin the woodchipswith herwheelchairsoshe justhastositthere andwatch the otherkids.Alsoit’savery boringpark.My kidsare alwaysaskingtoleave andgosomewhere else. There isnotenough picnicforeverybody toeatthere’sone picnictable andthat’sit.I amdisabledthere’snotenough benchestositat.The bigcylindersare aroundthe parkby the tree andthe benchestwoofthemhave been missingforfouryearsnowandnobody hasreplacedthemitlookssotrashy.

I wish there were more shade treesin the SonatasandSweetwaterparks.

Pickleballisneeded

There are notrestroomsatallparksornotenough restrooms.Conditionsare notgreat.We try toplay tennisatthe parkin ourneighborhood,butitisfallingapart.

More kidsactivitiesafterparentsworkinghours

The portable restroomsare neededatparks.We alwayshave torun home quicktouse ourown bathroomandthen we don’tfeellike goingback.McConnellparkisbusy enough most daysthatitshouldhave aportable toilet.The problemwith the city’sotherportable toiletsisthatthey are notmaintainedwellin the baseballseason.I cannottellyou howmany times we have hadnotoiletpaperorthe toiletisfull.We have been toseveralofourparksoverthe yearswith baseballandthatisone thatthingthatthe city lacks…publicrestroomsor maintainedrestrooms.

Lackofindoorplumbing

More treesand/orsheltersneeded.Accessible andsafe equipmentforallages,specifically very youngchildren

The path tothe gazeboisnotaccessible asit’sgravelandnotpaved,there isastepupintothe gazebowithoutaramp,playgroundisalsonotatallaccessible

AlmostallWoodstockparkslackshade.Mostlocatedin neighborhoodsdon'thave trees.There needstobe succession plantingnowatEmricson Parksothatwhen the large oaks eventually die there willbe treesalready growingtoreplace them.

I thinkthe bestthingismaintainingthe parksandkeepingthemclean andmany don'thave wellmaintainedsidewalksorbike pathstoride them,which iskindasad...I alsothinkhaving aspace forpeople tosit,like benchesorpicnictables(notpicnicshelters).

You have nothinggoingon atany smallerparksin the area.I grewupaproudcitizen ofWoodstockandhave watchedthe conditionsofmy childhoodparksbecome desecratedwith litter,activitiesforcommunitiesdiminish in frequency andaccessibility,andthe mosthorrible thinghasbeen thatYOUturnedoffthe splash padatOlson Park.I amincredibly offended.

Bike parking/ routes.Shade/tables/water.Night/ eveningcommunity events,example in Olsen park.

Theres'snogoodparksforbiking

I traveltoothertownsfordiscgolfcourses.

I justdidn'trealize there were somany.Very cool.I love thistown.

I wouldbe interestedin adogfriendly (on leash) parkthathaspavedorgravelwalkingpathsandrestroomsavailable.Alsotrash cans.

My commentsare directedtothe reccenter.I wouldlike tojoin andhave hadatrialmembershipin the pastbutfeelthatthe facility isoutofdate,crowded,anddirty.

Wouldlike accesstoworking,clean restroomfacilitiesin addition toportapotties.I knowthishasbeen difficulttomaintain atEmricson due tovandalism

I amsodisappointedthatthe permanentbathroomfacilitiesatEmricson have been padlockedandinaccessible foratleastseveralyears.The portapottiesplacednearby are notan adequate ordesirable substitute.I wouldsupportupdatingandreopeningthatbathroombuilding.

Lackofbathroomfacilities,the portajohnsare notcleanedenough

Tenniscourtsneedresurfacing

More dogfriendly amenities.Wantadogwaterpark.

Sidewalksaroundthe whole parkwouldbe nice,anotherbasketballcourtorsomethingforteenagers,more trees

One majorreason I don’tuse the parksisbecause there are notmany placestositwhile my children play

The biggestbarrierforme isaccessby walking/cycling.Itwouldbe nice ifthe city hadmore bike pathsorwide sidewalksthroughouttohelpaidaccessandconnectdifferentparksand neighborhoods.

Emricson parkisrun down.Bathroomsare awfulandlacking.Groundsnotkeptup.Notgreattowalkthe trail

Olson parkisclose enough towalkbutwe neverdobecause there’snoway togetthere withoutwalkingin the street,somethingI’mnotwillingtodowith my younggrandchildren

I justfinishedvisitingGermany,France,Italy.Allofthese countrieshave more parksforyoungerkidsthan aroundMcHenry county.My granddaughterwhoisthree hasnowwhere togo she can gotoplay in the sand(exceptforthe poolandonly ifwe pay toparticipate in the summer).We needtodomore forthe you g.

We needIndoorswimmingpoolthatislarge enough forlapswimming.Ourcurrentfacility atthe recreation centerisatrocious

Sweetwaterparkisnoaccessible ifyou have astrolleroralteredability.Massive 3 footbarrierwallon allsidesofpark.Noramporstepsin.

The reccenterwasshokingtosee when we movedtothe community.I understandbuildingrestraints,howeverthe lackofleadershipin the departmenthasbeen shockingly clearfor years.Emricson drivingthrough looksgreat,untilyou stepon atenniscourtand findlightsnotworking,netsheldtogetherwithe zipties.They finally cutdown the clumpsofmangled treesatthe entrance offofdean streetsentrance.The firstparkinglotby the pondislike drivingon the moon.Were hopefulthe newleadershipwillhave afuture vision tothe parksand notjustlive offofhowcoolDream fieldandthe waterworksis!

Walkingpath atBatesparkcouldbe completedallthe way aroundandkepttrimmed.Thanks!

Mostparksyou have todrive toanditishardtobike in Woodstock

Bateswouldbenefitfromhavingacomplete walking/cyclingpath aroundthe perimeterofthe park.Itisnearly complete!

Ryderwoodsfullofhomelesspeople

Parksshouldhave Port-a-potiesnearplayground

1.Weedsandflyingbugsin the sandhave been aconcern atMary Ann Park.2.I wouldlike more swimminglessonstobe offered.Asspace fillsupsoquickly.

Itisunsafe tounloadchildren while parkingon GreenviewDrive in the PondsofBullValley.The roadisnarrowandcurves.There isplenty ofroomtoadd2-3 offstreet,pullin parking spotsin agrassy area.Then smallchildren can safety getoutiftheircarsandnotstandin the street.Parkingaccessshouldinclude safe parking.Thankyou foryourattention tothisissue. Also,please addmore play equipmentforelementary children.Ourgrandchildren are gettingolderbutstillwanttogotothe McConnellRoadpark.Please addsome equipmentfor children asthey age intoschool.

The equipmentisminimal.Mostplacespartsorbroken,inoperable,ordestroyed.Itwouldbe nice tohave more equipmentwith awidervariety somy children don’tgeteasily bored with it.Itwouldalsobe really nice tohave more bathroomoptions,since havinglittle children makesithardtogettoarestroomquickly.

Primarily itistoocrowdedandnotbuiltforallages.

Workoutareaatreccenter,prefersomethingalittle more private fromentryway/walkway.

Asmentioned,the Apple CreekParkistoosmallforthe neighborhoodneeds.Often timesfamilies(mine included) feelthe needtoleave when othersshowupbecause the playground issolimited.The parkneedsan expansion

With youngkidsyou needtoworry aboutticks,soifthe parksandpondscan be trimmedbacksothey are more accessible forkidsitwouldbe great,especially on Dufieldpondarea.

Itwouldbe amazingtobe able tobike ride tosome ofthe parkswithouthavingtotake yourlife intoyourown handswith vehiculartraffic

The conditionsandoverallcleanlinessofthe parkshasseverely gone downhillthe lastfewyears.Sandcondition isyucky andlittered,equipmentneedsapowerwash.Maryann Park hashadaSEVEREfly problemthe last3 years!

Woodstockneedsaskate park!

Needabike orsidewalkfromDakotaRidge subdivision tomake itsafertogettoparksanddowntown.

I'mnotashealthy asI have been in the past.Heartcondition.

Havinglivedhere foralmost2 years,I wouldlike amapwith alegendthatexplainswhateach parkoffers.Itcouldbe free andprovidedthroughoutthe square fornewandlife long citizens.

Havingthree youngchildren I lookforactivitiesallcan enjoy.Lackofnice bathroomsandfallcleanupsatEmricson are an issue.Some playgroundsare dirtandleavesinsteadofcleaned upmulch.

I live only a2 to3 minute walkfromOlson Park,butwith the dangerousdrivingandspeedsthathappenedon Clay Street,I don'tfeelsafe allowingmy children lockthe blockoverto Olson Park.Itisanice sizedPark,buthasbeen fallingapartoverthe years,andthe lackofrestroomfacilities,andsafe sidewalkstoandfromthe parkmake itchallengingandeven there are nopicnic,benches,drinking,fountains,oreven maintainedfacilitieslike the basketballcourts,which are usedquite often even though they are fallingapart.

Praire ridge hasnoshade atallandcoulduse afence,toddlersrun down the hillleadingtothe streetandcarsspeedconstantly on thatroad

While running,I've visitedthese parksandfoundthe drinkingfountainsnotworking:Merryman,Bates,DickTracy,Westwood,Prairie Ridge

I wouldneedtowalk/cycle down GreenwoodDrive togettoOlson Park,andthere isaportion ofGreenwoodwithoutsidewalks.Itfeelsunsafe walkingon the roadwith howfastsome drive in Greenwood.

I have ayoungchildthatenjoysgoingtothe park.We findourselvesdrivingtoothertownstoenjoy theirparks(Huntley,Cary).The biggestparkin Woodstock,emericson seemstobe littered,especially in the biggerparkareaby the baseball fields.We tendtogotothatplaygroundin summersince there isshade butthere are somany mosquitoesandthe bathrooms are in badshape.The lawn isnotwellcaredforasthere are alwaysleavesandthe equipmentisnotcleaned.The parksin some ofthe othertownsmentionedare clean,hostmany activitiesthatare family friendly,have newerwellkeptequipmentandseemsafer.

I have livedin the subdivision (prairie ridge ) since high school,backthen the parkwasalright,I rememberplayingthere with my siblingsandfriends.NowI amin my 30swith atoddler andthe parkisjustrun down.We needswings,asplash pad,arepavedtennisandbasketballcourt,apowerwash on the playground.A gazeboforshade andpicnics.We coulddoso much better.There are alotoftoddlersandyoungkidsthatwouldgreatly benefit!

We needtofocuson the existingparksandthe Maintenance they require every year.Allwe here aboutisthe newproposedparks8-80 andnocrack fillingatthe tenniscourtsno basketballcourtmaintenance andthey neverdragthe baseball fieldsoatleastthe t-ballershave agoodsurface toplay on.BatesparkandOlson lookgreat.Prairie ridge needssome love.

Unable towalksafely because ofriderson the bricksidewalksatWoodstockSquare.

I feellike shouldbe more than itis,itneedssstobe biggerandhave adogpark

Wouldlove acleanerparkwith more todoforbiggerkids.Rubberizedgroundwith updatedequipment

NA

Workalotsonotalotoffree time

Outofmy way attimes

I wanttoteach my kidstoswimbutkidsare only allowedduringfamily time andthatavailability islimited

The parkdistrictshouldworkwith Woodstocktodevelopan adaplan.Many sidewalksdon’tmeetADA standards.5’footsidewalks,gentle grade andadacrossingramps.Additionally sidewalksormissingin alotofplace

I feelthatatown the size ofWoodstockwouldhave amuch nicerrecreation centerwith alarge indoorpoolforpeople whoenjoy swimmingbecause itislowimpactforpeople who have jointissues.I wish the city wouldhave usedafewmillion dollarstobuildanewrecreation centerthatcouldbe enjoyedby alltax payingresidents,ratherthan pouringmoney into the oldcourthouse thatwillforthe mostpartbe usedby ouroftowners.AlsoI feelthatthe maintenance ofthe parks,weeding, fixingplay equipmentetchasreally gone down hillin the lastyears.I amtotally againstchangingthe Parkin the Square,I thoughtWoodstockissupposedtobe aboutpreservingourhistory!!

Asmentionedabove,lackofbenchesandpicnictablestoenjoy relaxingandeatingalightmealorsnackin the park.Thisespecially appliestothe Parkin the Square where somany businessesofferlightsnacksandtreatsyetthere isnotplace toeasily take abreaktoenjoy those purchasedfooditems.

Prairie Ridge Drisournearestparkandcoulduse aswingset.Playgroundisavailable,butnoswings.Also,RecCenterdoesn’tseemtobe welltaken care of,likely in needofan update.

I wouldlike tosee the men'ssoftballleaguescome backtoWoodstockby fixingthe fields.OurfootballfieldatEmricson parkforthe youth programislackingfacilities.Happy tosee the tenniscourtsbeingaddressed.We coulduse aturf fieldin town thatpeople can utilize forathletics.

Mostparkshave lostmany treesandnone orfewhave been replace.Shade isamajorissue.Shade notonly in placestosit,butplacestowalk,play,andgettothe parkare important. The square parkismore usedthan the sidewalkbecause ithassuch bettershade.The triangle parknexttothe square isneverusedpartly because there isnoshade.Gettingto emericson fromneighborhoodsaroundolsen schoolishorrible.NosidewalkorcrosswalkatJackson andOakland.A narrowpoorly maintainedsidewalktogetintothe park.Allparksare poorly maintained.The maintenance schedule ishorrible forallequipment.Take the only sandvolleyballcourts....The netsdonteven workasnets.The picnicpavilionsare are allbeat upandlookhorrible.Many benchesin parks(like marry ann) are notusable anymore.Please take astrongtownsapproach andmaintain atahigh leveleverythingbefore adding anything.

Notsure whatisavailable

we needaskateparkorapumptrackormtbskillspark

Well,mostthe parksare adecentwalkaway frommy location butagain,the main contributingfactoron ifI'mgoingtoaparkisoutofthe citieshands,weatherwillalwaysplay akey roll. However,in siteslike Donato,somethingcouldbe done toallowthe trailstobe walkedin timesof flooding,particularly in thatmarshiersection nearthe beginningnorth side entrance.

Roadsandsidewalksare in poorcondition leadingtothe parksandnotwalkable areastogettothe parkifyou cannotdrive.

People with disabilitiesneedfully accessible bathrooms,includingan adultchangingtable.Equipmentneedstobe accessible topeople with physicalanddevelopmentaldisabilities.

We have specialneedschildren andI knowalotoffamilieschose nottogotocertain parksbecause they are notsafe asisnexttoaroad/busy roadnotgatedornotsafe touse for specialneedchildren.A lotofkidselope soifthere isnogate orbarrierthen we won’tgo.Ifthere isapondnearby we won’tgo.A lothastodowith safety andthatiswhy alotof familiesstay home insteadofusingthe park.Which isn’tfairforthe children because they wouldlike tobe outandaboutjustlike any otherchild.

I wouldlike tosee accessible playgroundsandrecreation with softplace surfacesandplenty ofshade

Every parkshouldbe fully accessible topersonswith and/orwithoutphysicaldisabilities.

Three ofmy children are autisticandone alsohasDown Syndrome.Ithasbeen difficulttouse the parksbecause the facilitiesaren'tvery accessible totheirabilities.

I wish I couldloiterin the parksafterdark.I wouldlove tohave aquiettime in nature by myselfathoursavailable tome,butI understandit'ssaferthisway.

See othercarergory

DickTracy parkislackingbathroomfacilities

Anotherthingthatmakesthe localparkssuckisthe people whoride motorizedvehicleson the walk/bike paths.Electricisstillmotorized

Merryman Fieldwalkingpath isawful.You can barely walkon the path orride abike with outtrippingorridingoverahumpin the patch.There isnoshade andbathroomsare gross.Tons ofdogpooptoo.

Woodstockneedsaskateparkandsome mountain bikingtrails.

I have an autisticson andthe recreation departmentandtheiruse ofNISRA ishardly available.Programswith NISRA are justnotofferedin Woodstockorofferedattimesthatare just notaccessible tochildren with disabilities.Even ifyou can findaprogram,staffisvery unaware ofutilizingthe resource orprovidingassistance.The staffwillprovide you with aphone numbertocallNISRA howeverwhen showingupforthe rare program,the assistance providedtothe childisoften akidthemselveswhodoesnotinteractwith the childandawkwardly standsaroundprovidingnosupport.The AppleCreekparkisdesignedsolely fortoddlers.The equipmentwhile in okay shape ismeantforyoungchildren andnotappropriate forthe age ofnearly allthe residentsin the areawhofrequentthe park.The lackofage appropriate opportunitieshasleadtovandalismandbullyingofyoungerorspecialneedschildren whotry to play in the parkspace.In the very same subdivision the isalarge open lotatthe entrance which oursubdivision saysisownedby the city;itwouldbe aperfectplace toputin some fencedin basketballcourtsandpickleballcourtstosupportthe olderchildren in the neighborhood.In generalthere isalackofseatingorshade structuresatthe parks.It'sokay on a coolerorovercastday butin the heatofthe summerandfullsun there isnorelieffromthe elements.Some shade structure andseatingwouldbe nice toprovide an opportunity tostay longerthan afewminutesatthe park.We absolutely donotuse the recreation centerafterdark,the lackoflightingaroundthe buildingmakesusfeelvery unsafe,specifically the back ofthe buildingandside.

Respondingtoquestion numberseven allparksneedsome TLC

Itmay notbe apark,butthe WoodstockRecteation centershouldbe much more affordable/ free toresidents.

Needmore gazebo'sandseatingareas.Love the oaksplantedatMerryman butgoingtotake awhile toprovide shade.

The parksneedmore restroomsandthe portapottiesoften are unclean.

It’snotreally abarrier,butthe trailsin Ryderswoodshave been overgrown andpoorly marked/kept.

I like towalkandbike andmore pavedtrailswouldbe appreciated

Nearthe square,parkswith playgroundsare notwithin walkingdistance sowe rarely utilize them.Ifthere wasaplaygroundclosertothe square,we wouldvisitfrequently.Closestis Olson,which isalongwalk,about40 minutesboth ways.DickTracy isalsoclose,buthaslittle parkingandisunsafe towalkto.

We have alotofparksthatare goodforlittle,butfewspotsforolderkids.Some ofthe newerparks,Sweetwaterandsonatashave limitedstuffforolderkidsbutI wish theirwasmore. Randalloaksisagreatexample ofaplaygroundthathasequipmentforolderkids.

I have a10 yearoldson in awheelchair.Mostifnotallparksdonotinclude any equipmentthatisaccessible tohimin awheelchair.

I dotthinkthere isabike path in the entire city.It’sthe worstpartaboutlivinghere with smallchildren.Notmany large open parksbesidesemericson.

Modern restroomfacilitiesare needed.Notportajohns.

The parkclosesttomy home isnotlistedabove.Olsen Park.Otherparksare notwithin walkingdistance orthere are missingsidewalks.Amenitiesare limited- desire more sittingareas, shade,landscapingandstrolleraccessible areas.

We are the only community thatseemstonothave bathroomsattheirfacilities.PortaPottiesshouldbe atemporary solution forlike aconcertorotherevent.My kidsplay sportsandI actually like itwhen they have away gamesbecause I knowthere willbe regularrestroomandan actualconcession stand

Nothingforadultsin mostparks.

Woodstocklackswalking/cyclingaccessibility.City issocardependent.Needstomove away fromthatandhave the entire city easily accessible by foot/bike.Notenough sidewalks(or interconnectedwalking/bike paths)

I woulduse arange ofparksalotmore ifI couldwalktothemfrommy home - havingtodrive alwaysmakesitfeellike achore.

Emricson parkismain parkisrun down andnotmaintainedwell.Needtoplanttreesforfuture.Update restrooms.Geese issueson paths,wash andsweepvery busy path!Tarapark needsshade,treesandgrassmaintenance,it’smostly weeds.

RyderWoodsislittered,lackstrash cans,anddoesnothave bathrooms.We alsofoundtwobloody pillowsthatwe feltwere disturbing.Thatwasitforournature walksthere.The pathsat Emricson are completely unsafe when motorizedbikesandgocartsare utilizingthem.Nomotorizedvehiclesneedstobe enforced!People urinatingoutin the open- signsneedtobe placedtoreinforce thatpublicurination isprohibited.Ithappensfrequently atEmricson.

I thinkwe needmore equipment

Parkingislimitedforeventsheldin the parkin the square.There are few,ifany picnictablesin the park.Tableswouldallowpeople tobuy andeatfoodfromsurroundingbusinesses.

The parkisoutdatedanddoesnotpromote kidstowanttoplay on itoroutside.It’smore forchildren under4 yearsoldandstilllacks

Mostofthe parkslookpretty good.Obviously some are olderandneedupdatesandI see you are workingon thatatOlson.

Havingsidewalksorbike pathsthatconnecttoallparksfromthe neighborhoodswouldbe nice.

BuildrealbathroomsatEmricson Park.

Emricson Parkneedsnewpermanentrestroomfacilities.

Route 47 doesn'thave many crosswalksavailable tobe able toride bikesorwalksafely tothe parks.Loadingupbicyclesin avehicle togotoaparkin the same town asI live isn'tideal.

There'snobasketballcourt,shade,enough seating,andthe mulch isoldandthere'salackofactualthingstoplay on.

On anice day the Sweetwaterparkispacked.There islittle foranyone olderthan 10 todothere.Basketball,tennis/pickleball,soccer,etcwouldmake itsomore people have something todo.

Itwouldbe nice tohave aportable restroomateach location

I noticedthatlasttime I wentwalkingatEmricson thatthe pathway isstartingtocrack.Very dangerousforseniors.The parkatPrairie Ridge the basketballcourtisdeterioratedcracked, etcwith the numberofkidsin thisneighborhooditneedsan upgrade

Wouldbe nice tohave apoolclosertoMcConnellareainsteadofhavingtogoallthe way acrosstown.Place torentkayaksorstandupboardson alake area.Somethinglike 3 oaksin cl.

Itwouldbe nice tohave better,longerwalkingpaths.I love towalkoutside,butamlimitedtothe neighborhoodinsteadofoutin nature...like Hoffman Parkin Cary.They even have publicgardens.OrMoraine Hillsin McHenry.The only place I can findin WoodstockisEmricson,andit'sok,butmissingnature.It'sabusy park,more forsports,picnicsandswimming!

I don’twanttouse aport-a-potty.Also- I wouldlike outdoorpickle ballcourts.

Why dolarge crowdeventshave tobe aroundthe Square when we have Emricson Parkwhich hasmore parkingandlandavailable.

I often drive toCrystallake togettobetterparkswith more fun andupdatedequipmentformy daughtertoclimbon.The sandisalsovery inconvenientandkeepsusaway frommany parks.

Many ofthe neighborhoodparksdonothave any shade andnotreeshave been plantedtooffershade in the future.There isvery limitedparkingin Emricson parkwhen otherevents are goingon,thisneedstobe expandedgreatly.Mostofthe parksare ignoredandhave been foryearsby the city.

I like torun on unpavedtrailstowhich Woodstockhaslimitedtrails.

Forthe pastseveralyearsI have been partially disabled,usingclutchesandorawheelchair.Thishasaffectedmy use ofparksgreatly.Thisaside,often when I amin search ofaparkI am lookingforshade,seating,lotsofspace / seatingaway fromothersandanice restroom.

There are notenough activitiesofferedin the afternoonsforworkingparents

The slide iscrooked!!!The equipmentistoobigandadvancedforkidsunder10.The sandisahuge partofnotgoingthere.The overallcondition ofthe parkispoor!!!

Accesstoclean handicapbathrooms,poorcondition ofequipmentandnothandicapaccessible

More activitiesforyoungchildren/totsespecially after4:30pm.Beingaworkingparentalotofthese activitiesare duringthe day when I amatwork

We have aspecialneedschildgettingtoolarge forthe equipmentbutstillwantstoplay on them

Really wish alotofthese parkshadfencesandrestroomsforchildren andeven foradults.I wish the parkswouldaddswings,andnewpaintoreven newerequipment.Also,wish there wassome type ofsplash padin the neighborhoodparksforthe summer.Many people cannotaffordtogotothe poolswith theirchildren andthey mightnoteven drive soitwouldbe convenienttohave smallsplash padsatdifferentparks.

D’ccitgorfoyzjffyl

none they shouldhave areasfordisabilities

EMRICSONPARKIS OPENAFTERDUSKYET MOST OF THELIGHTS

Parksare repetitive there'snotactivitiesofferedthatcan'tbe done elsewhere

Fix the parkstuffandgetnewstufffor

I thinkthere shouldbe installedbathroomsinsteadofportalpotties

Don’tlockthe gate atsoccerfields

my parknearby issmelly andterrible conditions

A lotofthemdon’thave bathrooms

Nah Itwouldbe nice tohave acyclingtrail

Homelessnesspeople

non game use fieldssokidscan goplay soccer!

Mostin badcondition orovercrowded

No

No

There are toofewrestroomsandthe groundsare notmaintained.The areaatMerryman walkingtothe fieldsiilike walkingthrough amine field.I feelwe have nice facilities,butneedto maintain whatwe have.

I waslookingathostingan 8th grade graduation party atapavilion in emricson.We have olderfamily membersthatrequire wheelchairs&walkers.Notallpavilionshave restrooms.Not allpavilionshave pavedpathstothe pavilions.Mostofthe pavilionsdonothave parkingadjacenttothe pavilion.The “volleyballcourt”clearly hade notbeen caredfor.Frayingnet, saggingnet,andthe sandwasn’tsandanymore.Itwashardenedgravel.I wasVERYdisappointedin the amenities.We endeduprentingapavilion outin union atLyonsparkbecause the amenitiesthere hadactually been thoughtthrough &caredfor.

My kidsare boredofthese parks.There isnotenough todo,with outdatedequipment.

DickTracy parkhsasnoshad3.Landscapingalwaysneedsattention.City parkkidsareasare in needofupgradingexceptforthe one newerplaygroundbutithasnoshade

We enjoy recreationalfishingatemricson butconditionsofthe pondscoulddefinitely be improved.We alsoreally enjoy the addition ofthe frisbee golfcourse.

I wish itwaseasiertogetfromApple Creektocity parks- Dean Stishardtonavigate.

More restrooms,cleanlinessandthey seemundermanaged

I love goingtosplash padsin othertowns.They alsooffernewerandbiggerplaygrounds.They are alsofree.

We don'tlike usingportapottys'

I have atoddlerandababy,we visitOlsen often aswe're close by,butit'susually dirty(trash andvandalism).I wanttofeellike I don'thave toworry aboutwhatmy kidsare gettinginto. There'salsonotmuch shade andit'shardtoshare the space on busy summerdays.We're notafamily thatrequireshandicapassistance butit'dbe nice forfamiliescloseby thatdo needthose facilitiestofeelwelcome too!Emricson ismy toddler'sfavorite andI'mgladtohearit'sgettingrevamped,andwe can'twaittosee howitturnsout!Wouldlike acloser restroomoption forboth parksasI have diapersandpotty trainingtodealwith,andmany in the neighborhoodsdotoo!

Bathroomsorportapottiesshouldbe atEVERYpark.We have potty trainingagedkidsthatgomostoften.Bathroomsare amust!!A smallvolleyballcourtatmore parkswouldbe GREAT!!Alwaysbasketball,nothingforgirlssports!

Trailexpansion wouldbe great.Hiking.MTB

Lackofpicnictables,grills,horseshoe pitsandclean permanentbathrooms

Time islargestlimitingfactor….I worktwojobsbecause ourproperty taxesare sohigh it’slike havinganeverendingsecondmortgage.Please donotraise ourtaxesaswe may be forced outofthe community.You needtoprioritize expendituresbetter.Forexample,the downtown roundaboutwasoverthe top/ anovelty andthe recent“rebranding”couldhave waitedor been skippedentirely.

The parksare notin goodshape,dirty andlackofbathroomfacilities.

I really thinkit’sthe lackofinformation aboutwhatisavailable in ourarea.I love goingtoparkswith my children.I knowwe have alotofparksbutI don’tknowwhere halfofthemare at. Love the conservation areastoobutlackofinfo.Andourdogpark(s) are lame andexpensive.I wouldlike tosee an agility parkfordogs.

The City needsamore robustRecreation Center.

The city needstohave more art/sculpture!NOT the awfulcatalogpurchase ofabench like toone in frontofcity hall.Workingartistswith aprofessionalresume.Woodstockisprime for sculpture in publicplaces!

We preferparks/ nature areasthatare strollerfriendly andfun fortoddlers

Homelessare allowedtobe very confrontive topeople in Woodstock.Uneasy aboutwalkingby myselfin many places….even shopping.

