Committee presses plan authors to spell out restrooms, water and trailhead standards

A committee member sharply criticized the plan’s language on amenities, arguing that phrases such as "where feasible" provide too little accountability and create a "prescription for being ignored." The member said the draft lacks specific activation measures and recommended a standard (for example, a restroom every 3–5 miles) so promises on facilities cannot be deferred by staff or become a grant‑only exercise.

Daniel Sawyers acknowledged the concern and said staff are starting to quantify amenity frequency and map gaps across the network. He noted the plan includes an enhancement and built‑environment section that considers where restrooms and water fountains best align with park sites and trailheads. Committee members offered examples of existing facilities (the Grassy Creek Nature Center with outdoor restrooms) and suggested the plan include design guidance and goals to improve access in adjacent neighborhoods.