Consultants present comprehensive parks plan that prioritizes connectivity, equity and maintenance

Joanne Shelley of Evolve presented Williamsport’s new Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan to City Council on March 5, describing the public-engagement process, analysis and priority recommendations.

Shelley said the plan used DCNR guidance and NRPA principles and was informed by committee meetings, staff interviews, stakeholder focus groups, a community survey and two open houses. "Williamsport residents have access to great natural spaces. Brandon Park is a favorite, but it needs improvements," she said.

Key findings and priorities

The analysis found uneven maintenance across neighborhoods, playgrounds in some locations in poor condition, and a mismatch between park types and neighborhood demographic needs. The consultant reported that 82% of Williamsport residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park but noted gaps in programming and connectivity: many streets lack crosswalks and wayfinding, and signage and promotion of programs need improvement.

Recommendations emphasized three tiers: operations and administration (communication strategy, work-order management and staff training), systemwide infrastructure (park standards for furniture, lighting and signage, a connectivity master plan and a green infrastructure master plan) and prioritized, fundable individual park projects to be implemented in phases.

Funding and next steps

Councilmembers asked about follow-up funding. Staff said the DCNR-funded plan includes a funding matrix, that some federal and state grant opportunities are identified, and that a multi-million-dollar stormwater-related grant is being pursued in partnership with local groups to address drainage issues in parks. The city will finalize the plan, then use it to pursue implementation grants and to phase projects so they are fundable and actionable.

Council response

Councilmembers generally praised the plan’s practical emphasis on implementable items rather than additional studies, and several urged staff to use the plan to prioritize near-term projects such as uniform signage and playground replacements. The council voted to adopt the plan and move it into the city’s implementation process (resolution vote recorded on the meeting agenda).