Notenough fieldsavailable tothe public

The RecCenterisvery outdated.The lockersare rusted,limitedfacilitiesin the lockerrooms

Ryder'swoodsisoverrun by invasive species.The pondshouldbe agood fishingspotbutitisnot.The trailscouldbe widerwith an aggregate gravelbase.We alwaysgettickswalking through there.Widertrailsandclearingoutthe invasive specieswillhelp.Bathousesandahealthy pondwillhelpwith mosquitoes.Ifallthathappens,I fishingpierwouldbe nice.Then it wouldbe amuch betterplace totake the kidsanddog.

Otherparksin nearby townshave betteramenitiesandplay equipment

I absolutely love walkingaroundmerryman daily andappreciate the port-a-potties,however,the path on the north endisvery bumpy andbroken upandcoulduse repaving.It’sdifficult topush astroller/wagon overthatareaBanfordisanotherparkwe love towalkto.The groundgetsandstaysextremely wetandmuddy.Itwouldbe helpfultogetnewwoodchipsora differentgroundcoveringtomake iteasierforkidstoplay withoutwaitingforittodry afterastorm.There isalsonobathroom- notadealbreakerbutI’dnevercomplain aboutmore restrooms:)

Parkshave bathroomsbutare dirty

N/a

Emricson isnotavailable yearround.The pathwaysneedtobe clearedofsnowsopeople can stilluse the park.There isalsovery limitedshade atthe play structuresandalotofbroken equipment..

Safe appropriate parksforchildren ofallageswith goodequipmenttoplay on.

Kidswanttoplay butyou really have noplace tobe nearthembutsitdown.

Safety - there are frequently olderteenshangingaroundon playgroundequipment,speakinginappropriately forthe kidson the playgroundamdmakingthe playgroundunwelcomingfor the parentsandchildren.I've experiencedthisatEmricson,Bamford,Sonatas,Prairieridge.

Equipmentiseitherbroken ordamaged.Lackofrestroomsandlackofparkingatcertain parkswhich causesovercrowdsatbetterequippedparks.

1.AtOlson Park,there are stadiumlight fixturestoilluminate the fieldsatnight,butthey don'tappeartowork.2.None ofthe parksofferice skating/hockey in the wintermonths,orif they dothen I wasnotable tolocate thatinformation online orin any publishedmaterial.3.I'mnotsure where rollerskating/rollerhockey wouldbe permitted.

We needmore discgolfcourses!The one in Emricson isgreat.The tee padsneedsome upgradingthough

Family accessible bathroomsisthe main reason.I walktoEmrickson frommy house with adouble stroller&in orderforme touse the restroomkneedtobe able tobringmy strollerin with me.Only ahandicapportapotty willfitusbutitwouldbe nice foran actualfamily bathroomwith achangingstation forparentswith little kids.Nobody wantstochange diapersoutin the open park.

Merryman Fieldswalkingpath needsrepavingbehindthe ball fields.

Some parksare very smallanddonotofferenough parkingorrestrooms.Otherthan sittingorlightwalkingsome parksdon’thave much todoorsee

The sportfields/pathslike soccer,basketball,tennis,running,andcyclingare notregularly maintainedasthey should.In caseslike the soccer fields.Maintenance isun excitantbesides grasscutting.

The recreation centerdoesnotofferenough swimclassesanddoesnotofferany gymnasticson site.There are notenough classesforyoungchilfren on eveningsandweekends.The only classesare duringthe workday.

I have nointerestin parkswith playgrounds,since I amnotachildorhave children

Entire parkequipmentispeelingpaintandrust

AJ Olson’spickleballcourtiscracked.Please repair.

There isonly 1 sidewalk(on the Clay St.Side) available on the 4 sidedparkatAJ Olson.The restisbroken road,nocurbson twosides,and4 parkingspots.The fountain in the summer isrepairedbutnotallowedtobe on because ofwaterreatrictions..yetthe city watersblldiamondsandplantson the square etc.Thatfountain isacoolingattraction forthe familieswho cantgettonoraffordadmission atthe city pool.The basketballcourtisamessandhassbeen foryears.Itneedstobe resurfaces.Somany differentgroupsstilltry toplay there.The tenniscourtisnowrippedupandwillbe adualcourtforpickleballbutwhere willpeople park?.Howcan they getstrollerstoandfromparksafely with limitedsidewalks.There are terrible portapottiesthere.The balldiamondneedstobe tilledandgradedmore often.Many familiesofvarioussocio-economicbackgroundsofdifferentetnicitieslive in the blocks aroundthatpark.Please helpthatparkon the forgotten north side oftown.

There are more baseballfieldsthan softballfieldsandoften noavailability touse the softball fields.

The bathroomsandlackofshade are whatpreventsusfromgoingmore often orforextendedamountsoftime.

Lazy?

Wouldlove abasketballcourtin Sweetwater!

We needsome sortofoutdoor24/7 basketballcourtwith genuine lights

Unsure ofwhen it’sokay touse certain parks

Ryderswoodsneedsgarbage cansyearround.Alsothere’salwaysdownedtreesorbranchesblockingthe pathsandoften are there formonths.

Playgroundsin bettercondition,nicerrestrooms,orrestroomsaltogether

Well,I workalot

There isnoparkin Woodstockthatistruly accessible forpeople with disabilities.That'sahuge drawback.

Neighborhoodparksin newerdevelopmentsreally needshade options.Eithertreesorpavilions.

I run ahome Day Care sowhen you have multiple little oneswith you,it'salwaysseemswe needtoleave early because someone hastogotothe bathroom.

Some ofthe equipmentthatisgearedtowardyoungerkidsare really noteasy forthemtouse andare terrifyingforparents/adultstonavigate around

Needmore shade umbrellasatthe poolatEmricson Park.The same groupsregularly hogthe fewavailable.

We needanewreccenterandafree dogpark

My son isspecialneedsandelopes.Itwouldmean the worldtoustohave more parkoptionsthatare fencedandinclude more sensory activities

I live in the condoson Leah Lane.I wish there were crosswalksforRt47

Shade wouldbe nice.Asforavailability,we have lotsofoptionsforlittle kiddos,butitwouldbe nice tohave more activitiesavailable fortween andteens.

We wouldlike toplay pickleballbutthe availability ofcourtsforthisare very limited.I knowthere isgoingtobe more addedtothe tenniscourts,butwe were hopingforseveralmore strictly forpickleballasthatissopopular.Also,notenough indoorhourswhen people are home fromworktoplay atthe reccenter.Reccenterneedshoursthatare justfornewbie or non competitive playersaswe don'tfeelwelcome toplay by the skilledplayers.Why doesn'tthe reccenterofferclassesforkidson the weekendaswellasthe sessionsthatare offered duringthe weekwhen parentsare atwork? Needaclassfork-5 thatwouldintroduce the fundamentalsofseveralsportssokidscan see ifthey like it(softball,soccer,basketballetc.). Notallkidswillwanttobe stuckdoingatravelingleague astheironly option tolearn asport/ orsome parentscan'tgetthemtothatbigofacommitment.

Mary Ann isn’tage appropriate forlittle kids.The equipmentisforbiggerkids,which makesnosense cause thisneighborhoodhasaton ofyoungerage kids.

SHADE!Please forthe love ofgodinclude shade when designinganewpark.

Nosidewalkson McConnelltogettothe parkfromDutch Crest

Poolisgettingovercrowded.I hope the newsplash padisnotinside the outdoorpoolareaandisin emericson Parkforalltoenjoy.We alsoneedan adequate indoorpoolwith lap lanesandgroupandprivate swimlessonssowe don'thave togotoCrystalLake orLITH.

Waterclassesvery crowded.Needmore classes.Poolandlockerroomvery small.Parkisalwayscrowded.

There are notenough workoutclassesofferedafterthe middle schoolstartsandbefore the endofthe day.I wouldlove tohave more WERQ classes,hotyoga,Zumbaandweightorany classesreally offeredbetween those hours.(9AM-330)

Olson Park,norestrooms

I don'tgettoany ofthe parksthatoften,butI doenjoy themwhen I do.The parkon the Square ismy favorite.In the summer.I can ride my bike there foranumberofactivities.

Parkingisatapremiumin emrickson on dayswhen footballishappening

Needaplaygroundsuch asawooden one like FortMcHenry

A lotofclassesare offeredonly Tuesday andThursday evenings.

Itwouldbe nice tohave askate parkin Woodstock.Mostmunicipalitiesofferthistotheirpatrons.Alsoice skating.We usedtohave ice skatingrinkstouse andtoplay hockey on.Why shouldwe have togotoaice house in nearby citiesorothercitiestodothese activities?!Fishing,we have 2 pondsthathave notbeen taken care of.They are siltedin andvery shallow.Howaboutstockingitwith fish.There are grantprogramsofferedtohelpwith this.Lastcomment,dogparks.Enough saidwe have non tooffer.

Somuch ofthe investmentin ourpublicparksseemstobe forprivate orotherwise limiteduse -- thatis,forhigh schoolteams(see:the soccer fieldsatEmricson) orchildren'sbaseball leagues.I have toassume thisispartly because ofthe connectionsourcity leadershave tothese institutions.They don'tsee thisasabarriertothe publicbecause they're soenmeshed with these groupsthatthey can'timagine anyone resentingit.Butmany ofusdo.We allpay taxesandwe'dlike tohave ausefulparksystemthat'llserves*all*residentsofthe city.Of course leaguesshouldgettouse these amenitiestoo,butthey shouldn'tbe the primary concern ofamunicipalparksystem.

Recdepartmentprogramsforyoungchildren seemto....only care aboutchildren whoaren'tin schoolordaycare with theirtimes.Notgoingtotake my kidoutofschoolat10:30 on a Wednesday foraprogram!

Emricson parkplaygroundfacilitiesare oldandbroken..nosafe restrooms..

More fun indooractivities

The reason I clickedavailability isin regardstothe Reccenter- I’dlove an expanded/updatedReccenter.I’dutilize an indoorpoolifthere wasmore space/availability aswellasan indoorwalkingtrackandmore basketballcourts.The indoorgym/courtswe have nowseemtobe alwaysusedupby workoutclassesorleagues.

The presence ofgangmembers,oh we have themeven ifWoodstockdoesn'twanttoacknowledge thatthey are there.The parksare overflowingwith themandtheirviolence.

Fun bigparks!I feellike everytown hasthem,even an affordable indooroption wouldbe awesome!

It’saweirdfeelingtobringkidstoplay atEmericson andWestwoodon some ofthe same equipmentfrom1998 that’sdilapidatedandshouldbe torn down.I’dratherdrive toAlgonquin orHuntley.

Itisnexttoimpossible towalkorbike fromwhere I live (Serenity Creek) toany ofthe parks.

More pavedpathsforstrollersandbikesandlongboards.Alsomore outdooractivity stuffsuch asfrisbee golfcoursesandeven maybe

Woodstock’sparkslackactivitiesfortoddlers.Havingparkswith areasdedicatedforlittle andbigkidswouldbe nice.

Parksare dirty

Lackofpublicrestroomsatparks,the restroomsatEmricson are poor,don'texistatOlson park.

Needpublicbathrooms,notportapottiesthatare attimesgross.

Lightingisaissue andlackorrestroomsatallparks!We allknowchildren needtogotothe bathroomalways!

We like towalktothe parkandthe sidewalksare notaccommodatingforwheelchairs.Once we gettoapark,the turfisnotwheelchairfriendly.There are nopaths.

Parksare dirty,atleastOlson is.Parkseemsoutdated.

Needbetterbasketballcourtsatemricson.Addingextracourtswouldbe greattoo!

The Recreation Centerneedstobe remodeled.It’sin poorcondition andsmallforthe amountofpeople assistingin the afternoons.

Sweetwaterpark,needsbasketball,tennis/pickle ballcourts.More infant/kidswings.DogParkArea.DogParkswilladdrevenue toparkswith membershipsandable forallfamily tocome toparksandvisit.Skate Parks.

I amnervoustowalkin the backpartofthe walkingpath ofEmrickson.I wish Emrickson wasupdatedwith betterparksandsplash pad.I amconstantly takingmy kidstoother communitiestovisit/use these type ofamenities.

We justneedmore todoin Woodstockandatthese parks.More eventsforfamilies

Wouldlove tosee bikepath on McConnell

Crackedsurfaces,worn nets,anditwouldbe nice tohave alargerbasketballcourtandpickleball.

I have little children,we often have togotothe bathroomwhile playingatthe park,we endupcuttingitshortdue tolackoffacilities..

The reccenterneedstobe renovated.Itisnotinviting.Ridingabike togetplacesissuicidal.The bike lane on Dean streetisnonsense.The roadisnowtoonarrowforbikesandcars. Welldone Woodstock( saidwith sarcasm)

The RecCentershouldbe expanded.Itistoosmallandcrowdedforourcommunity.

A betterdogparkwith walkingpaths.A complete fencedin areaandmore fencedin areasforsmallerandlargerbreeds.Walkingpathswouldalsobe lovely.Thisisthe dogparkby my parentsin Bartlett.Please,clicklinkbeloworlookupBartlettdogpark.There isanice trailandthe dogshave agreattime! https://www.google.com/search? q=batlett+dog+park&oq=batlett+dog+park&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIJCAEQABgNGIAEMggIAhAAGBYYHjIICAMQABgWGB4yCAgEEAAYFhgeMggIBRAAGBYYHjIICAYQABgWGB android-tmus-us-revc&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-

8#trex=m_t:lcl_akp,rc_f:rln,rc_ludocids:13054505983931816427,ru_gwp:0%252C7,ru_lqi:ChFiYXJ0bGV0dCBkb2cgcGFya0jVrrGahLqAgAhaKRAAEAEQAhgAGAEYAiIRYmFydGxldHQgZG9nIH ABAA,trex_id:qY5PSc&lpg=cid:CgIgAQ%3D%3D

Lightingneedstobe improvedforballfields.Lightsneedtobe addedatbates.

There seemtobe little tono,orvery inconvenienttrash receptaclesavailable whereverwe go.Bathroomsare fairly nonexistentaswell,which meansifmy little needstouse the restroomwe’re goinghome.

Transportation/mobility concerns;wouldpreferareaswith more naturalamenities(native plants,nature) vsjustgrass;Olson parktenniscourtandotherequipmentneedsrepair.

N/A

I’dlove tosee mosquitospray beingprovided,aswellasbetterportapotty servicesatBatesandEmricson parks.They are constantly fullandoutofpaper,etc.

More trailsandbike lanestotrailswouldbe amazing!

Parksprogramsandeventsorreceventsare toocostly forourfamily toaffordsometimes.We have high studentloansthattake mostofourincome.We greatly appreciate the free rec centerdayson the 15th sowe can take the kidsswimmingtodosomethingfun.More eveningtimesforearly childhoodprogramswouldalsobe helpfulasafamily with twoworking parents.Grandparentsdothe childcare andare notin goodenough health totake the kidsoutduringthe daytime sowe rely on eveningtimes(like swimmingafterworkon those free days! ��).We alsowouldlike aplaygroundclosertothe square.The square isthe closestparktous.Olson isnextbutisfartoolongofawalkfromthe square especially in hotsummer months.DickTracy isnearby enough butisnotsafely walkable fromsquare anddoesnothave adequate parking.

Many ofthe programsofferedare very expensive forthe outcomesyourreceiving.Additionally,we lookedatrentingthe facilitiesforourkidsbirthday partiesandnotonly were the days/timesofferedcompletely unuseful(whohasakidsbirthday party at6pmon aSunday night),butvery costprohibitive.Ourson playsforthe WoodstockLittle League andthe only time we use Emricson isforgames,they donotenjoy the parkastothemitisboring.Sowe gotoMcHenry orCrystalLake anduse the parksthere.

Allthe parksaroundhere are in poorcondition.The parksare notwelltaken care ofandalwaysfeeloutdatedanddirty.The parkone Dean streetisacomplete eye sore,especially with thatchain linkedfence.Itjustlooksscary,I won'ttake my kidsthere even though we live 3 minutesfromit.Very sad.

The landscapingandupkeepatthe RedParkisnotgoodtosay the least.

Like the RecCenter,mostparkslookdatedwith maintenance lackingon structures.Paths,andamenities.The reccenterneedsamajorfacelift.Thingsare fixedwith ducttape.The saunahasplywoodwalls.The directorisaslobsoI expecteverythingelse tobe.

The parksare in awfulcondition.Ifthere issand,there are waspseverywhere.Noshade.Noseating.Emercson parkisthe worstshape,dusty dirteverywhere.My kidsare filthy after playing.Nowhere tosit.None ofthe equipmenthasbeen replacedor fixedin years.Mostare the same fromwhen I wasachildgrowingupin Woodstock.Eventsatthe reccenterhave noparking,andare heldduringthe day soworkingparentscan’tbringtheirchildren.

I see the tenniscourtsare underconstruction andhopefully there willbe windscreensandgooddurable lighting!

We needbigwalking/bikingpathsconnectingallparkstothe community.

Emericsonparkthe pondsneedsserverly needshelp.Like amassive dredgingwouldhelpitout.Newbuildingsparksandrecreation .

Olson Parkhasvery little todoforadults,aside fromthe tenniscourts

More amenities- splash pad,largerplaygrounds.We are Woodstockresidents,butgotoCrystalLake parksasthey have betterofferings.

We have traveledtoHuntley touse Diecke Parkforthe past2 years.Basedon itsavailability forsafety topreventelopementandenough areaofplay forallchildren toenjoy.

The fishingcommunity isboomingrightnowandinterestin the sportisevergrowing.Woodstockisnota fishingdestination andotherthan DufieldPondorEmericson,residentsmust venture elsewhere toenjoy thislong-standingpasttime.Woodstockisapass-through town forotherarea fisheriessuch asLake Geneva,the Fox River,CrystalLake,andthe Three Oaks Recreation Areaandwhere those sportsmen andwomen go,sotodoesmuch neededrevenue.

The playgroundsatEmricson are eitherold&waaaay outdatedorthey’re blockedoffbcthey’re broken &adangertothe public.Also,Emricson hasmany deadtreesthathave been deadandcausingdamage &an eyesore forseveralyears.A huge areawasrecently cutdown &fromsouth st,appearsthere’sa fire pitofbrush butthere are stilldeadtreesjust…waiting tofalldown.I take itthat’swhy woodstockiswaiting? Also,tenniscourtshave been updatedbutnonewbasketballcourtsatOlson park? we stoppedusingthatparkbcmy son kept fallingfromtrippingoverthe uneven partsofthe basketballcourt.There’salsonosidewalkssurroundingOlson parkwhich meanshandicappedhave tomaneuverin the streetwhich is dangerous!!!!The north side ofrt14 wouldlike askate park,too!

Emericson parkbathroomsare alwaysdirty andneverhave toiletpaperdoesnothave baby changingstation etc.the Castle parkisnotsafe.Otherwise it'sagreatpark.The dicky Tracy parkiswonderfulbutthere are nobathroomswhich isvery hardwhen you have children

We needbetterbaseballfieldsandsoftballfieldsthey have fallen intodisrepairandwe coulduse an upgradedyouth andhigh schoolfacilities

Why have CHILDREN'S playgroundswithoutactualbathrooms.I hate havingtodrive toCrystalLake (WoodsCreekorveteransacres) justtoknowthere willbe an actualbathroomif needed.Parentsdon'twantdisgustingport-a-pottiesthatare impossible to fitin with kidsandare disgusting.There shouldbe parkswith clean,usable bathroomsin the town I pay taxes for.Alsolackofshady parksisvery frustrating.Emricson isthe only one with decentshade.We have hotsummersandI don'twantmy childtobe atriskofheatstoke justtoplay.

The tenniscourtatPrairie Ridge isin rough shape,really deepcracksin the surface.Also,wouldlove tosee pickle ballcourtsaddedsomewhere in the city.

ApplecreekEstatesdoesnothave bicycle orpedestrian pathsavailable towalk/bike intotown.

The factthatEmricson doesnothave flush toiletsisREALLYterrible.

Nosandforatleast12years

Therearemanyreasonsthatpeopleuse

Physicalhealth andwellbeing(walking,running,biking,exercising)

Other(writein response)

Mentalhealth andwell-being(relaxing,gettingaway,etc.)

Playingat playgrounds

Enjoyingnatureorwildlife

Picnics,BBQs orothersocialgatherings

Arts andculture(publicart,performances,classes,etc.)

Playingsports

Outdoortimewith pets

TherearemanyreasonsthatpeopleuseWoodstock’srecreationalopportunities.Pleaseratehow

aretoyouandyourhousehold. 935

Therearemanyreasonsthatpeople useWoodstock’srecreational opportuniti...

Physical healthandwellbeing (walking,running,biking, exercising)

Other(write inresponse)

Mental healthandwell-being (relaxing,gettingaway,etc.)

Playingatplaygrounds

Enjoyingnature orwildlife

Picnics,BBQsorothersocial gatherings

Artsandculture (publicart, performances,classes,etc.)

Playingsports

Outdoortime withpets

Events(communityfestivals, markets,etc.)

TherearemanyreasonsthatpeopleuseWoodstock’srecreationalopportunities.Pleaseratehow importanteachofthesearetoyouandyourhousehold.

Therearemanyreasonsthatpeopleuse Woodstock’srecreationalopportuniti...

Physical healthandwellbeing(walking, running,biking,exercising)

Other(write inresponse)

Mental healthandwell-being(relaxing, gettingaway,etc.)

Playingatplaygrounds

Enjoyingnature orwildlife

Picnics,BBQsorothersocial gatherings

Artsandculture (publicart,performances, classes,etc.)

Playingsports

Outdoortime withpets

Events(communityfestivals,markets,etc.)

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sparksadequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot? 877

Yes (Pleasetellus why)

No (Pleasetellus why)

Sometimes (Pleaseexplain whyorwhere)

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sparksadequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot? 877

11-DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sparksadequatelysuityourneeds?Why orwhynot?-SelectedChoice

Yes(Please tell uswhy)

No(Please tell uswhy)

Sometimes(Please explainwhyorwhere)

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sparksadequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot? 877

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sparks adequatelysuityourneeds?Whyorwhyn...

Yes(Please tell uswhy)

No(Please tell uswhy)

Sometimes(Please explainwhyor where)

YesbutEmericson Parkneedsalandscaping.Belvidere City parkdidsuch anice jobwith usingrocksaroundthe waterareatoreally make the parkareashone

Yesmostly butalsono.Yeswe have basketballcourtsbutthey aren’tbeingcaredfororreplacedlike they should.We have asplash padthatmay ormay notwork? Notsure..we pay a ridiculousamountoftaxestolive in thiscommunity which we love andenjoy butthe amenitiesare nowhere nearwhatthey shouldbe.

The parksare alwaysclean.there'sgreatwalkingtrails,which offeralotofserenity.

There isarange ofoptions,although I amnotalwayssure where to findinformation ofevents

I mainly use themforwalking.

Pathsare welltaken care of.

ok

We have many parkstositandplay in well-keptandaccessible

There are anumberofparkswith amenitiesthat fitmy needs. Greatwalkingpath in emricson

Nice improvementstoEricsson Park.Keepupthe goodwork.

Variety

Open,available,free

Close by andallowsdogs

There are plenty ofparksthatare able tomeetvariousneedsofthe community.Some may like the festival-socialenvironmentwhile othersenjoy aquietwalkin nature.There is diversity andvariety here —anditisn’tnecessary thateach parkofferitallatthe same time.

Very nice parksenjoy walkingpaths

Only use Emricson

Easy toaccess,many options

I have limitedusage ofthe parks,by choice.My home are provideswildlife settings.

Nice bike pathsin Emricson

Greatvariety in offerings- open space,woods,playgrounds,pool,sledding

The fewtimesthatI getouttothe parks,I enjoy them!

Accessibility

Enjoy activitieson the Square andmeetingupwith friendsatthe differentparksforkidstoplay

There'savariety ofsizestoaccommodate avariety ofevents

They are clean andwellcaredfor.

Thankyou formakingWoodstock’sparksapriority.They addaquality toeach resident’slife.

Square isgreatgatheringplace andisfilledwith localhistoricbuildings

They are wellkeptandopen formy dog

I amolder

Mostly great—wouldlove askate park

They fitmy family'srange ofneeds.

Born andraisedin WoodstockThe square especially andthe history ofitiswhy people flockhere forevents.Itneedstoremain the same way itis!

I enjoy nature andthe woods.My son lovesthe playgrounds.

Have whatI’mlookingfor,couldbe nicerbuthave whatI’mlookingfor.

I live in close proximity toanumberofparksforwalking/biking

The one I have been towasrelaxingandbeautiful.

There are many greatplaygroundsforourkids.

Lotsofnice woodedspacestowalkandrun.Nice square toenjoy concerts.

Basketballcourts

We enjoy walkingandspendingtime atthe parks.Ourgrandchildren enjoy allthe parksthathave play equipment.Justwish thatthingswere maintainedbetter.

Love the festivalsandmarkets,andwalkingpaths

There are avariety ofparksusedforavariety ofpurposes.We can walkthe dogin one parkandfeelcompletely secluded,orwe can attendan eventin anotherpark,andfeelasifwe are atiny piece ofalarge community with otherpeople.Woodstockhasagreatvariety.

The here isaparkforevery interest

Lotsofgreenery tolookat

Mostofthe time.Some ofthe basketballcourtsandplaygroundsare in needof fixing.Fallingapart

We are able to findlotsoffun waystoentertain kidsatvariousparks

I use parksforwalkingandrecreational

It'san absolute joy tohangoutin the parkswhetherby myselfrunningerrands,with my dogs,orwith friends

They provide daily opportunitiestoenjoy the outdoorsespecially with outdogs.

Yesforthe mostpart

Clean,maintained,inviting

Easy togetto

Variety andlotsofgreen/open space

Usually goforwalks

I thinkthey are quite nice andthe programsare sufficient.

I enjoy passive recreation

Lotstochoose from

Lovely walkingpath atemricson park

There are alotofthem

They have somethingforeveryone

Emission forwalkingisvery good

The parksworkedwellwhen ourchildren were smallandthrough high school.Nowwe use more forwalkswith dogsetc.andthey meetourneeds.

Parksare nice.Andpeaceful.Greatforwalking.

I run in the main parkevery morningandamhappy tosee thatthe ParksDepartmentstartedtoshovelthe path.

They are whatthey are.

Emricson andRydersWoodsare both beautiful.Hennen couldbe nice butthe trailsaren'twellmaintained.

NeedMore benches

Forthe mostpartthey wellkeptandconvenienttogetto.

I love the Parkin the Square

Wonderfulpark- Emricson andgreatSquare

Yes,walkingtrailatEmricson Parkisgreat.I appreciate itwhen the snowisremovedfromthe path in the winter.

Overallourparksare wellkeptandofferavariety ofoptionsforoutdooractivities,some naturalareas(we coulduse more),play areaoptionsandsportsactivities.

Parksare in goodspotsforaccess.Goodstart.

The parksare suitable foralloccasions.Itiswhatyou make ofit

Forthe mostpart,the parksare good.Ifmy localparkdoesn'thave whatI need,Emrickson does.

multiple activities;nice facilities forwalkingandenjoyingnature

My kidsare grown andI mainly use Parkslike Erickson forrelaxing,jogging,orwalking.Attendingpublicgatherings,etc..

They are plentifulandcalming.

There are thingstodoforallages

goodforwalking

Because they do.

I'mnotoutside much due toextensive environmentalallergiesbutthe parksare lovely todrive through/sitandeatlunch at. haseverythingimlookingfor

Don'tuse thatoften. Merryman,quiet,many beautifulyoungOaks.

I enjoy the walkingpathsatEmricson.

With the very fewparksimmostfamiliarwith,those already fitmy needson theirown.Itwouldonly be more 'entertaining' tovisitthe additionalunfamiliarparks.

There are many optionsandthey are plentiful.

greatplacestomeetothersin the community publictoilets

goodcondition

Yes because itisalwayssafe

they are nice andwelltaken care of:)

I don'tuse themmuch butwhen I doI amsatisfied.

Keepspeople active

Because it’sclose towhere I live

I canttake my dogforawalk

It’sjustdoes

I spreadalotoftime atthe parks

It’savailable,nice,andwellkept-ish

Yes,I lOVEusingthe parksthroughoutthe year

Welcoming&clean

A lotofchoicesasmy son grewup.Nearby optionswhen my grandchildren visit.

