By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

Orange County Parks Improvement Planning Project is seeking public input on Claiborne West Park, Bluebird Fish Camp, Gould Walking Park, and Bailey’s Fish Camp.

The project goal is to restore and develop Orange County Parks, trails and fishing accesses with the objective of preserving the county’s natural resources, wildlife habitats and improving gathering places for the community.

The county is working in partnership with National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program.

The next step is gathering public input concerning interests and goals and to provide information on the project for park improvement.

Two public meetings and an open house will be held to allow an opportunity for everyone to attend. It is the same meeting on both nights.

The meetings are from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14 and Wednesday, May 15 at the Orange County Convention and Expo Center located at 11475 FM 1442 in Orange.

When a community asks for assistance with a project through an application process, National Park Service staff provides free, on-location facilitation and planning expertise. It draws from project experiences across the country and adapts best practices to a community’s specific needs.

The staff help:

• Define project vision and goals
• Inventory and map community resources
• Identify and analyze key issues and opportunities
• Engage collaborative partners and stakeholders
• Design community outreach and participation strategies
• Develop concept plans for trails, parks, and natural areas
• Set priorities and build consensus
• Identify funding sources
• Develop a sustainable organizational framework to support the project