By Howard Packowitz
BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington’s next master plan for city parks should call for public green space in every neighborhood and place more emphasis on senior citizens’ recreational needs, according to wish lists of some residents providing input for the master plan.
About 75 people showed up Thursday night at Miller Park Pavilion as a consultant continues to seek public comment.
Sarah Tunall, Director of the Northwest Neighborhood Community Center, believes a park in every neighborhood is a worthy goal, especially in northwest Bloomington.
“It’s a 40-square block neighborhood, and there’s no green space-public park,” said Tunall.
“No public access to any type of park, unless you cross Main St., you cross the railroad tracks, or you go as far south as Miller Park,” Tunall said.
About 15 residents of the Luther Oaks retirement community, including Laura Baue, sought a commitment from the city to develop nearby Wittenberg Woods Park in south Bloomington. It would be the only park accessible for them without having to cross Veterans Parkway.
“A paved path around that little pond, so people in wheelchairs or walkers would be able to walk safely,” Baue said.
“And some benches, plant some trees, get some playground equipment,” she added.
Baue contended master plan focus groups seemed to place a greater emphasis on younger people and sports, rather than seniors and the arts.
Another public meeting is set for Aug. 3 at Miller Park to discuss the feasibility of a recreation center.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