Mostare walkingdistance fromthe square

Ourhouseholdenjoysthe amenitiesthe Woodstockparksoffer.

Really don'tuse themmuch atall

Alwaysdidforwalksandsittingandenjoyingnature.

There are many in Woodstock

The variety ofsportsandparksworkwellformy kids

I enjoy themwhen I can forwalking

Rarely have time free touse any ofthe parks.

variety ofsize andlocation

There isneverenough parkingspaceswhen there’smultiple eventsgoingon

Forthe mostpartyes!I enjoy takingwalksandbeingoutin nature!

Notmany nearby

The parkswe frequentfeelsafe andare welltaken care of

They’re goodifwalkingareasare maintained

Walkingtrailsare wellkeptandfeelwe’re very fortunate tohave such an abundance oftrailsin which toenjoy nature

The parkswe frequentare alwaysclean andbringsuch apeacefulandenjoyable experience formy family (marryman andbanford)

Nature,walkingpaths,sports

Goodvariety andnumberofparks

I routinely run on the walkingpath atemricson park

goodaccess- lotsofvariety in the differentparks

I walkoutatEmricson Parkdaily,the asphaltwalkaroundthe perimeterisfantastic

I’ve only been toafew,andthe suitmy needs.

Yes,mostly clean andkidfriendly

I really justgotoemrickson towalk/jog

Free time isthe biggestdeterent.

Walkingtrails/ fishing

mostly

Wellkept

Many greatoptionsofparks

The parksare greatandwellkeptandthere’salotofthem

Plenty ofparks

The parksare generally in goodcondition andeasily accessible.

Love the square asis.

Yes,butthere isalwaysroomforimprovement.More activitiesforolderresidents.

I like towalkorfindaspottositandI alwayscan.

We enjoy walkingourdogandlettingourkidsplay atthe parks.We alsoutilize the softball fields.

Otherthan the juniorfootballfields

Close tomy house.

Allvery nice

I believe there isavastamountofopen space.Only needisagoodbike path down McConnelRdorasimple connectingpath fromMcConnellRd.tothe bike path on 14,vs.ridingon MC ConnellRd.

Atmy age,it'sgreat.

They are alwaysopen andhave plenty ofsafe space toenjoy!

The parksare in close proximity towhere people live.They are in goodshape generally.

I like towalkaroundthe parks.Drive my carthere duringlunch andeatthere

Noneedtowaste more money

walkingatEmricson

My kidsenjoy spendingtime atthe parks

They’re good

There isanice variety.While the Square offersthe farmersmarketandevents,every otherparkwe visitisforrecreation,walks,outdoortime in nature,andspendingtime with family and friends.

Enjoy the path through the park.

Overallourparksare wellmaintained

With the repairsbeingdone atEmricson,especially the tenniscourts,the atmosphere willbe much more welcoming.

Open dawn todusk

Beautifulparks!

I've nevernothadan issue with the parksin town

I appreciate thatWoodstockhasboth naturalareas(woods,etc.) andfacilitieslike playgrounds.I really value the parkin the Square asacommunity gatheringspot.

They are agoodplacestospendtime andfeelsafe,you donotneedtonecessary spendasignificantamountoftime atthem,butjustpassingthrough I ammore than comfortable.

They’re there when I needem

Butneedmore bike pathsaroundtown.

There are alotofoptionsanddifferenttypesofparksandspaces

Overallyes.Again bathroomsneedtobe cleanedandhave baby stationsanddicky Tracy parkneedsbathrooms

Nice variety andnumber.

I use emricson parkallthe time togoforawalkoruse my bike andthey have aprettYdecentpath

We have todrive farforamore toddlerfriendly parkANDasplash pad.

RecCenteristoosmallandneedsexpansion andupdating

Ourapple creekparkisway toosmallAndoffersvery little.

Asmentionedabove - allsuitedforavery youngage group,dirty,run down,notmodern,nobasicbike pathseither

I wish there wasmore protection ofthe ecosystemsowe can live with nature ratherthan againsther

They needtobe wellkept.

Absolutely not.Woodchipsdon’tmake itaccessible forchildren whohave disabilitiesorare disabled.Soonly children whogetaroundon their2 feetwithouthelpcan play it’snotfair

Restrooms

Needmore Pickle ballcourts

Needmore.Place close todowntown toplay volleyballandminigolf.

Taken care ofin spurts- toomuch credence toalternative lifestyle groups

They are generally notaccessible.

sometimesdirty andagain,I'mconcernedaboutlackofmaintainedsidewalks

They are notmaintainedproperly.You tookaway my childhooddreamsofdancingin the waterfountain atOlson asan adult.

Fewreasonstovisitunlesscreatingmy own gathering.Notmuch community happeningsin forexample Olsen Park.

hardtogettowithoutacar

Limitedparkingatsome ofthese facilitiesandoften flooded.

Wouldlove dogparkoptio

lackofseating,parkingnearby,handicapparking

Poorcondition

Wantaplace where dogscan run offleash andplay in water.

Please callme atandI willbe gladtoshare my thoughts.815 451-9350

Notupdatedparks.Poorcondition.

The closestone tomy house isasmallparkwith justaplayground,andthe schoolplaygroundareawith basketballcourtscan be occupied,soI have todrive toapark.

ComparedtoCary andCrystalLake parks,Woodstockisfarbehind.

Asstatedpreviously,we needan indoorpoolthatcouldbe usedforlapswimming

Justtore down parknearme on Dean Street

Needmore off-leash areasfordogs

Skateboardpark

Needmore events

Notenough variety,minimalplaygroundequipment,norestrooms

Itisclearourtown investsin the bare minimumforourparks.We have the basicsandnothingmore.Noone visitsourparksandcome away impressed

Norecreationalsoccerfacilities,nosandvolleyballcourtswith propernets,tenniscourtnetsare badwith badasphaltandseating,nobike trailsouth of14 toleadtofacilitiessafely by walkingorbike.

Lackofrunning/bikingtrails.Smallparksforthe purposes

Active sportsare notreally achoice in town.

Many membersofwoodstockhave time andtime again askedforaskate,bmx orscooterparkthiswouldbe aplace where kidswouldgotogetoutside andcreate community buttono availisitanswered

We needaskate park

Poorcondition,notmany optionsascomparedtoneighboringcommunities

Betterbathroomfacilitiesandaccessby sidewalksandbike pathsneeded.

Due tothe explosion ofpickleballandthere are nowhere nearenough outside andinside courts

I wouldlike tosee apublicdogpark.

Sorely lackingin equipmentcomparedtoothercommunities,like Huntley crystallake andCary.Woulddrive my kidstoothertownsbecause the parksare better

Very FewWalkingPaths

We needabike park

They needtobe connectedby bike lanesandsidewalks appreciate parksthatare only forwalking/ hiking

Othertownshave more extreme sportsparks

They are poorly taken care ofandhardtogettoby bike orfoot.

Apple CreekParkshasoutdate’sequipmentanddoesnotsupportthe growingneighborhoodin which itresides

No,my kidsdon’teven like going.They getbored.

disability accessibility

Notsuitedforspecialneedchildren

Lookingforwardtothe accessible park,butnone ofthe otherparkshave been accessible formy kidstoreally use well.

Changingfacilities,adaptive equipment

There are somany with baseballfieldsandthe walkingpathsare in disrepair

They are notspecialneedsfriendly.

Needbike lanesaroundthe city.Very poorplanningin thisarea.

Mostofthe playgroundequipmentavailable isdated,orfallingapart.Much ofthe playgroundequipmentisforyoungerchildren,which is fine,butthere isnothingforchildren whoare olderorwantmore somethingmore interesting.Emricson offersthe bestvariety,butI wish we hadsomethinglike FortMcHenry.It'sbeautifulandfun forkidsofany age.There are alsoa lackofdecentpavilionswith picnictables,itwouldbe nice tosee afire pitavailable aswell.

Pavementin poorcondition andlackof fish in ponds

A lotofthe equipmentisgearedtowardssmallerkids.Olderkidsages9,10,11,12,etcstillwanttoplay andhave fun.

We donothave aplaygroundwithin acomfortable walkingdistance fromTrain Station/Square where we live

Notinclusive

See answertonumber9

Saferpathstowalkandride bikestogettothe parks.

I justwalkby.

I knowthatEmricson Parkisgettingimprovements,itsabouttime itsbeen rundown forover10 years.The grassisalwaysway tolongandlackofbathroomsmake itnotanice place to goto.

Needmore adultactivities.Pickleball,tennis,basketball,volleyball.

There isno finishedwalkingpath in applecreekestatesandwhatisthere isin poorcondition

Needrestroomsatemricson andparkin the square.Needpicnictablesin the parkin the square.Needsittingareasforwildlife/birdwatching.

I needmore discgolfparks!Also,Emricson’scourse coulduse some newtee pads

Fairly run down,needsupdatingandmore optionssuch ascourtsandequipmentforallages.

again the walkingtrailneedstobe addressed.

Only parkthathasanythingisemrickson

Localdoesnotmean localtoME!

Emricson Parkisseldomly usedforathleticactivitiesduringthe summermonths.An indoorfacility tohostsocialevents

Nothey needexpansion andbetterupkeeppriority forthe safety ofthe kidspayingon them.

Needmore trailstorun on Nobathrooms,noshade

They are run down andsome unsafe,tappedoff,etc

Accesstoclean handicapbathroomsandplay equipment

More accessibility andmore options,allowingmore free open play andcreativity

They needtoaddtrailsthe are able formotorizedbe holestobe able toride in

There isnobasketballcourtitisjustaplaygroundforlittle kids

I don’tgotothe park

nobecause they dontputactivesthatusually teensare interestedandconditionsare notgood

Courtsare in badconditions

Boringtome justbecause I like differentstuff

Some ofthemaren’tsafe forchildren,they’re old,andthere’snotenough courtsorspotsforsports.

condition,access

They mostly have everythingI enjoy butthey are in terrible condition

Asstatedearlierin survey

Portapotty bad

Notenough food

Lack/Variety ofequipmentavailable

Woodchipsare harsh on toddler’sfeet/can easily getsplinters.Sand floorsare messy.They shouldn’tbe rubberfloorslike veteran acresin Crystallake

The above reasonsaboutthe pavilions.The walkingpathsatemricson are adequate butwhen there isafamily ofbikers&afamily ofwalkers,the pathsdogetalittle narrow.

We needkidfriendly bathroomsandmore excitingplaygroundequipment.

Often notdevelopmentally appropriate playgrounds,nobathrooms

They are rundown,donotoffernewequipment,restroomsare absolutely disgusting.

I wish there were more naturalareasforchildren toexplore.

They are notinvitingtoallages.Also,miniortiesseemtodominate parkfacilities.Notaracistcommentjustfeelvery uncomfortable attimes

Mostofthemare smallandnogoodrestrooms

You needbathroomfacilitiespointblank!Andmaybe

Wouldbe nice tohave aparkwith actualbike trailsformtbikesandfatbikesin the winter

Dirty,old,notwelcoming

needmore bike paths

Run down andunsafe

Limitedpicnicsheltersandrestrooms

Play equipmentissubpar

Equipmentbroken andnotsafe

Needmore variety

Noeasy way toaccessanythingtogotosquare oranywhere else.We needbike orsidewalksdown Dean streetfromapple creekestates

Soccerfields/spacesare the mostimportantandthey are notcurrently adequate

Rydershaspotential,city doesnothingtoassistwith the parkreachingitspotential

Some in needupupkeep

Bike routes

Mostseemrun down,nicerparksin nearby towns

Fix pickleballcourts

Notaccessible forthose with wheelchairsorothermobility issues

Ourfavorite parksare fallingapart

Definitely wouldlove tosee more splash pads,the parksgetsohotin the summerit’snice tohave both optionsandthe Olson parksplash padisreally pretty sad.

Outdatedparks.People usingdrugsin the park.Notmany goodplaygrounds.Picnictablesfallingapart.

Noaccessible playgrounds

We needafootballfield.

Neednewchairsatwaterworks,Footballfieldatemricson needsimproved

Needmore shade atEmricson Parkpool.

The reccenteristoosmall.The dogparkishorrible -- noshade orbenchesanditshouldbe free

Needmore markedwalkingtrailsthatare wellmaintained

Nosplash pad

Notenough sessionsofferedatRecCenter.Notenough pickleballcourtsoutside andatreccenter.Needshade atDickTracy park.WoodstockWaterworksgetstoocrowdeditneedsto be expanded.

Nowe needmore fishingsostops

There isnotenough open bathroom.The bathroomsthatare available are very gross.They needtobe cleanedmore often.

Needmore outdooractivities

Publicbathroomsneveravailable;locked;ordestroyed,ornottaken care ofandlefttocrumble

Lackofvariety in playgroundequipment

Needsskatepark

Notenough fishingareas

I have adogandwouldlove forafencedin areatoletthemoffleash.I see touse the soccergelbutotherswhohaven’tpickedupaftertheirdogshave ruinedit.

Lackofenclosedparks

Footballissolowon the city’spriority list.Itisthe greatleadershipprogramforboys.Wdskssupportcomparedtoothercommunitiesisterribly

Properly locatedskate park

Stuffisfallingapart(although thatisgettingbetter) andtoolittle istruly open tothe public.

Wish they were betterkept

Run down,notequippedwell,bathrooms

Agingfacilities.Noindoorfacility thatwasbuilt/designedforrecreation.

Ericson parkneedsimprovement

PARKS AREOUTDATED

We really needareally awesome playground.With lotsofplayingopportunities.Itwouldbe awesome ifthey wouldofferhomeschoolingclassesthrough the programsaswell!

A lotofbroken concrete andoutdatedequipment.Basketballhoops,waterfountainsetc

Oldequipmentthat’sfallingapart

Accessasdescribedabove

Notenough options,dirty

You seemtobe gettingridofthe monkey barsandthatisneededforchilddevelopment

LackofRestroomsandequipmentvariety

Difficulttonavigate in wheelchairs

DogParks.Basketball,Tennis/Pickle BallCourts.Skate Park.

Needmore todoatthe parks

Stopputtingsandin parks!I wanttogotoaparknotabeach !!!

They are keptuptocode forsafety reasons.They needtobe redone andmaintained

Allofthe parksare old,outdated,broken,gross.

There isnotenough nature wise.Emricson basically consistsofone walk/bike trail.Tennisisavailable ifyou can getacourt.Baseball fieldsare obviously only usedforscheduledgames. Notmuch todo

Notenoughroom,tomany restiction foraccess,notenough parking,lightingisinadequate,notenough pakringon the north side oftown

Needsan improveddiscgolfarea

There isnotmuch variety andwhatlittle programsofferedare very expensive

Notenough shade orwindbreakformany in my area.

They are notwellmaintainedandare usually dirty

I have toleave town formountain bikingtrailsorto findaplace with more than acouple milesoftrails.

They are run down,noseating,nobathrooms,dirty,littered,andnothingforyoungchildren.

They lackquality equipmentcomparedtoneighboringmunicipalities.We more often use CrystalLake orHuntley parks.More todo/betteringofferingsforyouth.

Needmore yearroundwalkingopportunitiesandmore activitiesforseniors( which I hope willbe addressedby the newplayground)

They are outdatedanddirty

They have limitedthingstodoforadultswithoutchildren.

The parksare dirty,notuptopar,don’thave fun playgroundequipment

Notaccessible foreveryone andsome are justsorun down ordirty thatwe goelsewhere.

Alongwith addingaplace forfishing,aplace forfirearmsenthusiastswouldalsobe awelcome addition.Someplace where residentscan practice theirmarksmanship.

We can’tuse themwhen the playgroundsare fallingapartandare ofadangertothe kids.We alsocan’tuse the basketballcourtsbcthey have neededtobe redone foryearsnow& we’re awfully neglected.

Extremely outdatedathleticfacilities

Tomy knowledge there isnotasprawlingareatype park

Compare ourparks,which are oldandfallingaparttosurroundingtowns.We are sofarbehindthemwith theirsplash padsandsoftturf,thatitisn'teven funny.

Parksneedmore restroomsandwateravailable.Wouldlove tosee more multiuse facilitiesandasplash padopen tothe public

I enjoy takingmy grandchildren tothe parks,butoften the playgroundequipmentisbroken.

The condition ofthe pathsin Merriman fieldsisbad

There needstobe more shade,more publicrestrooms,andbenches,bike racks.

Emerickson isnice,butotherthan thatthere isn'tany parkwith adequate,shadedreasonably lengthedtrails.Itwouldbe nice ifthere were more parkslike RydersWoods,butwith longer hikingtrails.

I dolike towalkthe parksduringlunch

More restroomandcyclingopportunities.

The parksthatare close tome are convenientandeasy toaccess.The othersI'mnotsure where they are andifthey're bigenough tomake my time worth goingthere

Didn'tknowallofthese parksexisted

Maybe more artorfolkmusicin the parkswouldbe nice

Itdependson the time ofyearandwhatisbeingoffered.

Ourcommunity needsmore smartrecyclingreceptaclesanduse ofsolarlightingAndbicycle lanesandplacestoparkbicycles(bike racks)

Path atEmricson isgreat;needplenty more outdoorpickleballcourts

Groundsatthe parkswe gotoare maintainedwell.Ifwe knewmore aboutWoodstockparkswe mightuse themmore.Alsoifitwassafe tobicycle,thatwouldbe more incentive tobike toparksasadestination.We are currently drivingtoBrookfeldforhiking.We may checkoutHennen.

Woodstocksparkshave the basicsbutneedtobe more appealingtogetmore use andattractmore visitors

Some parksdon'tofferasmuch asothers,alsothe slidesdifferfromeach Park,my kidsdon'tlike allofthem.Ourfavorite isBanfordsince it'sclose tohome butI wouldlike tosee it update itscondition

Needmore restrooms,betterandmore walkingpaths

Seemtolacksome modern andmore varieduses.Skateboarding,RC Car/plane/boat,etc.

Lookingforplaygroundsandshade trees

We needmore bathroomfacilities

Walkingtrailsyes,pickleballno

Only some ofthe parkshasrestrooms.

I wouldlike afewmore parksthathave more interestingplaygroundequipmentandrestrooms.Parkswhere we couldstay atallmorningwith friends

Parkslooknice overallbutthe city lacksrestroomfacilities.Orthose facilitiesare often fullin the busy baseballseason.When severalgameshappen atourparksourtoiletswillgetfull quicker.

Nowhere totake dogstorun

Mediocre upkeepofsafety andcleanlinessofequupmentandlackofshade ortrees/vegetation keepusfromutilizingthe parksmore.

Parkequipmentseemstobe improvingwith newinstallations,nice offeringofrecactivitiesforchildren,notenough sheltersandtreesatthe smallerparks.

I wantspacesI can walk.I like ve nearEmricson.I’mgladI can walkitbutthere couldbe somuch more offeredtopeople with such anice large space

Needsanotherdiscgolfcourse.

Needmore info

Pickle ballwillawelcome addition.Outdoorclassesin the summeratEmricson wouldbe anice addition.

There couldbe more walkingpaths

Wouldlike betterrestrooms,andmore winteractivity

Stillbecomingfamiliarwith them

The parkingandbathroomsare toolimitedwhen an eventishappening

don'tlike the private events

ImprovedrestroomfacilitiesatEmricson

I’mnotsure whatthe offeringsare

I wouldlike some ofthe areastohave more non-pavedwalkingtrails(I.e.crushedgravel).More bike pathsthroughoutthe city connectingareaswouldbe nice aswell.

Some are very obscure

Emricson okay towalkbutcouldbe nicer

Because they allowdogs.

Can’tplay with my olderkidsatsweetwaterparkifI have the baby with us.

Perfectexample isthe pickleballnetsthey putin atOlson park.GReatidea,we appreciatedit,howeverthey were damagedalmostrightaway andnotmaintained.Tenniscourts,lights out,massive cracks,fencesovergrown with vines.We use mostofthe parks,howeverthe upkeepandvision seemstonotbe there.

Coulduse adogpark

Itwouldbe nice tohave variety- the frisbee goodisagoodaddition

We needmore hikingtrails,bike trailsthatgosomewhere,wouldlove another9 holesoffrisbee golf

Mostofthe time

Itwouldbe nice ifthe McConnellparkgotsome attention andwasupdatedforthe kidsin the areaandsetpicnictablesaroundthe walkingpath forfamiliestoutilize duringthe warm months.

They suitmy kidsneedsnicely.I love skateboardingandhave been doingitforclose to25 yearsnowanditwouldbe nice tohave agoodskateparkcloserthan lake Geneva.

Lackofswings.Notenough fishingareas.Scaredofhomelesspeople atRyderwoods.

I dofeellike some ofthe parkscoulduse some more shade andsome are notin the bestcondition

Needaparkwith arubberground/ orsplash pad.

Bathroomsare limitedandextremely overusedanddirty.Notenough ofthem

Excitedforupdates,otherparkscoulduse some

I like toplay tennisandnowthe courtsare gone atthe parkclosesttome

Some parksneedtheirequipmentupdatedandmaintainedbetter(woodchips/sand) shouldbe refreshedyearly forthe safety ofthe kids.

Only emericson hasaccessible parts

Trailsthrough nature preserves,farmersmarket,andcommunity sportsare great.Playgroundishitormissformy children due tosize oraccessibility andcrowding.haventhadthe pleasure toexperience many eventsorany outdoorclassesyet.Didn'treally knowaboutthem.

Wish there were more walkingpaths

Needmore bathrooms

The parksare nice butnotallare maintainedin the same way

I’dlove more walkingareas.I wish Emricson wascloser,forexample.

Sizesare wonderful,cleanlinessislacking

Parkingisthe worstatBatesandEmericson Parkwhen it'sbusy

ijustwish there wasmore than JUST playgrounds.thinkaboutthe kidsthatare deemedtoooldforplaygrounds.we needsomethingnewandexcitingforthose kids.somethinglike a skateparkforskateboardsandBMX’ers

the parksare great,it'sthe people playingloudmusicoverBluetooth speakersthatisthe problem

Notsure ifI have enough information aboutwhatisofferedandwhere toviewit.Wouldlove toknowaboutwalkingtrails.

Itprovidesoutdoorspace thatwe allneed.I dowish the parkswere updatedwith more offeringsaswe frequentLITHandCLparksoften asthey have biggerparksandsplash pad options.I primarily visitplaygroundswith my children..

Sometimes.I amirritatedthatOlsen issopoorly maintainedandI getFIRST fix itgotwasn'tforkids,butforolderadults- pickleball,really? Take care ofthe kids,they are the future... Give themsafety,engagingplay structures,andadecentinvestment,please.The little baseballdiamondgetsused,the parkandthe playgroundtoo- WAAAAYMOREthan the tennis courtswere.I feelthatwasapoordecision tobegin thatBEFOREsendingoutthistype ofsurvey forresidentswhoactually live nearby anduse the parkregularly.

Notafan ofsandatparks.Wouldlove those rubbermattype groundsyou see in neighboringtowns

Kidslove them,they are nice forawalk,butyou can'trely on themforawaterstopwhen running

I wish there were more treestoprovide naturalshade

Dependingon the activity.Itwouldbe nice tohave avolleyballnetatOlson Park.

The eventson the square are family friendly howeverthere shouldbe more seatingofferedandplaygroundequipmentforchildren.Parkingisalsohardto findduringevents.

I feelwhatwe have isgreatbutcoulduse some goodmaintenance and fine tuningtothe parksandprogramswe already have

Focuson maintainingcurrentparkequipmentandcourts.

Dependsofthe amenities

We NEEDA DOGPARK

There are many parkswhich offerwalkingandhikingopportunitieswhich isimportantforphysicalandmentalhealth asyou age in place.Please continue todevelopandmaintain these pathsforthe olderpopulation.With pickleballbeingthe mostplayedsportby adults,ourparksshouldprovide pickleballcourts,too.

Wouldbe happy ifcity wouldaddswingsettoPrairie Dr.

Emricson parkneedshelpwith facilitiesespecially the footballfacilities

Maintenance impactsuse andavailability

The parksI use forwalkingonly.I amsure ifmore eventswere available,I wouldgomore often.

we needaskatepark

Mostly,butBMXSkate Parkwouldmake itPerfect

I feelthatifthere wasaextreme sportsparkwouldbe complete

While there isalarge variety,on dayswhere the weatherisn'tperfectitisunlikely thatsomeone wouldwanttowalkallthe way toryderswoodsforexample,fromthe square.

Some facilitiesare greatforthis,othersneedrepair

We love the parkin the square when there isentertainment

Some parkslike ridersWoods,the path are notwell-maintainedandI don’tfeelsafe there

I wouldlike more accessible parksandaplace fordogstoplay wouldbe appreciated.

AttimesI donotfeelsafe aspeople donotalwayshave theirdogson asecure leash.

Like walkingpath

I wouldlike tosee more native flowersandplants

I don’tknowwhatallwe have,butothertownshave some coolthingslike skate parks

They are good,butwoodstockneedsagoodskatepark

IfI feelthe needtogoforawalkandsurroundmyselfwith nature,the parksdoan adequate job.I really wish there were away toexpandhikingtrails.

They dobutitwouldbe nice ifsomehowbike pathsare walkingpathswouldconnecttootherareasfromthe parks

Parkswith walkingpathsare my #1 pick

Woodstock'snaturalareasare agreatasset.The dogwaste bagsandtrash receptaclesare helpful.Hopefully allthe playgroundsthathave recently been dismantledwillbe rebuiltand the previousmaterialsrecycled.

Reason statedabove.When my kidswere youngerI couldtake themtoany playground,nowwe are very specific

Lackofrestrooms

Seemtohave enough playgroundsandgoodthatemericson isbeingreplaced.Notmuch open fieldstoplay.

Prairie ridge parksoftballfieldisovergrown andnottaken care of.

LackofbathroomsAndsplash pads

Havingsocialanxiety makesithardtoparticipate in mostprograms.

Facilitiesare nice forwalkingmy dogsin Emricson butlackofawareness/courtesy fromothersaboutgivingspace ischallenging.The wakingpath issometimesborderedby treesorareas thatfloodthatmakesithardtoallowformore space when passingotherpeople in the park.

Parksare clean/well-maintained;wish they were accessible by foot/bike

I like torun andwalkatEmricson duringthe wintermonthsandwish the pathswere completely cleared.

I dislike the weedsanddeadtreesplantedatMcConnellRdpark.ShouldaddparkingnearMcConnellRdandGreenviewandmake sports fieldsthere.Walkingpath atMcConnellRd needstobe taken care ofbetter.McConnellrdparkequipmentneedstobe cleaned.

There’snotalwaysabathroomandthe equipmentispoor

Some parksofferway more

Wish there were more walkingpaths

The walkingtrails/bike pathsin the parksare nice.Donotcare forthe sprayingoflawn chemicalsandthe fertilizerssince itisunsafe formy dogandme tobe there,plusdamagingtothe native plants.

Needmore designatedbicycle pathsleadingto/ fromthe parks,alongwith bicycle parking( e.g.racks,bicycle garages)

With the size ofEmricson,actualrestroomswouldbe nice.

Gratefulforparks,butthere isn’tmuch availability forolderkidsandadultstoplay.

Mostofthe parksneedupdatingamdcleaning

I love the RecCenter,butwish there were more walkingpathsin nature.

I enjoy the nature paths- RyderWoodshassome pathsblockedby fallen trees.Emricson hasanice walkingpath.

They’re ok,butwe often drive tootherparksforbetterplayingequipmentandtoavoidthe sand flooring.

Require updatingandimprovementsoroverallsafety

The playgroundsin Woodstockare mostly poorcondition

I love the walkingpath atEmricson Oark,butin the winter,the pathsaren’tcleared.

Meetseverythingbutspecialneedsequipment

I wouldprefermore nature orientedparkswith hikingopportunities

We love swingsandwe hate havingtoleave the parkjustbecause my daughterhastouse the bathroom...there isnowhere togobuttoleave the park.When there isaportable bathroom,itisdirty andunsafe.

some ofthemare abitdirty andunconvinient

I believe we shouldhave ago-karttracktorace on because why not

SometimesI wannagotothe parkon ahotday

Hevevsb

They shouldaddsandvolleyballcourts

When I gotoparksI’mwith kidsI babysitbutI don’tfeelI can letthembe themselveswithoutclose monitoring

I don’tknow.

