Montgomery Parks has issued its 2022 Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Policy Plan following approval by the Montgomery County Planning Board at the June 16, 2022, meeting. Revised every five years, this PROS Plan guides the long-term development and management of the park system through the year 2027 and beyond. On Friday, November 5, Parks received confirmation from the Department of Natural Resources that the plan was approved as the County’s Land Preservation, Parks, and Recreation Plan, a prerequisite for certain important state funding sources.
The 2022 PROS plan emphasizes the role of parks in supporting physical activity, social connectivity, and environmental stewardship. The plan recommends enhancing parks in urban areas, delivering services to an increasingly diverse population with a focus on seniors, teenagers, and young adults, and staying abreast of recreational trends. Parks should foster social cohesion and tell the story of our history, culture, and natural resources. In addition, parks need to provide sustainable access to the County’s natural areas and the plan reaffirms the department’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The plan also focuses on the county’s current efforts and progress regarding land management policies, including Thrive Montgomery 2050. “Parks are among the top three most valued aspects of a community, along with public safety and public schools, for Montgomery County residents,” said Mike Riley, Montgomery Parks director. “This plan provides a clear vision for where we are headed as a parks department to serve the ever-changing needs of our community.”