MORELIGHTINGIS NEEDEDFORAFTERDARK

When I justfeellike goingoutwith my little sister

Sometimes,because I rarely evergotoWoodstockparks

Getridofportapottiesmake forevertoilets

Some parkshave goodequipmentandfun thingstodobutalotofotheroneshave old fieldsandequipmentthatisn’tfun

the kidsatparks(olderkids) sometimesbully the little kids sometimes Notenough courts

dependswhere atandwhatithas

I don’treally gothatoften butwhen I dogothey alwayshave whatI wannado

Nice touse

Some limitingfactors

nosometimesthey’re really dirty

There are thingsthere butnotthingsthatcan alwaysbe fun

Yeah itvery nice

They don’taddanythingnewit’sbeen the same forthe pastyears

nowhere toride dirtbikes

We needmore activities

ifeellike the parkdistrictneedmore fieldsforsoccerandorvolleyballcourts

I feelasEmricson ParkhastenniscourtsandWoodstockwaterworks,the tenniscourtsare greatbutI feelasthere couldbe more asItdoesgetpacked.I alsofeellike thatWoodstock waterworkscouldbe expanded,ithasbeen the same eversince I have been here.

Some are run down

Theirisn’tenough bathroomsandnotenough shade

Alwayslocked

I don’tuse the parksallthe time,howeverwhen I douse them,they sometimesaren’tnecessarily in goodenough condition touse

Sometimesthey can getalittle shady

There are some partsofthe parksthatI enjoy tobe atandothersnotsomuch.

A lotofthe facilitiesare notmaintainedtothe same levelofotherfacilitiesin othertownsI have visited.

When walkingmy dogthey become ofuse andsuitmy needs.Lackofbathroomsatsome ofthese placesaffectsit

I wouldlike tobe able toaccessareasby bike butit’sunsafe soI’mnotable to

My concern isthe vagrantpopulation in the parks.There have been many timeswe feltunsafe.amy

toosmall

Some ofthe parksare in some sketchy areasandmakesme worriedtohave my kidsplay even supervised!

My daughterandI run throughoutthe town,sometimesrunningthrough severalparks.We often run outofspace torun,andenduprunningthrough the streets.

Maintainingthem

Olson hasagoodplayground,butthe restofthe parklacksin my opinion.More sittingareasforparents/elderly wouldbe nice,an updatedwaterfeature wouldbe amazing,andsome sortofshade(more trees/pavillion/sunsail)

Although my daughterisgettingtoooldforplaygroundswe sometimesgowith familiesthathave youngerkids.Havingagoodplaygroundwhere kidsofmultiple agesare interestedis important.

YesI love the parksandtrailsthatare available.Wouldbe nice ifportable orpermanentrestroomswere available.Alsotrailexpansion

I wouldlike toenjoy anice cookoutwith adultbeveragesatatleastafewofthe largerparks

WellI drive by sunny side parkallthe time buthave neverstoppedbecause ofparking.Andsome ofthe parksjustneedalittle tlcwith some ofthe equipment(banford,emricson,etc)

Needtosave the oaksatEmerson Park

Generally wouldlove tosee anotherarea/parkwith pavedrunning/bikingpathsandpublicrestroomsin goodcondition

Ryder'sWoodsneedshelp

Lately,there'sbeen way toomuch clearingofallofthe naturalfoliage andI findthatalthough necessary toapointit'sgettingtooextreme andbeingmade tolooklike acity parkrather than the naturalplace thatitis

Notallparksare goodfortoddlers

Seasonally andmy kidsare gettingoldersoourneedsare chu

Parking,bathroomaccess,shade,walkingorcyclingaccessare notalwaysavailable lastly petfriendly.

needdogpark

Sometimesthere’saneedformore andcleanerbathroomsandwaterfountains

Lackofrestroomsplaygroundequipmentisliterally fallingapartordamaged.Which causesovercrowdsin certain betterequippedparks.

1.AtOlson Park,there are stadiumlight fixturestoilluminate the fieldsatnight,butthey don'tappeartowork.2.None ofthe parksofferice skating/hockey in the wintermonths,orif they dothen I wasnotable tolocate thatinformation online orin any publishedmaterial.3.I'mnotsure where rollerskating/rollerhockey wouldbe permitted.

I really needsome newtee padsforthe Emricson discgolfcourse!

Some ofthe parkscoulduse an update

I utilize Emrickson parkvery frequently.Howeveritwouldbe more often iffamily bathroomswere available.

Walking/ Runningpathsneedtobe wellmaintainedandsafe.

There are some greatparksbutwouldlove more accessibility by bikes(bike pathson roadwaysandthrough parks)

Dependson the parkifit’suptodate andclean ornot

Lackingadogoffleash area

I feellike the playgroundsatemricson couldbe improvedupon

Specifically the playgroundsare older,missingparts,have beesnestingthere,andlackshade sothey’re notvery welcomingorsafe forkids.I’dlove tohave accesstomore walkingpath andbike paths.

Mostplaygroundequipmentseemsoutofdate andvery small

They needmore walkingpaths

Some parksare neglected,orputon the bottomofarepairlistthattakesyearstorise upforhelp.Othersgetmore attention ifthey house asportsvenue (DreamFieldatEmricson) that fee everyplay on..andifyou are female...you neverplay there butyourtaxeshave tohelpmaintain it? Oldgrowth treesshouldbe savedwhen possible.Andaccessforall,everywhere.

Love tennis,butEmricson’swere in needofrepairs.

Wish there wasmore pathsin nature areas.Orsome currentonesneedtobe attendedtomore frequently.

The reasonsI checkedpreviously.Bathrooms,softballfieldusage,safety

Itdependson whatI wanttodo.Sometimesitisthe condition ofthe park(broken/dirty equipment).

We usually gotoEmricson,the parksare alittle outdatedbutourkidsenjoy it.I wish there were more benchesassometimesthey are allbeingused.

I like walkingpathsandcan only findthatatEmricson withoutworryingaboutticks

I feellike forthe tax dollarswe pay,there couldbe betterfacilities.The square andfarmersmarketare huge forourfamily,butWoodstocklacksparksthatare more accessible,better footingtowalkon atparksandexcitementthatotherparkshave in say CrystalLake,McHenry andHuntley andothersurroundingtowns

Notyou.It'sme.

Itwouldbe amazingtohave an epicpark,one thatissetapart.Allofourparksfeelsimilar.

Basketballcourts(atOlson park) needtobe renovated,I rememberwhen 50-100 wouldline uptoplay pickupgames.We needsome sortofoutdoor(domed) court,preventweather affectingit

Some ofthe parksneedan update andbe taken care of

There are safety concernswith some parks

Needbathroomsandshade atallparks

More seatingforadultswouldbe nice towatch the kidsplay

Needrestroomoption atmore ofthem

More bathroomsandpathstowalk

We visitmany parksin Woodstock.Butwe alsogotosurroundingtownstoenjoy theirsaswell.Splash pads…nature walks…nicerequipmentetc

Needforpermanentoutdooreventspace like abandshell.

Wouldlike more disability gearedparks.

mostly - see above.Also,more walking/bikingtrailswouldbe nice

Again Mary Ann isn’tage appropriate!

Dogneedstorun

There are optionsbutthey aren'tgreat

More pickle ballcourtsneeded

Yes,butthe inoperable lightsatthe emricson tenniscourtsstopyou fromenjoyingyourselfatsundown.

Wouldlike tosee askatingrinkatEmericson Parkandasplash padforresidence w/nofee andw/outhavingtogotothe WoodstockWaterWerks.

We're stilllearningaboutthe parks.We live the county conservation areas,andhope the city willfocuson naturalareas

Notallparkshave tenniscourtsorhave itemsthatare broken/norestroomsforchildren whoneedit.There isnowalkable parksnearBullValley FoldclubareaandnoOthatoget aroundandwalk.

Some are showingwear.Some donothave restrooms.

Batesdoesn’tfeelsafe ,Merryman isbeautifulbutmissinglightsandaconcession.We spendsomuch time there forsports.I’ve been tosmallerandlessmaintainedparksforsportsand they allhave concessionsandrestrooms.It’sthisbeautifulbaseballfacility with zeroaccommodationsforbathroom( portapotty gross) andnoconcession

Dependswhatwe are outdoing

Nobathroomsandnotenough areaforsportslike basketballhoops

Restroomsandsnackstandisneededatthe Thunderfootballarea!

Readabove answerin 9.

Ifamenitiesare notalready in fulluse

Gatheringswhen areaisavailable

Yes,there are lotsofparkoptionsbutnotalotofvariety

See previouscomments.The parkon Dean Street–Sunnyside–isclosesttousbutitisnotin agreatspotwith the busy roadanditisALWAYS empty,givingitnotgreatoptics.

They couldbe updated

Emricson parkdefinitely needsimprovedbathroomfacilities.Itisabarriertobringingkidsthere anddifficultwhen we are there forsportingevents.Also,emricson parkseemstohave fallen intodisrepair.Itcouldreally be abeautifuldrawtopeople comingtoourtown iflandscapingandplaygroundswere betterkeptup.

Some ofthe children parksdonothave any restroomfacilities.Batesparkplaygroundhasbroken equipment.

Mostofthe parksare difficulttonavigate with smallchildren.

When my childwasyoungwe usedthe parksquite often butnowI tendtohike atthe conservation districtparksinstead.

I'man avidbiker[mountain biker]butalsoride on the roadsquite often.Wouldlove some mountain bike/single tracktrails.I'malsoasoccerguy,playedandcoachedformainy yearsin Woodstock.There'san overalllackofquality fieldsin Woodstockforyouth soccer.The fieldsatNorthwoodare average atbest,andtypically in poorcondition.I knowthe City isn't involvedwith these fields,butwouldbe anice have betterfieldstoplay on.

Needsmore seatsandtrash cansavailable

Seemsonly parkin the square andemricson accommodate needs.

They are ok.Butdefinitely needupdatingandupgrades

Nedan overallupgrade.

I love howmany parkswe have.I wish there wasmore native landscaping, flowers,etc

I play tennisandthere are very fewcourtsavailable

why dowe squeeze EVERYlarge eventin the square when we have alarge parklike emricson tohouse largerthings

RecCentershouldbe expanded

Some can use maintenance upgradessuch asstructuresin Parkin the Square

It'snice tobe outside.

The parksare allfairly convenienttoaccessforus,we neverhave totraveltoomuch togettoone.ButI thinkOlson andEmricson are the only oneswith bathroomsandtrash bins.

Wide array ofparks;wouldlike more naturalareasandnaturalelementsincorporatedintoneighborhoodparks

Olson parkreally needsupgradestoequipmentandsafety

The areasfortoddlersatplaygroundsare incredibly small,which leadsthemtowanttogotothe biggerkidsareamore,where itmay notbe assafe.

SometimesI feelsafe andothertimesI don’t

We findthataplaygroundsomewhere nearthe square wouldgreatly increase ourquality oflife andability togetoutside more often with the kids.DickTracy andOlson are justslightly toofarfromsquare.

Dirty;needsupkeep

Needsmore diferentssportscourts

I feelthatthere couldbe more pathsforwalking

Newerplaygroundsforkidsandmore bathroomfacilitieswouldbe nice

Waterparkisgreat,otherparksare lame.

My kidsplay baseballandfootball- we are lackingin concessions,shelters,bathroomsatthe parksthatthose activitiesare playedat

Lackoflighting

Pickleball!LOL

My kidsare happy atthe parks,therefore I amhappy.Some ofthe parkscoulduse some maintenance butoverallenjoyable.Wish there wasafree splash pad.

Everythingisoutdated

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sfacilitiesandprogramming adequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot? 827

Yes (Pleasetellus why) No (Pleasetellus why)

Sometimes (Pleaseexplain whyorwhere)

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sfacilitiesandprogramming adequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot? 827

12-DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sfacilitiesandprogrammingadequatelysuit yourneeds?Whyorwhynot?-SelectedChoice

Yes(Please tell uswhy)

No(Please tell uswhy)

Sometimes(Please explainwhyorwhere)

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sfacilitiesandprogramming adequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot? 827

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sfacilitiesand programmingadequatelysuityou...

Yes(Please tell uswhy)

No(Please tell uswhy)

Sometimes(Please explainwhyorwhere)

My answerabove willbe pretty similarhere

Personally,I only lookforone thingwhen goingtoparks;greatwalkingtrails.

There isarange ofoptions,although I amnotalwayssure where to findinformation ofevents

Wide availability ofthingstodo,lotsoflocalcommunity activities

Location

ok

Swimming,walkingavailable

lotsofopportunites

There are many programsavailable,anditisnice tohave somany optionstochoose from.

They have alottoofferthe public

Sportsdogparkthe recdepartmenthasmany programs.

Walkingtrails,biking,catwalking

I really like the concertson the square

Nice area,upkeepisvery good.Dogfriendly.

I’mhappy with the variety.

somany thingsgoon atthe square

Enjoy eventson the square,butdonotwantthe parkin the square remodeled.

WoodstocksprogrammingandindoorRecfacilitiesare very nice.

Facilitiesneedupdating

Wide variety ofprogramsandopportunitiesbetween parks,reccenter,waterworksandWoodstock'sallowance ofoutside groupstoprogramopen space like parkin the square.

Nice walkingpath

Though I cannotalwaysattend,especially since I amnotaresident,I have enjoyedthe eventsI’ve been to

Farmermarket

I like towalkandhike - there are opportunitiesforthat.Butmore publicrestroomsare needed

Lotsofoptionsforallages,sometimesatinconvenienttimes

Square.My forevermemoriesofWoodstockreside there.

Classesandagesare adequate,wish pricingwascheaper

Have whatI need

I enjoy the outdoorsandalsoparticipate in attendingvariousculturalevents,concerts,markets

The square shoppingandrelaxing&walking

There fine

there are many activitiesandevents

I believe there are plenty ofopportunitiestouse the facilitiesandprogrammingavailable.People justneedtoseekthemoutanduse them.

There are many options

I mostly exercise athome

I don’ttake advantage ofallthe offerings,Woodstockhas,butI feelthey have avariety forme tochoose fromifI wish.

I wouldlike tosee more thingsofferedforseniors.Like organizedtrips.

Mostofthe tine

Plenty ofgreatopportunitiesforkids

I enjoy watchingsportingeventsandfacilitiesare clean

There isawide variety tosatisfy my needs.AtthispointI use themforwalkingandbeingoutdoorsin asafe place.

Adequate.Needtoattractabetterfitnesscenterlike the Yin CrystalLake.

They seemtohave agooddeal.ofvariety.

Ourcommunity offersavariety ofprograms

I love the naturalareas,placestotake my grandchildren.

Ourfamily hasusedmany ofthe resourcesoverthe years

Theirare alotofthemthatI neveruse

Many parkstochose from

Don’tuse much formalprogramsanymore

I'mafraidI don'tusually participate in programs.

I appreciate allthe porta-pottiesaddedatEmricson.Alsoappreciate thatEmricson pathwaysnowhave snowremoval.We attendmosteventson the Square.

We enjoy the walkingpath atEmricson andthe playgroundsforourgrandchildren.

Greatwalkingandlove the playgroundsforthe grandchildren.

Enjoy the opportunity foroutdoorexercise.Especially appreciate the City plowingthe walkingpathsatEmricson duringthe wintermonths.

Use the parktowalkmy dogs,andsometimesplay sportswith them.I have ahome gymforallmy fitnessneeds.

Communication viamailisgood.

It’sapark.

Love the pool

Yes,mosteverythingisavailable

Especially love summerbandconcertsin parkon the square.

yes,I have accesstojustabouteverythingI couldwant.Justwanttosee more love fordiscgolf

There iseverythingavailable thatI needorwanttodo

I attendgreatclassesatareasonable price.

dontlike the reccenter alwaysagreatplace

Thankyou foraddingPickle ballcourts!

I enjoy the eventsatthe Square,butamnotinterestedin otherorganizedrecreationalopportunities.

goodcondtion

Yes

I’mnotsure

They are good

yesbecause they are goodatkeepingup

Everythingseemsfine

they are fun

comesin nice when ineedit

I’malwaysplayingwith friendsandon the baseball fields

Goodsports

Because it’sclose by andeasy toaccess

there fun

Yes,I like the tracksbecause I can run andgetcardioin

YesbcI have fun with my friendsq

Yes

They are very fun

Idk

There isagoodvariety ofprogramming

Greatprogramsforkids,lotstopickfrom!

Many differentofferings

Justmyselfusually

They do

See above

Yada

Variety ofsportsandfieldstoparticipate in with schoolcooperation ofgymnasiums

Wellmaintainedclean andlarge variety ofparks

Some ofthe stuffI see promotedon facebookisreally interestingtome/cool.

Forthe mostpart,there are parksthatserve many differentneeds/usesyearround

There isalotofvariety

I justwalksothey’re okforme

Reccenterandwaterparkare great!

There are amultitude ofprogramsandopportunities

We have enjoyedthe toddlerclassesoffered

Variety ofoptionsavailable

Parkandpicnicareasare great

They offermany sportsbutI wouldlike more daysforsportsprogramsforkids

The locale

There aren’tmany otherthingsI wouldlike todo/see thatthey don’talready offer

YesbutI rarely use the programming.Free time again mostly

Lotsoffieldsandplacestogo

Ifihadthe time

Generally yes- ifI wanttorun orgoon alongerhike though,I'mmore likely touse McHenry County Conservation Districtproperties(especially Kishwaukee andPleasantValley).By theirnature,those are justbigger.

Woodstockalwayshassomethingfun goingon

I have notusedthe Recformuch.We dolove the pool.

I feellike there’salwayssomethingtodooraplace togo

The reccenterisgreat,wide variety ofequipmentandlotsofclasses

I like allthe activitieson the square,plusEmericson Parkforthe July 4th fireworks.The bestaround.

I'masimple person withoutany specificunique requirements.

Yes,we try todolotsofeventsduringthe yearwithin woodstock

See answerto11 wide variety

There isanice variety.Noteveryone enjoysnature walks,andthe Square andotherplaygroundareasare perfectforthat.Emricson andotherparksoffernaturalsurroundingsandquite.

Forthe mostpartthey are allnice tovisitandclose by

Overallthe city hasdone agreatjobofkeepingthe walkingpathsatEmricson clearduringthe winter.Very importantforregularwalkers.

N/A

Seemstoappealtowide variety ofpeople

I justgoforhikes—simple

There’ssomethingforeveryone.

There isaton ofprogrammingto fiteverythingI wouldwanttodo

There are some programsforafterwork.I wouldlike more butI understand

I dofeelthe city offersanice variety ofprograms.

I often walkatEmricson.Grandkidsenjoy severalparks. tooexpensive

We have todrive farforamore toddlerfriendly parkANDasplash pad.

Needmore adultswimlapexercise time

Notmuch infoseemstobe available.

I prefertouse aswimmingpoolformy activities.The swimmingpoolatthe reccenteristiny andthe staffisnotvery friendly

Neednewreccenterfacility with appropriate size indoorlapswimpool

A lotofthe facilitesneedtobe updatedaroundtown.

Although I’maseniorI stillwork.Mostprogrammingisscheduledduringthe workingday

Nothey don’tofferprogramsforkidswhoare autisticunlesstheirage 6 everythingthatmy son wantstodohe hasttobe six orseven andthey don’tofferthe supportforhimtobe there. He can’teven join the parkprogrambecause they saidthatthey have nosupportforchildren with autismthat’ssad

More senioractivities.Socialevents.

They needupdates,more activities,andbathrooms.

Notaccessible

There isnotenough activitiesofferedformy age groupandthe smallerparksare notincludedin differentprograms.

Mostly family oriented.Nothingcasualforthe community outdoorsoutside ofthe square.

programsseemtoalwaysbe the same andare notofinterest

The recreation centerI try touse.Butthe lockerroomsare outdated) soisthe facility.I wouldlove tosee anewerfeelingfacility.Notone thatisdilapidatedandlookingby like itsduct tapedtogether

Wish RecCenterhadalargerpool.

Reccenterisoutdatedandnotenough parking.I quitthere because ofoldbuilding,weirdsmells,crowdedtreadmillroom.

NoregularaccesstorNoregularaccesstorestroomsestrooms

815-451-9350

Needmore forsenios

Needmore activitiesforpeople with disabilities

Many wouldappreciate greatly ofaskatepark

There'snoskate park.

The indoorpoolatthe reccenterispitiful

Coulduse more exercise classtimes.

Poorcondition,notmany optionsascomparedtoneighboringcommunities

RecCenterisgreatforpickleballandotherinside sportsbutthe weightsandexercise equipmentleave alottobe desired

We traveloutside ofWoodstockforextracircularactivitiesandmany otherfamiliesdoaswell,forinstance forgymnastics.

Notenough thingstodo.I’drathergotoCrystalLake

Loose Dogs

Needabike park

We needanice indoorpoolforyearrounduse.The outdoorpoolshouldhave betterhoursandbe open longerwhile we have nice weather.

Apple CreekParkneedsupdatedequipmentandabasketballcourtforthe growingcommunity residentialneighborhoodin which itresides

we needaextreamsportspark

Nothere needstobe an extreme sportspark.They are even in the Olympicsnow!

Notreally.I have neverseen any programsthatare specificforspecialneedchildren.Andthere are alotofspecialneedchildren thatwouldlove tobe involvedin alotofthingsbut they can’tbecause they needotheraccommodation than otherkids.They have tolookforprogramsoutside ofWoodstockinstead.

There justaren'tchoicesformy kids.

Changingfacilities,adaptive equipment

Portapartiessuckneedtouse differentcompany

We needabetterindoorreccenterwith afulllappool!

Don’tofferthingsI enjoy

Notspecialneedsfriendly.

Same asabove

Old,the recreation bldgissimply unappealing

Askidsgetolderit'sharderto findprogramsin the community forthem.

Fundingforparks

Needmore eveningandweekendtimesforworkingfamilies

Reccenterisdilapidatedandnotequippedtomeetneedsofgrowingcommunity.

I justwalkby.

forthe property taxeswe pay activitiesfeesshouldbe less.Administrative costsshouldbe cutandmore goingbacktothe residentsandI don'tmean givingme thingsaway free to those thatalready geteverythingforfree.Inflation hashitworkingfamiliesthe mostthatmake toomuch toqualify forfee reductions

More adultoptions.Pickleball,volleyball,tennis,soccer,etc.

The fitnesscenterisoldandneedstobe updated. classesforaquasize notenough ofthem

Reccenterisgettingpretty run down andexpensive forwhatitis.Notmuch forolderkidsandadultstodo.

Ifyou are talkingaboutthe reccenter,I wouldNEVERuse itasitisthe most filthy place I have everseen.Asaperson with acompromisedimmune system,thatisnotaplace forme to goto.

more pickelballcourts

I wouldlike tosee improvementsatthe RecCenter.Everythingiscompletedwith little fundinganditshows.Which isaggervatingbecause itisthe ONLYfacilitiesI PAYmoney tobe there.Betterequipment,betteramenities,betterstaff...Allrequire money andallare lacking.

Pickleballcourtsandbathrooms

Many summerprogramsdonotseemtoattractparticipants

They needmore weekendorafternoon programming variety

See above

A soccerfield

Nonotenough permanentbathrooms

Nobecause I don’tparticipate the fields,bathrooms,sportcourtsare awful

Toomany portapotties,notenough permanentbathrooms.

Notafamily interest

notenough

Hi

I needvolleyballcourtsplease

Nobecause in my opinion kidsneedmore free space like abeach volleyballcourtorsoccer fields

We needmore permanentbathrooms,the porty potty’ssuckssomuch.

Make more waterslides������

Notenough

Reccenterisinadequate

timing

Notallage groupsare involvedin whatisbestforthem

lackoffamily activities

We take advantage ofthe early childhoodprogramsthrough the parkdistrictbutalsoexplore McHenry andHuntley reccentersformore variety.

Schedule

Wouldlike betteraccess

Programmedeventsare notathingI involve myselfwith.

Needmore variety oftimesforevents

Parkbathrooms ��

I amnotwillingtopay non resfeesb/cI live outoftown

No,notthrrighttimesforthe classesI wouldtake

Limitedprograms

Poolandworkoutcenterisoverpricedandold.

We needan indoorpoolthatislongerthan 50 ft.The reccenterpoolistooahortforlapswimmingandtoowarm.Whtarentwe accesaingcooperarively with poolsatboth highschools

We needan indoorpoolthatisadequate size foradultstoswimlapsin winter

ToEsofclassesnotconvenient

The recistoexpensive,mostthe parksare run down.

WoodstockThunderhasacheerprogramthatpaysoutofpocketforpractice space.We are the main feedertothe high schoolscheersquadsandnothingisofferedtooursquads see above more programsforolderfolks

Notenough activitiesforoldercitizens.Domore toinformpublicaboutactivitiesavailable.

Needmore sessionsofclassesespecially on the weekendwhen workingparentscan gettheirchildren tothese classes.

More fishing

The reccenteristerrible with programsforyoungerkids.Alltheirclassisduringworkinghoursandtheirsportsdon’tstarttilllike 1stgrade.We take ourkidstoHuntley alotmore kid friendly.

the recreation buildingistoosmallandin needifupdates.we needmore activities

Needan functionalindoorpoolforthe size kdourcommunity

Missingaskatepark

Notsure ifthisisthe correctsection butwhy notaskate park? The skate community isawonderfulcommunity.My son,whograduatedfromNorth andnowgoestoschoolin Colorado skatedallthe time.We hadtodrive tolake GenevaorMcHenry etcforhimtoskate.The WarCorpshasbeen tryingtoopen askate facility foryearsapparently why hasnothing happened.There isvery little in the way offacilitiesforkidswhodon’tplay sports.I have twobaseballplayersalso.We hadaskate parkI wastoldanditclosed.Sothat’sif? One shot andnomore? Thisjustdoesn’tmake sense.We needtoprogressin these areasifwe wanttobringfamiliestoourcommunity.

NeedsSkatepark

The hoursforprogramsthatI wouldlike toparticipate in donotcoincide with residentswhoare workingfulltime.

Donthave the financialmeansforthe kidsnorthe transportation sportsandactivitiesevents

Fishingareas

Limitedoptionsfortoddlerandchildactivitiesoutside ofworkday hours.

Improvementsare neededin playgroundequipmentandgrounds

We’re toobusy (notparksissue)

There’sisnooptionsforthe non normalfamilies.There are lotsofhomeschoolingfamilieshere.Andwe pay exactly the same taxesasothers!

Shouldapply togeneralpublicandvisitorsmore then recmembers

Couldoffermore free events

More ForAllfamily andagesofall

More todoforfamilies

Needmore live music

Nothingtodowith the kids

It’snotappealingandfacilitiesare lacking

Recbuildingislessthan ideal.Detersme fromtryingprogramsthere.

Timing,cost,lackofinterestin subjectmatter

Notenough eveningtimesforworkingfamilies

There issomuch more thatcouldbe offeredatafraction ofthe price

More areaswith flowersandnaturalbeauty toexplore

Nothingofinterestoffered

Needmore programmingforseniorsandbeginners

It'shardto findthe resourceseasily

Notsure whatisavailable?

A biggerrecreation centerisneededwith apool,basketballcourtandcommunity room(s) toincrease the offeringofprogramsandevents.

Extreme oldandragged

Needmore bathroomsandlessgravelwith bees

Everythingisduringthe day andI workduringthe day

DoyoufeelthatWoodstock’sfacilitiesandprogramming adequatelysuityourneeds? Whyorwhynot?:Sometimes(Pleaseexplainwhyorwhere)

There are some eventsthatare goodforme atmy age andmy grandchildren.I enjoy Emerickson parkswalkingpathsandI take my grandchildren tothe parksmentionedasoften asI can.More neches,shade andpublicrestroomsare needed.

Nice offeringofprogramsandactivities.Improvedpickleballandtenniscourtswouldbe nice.

More placestowalkwouldbe nice

More eventsneeded. Bathroomsneedimprovement

Lackofbicycle racksand/orbicycle garagesattrain station,Square,WPL,parksLet’spromote health ratherthan airpollution

We appreciate allthe wonderfuleventson the Square even ifwe personally are unable totake advantage ofthem.I've recently joinedthe RecCenter,primarily forthe dry sauna (HIGHLYIMPORTANT!!!),buthave alsobeen enjoyingthe classesandfriendly community there.

Reccenterisoutdated.Some classesare greatothersnot.

See 11

Thingsthatare heldin the square are toocrowded,noparking

Na

Needmore kidsactivitiesafterschoolhours

I don'tparticipate in the programs

Dependson which parkI attend.Restrooms,lights,safety

I'dlike tosee more opportunitiesforyoungchildren attimeswhen workingparentscan participate.More programsoutside ofsportsforchildren and/oryoungchildren.More parkingat Rec.Centerandnearthe square.

I like whatisofferedby the recdepartmentbutthere isnotenough parkingatthe reccenter.The facilitiesare aging.

I thinkthere couldbe more activities,classesandeventsatEmricson.Andthe permanentbathroomsshouldbe improvedandreopened.

Snowandice are motremovedorsaltedin winter.Safety isaconcern

Restrooms

Poolhoursin summershouldopen earlier

Reccenterprogramscost.Noseniorrate.Some seniorsdon'thave alotofmoney butwouldlike touse the facility.

The parkingandbathroomsare toolimitedwhen an eventishappening

Reccenteris25 yearsoutdated,let'smake acommunity reccentertobe proudof.

I’mnotsure whatthe offeringsare

Itseemstohave activitiesforeach age group.

Notsure whatprograms

Needtobuildupthe parksnearsubdivisionswhere people are able towalktothe park.The gravelpathway on McConnellneedstobe sealcoated

Programsanddiversity ofofferingsare great,butthe parks/facilitiesare outdatedanddon'tcompare tootherlocalcommunities.

Nopoolindoor

REccentersize andcapabilitiesno,the frontstaffandworkerslike Becky V.absolutely!!!THey are creative with the differentprogramsandeventsthey come upwith.Hopefully the new leadershipwillpromote herandothersideasmore.

The picnicshelterscouldbe bettermaintainedandimproved

Poolcoulduse laterhoursandalongerseason

Attimesparkactivitiesare gearedtofamily’swith youngkids- itwouldbe nice toinclude allage groups

Wish the poolhadbetterhoursin the summer(morningswimmingwith kids)

Yes,exceptwhen the High Schoolbringsin acrosscountry meetformultiple daysandbringsin toiletsbutlocksthem.Butwhen they are uptheirforothermeetsthey overuse the bathroomsthatare providedby the city/parks.Parkshouldnotbe shutdown andclosedformultiple daysatatime asin 2023

Haven’tuseditenough topraise orcomplain

Mostofthe time.I wouldlove towalktomore parksbutthey are notwithin walkingdistance.

Wouldlike more programsforseniorsorbustripsorclasses

The portaJohn'sare sometimesnotupkeptvery well

Accessibility andfacilitiescan alwaysbe improved.

the farmer'smarketmusicisusually terrible,justsome oldguy butcheringBeatlescovers.occasionally there issomethingnice like an instrumentalfolkgroup,butit'stoooften justaman with aguitarsingingannoyingly

Also,notsure anddonotknowwhere toaccessinformation

We have gone tothe reccenterpool,butitcoulduse an update.

I amunincorporatedsosometimesI can notregistersince there isadelay forme toregister.Also,I amafulltime workingmom,sotimingissometimeshard.

Again,where isthe residentialinputin these projectsanddecisions

I wouldlike more family orientedactivities

I like the numberofactivitiesavailable in the spring/summer.I wouldlike more winteractivities.

I feelwhatwe have isgreatbutcoulduse some goodmaintenance and fine tuningtothe parksandprogramswe already have

I believe they wouldbenefitfromaBMXparklike the one atSearlsin Rockford.

Dependsofthe day

Dogpark

Needbiggerrecreationalareastosuitgrowingcommunity

Don'talwaysknowifthere'san eventgoingon.

Notenough adultexercise programs.

Financially prohibitingforsome seniorcitizens

I like the golfprogramofoffered.I wentthrough 2 rounds,once wmy wife andthen wmy dad.I wouldlike tosee indoorswimforinfantsaswe have a3 month oldathome andwould like toacclimate hertothe wateroverthe summer.

There are thingsI’dlike todobutI don’tknowwhatfacilitiesare available tome

Summerprogramsare great

Offermore yearroundindoorsportsi.e basketball

NocomplaintsI guess

Wouldlove askate/bmx parkformy daughter

couldbe more fully accessible

I live thatthere are multiple parksin many neighborhoodsbutaccessible parksare importantforparentsandchildren thatneedsuch accommodations

Allfacilitiesshouldbe accessible forallpersons.

I amnotoften aware thatan eventI wouldenjoy isgoingtotake place untilitalready has

RecCenterneedsupdating

Sometimes

Forthe mostpartyes,butthere isagenerallackofsuppliesandprogrammingthat fitmy schedule.

I don'tuse the programsdue to financesandschedulingbutthatisdue tomy terrible workschedule andnotthe city ofWoodstock

Love the programmingoffered,the reccenterislacking,very oldandnotwelllayedout

Even asmallstepupin activitiesorfestsisneeded

RecCenterisagedandneedssome work.Wouldlove indoorpoollargerthan whatiscurrently available.

Notasmuch foryoungerkids

My schedule

Havingsocialanxiety makesithardtoparticipate in mostprograms.

Don'ttake in alotofprogrammingcurrently.Hopingtospendmore time in the square thissummer.Absolutely LOVEthe farmer'smarket!

It’sfine.

I gotothe parkin the square often andhave saiditneedsparkingnearby,restroomsandmore picnictables.I don’tknowwhatyou mean aboutprogramming.

We are an adulthousehold,nokids.Some more adultprogrammingwouldbe nice.

Forwalkingandattendingevents

Wouldlike tosee recycle waste receptaclesin ourparks

There are already severalparksin the area,keepingthemmaintained,makingmore crosswalkson Route 47

Timesofprogramsare notalwaysconvenient

They are definitely aimedatfamilies,perhapsalittle toomuch.

Itsuitedfine when there were children in the house.Notsomuch anymore.

A fewholesoverthe years,butoverallok

Bathroomfacilitiesare notalwaysavailable.

The programsare okatbest,the programinstructorsattimesdonotseemtounderstandhowtomanage aprogram.The facilitiesare dilapidatedandshouldhave neverbeen purchased.

The Reccenterneedsanewfacility

Imnotvery aware ofwhat'sgoingon.Programming,classesetc,usually dont fitmy wants/needs.

I enjoy the reccenterbutitsfarbelowothersihave visited

I really wish there where more facilitiesforyoungerchildren 5-12yearolds.I feelthatWoodstocklacksenrichmentactivitiesthataren'tnecessarily playingon ateamofsome sport.

same asnumber11

I believe parksshouldjustbe revampedifneededforthe little kids

They helpme andotherpeople

They shouldaddaplace forvolleyballcourts

NOT A LOT OF TIMECHOICES sometimes needbetterbathrooms

idk

Enough parks

They are okay

Notmuch todo

they can be covinientbutthey couldalsobe uselesstome andmy family.We wouldlike more options.

Some facilitiesare oldanddangerous

More activities

Itsutesmostmy needs

some are maintainedbetterthen others

I wouldlove tosee avariety ofdifferentsportingofferingsandupkeeplike on basketballcourts,volleyballcourts,andaddingpickleballcourts!

Notmany optionsforworkingmoms

I don’tuse the parksallthe time,howeverwhen I douse them,they sometimesaren’tnecessarily in goodenough condition touse

Again some partsare adequate othersare not

Needmore soccerfields

My daughterisavolleyballplayer.The reccenterdoesnotofferopen gymtimesforteenagerplayerstoworkon theirskills.I willsay thatthe programsforyoungerkidsare great.Adult open gymforvolleyball.Nothingforteenagers.

Variety,butexpensive through the parkdistrict.

Timingforactivitiesdoesn'talwaysalign.Butthe programsare appreciated.

Neverknowwhen something’shappening

I prefertouse facilitiesin my own notwith aorganziedgroup

I wish there were more timeframesavailable.

dependson costandtime

Beingunincorporated-feesare more expensive yetI pay taxes

Formy 10 yearoldson,yes.Foraparentnotasmuch

More woodstrailswouldsuitme well.

Asahouseholdwe are indifferent.

I don'tuse parksthatmuch

Goodofferingsbutsurroundingtownsoffermore when itcomestoparksspecifically.

Needsconcession standsandmore acitivites

We're able toenjoy thingsasafamily butsometimesourneedswith the superyoungaren'tmeteasily

TohearthatWoodstockwillfinally be gettingasplash padisexciting,we have been drivingtoneighboringtownstotake advantage oftheirsforyears.Howeverto findoutthatit’sgoing tobe inside WoodstockWaterWorksisdisappointing.Neighboringtownshave theirslocatedin conjunction with aparkandthere isnofee touse it.Mostfamiliesthatgotothese have youngkidswhomostlikely wouldn’tgetmuch outofawaterparkandjustneedan areatosplash aroundforabitandcooloffon ahotday.

Grandchildren mightcause ustouse the parksmore.

Some placesneedbetterrestroomsandsittingoptions

The recisnotwelcomingandit’soldanddingy.I alsofeelitisoverpricedforthe facility.Programminghasbeen justoktome

Limitedclassesforseniors

Again,I thinkthe clearingofthe parksisbeingoverdone forinstance athennen I have been walkingthere foroveradozen yearsandtosee whatthey're doingtothe parkisvery very tragicanddisheartening

The summermonthsare betterbutthey shouldbe yearround

A lotofofferedactivitiesare duringthe day when I work.I teach andhave greater flexibility overthe summer.

Forsportsbaseballiscoveredbutfootballisnotsupported.

1.AtOlson Park,there are stadiumlight fixturestoilluminate the fieldsatnight,butthey don'tappeartowork.2.None ofthe parksofferice skating/hockey in the wintermonths,orif they dothen I wasnotable tolocate thatinformation online orin any publishedmaterial.3.I'mnotsure where rollerskating/rollerhockey wouldbe permitted.

The reccentercouldbe expandedupon andimprovedtobe more like the northwestern facilities

Adequate formy needsaswellasothers.Wouldnotexpectallevents/programmingtobe cateredtoone specificgroupofpeople!Like the diversity ofthem.

City parkhasthe pavedtrail

We needthe reccentertoupdate andexpand

We like tostay close tohome sowe gotothe parksaroundus.They are alittle olderandcoulduse updating.Wouldlove togotomore eventsbutnotsure where tolearn aboutthem.

I feelthere couldbe more optionsforoutdooractivities

I haven’treally investigated

I feelI needtargetedinfo

Wouldlove more artclasses!

Some Programs

More petfriendly options

More activitiesatlowornocostin eveningsforadults

Wouldlove tosee more activitiesforkidswith specialneeds.Andmore affordability options

We wish we knewmore aboutthe differentparksandwhateventsare goingon.

More neededfortweensandteens

I wish the RecCentertaughtexercise classesspecifically forseniors,such asSioverSneakers.

I wish there were more landexercise classesduringthe time middle schoolisin session too.Alsojustmore activitiesforfamilies,adultsetc.allvarieties.There isnotaparkin walkable distance fromourhouse due tounsafe road/notpavedpathsandnotanearby park.

Needmore eventsthatutilize the open spaces

Depends

Answertoquestion 9

I’msure there are thingsthatcouldapply toourfamily butwe haven’tparticipatedin anythingyet!

Scheduledtimesdon'tfitmy schedule

Sportingevents

The timingofclassesI wouldlike totake are duringmy workhours.

Square relatedeventsare ahuge factorforme

It'sfine.Notgreat,notterrible.

I wouldlove tosee anice indoorwalkingtrackandexpandedgymsothatitwaseasiertocome play basketballorhave generalopen gymtime.The gymoften seemsbusy in the afternoon/eveningswhen kidsare outofschoolandadultsoffofwork.Alsoan expandedweights/stretchingarea.

I wish there wasan indoorpoolforlapsthatwaslargerthan the currentindoorpool.

I love the RecCenter,butknowitcouldjustbe somuch more with updatedequipment,space andservices

Reccenterequipmentisold,buildingsmells

Asaretiredspecialeducation teacherforDistrict200 for30 yearsI'manxioustosee progresson the inclusive playgroundplannedforEmricson park.The specialeducation/ physically challengedstudentsare underservedasfarasaccessible facilitiesin town.

I feelwe needan updatedreccenterlike othersurroundingtowns.

Only parksin the square andemricson.

Emricson hastoomany eventsthatclo6the park.

Hitormiss

Needmore tenniscourts

I wish more youth sportsprogramswere organizedthrough the recdepartment.Some ofouryouth sportsprogramsare horrible.

Lotsofgreatprogramsforsports,butwe coulduse abetterindoorpoolandbetteroptionsforadultswhowanttoswimin the outdoorpool.I'dalsolike tosee more programmingin the parksthatisn'tsports-focused.

recenterisicky Operahouse isunfriendly

Itdependson whatI'mdoing.

I wish they were more affordable

Some eventsnotofferedduringtime my schedule allows

Dependson whatitis

Lasttime I wasatthe pool,itdidn’tappearclean andfresh asapoolareashould.

Notenough activitiesforfamilieswith parentswhowork.Toomany activitiesare duringthe day duringthe workweek.

Nocomments

Newerplaygroundsforkidsandmore bathroomfacilitieswouldbe nice

Needmore thingsforyoungertoddlersandkidsbesidessports.Ages1-5

The portable toiletsare notcleanedregularly.

The parkinglotatthe reccenterissosmall&the place isalwayspacked,I feellike I’llgetsick!!I finditoddthatwhen you walkintothe reccenter,there isn’taseperate lobby area, everyone isworkingoutrightthere &can be dangerous.

Wouldlove touse the recpoolhoweveritisonly available on weekends

Wish there wasafree splash padlike in McHenry andCrystalLake.

Supposethatanextra $1Millionwasmadeavailable,andyouwereabletodeterminehow itwasspent.How wouldyoudistributethatbudgetamong the possiblechoiceslistedbelow? (Selectyourtop2priorities) 916

Increasemaintenanceandqualityof existingrecreational opportunities

Development of new recreationalopportunities

Supposethatanextra $1Millionwasmadeavailable,andyouwereabletodeterminehow itwasspent.How wouldyoudistributethatbudgetamong the possiblechoiceslistedbelow? (Selectyourtop2priorities) 916

13-Supposethatanextra$1Millionwasmadeavailable,andyouwereable todeterminehowitwasspent.Howwouldyoudistributethatbudgetamong thepossiblechoiceslistedbelow?(Selectyourtop2priorities)-Selected Choice

Increase maintenance andqualityofexistingrecreational opportunities

Developmentofnewrecreational opportunities

Expandprogramming

Other

cheaperrates

A splash padin the sonatas!

You have an extraone million dollarssoadjustthe budgetandputittowardswhatthe people can see with theirown eyes.

Fix the parkingon toEmricson hill(safety concerns)

Intentionally cultivate native plantpreserves

Dogvaccinatedfencedpark

Adult-friendly programming.

Make certain lessonslike swimminglessonswhich are pivotaltosafety cheaperandmore available.Addingasoccerprogramwouldbe greataswell.

Pickle ballcourts

Needmore time toponderthisquestion

I wouldratherthatexistingfacilitiesandoptionsbe made the bestthey can be.I wouldsupportaddingin bike lanesand'share the road' education fordrivers.

NotforprofitCommunity gardens

We already have enough facilitesavailable they justneedupdating.

Plantmore trees

Opsticle coursesforyoungercrowdwith supervision.Buildingkid'sconfidence andlove forthe outdoors.Fun thingstodo.Keeptheirinterestinvolved.With socialgatheringsforkid'sto learn andparticipate.

Return totaxpayers

RepairGouldSt.

Plantmore treesandbuildshelters

Make abeautifulflowergarden forpeople toroamanditwouldbe magical!Kindalike the the gardensthey have in Europe thateveryone can enjoy.There are many people wholove gardeningandflowersandwouldbe happy tovolunteer.

Hostevents&culturalhappenings.Buy benches,picnictables.Setupcommunity boardsin allparkstohelpconnectpeople.

handicapridesfromparkingtoevents

looktobuy private landthatmighthelppreventmore developmentandmake itintoapark- butifnotfundingtoaddamenities,atleastthe landwon'tbe turnedintohousing

Addbathrooms

I wholeheartedly agree with MAINTAININGandnotlettingthingsfallintodisrepair.Emricson Parkisacrown jewelandshouldbe celebratedandlovingly maintained.

Outdoormusicstage otherthan the bandstand

Fix the roads!

Walking/bike trails

Create afencedin dogparksomewhere closertothe downtown area

Offleash dogparkwith trees

Wellplannedoffleash dogpark

Upgrade andfix existingparks

In addition toaproperly sizedindoorpool,the entire reccenterneedsrefurbishing.Itisway toosmallandclaustrophobic. Make allparksaccessible.

insteadofjustaddingaparkinglot,expandthe reccenter.Orlookforfundingpartnersorgrantsandbuildapropersizedreccenterclosertotown soyou coulddraweithertournaments oreventsandhave itbenefitthe departmentandcity business.

More trashcans

Skate/Bike Park

I dofeellike there isan abundance ofhardscape in the downtown square park.I wouldnotaddany otherhardscape tothatpark.

Restroomoptions(especially on the square)

Skate parkforthe kids

Indoorfacility thatwouldsupportyouth soccerandbaseballprograms.Currentprogramsneedtorentfacilitiesoutside ofWoodstock.

Running/bikingtrails

We needadogparkin Emricson Park

Supportypuractualsmallbusinesses,andstopwastingmoney on dumbshitlike anewlogo.

Homelesssheltersothey don'thave tosleepin the parkandmake me feelunsafe orunwelcome

Increase recreationalopportunitesatthe City parknoton the square.

I understandthatthisisnotmrelatedtothe parksystemdirectly;butI reallthinkthatallpossible $$ shouldbe usedtomaintain the parkswe have andmake sure they are allfunctional, safe,andclean,freshly paintedetc…while usingevery possible $$ torepairthe city’scrumblingroadsadstreets(includingredesigningthe square park).I can’tbelieve the neglectevident in the city’sinfrastructure in town andperipherally.Ittookalotofneglecttogettothispoint,nowit’stime tospendmoney on fixingthese seminalmeansoftravelandbringthemto where they shouldbe- before any majorlayoutson simply aestheticprojects

Safe pedestrian traveltoandfromparksforsurroundingneighbors.Clay Stalwayshascrashesandpeople going50-60 mph through the stretch afterthe 4-way stopofClay andE GreenwoodALLTHEWAYtoNSeminary.Ifdriverswanttogofast,they needtobe deterredfromthe neighborhoodsandutilize Seminary.Itisnotsafe andevery person I knowwho hasconsideredmovinghere mentionsmy roadbeingdangerous,andthe parknothavingenough speedbumpsandspeedreducingtools

Dogpark

Fix ourroads!!

Have aplace forpeople togatherwith live bandsthatare notin my neighborhoodthatare soloudyou have toleave yourown house forhours.

Buy greenwaystoconnectparks

Buildnewbike pathsacrossthe city.Forexample the Mchenry conservation districtmaintainedthe path on us14

nature &ecologicalpreservesfornature andwalkingonly

Wouldlove tosee an affordable drivingrange in town again withouthavingaclubmembershiporhavingtodrive tothe otherendoftown tohitabucketofballs.We alsolostourmini golfcourse..Also,update RecCenteraspreviously mentioned.

More bike andwalkingpaths

Biking skateparkor/andapumptrack

BMXSkate park

Buildan extremsportspark.

Please fix roadsin communities

Donotspenditon redoingthe Square!

Sensory accommodations,changingfacilities

Please please fix roadsandsidewalksfirst

Permanentwashrooms

Buildaskatepark

Increase supportforthe recreation centerfacilities.

Update the Woodstockrecreation

Fix roadsandsidewalksshouldbe apriority

Putitin tomaintainingwhatwe have andpossibly addtothe conservation areas.Don'tdumpitintothingstomake itlookrich because thatalwaysdecaysandthen we willnolongerbe clean,safe,andwelcoming.We have incredible parksandincredible people whomaintain these parksevery day.Plantsome trees!

Roads

Expandwalkingpathsandbike paths

More trees!

more trails

Bike pathsforfamilies,noton busy streets,andforthose usingbicyclesfortransportation.

Maintain whatyou have anddon’texpandorbuildanythingmore.The city isin debt.Pay the debtthen spendwhatevermoney you want.

Update playgrounds

Include more equipmentandreduce barrierstoaccessmore parks

Wouldlike tosee acraftsprogram.Couldbe pottery making(kiln),woodworking.etc.

Getagrantforabike/pedestrian masterplan andbuildasmuch asyou can

Create indoorplay placesorminigolf

Use Die Castlandtocreate regionalcommunity centerwith 50 meterpool.See PleasantPrairie RecPlex formodel.

Reduce programmingfeesforthose thatneedtopay forthingsandputin publicbathrooms,getridofthe portapotties

Buildfoot/bike paths;interconnectallareasofcity andparks

Buildsidewalkstoconnectdifferentareastoparkstomake themmore walkable

The parksare fine.You don’tneedtobe spending$1 million more.Fix the roadsinstead.

Putmore equipment

Fix the roadsin ourneighborhood

Create an open parkon the ondDie Castingsite,which couldprovide the space forspecialeventsandthe baroverflowseemingly desiredforSquare Parkuse,ratherthan closingoff streetsorusingthe Square Park..I see thatasan incredibly wrongplace forhousing,especially seniors.

Planttrees

newindoorwashrooms

Containersateach entrance toSquare Parkandateach pavilion andparkinglotatallotherparks.Solarlightingin addition tothe safety /security lightspoweredby electricity

create native speciesgardens,anduse only organicherbicide application;preferably nospray policy

Buy more land/foresttowalkthrough

Connectthe existingparksandfacilitiestomake iteasiertoaccessallofthem.

Make allparksandplaygroundscompletely ADA accessible.

Fix Reccenterpoolandhottub.These are noteasily accesible forhandicappedpeople.

Iffromtaxes,no.Stopraisingourtaxes.

Newreccenterbuilding

Accessible programmingandequipmentdisabilities

An allagesspecialneedsplayground

Buildagokartingtrack(ovalorroadcourse) with SAFERbarriersandbankingifit’san oval

Addachick-fa-fill

Made trailformotorveichlesdirtbike atv andmuch more

More eventsopportunitiesforcity levelsocialgathering

Make toilets

Addmore basketballcourts

BATHROOMS

Baseballfields

Create atrackforDirtBikesandFourwheelers

Eventslike musicfestivals

dirtbike/atv trails

Golfcourse

Provide some type ofoutdoormusicvenue

More park/ more waterslides

More soccerfields

Patchingpotholeson roads

Sodthe parkon the square with the same grassasSoldierField.

Utilize the fairgroundsformore events.Improve the grounds.Clean upthe city asawhole.Remove sketchy personsfromthe parkin the square.

Scholarships/vouchersforhigh schoolstudentsforMCC.

acquire andprotectnewparks

More nature trails

Notmake majorchanges!Continue toaddnownature trailsandkeepthe history ofourgreatcity!

BathroomsandconcessionsatEmrickson

Taxation istheft.Letvolunteersworkthe parks

Addthingssuch asbasketballcourtstoplaygrounds.I knowWoodstockisaddingtennis/pickleballbutwhataboutanothersport?

Cyclingtrailswouldbe nice

Use emricson parkformore

Fix city roadsandsidewalks

Splash padarea

A new,more robustRecCenter.

more bike paths&lightsfortennis

Parkingandareally nice concession areaatthe city parkforallofthe activitiesoutthere allyearlong

PUBLIC ORIGINALART

Purchase anothervery very large piece oflandwith woodsandcreeksandFieldsetcetcputmilesofpathsthrough itfordogwalking

Newplaygroundequipmentandasplash pad

A petpark

Upgrade footballsupport

Fix the roadsespecially the backroadstoomany potholes

Restrooms

Connectingallfoursidesofcity with bike/walkingpathsorlanes.

Putin sidewalksorbike paths

Make more soccerfieldsthatare open tothe public.

Bike trails

Newreccenter

I wouldfillallofthe potholesin the roads

Splititup.Addmore nature perverses/ recreationalareaswith easy walkingpaths.A free gatedareafordogsandIncreasingquality ofexistingrecreationalopportunities

The reccenterneedsupdatingandexpansion

Indoorpool

Return the money tothe tax payers

Indoorswimmingpool

Adaptive toADA recommendations

Addingin some more wateramenities,anddefinitely

Basketballcourtsandfacilities

Improve playgrounds,increase police routes

More publicconcerts,andsimilarevents

I'dbe interestedin seeingsome updatestothe RecCenterbefore focusingon parksproperties.

BUILDA FOOTBALLFIELD

Dogpark

I'dlove Woodstocktogetasplash park

Expandthe bike path uproute 14

Notsure

Naturalization

allofthe above

Create usable space/venue in open landby Metrastation

Fundthe splash padratherthan waitingforpublicdonations.Create abutterfly garden.Increase the size ofWoodstockWaterworksitgetsway toocrowded.

Create dogparkandskate park

Plantmore trees

Pavedpath by country clubandaparkin the Bullvalley/country clubarea.

Buildskatepark

Buildamunicipalcentertohouse recreation departmentandCity offices

Stopwastingmoney

Towardslowincome familiessotheirchildren have opportunitiestojoin recreation programsmore often andexplore otheroptions.

Addan archery park,ice rink,indoorfacility where teenscan hangoutandplay games,listen tomusic,Djdances,competitions…they aplace togoforFREE

I think#2 and3 are similar

Update andexpandreccenter

Expandfootballandbathrooms

Buildaconcrete skateboardpark

Buildanewrecreation center- the one we have isridiculously smallforourtown andthe equipmentandfacilitiesare antiquated.

Expandprogrammingandactivities/goodplay areasforourkids!They’re only little once,andtheirchildhoodisextremely important an indoorsportscomplex.thiswouldproduce revenue forourcity,provide jobs,andkeepourfamilieswith kidsin sportsandhome ratherthan drivingtoothertowns

It’stime tobuildanewrecfacility insteadofcontinually patchingwhatwe have now.

Restrooms

Expansion ofRecCenter

Updatingreccenter

Increase naturalelementsandwaystoenjoy nature in parks

Make more naturalconservation areasforhikes

Workbetterwith the youth programs,they spendsomuch time workingaroundrestictions,butthey offerallthe programs,helpthemout,itthe mostimportantthingthe city can do!

Create agarden

Forsure have the RecreationalSpringBasketballProgrambettermanaged.Askanyone whohasparticipatedandthey’lltellyou howpoorofajobit’smanagedandcommunicatedto those whohave paidtoregistertheirkids.

Buildalake.

Fundthe splash padinsteadofrelyingon the publictodoit.

Buildbike pathstoparks

I wouldaddmore native plantstoincrease the biodiversity ofthe parks

We have plenty ofparks,we needthe oldestonestobe replacedwith somethingequally asstimulatingbutSAFE!!!!!

Lightsatbatesfield

Patrolledflush toiletsatEmricson.

FIXTHEROADS!

Foreachofthetypesoffacilitiesorplaces,pleaseindicatewhetheryouthinkthere

needs. 929

Communitycenters (places wherepartnerships of community...

Dedicatedsingle-useathleticfields

Multi-useathleticfields

Skateboardparks

Single-useoutdoorsports courts

Multi-useoutdoorsports courts Dogparks Artificialturf fields

Not enough Right amount Too many Playgrounds

Foreachofthetypesoffacilitiesorplaces,pleaseindicate

needs. 929

Foreachofthetypesoffacilitiesorplaces,pleaseindicatewhether you...

Playgrounds

Splash/spraywaterpad

Plumbedrestroomfacilities

Portable restroomfacilities

Pavedmulti-use paths

Unpavedmulti-use paths

Placesforpicnickingandsmall groupgatherings

Communitygardens

Fitnessfacilities

Environmental educationfacilities

Disc-golfcourses

Foreachofthetypesoffacilitiesorplaces,pleaseindicate

Communitycenters(placeswhere partnershipsof communityorganizationsand...

Dedicatedsingle-use athleticfields

Multi-use athleticfields

Skateboardparks

Single-use outdoorsportscourts

Multi-use outdoorsportscourts

Dogparks

Artificial turffieldsforsports

Foreachofthetypesoffacilitiesorplaces,pleaseindicatewhetheryouthinkthereistoomuch,toolittle,ortherightamountofeachtoservethecommunity's needs. 929

Foreachofthetypesoffacilitiesorplaces,please indicatewhetheryou...

Playgrounds

Splash/spraywaterpad

Plumbedrestroomfacilities

Portable restroomfacilities

Pavedmulti-use paths

Unpavedmulti-use paths

Placesforpicnickingandsmall group gatherings

Communitygardens

Fitnessfacilities

Environmental educationfacilities

Disc-golfcourses

Indoorpools

Fishing Ice skating

Communitycenters(placeswhere partnershipsofcommunityorganizations and...

Dedicatedsingle-use athleticfields

Multi-use athleticfields

Skateboardparks

Single-use outdoorsportscourts

Multi-use outdoorsportscourts

Dogparks

Artificial turffieldsforsports

15-Wheredoyoulearnabouttheprogrammingofferedforparksand recreation?-SelectedChoice

Wheredoyoulearnabouttheprogramming offeredforparksandrecreation?

Wheredoyoulearnabouttheprogramming offeredforparksandrecreation?

CityScene brochure

Local newspapers

Citywebsite

Advertising

Social media

Flyers

Other(specify)

Multiply ofthese selections

City website &localpaper&city scene

Stoppedin atRecCentertoaskquestions.City Scene brochure seemstoobusy/confusing.

Park

city scene ANDlocalnewspapers

City councilrelationships

I don’tknow

FaceBook

Wordofmouth

Very hardto findcurren updates.Only getthe one magazine perseason

Allofthe above

Don'tsee

Sign atpark

Allofthe above

Friends

Publiclibrary

Allofthe above shouldbe achoice

Friends&family

Atthe park

Sign putupatapple creekpark

City recreation flyer

Wife toldme aboutit

Newspaper,city council,wordofmouth,justgoingaroundtown seeingnewthings

Sign on the street

WoodstockIndependent

severalofthe above butcan only selectone

I don’t,I’mnotlookingforopportunities- I’munmarried,nokids,andworkoffschedule which makescommunity involvementchallenging

ifI getitin the mail

IndependentANDCity Scene

Why isthislimitedtoone answer? I use City Scene,socialmediaandlocalnewspapers.

allofthe above plusconversationswith friends

Why isntthismultiple options? City brochure &socialmedia

School

Livingin Woodstock

Teacher

findingthemorfamily/friendstellingme

idon’t

Wordofmouth

Mr.Sullivan

Justmovedhere,needaresource

Many ofthe above:socialmedia,newspapers,city brochure,etc.

Runningacrossthem

Multiple places,socialmedia,brochures

Wordofmouth facebook

Don'teverreally concern myselfwith that Facebookgroups

RecCenteradvertisementsandsome socialmedia

City scene andFB

Socialmediaequalwith city scene

Allofthe above

I donotproactively seekthisout.Wouldbe greattoreceive flyersoremails.That’slikely “on me”tomake happen.

Justby going

Be nice ifI couldclickmore than one option.

AstheCityworkstoprioritizeparkinvestmentsforequityacrosstheparksystem,whatdoyouthinkshouldbethethree(3)mostimportantprioritiesinthenear term(thenext5-10years)? 925

Events andprogrammingthat respondto community-specificneeds. Support forbasicmaintenanceandrepairs equallyacross allparks.

Improvements forsafeaccess to allparks. Ensuringallhomes within Woodstockarewithin aten-minutewalk of apark.

Buildnew structures andfacilities to meet specificcommunity needs.

Expandthenumberand/orsizeof theparks andtrails systemto providemorerecreationalopportunities.

Expandthenumberand/orsizeof parks andopen spaces to protect habitat andbenefit theenvironment. Enhancethemaintenanceof recreation facilities.

Developnew recreation facilities.

Other(writein response)

AstheCityworkstoprioritizeparkinvestmentsforequityacrosstheparksystem,whatdoyouthinkshouldbethethree(3)mostimportantprioritiesinthenear term(thenext5-10years)? 925

16-AstheCityworkstoprioritizeparkinvestmentsforequityacrossthepark system,whatdoyouthinkshouldbethethree(3)mostimportantprioritiesinthe nearterm(thenext5-10years)?-SelectedChoice

Eventsandprogrammingthatrespondtocommunity-specificneeds.

Supportforbasicmaintenance andrepairsequallyacrossall parks.

Improvementsforsafe accesstoall parks.

Ensuringall homeswithinWoodstockare withinaten-minute walkofa park.

Buildnewstructuresandfacilitiestomeetspecificcommunityneeds.

Expandthe numberand/orsize ofthe parksandtrailssystemtoprovide more recreational opportunities.

Expandthe numberand/orsize ofparksandopenspacestoprotect habitatandbenefitthe environment.

Enhance the maintenance ofrecreationfacilities.

Developnewrecreationfacilities.

Other(write inresponse)

Expandtrails

A splash padin the sonatas!The kidswouldalluse itandlove itsomuch.The sonatasisFILLEDwith kids.

Fix parkingon topofhillatEmricson park- dangerousespecially with large trucksandkidsrunningbetween baseball fields

Maintenance supportshouldbe proportionaltosize/usage.Also,'safe access' shouldinclude saferbicycle routestoaccessparksandfacilities.

Make facilitiesmore accessible forallabilities

improve bikingtrailsandsidewalks

FrontparkinglotatWoodstockReccenterneedsmajorfloodcontrol

Don'tremodelthe square

Seniorfocusedactivities

Disability friendly in the parkstructures

WellplannedOffLeash dogparkareas.

Large indoorswimmingpool

Maintenance andcare ofparksandbuildingon currentresources.

CentralPark,NYallowsoffleash dogsfrom7amto9am.Itwouldbe greatifourparkscoulddothe same

Accesstopavedtrailswithoutrequiringadrive

Develope bikingpathsthroughouttown

Stopbuildinglennarhomes.

More bike &walkingpaths

Improve the city parkwith more community specificneeds.Move the discgolfouton Davisroadwhere people are notwalkingin the same location.MostIMPORTANT LEAVETHE SQUAREAS IS FORTHEHISTORYANDWHYWOODSTOCKIS WOODSTOCK.REPAIRWHAT NEEDS TO BEFIXEDWITHTHOSEFUNDS YOURGETTINGBUT KEEPITS HISTORY SAFE!!!!YOUSAVEDTHECOURT HOUSEWHYWOULDYOUCHANGEMAINSTREET ORTHESQUARES BANDSTAND,STATUE,ORSPRINGHOUSE.THIS SHOULDNEVERBE JUST A CITYCOUNCILDECISIONIT SHOULDBELEFT ALONEORPUT TO THECITYPEOPLEFORA VOTE.WEDONT NEEDA LOCATIONONTHESQUAREFORLARGEBANDS ORANYTHINGELSEIT NEEDS TO BELEFT ALONE!!!!

25 meterindoorpool,ormake HS poolsopen tothe publicforcertain hours

Courts,I repeatedly gooutside the Woodstockareatoplay pickleballandwhen we meetforcoffee orlunch afterplayingallofthatmoney goestoothercommunitiesoutside of Woodstock

Dogpatk

Untilyou can maintain whatyou have donotdoanythingelse.

Roads

Donotredothe Square!

Bathroomingforadultswith specialneedsorADA

Addage appropriate opportuniestosmallerneighborhoodparks

Connectpeople through paved,safe bike/walkingpaths.

A bike pathstoconnectMcConnellRdtoNorthwestHighway viaLilly Pondorsome type ofpath through one ofthe existingsubdivisions

Supportforbasicmaintenance anddonothingmore untilwe’re outofdebtasacity

More inclusive parks

More bike paths

Newreccenter

Community garden plotsthatare close/ walkable forpeople in the centralresidentialarea.

Recycle bins/cansateach parkandbicycle parking

plumbedrestroomsatEmricson

DoNOT developnewrecfacility.Shouldn'thave torn down the firstone justtogive afriendadealon hisproperty.REbuildrestroomson the oldsite by oldtenniscourts.

None ifitraisestaxes

Fullsizedindoorpool!!

footballfield

Soccerfields

dirtbike track

Golfcourse

I amopposedtochangingthe WoodstockSquare.

More waterslides������

More soccerfields

Donothire Langton Group

Dogpark

Maintain the history andcharmofWoodstock,notbuildthe latestandgreatest,modern experiences.

Buildmore olderage appropriate facilitiesforolderkids!There isnothingforourtween/Teenstodo!’

Avoidnewtaxation,prioritize existingfundsandlimitexorbitantindividualsalaries

More trailsunpaved/paved

lightsfortenniscourtsandmore bike paths

Fix Ryder'sWoods

Football

Family accessible bathrooms.

Offleash dogarea

Needdecentindoorpoolfacilities,currentsituationssucks,smellsandalwaysmakesme sick

Slash pad

Reducingthe tax burden on residents

Developnative green spacesforpollinators.Birds.Plants.

Adaptive structuresagain ADA

Increase PondBudget

Accessible playground

Some conservation (with suitable recreation facilities) isdefinitely desirable.

Dogpark

Indoorpool

Skatepark

More bike trails

Betterfootballfieldexperience

Skateboardingpark

Update the reccenterand/orbuildanew,more spacious,more updatedfacility.It'dbe nice ifithadchildcare,butthat'sprobably apipe dream.When you're aworkingparentwith akid in schoolordaycare,yourkidscannottake advantage ofprogramswhen they're in the middle ofthe day andyou can'tjustgoworkoutin the middle ofthe workday.Soinstead,neither the kidsgettoknowthe parksnordothe parentsgettobenefit,either.Unfortunately,thiscommunity like othersdoesn'tconsiderthe needsofworkingfamiliesexceptwith some weekendevents.

Focuson parksbeingsafe

inclusive playgroundsforphysically challengedpeople

More youth sportsprograms

Dogpark

focuson youth programsandworkwith currentyouth programsandwhatthe city can dobettertosupportthem.

Flowers

NEWREC CENTER

Dedicatedbathrooms

We don’tneedanymore musicvenueson ornearthe square outside ofEmricson park.There doesnotneedtobe an amplathetre on clay st.Putitin Emricson andletusresidentswho pay taxes,have abreak!!!Thatareaofwoodstockhearsthe musicon the square,fromthe county fairgroundsANDFROMNIKOS!!!!!Give usabreakforonce!!!!

BATHROOMS

Splash pad

WhenyouimaginewhatWoodstock’sparksystemcouldlooklikein25years,whatarethemostimportantcommunitybenefitsyouhopebecomepartofthe visionandroadmapprovidedbythisMasterPlan? 922

Parks that promotesocialconnections

Parks that improveresidents’ health andwellness

Parks that protect environmentalhealth andnaturalresources (e.g. stormwater,airqualityandhabitat)

‘Destination’ parks andoutdoorareas that promoteeconomic development

Neighborhoodparks that meet thedailyandyear-roundneeds of nearbyresidents

Sports andrecreation opportunities that arestrategicallylocatedto meet localandregionaldemand

Moreparkandrecreation programs (e.g.fitness classes,etc.)

High-qualityandconnectedsystemof greenways andother bike/pedestrian amenities (pavedtrails)forgettingaround

Other(writein response)

WhenyouimaginewhatWoodstock’sparksystemcouldlooklikein25years,whatarethemostimportantcommunitybenefitsyouhopebecomepartofthe visionandroadmapprovidedbythisMasterPlan? 922

17-WhenyouimaginewhatWoodstock’sparksystemcouldlooklikein25years, whatarethemostimportantcommunitybenefitsyouhopebecomepartofthe visionandroadmapprovidedbythisMasterPlan?-SelectedChoice

Parksthatpromote social connections

Parksthatimprove residents’healthandwellness

Parksthatprotectenvironmental healthandnatural resources(e.g. stormwater,airqualityandhabitat)

‘Destination’parksandoutdoorareasthatpromote economicdevelopment

Neighborhoodparksthatmeetthe dailyandyear-roundneedsofnearby residents

Sportsandrecreationopportunitiesthatare strategicallylocatedtomeet local andregional demand

More parkandrecreationprograms(e.g.fitnessclasses,etc.)

High-qualityandconnectedsystemofgreenwaysandotherbike/pedestrian amenities(pavedtrails)forgettingaround

Other(write inresponse)

WhenyouimaginewhatWoodstock’sparksystemcouldlooklikein25years,whatarethe

visionandroadmapprovidedbythisMasterPlan? 922

WhenyouimaginewhatWoodstock’sparksystem couldlooklikein25years,...

Parksthatpromote social connections

Parksthatimprove residents’healthand wellness

Parksthatprotectenvironmental healthand natural resources(e.g.stormwater,airquality andhabitat)

‘Destination’parksandoutdoorareasthat promote economicdevelopment

Neighborhoodparksthatmeetthe dailyand year-roundneedsofnearbyresidents

Sportsandrecreationopportunitiesthatare strategicallylocatedtomeetlocal andregional demand

More parkandrecreationprograms(e.g.fitness classes,etc.)

High-qualityandconnectedsystemof greenwaysandotherbike/pedestrianamenities (pavedtrails)forgettingaround

Other(write inresponse)

BOTHenvironmentalhealth protection ANDbike/pedestrian connectedaccesssystem.Saferuse ofbikespromotesgoodhealth &physical fitnessANDreducesroadandparking congestion.

Parksthatallowaccessforallpeople ofallabilitiestoplay andcollect

High quality fitnessclasses.

longer,uninteruptedtrails;also- you are again askingformultiple answersbutprovidingaform fieldtype thatonly allowsforone response

extreme sportspark

Parksthatbringtogetherthe community andgive people hobbiesoran option togetoutoftheirhouse.

A newrecreation centerwith alarge indoorpoolarea!

BMXSkate Park Roads

Parksthatimprove health/wellnessforALLresidents,includingthose with disabilities.

Greenway andenvironmentalprotection.Ifwe lose ourgreen spacesWoodstockwilllose itscharmandbeauty sowe shouldmaintain it.Greenway andpatcheswouldbe amazing because Woodstockisnotawalkable city andI thinkitwouldbe anotherthingtobringpeople toWoodstocktovisitwhich wouldbringin revenue andhelpmaintain the Greenway and paths

Nice roads

Don’tspendmoney on anythingnewjust fix andmaintain existing

Community gardeningplots

Again,why only one choice? Needlessly limiting.I'dsay 1,3,5 and7.

Please leave economicdevelopmentoutofthe parksforGod'ssake!

Thisshouldbe multiple choice too.The way the questionsare formattedmakesme wanttostoptakingthe survey!Severalofthese itemsare importantyou presentitasapluralbut then only allow1 tobe selected.A fullsizedindoorpool...whicheverselection THAT fallsunder,please.

G Fitnesspark

Parksandrecareasthatsupportthe health andwellbeingofthe people,placesandnature.

Intertwiningandconnectingpath systemallowingfornature walkswith pets

Allofthe above willhave amultitude ofbenefits.

Specificthingsforourkids- skateboardpark,splash pads,shade atexistingparks

dogpark Cantpickjustone..environmet,safe accessibilty,andexpaaion ifindooropportunities

Again meetneedsofphysically challengedADA

Environmentalfriendly parks,update parkswe already have,buildamuch betterparkw/splash padandbetterbathrooms!

Forget25 yearsandfocuson upgradingandmaintainingwhatwe have andprovidingmore classesnow.

Dogpark,skate park

Wouldn’tletme pickmore than one…I thinkallofthese are attainable butwilltake planningand$.

TrailsystemthroughoutWoodstockproperANDunincorporatedWoodstocktopromote bikingwalkingrunningetc

Football

Allofthe above

Safety ofyourresidentsshouldbe firstpriority

Itwouldbe nice ifI couldpickmore than one option.

Allofthe above buthonestly,I hope I’mnothere in 25 yrsbcthisplace sucks!

betterbikingpaths

YES!Please putasplash padin the Sonatas!!The sonatasisfullofchildren andthey wouldbenefitfromitsomuch!!

Parksshouldhelpprovide corridorsforactive transit.

Expandreccentertoincrease amenitiesandimprove numbers

Doesthe reccentercountaspartofthis? Ifitdoesitneedsupgrades.

StopmowingRaintree &make itanative specieswetland/meadow!

Newindoorpoolforexercise andfree swim.Newlargerhottubandsaunawhich are currently usedfrequently atreccentersauna

Olympicsize indoorpool

You mentionedan ice skatingrinkin apreviousquestion andnowit'sallI can thinkabout!I knowit'snotarealneedforthe community,butI wouldlove arinkhere.

We needabike path suitedforfamilies!The one atEmricson parkisnotsuitedwellforkids,the one by the high schoolistooshortandboring.

Dogvaccination requiredfencedpark@Emricson

Splash pad!

Ourcommunity isway behindon havingrecycle binson the square andin ourparks.We needthese.Ourcommunity needstobe promotingpedestrian andbicycle transportation over airpollutingautomobiles,He needstobe usingournaturalresources,such assunlightforpoweringandlightingupourcommunity

Please donotmove the bandstandorgazeboin the Parkin the Square.The parkin the Square isbeautifulasis.Everyone,both residentsandvisitors,lovesthe parkin the Square.

more focuson environment,native plants,community gardens

Bikingpaths.Bathroomsforgrandchildren,clean andsafe facilities.

Bike skillsparkandpumptrack

DickTracy parkcommunity garden in collaboration with police station andlocalresidents.Notforprofitsubsistence community garden

Community golfcourse orminigolf,drivingrange ..asan example MNhaspubliccoursesandare beautiful

Itwillbe nice tohave an outdoorssplash areaforkids,specially forthe summerseason.Nocost.

YesI believe we shouldeliminate woodchipsandputthatmushy groundthatCrystalLake veteransacreshas.It’ssaferforourchildren andit’sgreatforchildren with disabilities. Woodstockdoesnotcare aboutkidsbasedoffoftheirparks.Alsowe needrestroomsandwe needmore colorfulparkscolorfulnessaddbrightnessandImagination ourkidsliveshaving these boringboringandnothelpingchilddevelopment.We needaparkthatissuitable fortoddlersallthe way upto15-year-olds.There shouldbe certain sectionsin the parkthat makesitfun foreverybody.WoodstockMakesitseemlike once you turn seven yearsoldyou’re toooldforaparkwhich meansotherkidswillthen turn tootherthings.

Plantmore trees

I dolike the ideaofadifferentlocation ofthe bandstandon the square

Improve handicappedavailability

Environmentalconservation mustbe taken intoaccountatallparks

Activitiesforyoungerkids.Promote socialfun activities.Tripstothe museum.

A sportscomplex with many fieldssothatwe don’thave totravel45 minsforpractice.

Replace GouldSt.Addandfix allthe sidewalkssopeople can goforasafe walk.

Continue todevelopandgrowthe parkssystemaccountingforandanticipatingthe effectsofclimate change andsustainability.

Succession plantingfortreesatthe parks.

yes,please make abeautifulflowersgarden thateveryone can enjoy andfeellike they are in afairytale.Itwillbe lovely andthey have themalloverEurope,sowe can totally have them here.Justgoogle,"belvedere house garden"forinspiration,they have severalpartsandafairy garden:)

BRINGBACKTHESPLASHPADAT OLSON!Create more pathstoensure accessformore people andbringin more activitiestoALLparks,bigandsmall,toprovide necessary community.

Yeah!I have amapandplan thatcouldconnectDuffield,FairGrounds,Batesparkby path.And!Lotsofopportunity for“connectors”tosubdivisionsalongthe way creatingaGreen Beltway away from47 tointerconnectWoodstock.Ideacouldextendtothe square viaRaintree Park’soldroadbed.

In my opinion,the WoodstockWaterWorkscoulduse alittle updating.

Have NISRA bringmore optionstoWoodstock,please.

Wouldlike tosee somethinglike Lippoldin Crystallake with more facilities

An Indoorgreenhouse with anature inspiredparkinside parkinside

Please dosomethingfordogparkwith wateraccess.

Notabigidea,butI thinkallofthe pointstowardensuringbetterinterconnectivity forpedestriansandbikersin both the parkssystemandelsewhere in the city isthe mostimportant thingtome.The main barriertoaccessingparksforme isthateven though severalparksare close tomy house,there are nosidewalksorsmallsidewalksalongbusy roadsasthe only way toaccessbesidesdrivingtothe park.

We needamodern uptomodern standardsparkdistrictrecreation center.Ourreccenterisdecrepit,fartoosmallandway outofdate.The poolistiny andnotatallfamily friendly,with terrible waterquality.The exercise facilitiesare crowdedandequipmenttooclose together.We quitgoingbecause it’snasty andsmall.

I have some greatpicsfrommy tripwith environmentalparkideas

Fenceddogparkclose todown town.Maybe some type ofsplash padby the fountain andclockareaacrossfromortmAns

Itwouldbe nice tohave aparkthatothersfromdifferentcommunitieswanttoutilize..therefore increasingpossible revenue forthe city.Currently we drive tocrystallake orHuntley to use there parks

NewparkatOlson,more parksin neighborhoods,trailstoconnectparks,greenway between Emricson andDonato,extension ofRoute 14 trailtothe square

I thinkafewoffleash doggie areaswouldbe great.

LookatNevada.The parksystemforneighborparksandsportsisawesome.They have many smallerparksthatofferactivitiesforallrangesofkidsandindividuals

Connectingexistingandpotentialfuture pavedtrailswith an emphasison itsrecreationaluse forbikes,runners,etc.

Bettercommunication with residents

Free dogparkswith shade andwateramenities.

Nowoodchipsandeasily accessible

DevelopanewReccenter,the size ofourislaughable.followwhatCLdidandturfinfieldstomake fieldsplayable in the springandmaybe we can getadultleaguesback.Have aleader whohasavision forthe developmentandexpansion ofservicesandprograms.Partnerwith localfeederteams,the Thunderprogramcontinuestogrowandourcomplex isprobably the poorestequippedtohandle large gatherings,definetly alostchance atrevenue.Keepupwith the timesandtrends.

A dogpark!Ifthere are any unusedbaseballfields,one couldcheaply be convertedtoadogpark,with the addition ofgatestothe dugouts,andthe addition oftrash receptacles.A small annualuserfee/registration couldbe chargedtocoverthe dogparkmaintenance.

More areasforsafe bikingon andoffroad

extreme sportspark

Expandthe frisbee golf- have community eventsin the parksheardforallages

We shoulddrive tohave featuressuch asbike trailsandhikingtrailsthatbringpeople totown.

Offleash dogaccessatallparksafewhoursaday.Indicate ifwalkingpathsare "seniorcitizen approved"because they are flat,levelorotherwise easy towalkon.Indicatingthe degree ofdifficulty some howbefore I getoutthere andhave tocallrescue togetme out.

Newreccenterwith amassive indoorpoolandwaterattractionslike waterslides,wave pool.

When itcomestothe Parkin the Square I'dlike tosee ifbasically leftalone,the quaintnessofthe parkisagreatdraw.Repairthe bandstandsothatit'smore uptodate andusable, leave the bandstandandthe civilwarstatue where they are,noneedtomove themjustforthe sake ofmovingthemalongwith the additionalcost.The Parkin the Square isbeautiful asitis,simple,timeless,peaceful.

Upkeep

A more outdoorpoolswouldaside fromthe waterparkthatalready exists

A skateparkthatcan drawpeople fromafar.A skateparklike the one in lake Genevaandthe newone in Evanston can addeconomicbenefitsaswellasasafe place forskateboarding.

Potentially providingassistance tocommunity organizationsthatare lookingtobuildcommunity centers

Mountain bike park

Trashcansatevery entrance

Zipline type equipmentatplay park.I knowmany kidsandsome adultsthatwouldenjoy skate park/bike park.

Wouldlove tosee the lotatDean St/Bloomfield/Herculesdevelopedwith adrive through forpeople topark,apavilion with picnictablesandasmallplay structure fortbe community to use forgatherings.

A handson nature centerforchildren ofallageswouldbe agreataddition.

Woodstockneedsaskate park!

Emricson Parkhassomuch potentialbutit’sfeelssoneglected.The pondshouldbe dredgedtoimprove it’squality,vendorand/orrecreationalequipmentrentalfacilitiescouldbe placedatthe oldpoolsite toinvite more guests.Youth footballshouldbe movedoutofthe parksince ittakesupsomuch space fromotheropportunitiesanditonly occupiesthe land fromJuly-October.

Skate park,parkequipmentforadultstoexercise

Create afacility foryouth baseballandsoccerprogramstopractice indoorsin FallandWinter.Currently,they rentfacilitiesat$150+an hourin Huntley andCL.Thatrevenue andbday party rentalscan helpsupportafacility locally instead

We needmore fishingandpicnicareassafe foryoungkidsandadultsalike

Wouldlove tosee RyderWoodsconvertedintoamountain bikingsystemandbiking/walkingpathsfromApple Creekthoughouttown tobe able totravelsafely

A skate park

Woodstocktodevelopaskate park.Nothingspecialatleastahalfpipe.

More conservation districtsfpr.purwildlife,andlesshuntinglicenses.Stopencroachingon ourfarmlandwhile you're atit.

A welllitskate parkforkidstoplay

SKATEPARKFORMORETHANJUST SKATEBOARDING

We needan alternative sportspark,meaningdedicatedtosportslike skateboarding,orrollerskating,ordiscgolf,etc.asocialplace.

I wouldlove tosee more optionsforchildren andyoungadults.(BEWARNED:THIS MIGHT CREATENOISEANDATTRACT YOUNGMENWHO SCAREYOU.) Thistown haslostso many recreation optionsforkids.Even the minigolfplaceshave been turnedintomarijuanaoperationsandchurches.Whatkindofcommunity isthat? Where isakidin Woodstock supposedtoblowoffsteam? Don'tcreate more pickleballcourts.Don'tdomore niche thingsforthe retireesofthe world.Create more basketballcourts.Create more multi-use fields thatcan be usedforpickupsoccergames.(AGAIN,I CAUTIONYOU,THIS WILLATTRACT THEKINDS OF PEOPLEI KNOWYOUDON'T WANT,BUT GUESS WHAT? THAT'S BAD. ANDEVERYONEKNOWS IT.) We don'tneedtoreinventthe wheelhere,folks.Basketball,soccer,walking/runningpaths,maybe askate park.Keepitsimple,maintain it,andbe sure we're servingEVERYONEin town.

Connectparkswith bike andwalkingpaths.

Emricson Parkcouldhave somuch opportunity tobringin large groupsforspecialgatherings.Buildastage in some location andutilize the space.Don'tchange the Square that'struly whatbringspeople outtoWoodstock.Buildon DavisRoadorRaintree Parkandmake those somethingtobe proudof.We have thembutdon'tutilize the space atall.Be Proudofwhat we have andunderstandwhy WoodstockisWoodstock,OurcurrentMayorisonly interestedin hisown personalexpansion ofWoodstockandhasnoideawhy the people wantittostay asitison oursquare.Thisisnotacity councildecision itshouldbe everyone'sandthey have certaily shown on socialmediawhatthey thinkaboutchangingandmovinghistorical structureson the square.

Newreccenter,with newpool(s) ,steamroom,sauna,programs,pertinentcourtsforindoorsports,I movedhere fromArlington

I currently gotoPlanetFitnessfortheirunique equipmentandlowcost.I dohave amembershiptothe reccenterbuttheirequipmentisold,nottrustworthy,cramped.I knowthe rec centercan be betterifmoney wasapplied.

I have 3 youngchildren,soI have primarily participatedby enjoyingpublicspace andplaygrounds.I wouldLOVEtosee parksandrecdevelopmore forthe community tobe modeled more like aparkdistrict.Once Woodstockgetsintoaspace ofmaintainingandupdatingcurrentfacilities(clean ups,addingbathrooms,etc) I wouldlove tosee programsforyouth such asstructuredsummercamps,before andafterschoolprograms(kidsclubthrough D200 alwayshasawaitlist),andincreasedprogrammingforyouth,even anew"Youth Center"building thatcouldaccommodate andhostsummercamps,additionalyouth leagues,yearlongprogrammingandeven rentalsforscoutgroups,etc.In adigitalage the human connection forour children issoimportant.

An amazingdogparkplease!!

Lin.karkos@gmail.com - ifyou actually wantthis,contactme

Lesssandandmulch.Bettergrounds

Please plantmore treesin SweetwaterandSonatas,there isalmostnoshade

A wellconnectedgreenway throughoutthe city wouldbe very nice.

Keepfuture generationsin mind,maintain parks,addsplash padsfortoddlers,wellshadedpicnicareastoencourage socialgatherings,play dates,addwellmaintained fieldsto encourage ouryouth tostay outside playinginsteadofsittingwith theiriPadindoors

Interconnectpathsfromone parktoresidualareassimilartoCary IL.Neverhave goon the streetstogetaround.

NoMajorchangestothe Parkon the Square.Donotmove the Square Monument!Donotmove the SpringHouse!Donotmove the BandStand.

WENEEDA DOGPARK

No

A bike park

MOREDOGPARKS

Make atrailfromthe creekbehindbatespark,acrossawetlandboardwalktoMarian high schoolthatthen crosses120 intothatlittle neighborhood,then intothe peatwoodlandbehind Wendy’swhere the homelesspeople live,then acrossthe fairgroundtoduffieldpondthatconnectstothe otherside ofduffieldandmaybe gothrough the bullvalley sanctuary to connecttothatbullvalley dogparkeven though people in bullvalley have huge yardsfortheirdogs,somake thatintoagiantprairie,andsomehowconnectthattothe lime pitin the middle ofthatfieldbehindwalrose manor.

Nojustmore pathsforexample there isaplan forthe NWMC tohave abike path fromedision parktocrystallake.Why notexpandthisplannedfacility todowntown Woodstock.The majority ofitbetween Woodstockandcrystallake isthere.We justneedthat finalportion intoWoodstock

Please don'tchange the Parkin the Square!Ifyou wantaplace forconcertsetcbuildone somewhere where there isalarge areaforthe eventandadequate parking.

forbiddevelopmentin ecologically importantorunstable areas;expandnature preserves&education aboutnaturalresourcesandwhy thisisimportant

Workwith the McHenry County Conservation Districttoconnecttrailswith WoodstockCity Parksforbiking,walking,runningandhikingforallagestoenjoy.

Publicdrivingrange andswingsatmy localprairie ridge parkwouldmake my family happy.An updated/newRecCenterwouldbe awesome,with indoorpool.A publicgolfcourse within city limitswouldbe fantastic;the clubsin town are private andCraig/CrystalWoodsare toofar/on the outskirtsoftown.

Large recreationalcenterthatincludesindoorandoutdoorturfedfacilitiestoattractregional,state andglobalsportingevents.Also,convertingthe quarry offofroute 14 intoasmall recreationallake,like 3 oaksin CL.

Thatthey are maintainedvery well.Before any "bigidea"howaboutyou take care ofwhatyou have.

Preserve the history andaestheticappealofthe Square.Eventssuch asthe FarmersMarketare agreatbenefittoourcommunity asawhole.

we needaskatepark/bmx parkandapumptrackandmtbskillstrails

A extreme sportsparkforbicycles/ skateboards/ scooters

A skatepark

Skate/BMXpark

I live in the Apple Creekneighborhood.One BIGideaisforabike path alongDean Streetfromthe neighborhoodtothe north side ofRoute 14.WestwoodschoolandWestwood neighborhoodsare connectedtothe main partoftown with safe pathways.Since we have twoschoolsin Apple Creeksubdivision,I feelthatthere shouldbe asafe pathway intotown aswell.Thiswouldalsopromote recreation andexercise forfamilies.

Indoorpoolandfitnessfacility forwintertime activitiesforpeople with disabilities

I justwouldlike ittobe specialneedfriendly.Somewhere where we don’thave tothinktwice totake outchildren there andwhere we feelthey willbe safe andenjoy theirtime atthe park.Andhopefully they can make classesgearedmore towardsspecialneedkidsaswell.

More splash pads

Make sure there isone childparkthatisaccessible towheelchairsandwalkers.

Buildanewreccenterin the city park.

Dogpark

More pavedwalkingpathsforhumansandpetsaswellasavailable waterfountainsalongthe path.

Bigideas,butstopusingourtax dollarsforthe square...enough already.We have ahigh schoolthatisby Merryman Fieldthathastenniscourtsthatare cracked...walkingpathsthatare awfulandapoolwe asresidentscantuse.

Checkoutthe RecPlex in PleasantPrairie.There’snothingnolike thataroundhere andwouldbringpeople toourtown!

Buildmountain bike parks.LookatBentonville Arkansas.

I wouldlike tosee changesandfundsbe usedin aresponsible way tobenefitresidentsforthe long-termwithoutincurringafinancialburden.

I believe there are adequate sportsfacilitiesin Woodstock.IfI see much more develop,thatwouldbe agreatshame.

Apple Creekhasabigempty lotin the frontofthe neighborhood.There isan excellentopportunity toputapavilion,splash pad,basketballcourt,pickleballetc

Fish andnice roads

The square isthe heartofthe town andit’sunique charactermustbe preserved

Safe connection forbikersfromMcConneltoNorthwestHighway

The parkin Sweetwaterneedsmore trees,I've thoughtaboutplantingmy own.

More native plantings,installation ofnative prairie orshrubsandtrees

Repair.Buildtoexpand…creativity

Betterlightingoffrequently used fields

A playgroundparkin thatbiggrassy areanearthe train station

Update the poolatthe reccenterorbuildanewone

Maintain the TennisCourtsbetterandaddanice outdoorPickle ballcourtthat'sheated.

Wouldlike tosee more artsandcraftsworkshops.Alsoavolunteerprogramforseniorsandotherstohelpmaintain andshare the parks.Develop'skin in the game'.

Turn the oldburgerkingintoan indoorplay place thatfamiliescan use yearroundinsteadoftravelingtoothertownstoutilize those play spacesespecially in wintertimes.Greatanew minigolfcourse.

Donotputan amphitheaternexttothe train station,it’snotthe rightlocation forlarge events.

Itwouldbe nice tohave “nature”playgrounds

You have adiamondin the rough with WoodstockDolphins.Partnerwith themtobuildacommunity centerwith 50-meterpoolon die castland.There isareason it’sstillempty and that’sbecause it’sbestsuitedasamultipurpose location forconnection,physicalandmentalhealth.Frommembershipstogroupeventsandmore creatingspace forpeople tolearn, thrive andexceltogetherwouldhave myriadbenefits.People use itasthatrightnow,why notgive themabetterfoundation formore activities?

I wish there wasabeach facility like Three Oaksin CrystalLake.

Parksneedtobe easily accessedby allmodesoftransportation.I wouldtosee the city connectthe publictothe parks.Make themaccessible.

Betterbikinglanes/locationsplease!

Take alookatthe areacommunities,CrystalLake,Huntley,Cary andmake ourparksbetterlike theirs.Partnerwith the leaguesthatprovide ourkidswith sportingactivitiestohelp improve.Have you been aThunderYouth footballgame? Why can'tthey have anormalfootball fieldandfacility like allthe othercommunities? AndBatesPark,somany gameshappen there anditisrun down aswell.I thinkthe bathroomisusually closedtokeepthe homelessoutandthatconcession standisneveropen

Ensuringaccesstoan AEDin allparks/sportingfieldsforresidentandathlete safety.(Ie sportingeventshostedin Emricson donothave accesstoan AED)

For#17 - I wouldhighlightboth the "high-quality andconnectedsystemofgreenways...."AND"Parksthatprotectenvironmentalhealth..."asthe two(2) mostimportantthings Woodstockparksystemcoulddo.

Please create more walking/bikingpathstoconnectdifferentareasofWoodstocktoparks.

Neighborhoodadoptaparkday.

Stoptaxingandspendingmoney

Plantmore trees.

Atthe Appelcreekparkthere are scratchesandburnssome placesandI wouldlike toaddmore stufftoitandmaybe re-bulidbutit’salsoreally smallandI wouldlike tohave apicnic bench

More naturalareas,lesslawnsthatneedmowing,more plantdiversity,andmore environmentaleducation.

Hopefully the construction in the Olson Parkisgoingtobe anew,improved,andawesome splash pad.

Again,developthe remainingDie Castproperty intoan open areaavailable forevents,includingthe Farmer'sMarketthatisgettingtoobigforthe Square.Alsopossible toinclude there aCommunity Center/Indoor-OutdoorSwimmingPool.

Fix the discgolfpadsatEmricson andI wouldlove afull18 hole park,worthy ofPDGA play/events

Woodstockpridesitselfon beingan environmentalandsustainable community,we needtostartactually livingby that.Stopusingchemlawn orsimilarcompaniesthatspray allthe parks, includingthe naturalareas.Preserve naturalareas,properly care forthe trees,plantnewnative trees.Havinga flashy parkortwotoholdeventsisgreatandI supportthat.But,forthe daily residentswe alsowantparksthatare comfortable touse forrecreation,enjoyingbeingoutside withoutallthe programming.

Newindoorwashrooms.

Recycle containersateach park—More bicycle pathstoandfromparksinclusive ofsafe bicycle parking—solarlighting

Sorry,I really only use themforwalkingandjoggingandformy needsEmricson Parkworksterrific

Safety pathstogetintotown fromoutersubdivisions.

Courtsatallneighborhoodparks.

Yes,don'tmove aroundthe statue andgazeboandspringhouse in the square park.You justspentallthatmoney fixingthe foundation ofthe statue.Fix the missingbricks,again a hazard.Maintain the park,itisfine the way itis.Nochildren'sgamesornoisy programs.Itisanice place tositandlisten tomusic,eithercity bandorfarmer'smarket.Leave italone, beautify itwith say apollinatorgarden and fix the missingbricksin the walks.Trimandclean upthe existingvegetation.Afterthe gazeboandspringhouse are repairedMAINTAINthem insteadoflettingthemgettothe pointoffallingdown.

Functionalbike trailsin the city.Road,andoff-road.Notjustan addedlane,thatcyclistcoulduse.egDean St.The Dean Stcycle lane isnotoptimal,andin my opinion,itisnotasafe lane tocycle.Ifyou wanttohave acommunity thatvaluesphysicalandmentalwellness,then the city needstocultivate thatculture with ourcurrentamenities,andexpandingforthe future.Please dredge the pondsatEmricson.

A walkway overorunderRt47.I have seen people risktheirlivestocrossthathighway,includinghandicappedpeople!Itwouldcertainly helppeople towalk,run,orbicycle safely to andfromthe parks.

equine facilities

Havinglivedmultiple otherplaces,I can say thatWoodstockhasapretty goodparksystem.It'snotfantastic,butit'sgoodforthe size ofthe city.I'mway tofaraway fromEmricson,so havinga"busy"parkclosertothe nortwestside (Merryman??) wouldbe nice.

Maintain Merryman Park,Noherbicide aroundsmallOaks!

Extendingthe pavedbike/hikingpath fromthe intersection ofLake/US 14 tothe western city limitsalongUS14

Needbetterdogpark/more treesthingsforthemtodo.Getside walksin the the olderareawhere they're spotty.

DoNOT change the parkin the square.The town centershouldNOT have an amphitheater.

A fullsizedindoorpool.A permanentmusicspace atEmericson too.

Newpainton McConnellroadpark.Indoorpoolwaterpark

Naturalparkslike the one they have in mchenry by the skate park!Really coolconceptofincorporatingnature intoplay.Anotherparkin crystallake hasaman made stream/creekthata lotofkidsplay in.I wouldlove tosee somethinglike thathere in Woodstock

Accessible parkwith swingsandequipmentforadultswith disabilitiesWith awarmwatersplash pad

A HUGEparkwith areastoclimbandplay musicandrun around- HarvesterParkin BurrRidge isagoodexample I’ve seen!

YES!Splash Padsandrunningwaterbathrooms.

teen friendly workoutareas

More dogparks

No

A gokartracingtrack,doesn’thave tobigamile longbutshouldn’tbe alittle circle in the middle ofnowhere

Gardenspeople can goandtake care of

Chxvkxlgc

I thinkthey shouldaddaplace forvolleyballcourtsforpeople tocome in andpractice

Make themsaferforkidstoplay withoutparentshavingtobe helicopterparents

Golfcourse ice skatingrinkneedtohave hockey available andtrailsfordirtbike

take care ofthe grass

they shouldhave pools

Tenniscourts

PLEASEIMPROVELIGHTINGWHICHWILLIMPROVESAFETY

No,currently notatthe moment

MAKERESTROOMS

Make abigcoolskate park

SkateboardPark

more waterbasedstuff

Nope

Very nice baseballandsoftballfields

Like the movies

Not

Anythinglike indoorpools,more options

more fieldsforspecificsports

indoormartialartsroom

Tomake parksalittle bitbigger

I wantthere tobe more soccerfieldsorspacesforboxing

dirtbike friendly

Dirtbike tracks/ridingtrailformotorizedvehicles

18 hole golfcourse

Havingmultiple volleyballcourtsorsoccercourtswouldmake more teenage kidscome tothe park

Pools,it’sthe biggestpartofWoodstockduringthe summer!!

Itwouldbe greattohave the allinclusive park,orwhatthey calla'thirdplace'.

No

No

Any bigprojectsthe city considersundertakingshouldprotectthe historicalintegrity ofthe city,keepwithin plannedbudgets,andprotectthe environmentespecially water.

Make Woodstockwaterworksbigger

Make longerslides,

Outdoorskatingrinkduringthe winter

More waterparks

More soccerfields

BATHROOMS atevery park

Make itsoit'smore assesable forpeople with cisabilitiesandhave apoolthat'sopen allyearround

KeepItStupidly Simple.

Please please donotalterorremove anythingin the historic,iconicWoodstocksquare park.Thiswouldbe atravesty.

DOGPARK&SKATEPARK

Fieldhouse wouldbe amazing

No

Maintain

Parksthatare catertoallages.Rightknowthe elderly are leftoutofsafe,enjoyable areas

Splash padsandimprove outdatedplaygrounds

Stoplookingtobuildanddeveloplandforcommerce.Focuson the needsofhealth andnature notbuildingwealth in Woodstock.

No

More well-roundedplay structures/activity centersandaccessible forallneeds(handicapinclusion)

Dedicatedmtbike trailsthatcan be usedin the winterforfatbikes

Expanddirttrials.Connectwith bike lanesorpaths

Itwouldbe greattohave the Forth ofJuly become an allday affairatthe city parklike itusedtobe.When the Moose,Vfwandothernonprofitsmade some money by sellingfood,drink, dunktanks,pony ridesecetraandhelpedpay forthe fireworksplusby lettingpeople legally drinkatthe parkyou hadatone ofcookoutsin the parkeveryone meetingneighbors,your friendsparentsandsoon.A smallconcertsome fire men havingwaterfightsanduse ingthe naturalamphitheaterforviewinggrounddisplaysmade foragreatandprofitable day

TAKECAREOF WHAT WEHAVE.Donotmove downtown monumentandmusicstage/platform….waste ofmoney.Fix whatisbroken in ourexistingparksasfundingallows.Promote fewerhigh costdeskjobsandimplement fieldpositionswith motivatedpersonnelthatdon’tsitin theirtrucks.

Parkforrentalwith bathroomfacilitiesandsplash padoption,wouldbe beneficialforfamiliesforhostingfamily events.Cary hasfairly newpark,Kaperparkthatprovidesrental,similarto thisidea.

Please buildamore robustRecreation Centerwith aminimumof4 basketballcourtsavailable.

dedicatedpavedorunpavedpathsforbikesthatdon'thave toshare the roadwith carsthatcouldconnecttootherexistingdedicatedpathsin the county

The Die Castsite nexttothe train station shouldbe turnedintoamultiuse parkwhere farmersmarketandcity festivalscan be heldandalsoabeautifulplace torelax complimentingthe square

I thinkmore nightprogramscouldbe really cool/fun!Especially in the fallandsummer.A large conservation area/trailparkwouldalsobe really greatlike the one in crystallake.

My BIGGEST ideaistokeepthe Square the way itis.None ofthis"re-dothe Square"andhave an amphitheatre.The mostabsurdthingI have EVERHEARD!The Square IS Woodstock!!!!Don'tmesswith it.

Focuson environmentalprotection andeducation

More opportunitiesforthe disabled,especially children

Have somewhere toice skate with rentals

BetterDiscGolfCourses!

More areasoraccesspathwaysforcycling,adogpark,bathroomaccess,shade accessforparksthatdon’t,maintenance on the multipurpose areas,andupdatedplaygrounds/equipment

Splash pad

Bikingtrails

NeedadogparkarEmerison

Have nature/ parkwalkswhere tou learn aboutplantsandanimalsthatlive aroundforkids.

Outdoorice hockey androllerhockey!With boardsorfencing,nets,andlights

Upgrade the Emricson discgolfcourse (maybe addanother9 holes?).Buildanotherone in town too!

A newReccentershouldbe built

Bigidea- smallidea,expandaccessandconnection through pavedtrails,anddon'tforgetstrategically placedbenchesalongthe way!

Addinglotsofbike /walkingpathsconnectingparksandprovidingaccessthrough roadwaysthatdon’thave sidewalks.Bike pathsthatconnecttocrystallake /algonquin paths

Splash pads

Have more publicsoccerspaces.

Bike paths/trailsthatconnectthe entire city.More green space everywhere.More trees.Lessparkinglots.More classesandopportunitiesforyouth.Buy farmland/vacantlandin woodstockandturn itintocommunity gardens/green space.Lessindustrialsitesandsingle cropfarms.

Safe bike lanesandotherareastoconnectbetween parks

Splash padparknearthe woodstockpoolorin abigandaccessible neighborhood,BIKEPATHS!!,more nature paths

GetnewleadershipatReccenter

Bike path tothe parks

Balance...protectenvironments,improve exisitingparks,modernize spaceswith flush toilets,askthe community tobe aworkin(skin in the game) improvementteams

A carouselin the square like CentralPark!

Addmore pathsin nature.A free gateddogparkthathasshade.Investmentin greeningthe city.Addingmore plantsandtree in urban areasandoutin nature.

Make more children/toddlerprogramsavailable in the even forworkingparents

Accessibility andthingsforkids/teenstodo

Sizable Indoorpoolandpathsorsidewalksthatconnectatthe very least

Buildingmore oaky areasforkidslike Knox parkwhere kidscan play in the shadedforestandit’saplay area

More pickleball!!!

Bike/walkingpaths

Addoutdoorworkoutareasatapark

A parkwith an outdoormusicshellorstage

Community Slash Pad,crazy thatthe only way they are raisingfundsforthisrightnoware basedon donationsforthe MelissaO’Leary fund.

Allowresidentstonative plantin smallempty spaces.

A destination parkthat’sbigandepicandfun.Orsomethinglike wahoowoodsin du Mande thatallowskidstoplay with nature in really coolways!

Some really awesome unique swings!A neighborhoodgarden forthe whole community!

no

I dothinkthatrenovatingoutdoorbasketballcourts(Ground,lighting,andpossibly “domed”) wouldbringsuch agreatenvironmentandattraction forlocalsandoutoftown population.

Wouldlove toaddsome shade tothe parks

Havingalarge indoorsportsfacility wouldgreatly like the one nearMcHenry Community College wouldbringin revenue yearroundaswellasbringin neighboringcommunities.Hosting eventsandhavingindoorleagueswouldalsobe an enjoyment.Discgolfcoursesincorporatedthroughoutthe parkswhetherthey be shortorlong.

Atleastone accessible parkin Woodstock.Nomulch.Ramps,accessible swings,smooth groundsurfaces

Woodstockisin needofayouth footballfield

A splash pad.Fencedin free dogpark.Biggerpool,betterfoodin there aswell.

We couldreally use asplash padsimilartothe one VetrensAcreshasEmericson hassomuch potentialandI’msure there are otherareasoflandthe city can alsoutilize

Free dogpark,newreccenterwith betterindoorpool,splash pad,expandthe bike path uprt14

Outdoor/nature themedexploringplay area.Maybe includinginformational/handson nature playgrounds

Naturalize alarge portion ofthe parkswith historically native plantspeciessowe donotcontinue tocontribute tothe destruction ofourplanet.Alongside that,offerpubliceducation for people tounderstandwhy itissoimportantthatwe change howwe utilize resources.

Splash pad

ExpandWoodstockWaterworksitisoften socrowdedthatitisn'tfun orsafe.

Bigfishinglake andbetternature trailstogetkidsnore involvedin the outdoor

More sportsclassesforlittle kids.Andstopmakingallthe classesduringworkingpeople hours.

More splash pads

Availability ofatrackforrunningwouldbe wonderful

YES!I wouldLOVEtosee aMiracle League park! https://www.miracleleague.com/ I visitedfamily in Dubuque andthey have amiracle league parkwith all-inclusive playgroundandit wasablast!Tosee people ofallcapabilitiesplayingandgettingtowatch an all-inclusive baseballgame wasawesome.

Indoorwaterpark!Doesn'thave tobe huge...,butwouldbe nice ifitwasandhouse the lapswimming/open swimtoo!

Anewindoorpoolnearthe outdoorpool

Skate park!

Splash padwith nofee toaccess.An ice skatingrinkandhockey arena/rink.

More wateractivities-addingonttopoolwith the splash padaddinganotherbigslide forolderkids.Possibly havingbiggerindoorpoolthatfamiliescouldgotooreven rentout.Add more sportsclassesforthe youngerage.

Ravinualike Outdoormusicvenue thatcan serve asapicnicandfoodcourtforeventstobringin avariety ofentertainmentbigandsmall.

Biggerproperty

Bigareaformultiple splash pads

Destination place forsocializingforALLages.Research titletown.com- GreenBay WI nailedit!!Archery park- research BlackwellArchery Parkatdupageforest.orgnailedit!!DogParks, ice rinksandfishing.Addon orupdate Rec.Centeroptions

Bike pathstoconnectallparkswouldbe helpful.

Itwouldbe greattohave anewreccenterthathadindoorswimmingwith multiple lanes)6-8) andofficiallengths25m

Newupdatedplaygroundsandmore nature walkingpaths

Upgrade the youth footballprogramarea!We upgradedevery othersportingareaandhave done nothingforfootball.

Notbigideas,bunch ifsmallones.Wanttogetyouth ifallagesoutofthere homes? Make available thingsthatare notavailable in you standardsports.We have plenty ofsports fields. Letsgetinvolvedin otherthings.Dogwalking(playing), fishing,hockey,ice skating,skate andbike parks.

Itwouldbe greattohave parksenclosedtokeepchildren safe andeasierforparents&care giverstobringyoungchildren tothe parks.

Ability toswimatthe hs- currently only studentsandteacherscan

Childcare forcaretakerstoworkout.

With the amazingorchestraprogramsin ourschoolswe needan outdoorbandshell/orchestravenue

Concertsatparks

We shouldhave asplash padandiceskatingatEmricson!

AllowalcoholbackatEmrichson like itwasyearsago.More people wouldhave socialgatherings

There are somany empty buildingsin Woodstock.Indoorsportscomplex,newreccenter,indoorpoolwith lapswim,andrecreation pool,indoorbattingcages,allseemlike thingsour community coulduse,toeitherfillthose empty buildingsorstartbrandnew.A destination indoorwaterparkcombinedwith ahotelwouldbe an amazingaddition.

Ninjacourse

I thinkWoodstockhasdone awonderfuljobofcreatingandmaintainingourparks.Emricson parkisajewel.

Move the fairgrounds!I'mvery serious,the trafficishorrible.Havingonly one way in/outcreatesahuge bottleneck.We really enjoy the rodeo/bullridinganddemoderby,butmightnot goin the future due totrafficissues.Create some mountain bike trails,notpavedtrails.There'sadecentsize mountain bike community here,butwe allhave togosomewhere else to ride.

Emricson Park,isbeautiful.Itneedstobe maintainedMUCHbetteroritwilldeteriorate quickly.Deadfallingovertreesneedtobe trimmeduporremoved,entrance way in tothe park couldbe more invitingwith flowersandattractive signs.Why notuse the space in the parktobuildanewreccentersoeverythingcouldbe in one place andoutdooractivitieswouldbe easy tomonitororeducate.

Splash padlike nearby community'sthatare free notin woodstockwaterworks!

Swimmingfacilitiestobetteraccommodate folksin wheelchairsandthose with amentaldisability like autism

Improve andaddtothe basketballcourts.Alsoaskate park!

Increase SportsCourts.Increase DogParks.AddSkate Parks.Addpickleballcourts.Addmore bike paths/trailsthatcan connecttoallareaswithin Woodstock.

Dogpark,splash pad,family friendly areawhere foodtruckscan come andplaygroundforkids

I really thinkthe areajustnorth ofthe square couldbe an absolutely beautifulparkwith fountains,gardens,dogparks,playgroundsetc.maybe some foodtruckparking.

Upgrade the currentparks,they are fallingapart.Mary Ann parkhasanewproblemin the summer.Allthatisdone ispapersayingparkclosed.Take care ofthe problem.Alsoequipment issoold!!!They needtobe upgradedtosafe andalsonewplay areas.Notparksthatare fallingapartandfullofrust.

I wouldlove tosee more areasandplacesforyoungerfamiliestogettogether.Thingstendtobe stuffy andgearedtowardthe oldergeneration orthe teen outliers(an adverage young family feelsoutofplace)

Wouldlove tohave abandshelltoaccommodate allsizesofentertainment.Local,regional,andnationalactstoperformin.

Splash pads!!!please

More naturalenvironmentsforhikingandwalking

I wouldlove alargerreccenterwhere there isadequate space forallprograms,includingaparentareaforprogramsforsmallchildren.Havingagymnasticsandtumblingprogramin town wouldbe great.

Donotrelocate structuresin Parkin the Square:andpromote people connectingwith each other

JustwantabetterDogPark.

Anotherpool/splash pad

Wouldreally love areal25 ydindoorlappooltoswim

Somuch money isleavingwoodstockbecause we donothave the facilitestoprovide nextlevelprogramssuch asAAUbasketball,travelbaseball,traveltennis,lacross,etc.the rec centerisajoke,itstiny,barely offersenough roomforanythinglargerthen 1 basketballgame.thisneedtochange we shouldfocuson buildingalarge facility soprogramsnonothave to leave town torentspace topractice....allyouth sportsare spendingmoney in othertown thatthe city couldeasily be takingin.

There isplenty ofsmartwaystoexpandthe discgolfareaintoatoptiercourse.Alsomore walkwaysandgreenways.

Garden

Please partnerwith HarvardandMarengotoconstructabike path/munti-use path connectingthe townson 14 and23.

Please getthatsplash paddone.Asaresidentwith twoyoungchildren,I’mtiredofhavingtoleave my community andgotoothertownsandspendmoney there touse theirparks.Get asplash pad.

Betterinside Recreation Center..

Keepwaterwaysprotected,they are unique andprecious.Addwalking/bikingpathssouth of14,down Dean St,toconnectthe headwaterspark.Bike/walkingpath allthe way upQueen Ann toconnecttothe Hebron trailtoWoodstockforbikinggroups.Advertise recreationaloutingsforCity folktotake the train outwith theirbikesandbike through the lovely countryside.Bike andtrain pubcrawls.

Please don'tchange the Parkin the Square!

Although notmy bigidea,I supportanewlarger, first-classRecCenterwith more programming/classesandmore variedprogramming/classesforALLages.Alsowith more andvaried equipmentavailable atallhours.Alsowith indoorpool/whirlpool,therapeuticmassage availability,andwaterexercise classes.

Emericson needshelp

We needanewreccenter-badly.Itshouldconnectwith the city parkorsomethingtomake itmore "part"ofthe overallsystem

Mostneighborhoodparkslackany native plantings,itwouldbe nice tosee parksbeingmore than asquare piece ofgrasswith some swings.

I thinkprotectingthe environmentthrough the parkssystemcouldleadtomore environmentalclassesandawareness ParksandRecshouldbe the highlightofthe town,much like Three OaksisforCrystalLake.Pickone parkandmake itadestination.

BUILDA BRANDNEWRECREATIONCENTER!!Sovery much needed!!

I wouldLOVEabike trailthatconnectsvariousWoodstockparks.

Ice SkatingRink,Splash Padon the North Side ofTown,Concession StandandPavilion atMerryman,AdditionalShelterin Emricson

Woodstockneedstoleverage the available space,volume ofvehiculartraffic,andinterestin outdoorsportstodevelope adestination similar(butbetter) toThree OaksRecreation Area. Fishing,Archery Range,Trap/SkeetCourse,Pistol/Rifle Range,Hiking,Camping,everythingresidentslookforin every othertown butWoodstock.

Any kindofwoodstockownedmusicvenue needstobe in Emricson park!!!those ofuswholive rightoffthe square are tiredofmusicfromthe square,fairgroundsandNikos!Yeswe can hearall3!Donotrun usoutby buildingmore entertainmentwhere people live &kidsgotoschool!!Itwillalsoclogupourstreets&since woodstockhasbadordinancesforpeoples properties,many don’thave actualdrivewaysorgaragessothey parkon the streetallthe time.They willcontinue toneedthose spacesbutby addingmore live entertainment,it’llclog ourstreetsandcreate an unsafe environmentforourkids!!!Madison isalready aspeedtrapnorth ofchurch st,don’tgetbloodon yourhandsin the name ofpopularity!!!

We wouldlove more lightsatbatesparkespecially field6.Field2 alsoneedsamajorrenovation

Lotsoflandnottoofaraway willalwaysbe USED

REALBATHROOMS.A splash padatthe largestpark.

Wouldlove tosee dedicatedpickballcourtssomewhere in the city.And/oraddlinestoexistingtenniscourtstomake themmulti-use?

More bike lanestoparks.Free splash padlike in McHenry/CrystalLake!

Community garden,splash pad

Please buildasplash pad!

Thankyou forthissurvey opportunity.Thisseemslike agreatway toreach the community.We can’tallcome tothe town hallmeetings..

Please fix the broken pavementatthe Merriman Fieldstrails.

Overall,there'salready goodprogrammingandparksystemsin place.Creatingmore walking/bikingroutesandcrosswalkssothatthe parksare accessible foreveryone,wouldbe amazing.

Largerparkdistrictrecreation center.Toocramped,looksunclean inside,largerheatedpool

Safe crossingatrt47 andcountry clubroad

Please have recyclingbinsatthe parks,more nice benches

I feelrecreationalopportunitiesshouldattractpeople fromotherareasandincrease the wellbeingofourcommunity.Make Woodstockawelcomingcommunity

I needtorespectthe open landsthatwe have where they are finite.Please don’tsellittothe highestbitter,orsome bigcompanies,bigidea.

Tennisand/orPickleballeveningplay programs.

Needtoupgrade andkeepupparks.They couldbe somuch better.Emerikson Parknusunderutilized.

Keepwith the maintenance ofeach parkavailable now.

I believe we shouldstartwith the neighborhoodparks,andthen gotobiggerpartsbecause the biggerparkspeople come fromeverywhere butthe neighborhoodparksare forthe community.Itseemslike Woodstockforgetsaboutitscommunity andtriestocateroutsidersbefore us

DoNOT move the Bandstand

Plantmore treesin SweetwaterandSonatasplaygrounds

Make parksaccessible forhandicapped

We needbasicamenitiesatallparks(safety,bathrooms,areasforthe disabled,etc)

city indoorpoolisnotsuitedforlarge size ofwaterclasses.use native plantsandbushesandtreeswhen plantinganywhere in the city

Tripstothe museum'sandChicago.Explore,investigate.

Make Woodstockeasiertonavigate with safe walkingtrailsandbike paths

People needtobe outside in nature.Please don'tdestroy naturalareaslike RydersWoodswith pavedpathsanda“pasteurized”version of“natural”!Andplease..nomore structuresin the Square park.We needthatgreen jewelin ourcity!

Please don'tchange the square

Nosubdivision offLucasroad.Itwillhurtourcommunity thattriedstayingin the country.More housesthatlooklike each otherisnotredundantofaone another.

Alternative lifestyle groupshave toomany activitiesandmake usfeelunsafe

AllI care aboutisthatwe have nice waystowalkandbike toourparks:)

I don’tthinkI mentionedthisquite enough,but…BRINGBACKTHESPLASHPAD!

Benchesandpicnictablesin the square were awesome duringthe pandemic.Wouldbe amazingtobringthemallback.Tree planingalongroads,benchesaroundthe square permitter.

I don'twanttosee the parkin the square changed.Fix the springboksandgazebo,butdon'tmove anything.Love oursquare.

Please don'tgocrazy changingthe WoodstockSquare

Largerindoorpoolforyearrounduse,expandedhoursatoutdoorpoolfacility.

Howlonghave residentsbeen sayingwe'dlike tosee walkability andbike-ability paths/sidewalksimproved? Betterconnectivity toparksfromanywhere in the city,and fix/buildnewrec centershouldbe toppriority.

Shortersurveyswilldrive engagementfromabroaderaudience

More healthy opportunitiesin wintermonthslike anewreccenterwith awarmtherapy pool

Woodstockneedstoputalittle more focuson itsactualresidentsandnoton tourism

815-451-9350.Gwen VanSteen

Investigation ofothernearby communitiesthathave packedparks..

Make themaccessible tolocalsandguests

CrystalLake's'VeteransAcres' &Cary's'Timbertown' are destination parksthatare desireable in McHenry County.

Thanksforyourservice!

Leave the square asis.

Be open andclear,allthisworkgoingon andnowwe have aopen house andsurvey? Howmuch planningandinputwentintoallthe currentprojects.I've alsoheard(maybe they're wrong) thatthe splash padwillbe inside ofWaterworks.Thatmakesnosense,have asplash padavailable forallresidentsofthe town,notjustmembers.

Establish amission statementforWoodstockParksandRecreation.One thateveryone can refertowhen presentingnewideas.Statementcouldinclude the wordsaccessible, intergenerational,maintainably,affordable,environmentally soundandsomethingforfuture generationstobuildon andenjoy.

TrailsandeventsthatbringpeopleFromothercommunities

You are doingagreatjob!Thankyou forasking

The parkin the square willbe achallenge in ordertomaintain asense ofthe downtown history andalsoserve future use needs.There shouldbe athorough community engagement processforfeedbackbefore any nextstepsare taken.

Maintain whatalready ishere

Buildmountain bike park

Thankyou forallthe greatworkthe WoodstockPublicWorksandRecreation doesforthe town already!

Please putagarbage can in the ryderswoodsparkinglot!Thankyou

A community garden wouldbe greattohave aswell

Why? Woodstockdoesn’tlisten toitsresidents

Wouldencourage the city topreserve the city square parkanditsamenities,includingexistingmemorials.

AdultVolleyballfacilitiesindoorwouldbe supported.CurrentoutdoorleaguesgotoCLtoplay indoor

My kidswish the parkin apple creeksubdivision hadabasketballcourt

I believe the reccenterisvery dated.Woodstockcouldcertainly use anewanduptodate reccenter.

A smallskate parkwith only afewobstacleswouldgreatly change woodstock.

Whatfor? Mayor'sgonnamayor.

Wouldlike security camerasin main parkareasconnectedtopolice.

MostimportantI feelistolisten tothe people in the community,truly listen!

Asaswimmer,I wouldlove tohave accesstoa25 meterindoorpoolforthe coldmonths.I wasamemberofthe RecCenterforafewyears.The facilitiesare ok,abitoutdatedand grungy in the lockerroom.The poolseemedtobe extrachlorinated.Itwouldbe greattohave anewpoolthatisalsoaffordable forcommunity members.

Clean upandfreshen allparks,focuson anewreccenter,andwe musttake care ofthe repairsorthe streetsandroaddisintegration!

I live in ApplewoodandMcConnellparkhasatenniscourtthatisneverusedfortennis.Many have askedforthe courttobe made upastwopickleballcourtsandnothing,nothinghas happened.Itseemseasy tocreate with newlinesandacouple ofnets.

Lin.karkos@gmail.com - ifyou actually wantthis,contactme

I appreciate the numberoffacilitiesandactivitiescurrently available,butdothinksome improvementswouldbe nice.

Use socialmediatopromote people fillingoutsurveysandhearingmore opinions.People are really quicktoaddtheir2 centson the Facebookgroup.Utilize socialmediawith pollsto hearvoices.Noteveryone isable toattendcity councilmeetings.

Bike pathsandsafe sidewalksorsidewalksin general,it’snotfun takingyourbaby forawalkin astrollerdown roads,we needsidewalks!

Many times,thingsare changedforthe sake ofchange.The people thatpush forthese changesmove away.Then many yearslater,the changesare reversedatgreatexpense,tobring backtothe originalstate.

I thinkit’simportanttothinkaboutsustainability andmakingsure parksare goodforthe environment.Havingmore areasfornative plantsI thinkisboth importantandalsoprovidesa greatopportunity formakingparksmore beautifulandprovidingeducation.

WENEEDA DOGPARK

NA

Forfamily's,havingparksthataccommodate the kidsandthe adults.Soplacesforthe kidstoplay andthe adultstorest/relax.Standingunderatree forshade isn'tvery comfortable.

BettergroundmaterialforpathsatRydersWoodsorfindsome otherareawhere people walk/bike aroundabody ofwater.

Don’tchange the square justimprove itscurrentlookandfeel.Addmore bike pathsandbike lanes.

Bike parkPLEASE

Please use money andresourceswisely,since many residentsthinkthe new"Branding"wasawaste ofmoney.

Change the regulationssoallconstruction hastohave connectingsidewalkssowe don’thave dirtpathsalloverWoodstock.Alsoit’slike froggercrossingthe streetslet’sworkon making pedestriansthe priority.

Woodstockhasthe unique opportunity tosetaside landforfuture parksandrecreation before thatlandisdeveloped.Please lookatputtingaside thislandforfuture developmentand forfuture generations.Once itisgone itisvery difficulttoreclaim.

I’dbe curioustoknowaboutWoodstockprioritiesandwhatthe generalconsensusishere? A million dollarbudgetwillhave amuch biggerimpacton smallerscale projectsasopposed toanewdevelopment.Unlessthere’sasurplushere allocatedtowardsparkandrecwe wouldbe wise toconsidermakingsmallimprovementstoexistingstructurestomaximize cost/benefit.

Please please please donotadduntilleverythingcan be maintainedextremely well.Thismeanswhen treesdie newonesare planted.That fieldare allwelltaken care of.Thatnetsat tennisandothercourtsare operationaland fixedassoon asan issue come up.Thatallbenchesare useful.thattrailsare notoverrun by weeds.Please make the parksbetterby maintainingthem.

Leave the Square asis.Itishistoric,charmingandpartofouridentity asacommunity.Itisalsoagreateconomicdriver.

stakeboardingandbmx are nowOlympicsportswe shouldhave aspotin are town sokidscan take advantage topursue these sports.

I have alwaysthoughtthatin the fieldnexttothe DickTracy Parkwouldbe agreatspotforan extreme sports.Thatway the kidscan gettoknowthe police andthe police can getto knowthe kidswith arespectthatwouldgrowbetween themboth.

Skate parkwouldbe an excellentdecision forthe youth ofthe town

In one ofthe questionsI answeredthatApple CreekParkneedsrepair.There wasnotaplace in thatquestion toexpandfurther.Thisparticularparkneedslandscape help.Particularly cleaningupallofthe many weedsthatgrowthere within the shrubs.Itwouldjustmake the parkalittle more inviting.

Donotredothe Square Park!

RidersWoodsisrightdown the streetfromus.We’ve neverseen anythingreally done with thatpark.Itcouldbe areally nice place tobe.Butwe have seen homelesssheltersin there andI don’tfeelsafe.I wouldlike tosee somethingdevelopedin riderswoods.

I wouldjustlike tosee ourparksbe accessible forallpeople in the community.Youngchildren andadultswith disabilitiesshouldhave the same opportunity toaccessthe parksfor health,well-beingandforeducationalpurposes.

Please ensure thatallrestroomfacilities,especially those nearthe newaccessible park,have ADULT changingfacilities.Many grown adultswith disabilitieshave caregiverswhoneedto tendtotoileting/diaperingneedsthatcannotbe done with baby changingtablesoron the floorofadirty parkbathroom.

I'mgladyou guysare reachingouttoaskthe community whatwe need.

We use the existingparksourselvesandwith ourgrandkids.Some ofthe parksare wearingout.Basketballcourtsare wellusedbutare gettingunsafe andcracking.

Buildanewreccenterin the city park,itwouldthen be close toactivities,there wouldbe alotofparkingandcouldbe watchedby people i]workingin the reccenter

Dogbeach isagreatidea

Buildupon whatwe already have.Donotchange the square.We musthonorourpast.The square isperfect.Make allthe necessary repairsthatthe bandstandandSpringHouse need. please donotmove the CivilWarmemorialstatue.

Please fix the walkingpaths...itisashame thatallourtax dollarswenttothe publichouse andthe square-Raffelroadisawful.Fix the walkingpaths.

Thankyou foraskingforourinput!

I thinkthatparksandrecreation are doingwell.Justkeepeverythingin goodshape.

Thankyou forprovidingthe servicesandresourcesthatyou do.Andthankyou forreachingouttoinclude residentfeedbackin the process.

I wouldlove tosee acontinuedandincreasedmovementtoprotectandtoreturn towildlife (plantingmore native flowers,replacinglargergrasslawnswith lowermaintenance flora).

You neededtodefine itemsin thissurvey.

notinterestedin providingregionalamenitiesoreconomicdevelopmentwith ourparksystem

Roadsmightlast20 yearsemricson parkneedsacomplete resurface

There are somany strengthswith acommunity commitmenttowellness,arts,environmentalpreservation,thatwe can dogreatthingstogether

The reccenterin Woodstockneedsahuge redo.I've seen moldin the poolareabefore andthatmakesme notwanttotake classesthere.The whole buildingneedsarevamp.Itwould be amazingifwe hadan updatedreccentertoenjoy.

A healthy environmentleadstohealthy people!

Erickson Parkisabsolute gem

Thankyou forwhatyou doforourcommunity

Gladyou're alllookingahead.Tough jobbutthankstoall.

Continue tolisten tothe community.

None

Maintain the Parkin the Square asis!Repairwhatisthere.Endthe ideaofmovingthe bandstand.

More trees

WoodstockReccenterneedstobe updatedandthe hoursshouldbe expanded.They close tooearly on the weekend

The Parkin the Square ishistorically identifiedasthe centerofWoodstockthatispartofourNationalRegisterofHistoricPlacesdistrict.Many ofitsfeatureshave been in place formore than 100 yearsandhave gainedhistoricsignificance.Itisthe identifiable anchorforcreatingthe sense ofplace forWoodstock.Asthe heartofWoodstockitshouldbe maintained accordingtoitshistoricintegrity withoutany significantchangestoitslayout.

Sidewalks,greenways,interconnectedtrailsystems.Any newhousingdevelopmentsshouldbe centeredaroundwalkability toamenities(i.e.notcardependentlike the newly-approved subdivision offofLucasroad- though I understandthe needforhousingdevelopmentin McHenry County writlarge - I wasdisappointedtosee somethinglike thisgothrough (negative environmentalimpact,billsfootedby taxpayers,etc.)

Walking/bikingpathsconnectingparkstodifferentareasofWoodstockare very much in need.Please prioritize these sothatwe can cutdown on caremissions,increase the numbersof people whowillaccessthe parksjustbecause they can walkthere,andalsoincrease accessibility forthose whocannotdrive themselves.

Parksare happy places,very importantforhealth ofallofus.

Stoptaxingandspendingmoney

The parksare fine the way they are.The only way tomake thembetterisplantmore treesthatwilllooknice andhelpthe environmentwhile maintainingopen space foreveryone to enjoy sportsoractivities

AndI wouldlike toadd-Gagaballhadbeen abighit-andI wouldlike tosee ifwe couldaddone thanks!

More pressreleasesaboutthissurvey andmeetingstonewspapers,websitesofcommunity groupsetc.

A newRecCenterwouldbe nice,butI knowthatisahuge cost,mightnotbe worth it.

PLEASE,PLEASE,PLEASE,DO NOT CHANGETHEPARKINTHESQUARE.Itisperfectasitis.Summerbandconcertsare adelightandavery specialpiece ofAmeriana.Have you everhadavisitortoWoodstockcommentthatyou shouldtake away Woodstock'sjewel.The Parkon the Square complimentsthe OperaHouse andthe OldCourthouse.Itisthe perfectcenterofourdowntown andsuckh awonderfulplace tositdown andrelax foramomentortwo.The historicsoldier,SpringHouse andBandStandmuststay.Take you social areatothe Die Castsite.

In the Parkin the Square please maintain the Bandstand,SpringHouse,andCivilWarStatue butPLEASEDO NOT MOVETHEM.Thankyou.

Balance isalwaysthe key.Maintain allthe neighborhoodparksequally.Update astrendschange.Realize the tradition ofthe Parkin the Square anddonotdrastically change it.Preserve naturalareas.

Leave the Woodstocksquare asis,don'tchange it.

Usingrenewable sourcessuch assunlighttoprovide lightingatparkpavilionsandentranceswouldbe gooduse oftax payersfunds…thislightingwouldbe in addition tothe necessary safety/ security lightingpoweredby (ComEdelectricity…apresently more dependable source)

Please improve whatwe have before creatingnewspaces.

WoodstockSquare Parkdoesnotneedbathroomsin the middle ofthe parkwhen there'splenty ofrestaurantscustomerscan use while eatingorgettingasnackandthe newly renovatedcourthouse with publicrestroomsin there.

Make use ofwhatwe have,improve it,maintain itandbeautify itandstopspendingmillionsofdollarson uselessstuff

Wetlandsshouldbe underthe managementofthe city.The city needstobecome an active stewardofallofourwetlands.

Itisreally importanttomake the parksaccessible toeveryone,andtoinclude conservation andecology/education in athoughtful,helpfulway forresidentsandvisitors.Nobusinesses! Justnature.

dontchange the SQUARE

Fix the poolandhottubfacilitiesatthe RecCenter.They doallthey can with whatthey have.Make these areashandicappedaccessible.

I live nearthe square andsee lesskids/familiesutilizingthe playgroundparks.I see more kidsusingthe Dean Schoolplaygroundon weekendsandin the summer.I dothinkbike safety ischallengingforkidssince somany ofthe sidewalksare broken orincomplete.A lotofdogwalkersandadultsjustoutwalkingfor fitness.Wouldlove tosee the RyderWoodstrails bettermaintained- itreally isagem.Emricson Parkiswonderful!Notfamiliarwith DanatoWoods

I amsomeone whoisVERYexcitedforthe rumored18 hole expansion ofthe discgolfcourse atEmricson!Lookingfornewsaboutthat!I alsowantedtosay thatI have seen parkswith builtin cornholes,horseshoe,etc.which isvery intriguingtome,andhasmade me thinkaboutrevisitingthose parks.I'dlove tosee fun little additionstoparkslike that?

Actually have ourelectedrepresentativesPRESENT when the publicisinvitedtoshare theirideas.

Keepin mind,in general,pplstuggle with change,whateverendsuphappening,communicate tothe piblicin advance andtake itslow.

I wish more playgroundswere fencedin especially nearbusierroads.ItWouldbe nice tobe able totake my toddlerswithoutbeingstressedaboutthemRunningaway!

More information sharedwith the community throughoutthe entire process.

More activity placestohave fun

Ok

Addachick-fa-fill

Can kick

Biggerparksandmore hikingareas

I don’thave any atthe moment

nope

Bigskate park

justmake itbetterandsafer

nothing

You’re doingamazingsweaty

Goodluck!!

Nah

We needmore optionsofthingstodo

F Make more indoorpools

No no

Trails

Buildagolfcourse

Fundingsourcescantdependon alwaysgettinggrants

I appreciate thatyou guyscare enough toaskthe residents.

No

Ni

Artificialsurface football/soccerfieldthatcouldbe usedby both high schoolsandyouth groups

When itcomestoplanningthe CouncilandCity shouldinvolve the community.AsaWoodstockresidentandtaxpayer,I have consistently seen howthe CouncilandCity donotlisten toresidentsandpush initiativesthrough withoutcommunity input.Currently,I amvery concernedaboutplansunderway tochange the historicWoodstockSquare.It'sone thingtorepair historicfacilities,it'sanothertorearrange ormove historicstructures.I andmany WoodstockresidentsI've talkedtoare opposedtochangingthe WoodstockSquare,an historicsite. Additionally,budgetoverrunsare ahuge concern.

Make more food

I’mdone

Please buildmore soccerfieldsthatare open use.We have arapidly growingsoccercommunity whoneedspace toplay like the way basketballcourtsare setup

I thinkthere shouldbe more lightedsportsfieldstobe able touse themmore.

A dogparkorcommunity garden atJuddn Madison

Cleaning,security,lighting,bathrooms..

Improve the reccenterinside andout

I thinkitwouldbe nice ifwe gotarollerrink.Itwouldbe goodforthe kidsespecially duringthe winter.Itisalsogoodclean fun forthe teenagers.

Maintain the Square Parkbutdon'tchange it

When you surgery targetALLage groups.Seniorshave justasmany needsandwantsasmiddle agedandyoungerpeople.,

Workwith environmentalistswhen makingyourdecisions.

save the oaktrees&plantmany many more!

More toddler/youngchildren gearedactivitiesandclasses!There'snotmuch forthe 1-4 age group

People pastWestwoodhave toWalkon the roadtogettoboth the parksanddown town.Extendthe sidewalktojustpassDakotaRidge

Fix city andEmricksen parkroadsfirst,lowerourtax burden sowe can maintain andrepairourhomes.An affordable community isan attractive community.

Please increase programmingandsportsavailable,we findourselveshavingtogotoothertownsforyouth sports,such asHuntley.We love the Farmersmarketsprogrammingthat Huntley offers.Please continue toaddfamily friendly programmingtothisevent,itisone thatbringsmany toWoodstock.

Helppromote the regeneration ofoaktreesatallparks.

The planningprocessmusttruly reflectthe wishesofthe community.When dowe getasay in whathappensin the Square (regardingthe proposalsforitsrenovation)? I amshocked andappalledatthisproposal,asiseveryone I knowin town.AndyetI feelthatthe whole processhasbeen aclosely gardedsecret.

Lowimpacttothe environment!

Make themsafe enough forpeople tobe able touse.The whole town isgettingsketchy with women beingconfrontedeven while shopping.Walkingby yourselfisnowsafe and people tendtogoelsewhere.

Ourfamily isexcitedaboutthe possibility ofasplash parkin Woodstock

Keepaskingforcommunity input

DoNOT move the structuresin the Square park!!

Have more activitiesforhomeschool/private schoolfamilies

I wouldlove toknowofany resourcesI couldutilize tokeepupdatedon future enhancements

Imallfornewparks,playgrounds,gardensbuthave measurementsin place tomaintain the parksI’ve seen many parksin mchenry county gotowaste afterafewyearsbeingbuilt.

Keepitgreen.Let'sbe amodelcity forconservation.

PLEASEkeepthe environmentin mindanddon’truin beautifullandsforbuildingapartments.Woodstockresidentslove ournaturallands,let’skeepthemsafe!

More bike andwalkingpathsplease

Recreation centerisnotuptostandardtowhatWoodstockshouldhave with the high taxesthatevery one pays.

I thinkthere isopportunity todevelopavery nice fitnessfacility with higherendamenities

BIKEPATHS!Maybe goingthrough dean stto14 toconnectwith the crystallake path

Ittakessooooolongforchange ideas,curatingplans,acquiringfunds,shufflingmoney,meetings,publicinputmeetings,ruminate on more ideas..andsadly,yearshave gone by and deterioration hasacceleratedandcostsgoup.Startsalloveragain.We can help,justask

I hope the newreccenterhassaunasandindoorcourtsfortennisandpickleball.

Make more children/toddlerprogramsavailable in the even forworkingparents.

Clean up/repairwhatwe currently have.Upgrade andexpandtocompete with the times.

Seniormobility

Love allthe greatthingsupcomingin the community.It’ssogreattolive somewhere thatwe can gotosomany wonderfulparksalready.

Thankyou forreachingouttothe community fortheirthoughtson the planning.

It’stoexpensive toenrollmy kidin activities

More fishing

Lookatothercommunitiesand figure itoutWoodstock!

I thinkaMiracle League parkwouldfurthercementWoodstockon the mapasagreatplace tolive ANDvisit!I wouldreally like tosee thisexplored.

More than one splash padaroundwoodstock.Shadedplaygroundareas?

Trails.Bike trails.Include incorporatedWoodstock.Skate Park.Alsowe needtoaddice skatingrinkatthe very leastin Winter.Every community surroundingushasthese amenities.We cannotexpectpeople towanttomove here ifthere are none ofthese typesofrecreationalamenities.The reccenterneedsamajorRenoaswell.Nottryingtobe rude butitis embarrassing.

An areathatcaterstofoodtrucksyearroundforseasonalactivitiesandalsodaily lunchesandorevents.

Skatepark

More affordable events

There needstobe free orfinancially affordable thingstodoforunder21 yearolds.

Thankyou

Please keepthe Square serene.

I keeppushingforaction sportactivitiesskateboardingparks

Once again,itseemsthatWoodstockismakingBIGPLANS without firstfixingthe BIGPROBLEMS thatplague it.Please justmake the parkssafe,well-lit,andwell-maintainedbefore splashingaton ofmoney on some consultantwhoisgoingtotellyou thatwhatthe city'sparksystemreally needsisalaunch padforthe InternationalSpace Station andabandshell thatjustsohappenstobe exactly whatourcity leadershave been clamoringfor.

We needanew/biggerreccenter- oursisjusttoosmallandthe equipmentandfacility are outdatedandthe parkingisridiculously inadequate.

Thankforgatheringresidentsopinions.Please continue todoso.Alsoplease keepin mindthe tax burden upon residents.Also,I’mreally excitedaboutthe newsplash pad!I hope that can getfunded!

Itwouldbe nice tosee newequipmentandenhancedmaintenance forneighborhoodparks.Parksserve atthe heartofthe community andare whatshouldbringfamiliestogetherto connect.When you enhance the facilities,more people willuse themandmore “community”willbe built.

Clean the park

please stopgettingridofmonkey bars

I'mabittiredofthe FieldofDreams[baseballdiamond]gettingallthe attention and$$$.Why dowe have afabulousbaseball fieldandhorrible soccerfields,when there'ssomany more people playingsoccervs.baseball?

Tobuildanewreccenterorunfavorably update the currentone,askthe people/the currentmembersofthe reccenterwhatthey wouldlike tosee.Don’taskthe mgmtofthe rec center,askthe memberssince,sendthemasurvey.The membersare the onesthatuse the facility everyday,notmgmtwhothinksthey knowwhatthey want.

Interviewmore handicapfamiliesforaccessibility concerns

Woodstockiswonderful.I thinkthe reccenterneedstobe movedorrebuilttojustify the membershipcosts.

Wouldbe nice tohave itdone when my kidsare smallandcan benefitfromthese changes,andnotin 25 years.

There were afewquestionson thissurvey thatonly allowedone answer(such aswhere doI hearaboutparkprogrammingandimportantcommunity benefits),butI wouldhave liked the option ofchoosingmore than one.Forexample,I thinkpromotingsocialconnectionsandprotectingthe environmentare equally important.AndI hearaboutprogrammingboth through CityScene andon socialmedia.

While I appreciate the skate parkdynamic,OTHERteensdonofeelaplace in the community aswellasfamileswith youngfamilies.THere issomuch forthe oldtraditionalwoodstock folkanditfeelstohardto fitin

make sure topublicize publicinput( meetingsandsurveys) forthe bestparkplanning

The path atMerryman parkreally needsrepairsandtobe sealcoated.

Make sure the parksare beingkeptclean.Way toomuch litter

The kidsneedmore placestoplay andenjoy the outdoorsandlearningaboutthe environment/areawe live in

Closely examine howthe SpringBasketballprogramisrun.

Raise the standardofthinkingfrom“ifitain’tbroke don’t fix it”to“See adentfix adent.”Dobetter!

Update the pool,more shade atthe pool.I don’tcare aboutparksin 25 years.I have kidsnowandwanttosee thingsnow.

Investintothe REC Centertohave more accesstodiferentsportscourt,pool,saunaandjacuzzi

More sidewalksneededthrough the whole city.The city needstorequire ALLbusinessestoshoveltheirwalkwayswhen itsnows.More high density buildingaroundthe Square.

I supportimprovingandexpandingthe City'sparksandRecopportunitiesBUT I strongly oppose any changestothe historicParkin the Square.While itisa"park,itisby nomeansa traditionalparkandshouldnotbe consideredone.Ititlsthe heartofWoodstockandshouldremain ourtraditional,historicSquare.Nomovingthe bandstand.Maintain andpreserve the springhouse.Noplay equipment.Leave the CivilWarstatue alone.Justbeautify,care for,andrespectandtreasure whatwe have.

Otherparksneedhelpwith ponds

Creatingmore visually enticingparkswouldencourage more residentstoutilize neighborhoodparks.WoodstockSquare isbeautiful,butneighborhoodparksare utilitarian atbest.

Make ithappen!Oh,and fix thrroads.;)

I’msodisappointedI movedhere with my youngson..itwassohardforhimtolearn toride hisbike bcofthe crappy sidewalks&stillconstantly fallsandhurtshimself.He doesn’teven like ridinghisbike anymore bcofit!!!!Biggestmistake waspurchasingproperty in woodstock,the city thatdoesn’tcare aboutitsresidents,justitspopularity status!

NEIGHBORHOODPARKS Savannah Grove hassome really nice trailstowalkandnature,butnowhere forkidstofreely play!There are many youngchildren in the neighborhoodand they needan actualparktoplay in.

Doanychildren17orunderliveinyourhousehold? 936

Doanychildren17orunderliveinyourhousehold? 936

20-Doanychildren17orunderliveinyourhousehold?

Doanychildren17orunderliveinyourhousehold? 936

Doanychildren17orunderliveinyour household?

Areyouoranyothermembersofyourhouseholdaged65orolder? 930