The Park and Recreation Master Plan is being developed to serve as a guiding document for future development and investment of over 320 acres of parkland, open spaces, and trails over the next 15 years, beginning in 2026 and continuing through 2041.
Project Goals
- Define a 15-year vision for New Ulm’s parks, open spaces, and public areas that supports current and future community needs and aligns with the City’s long-term plans.
- Review existing park features and amenities to identify areas for improvement based on community input and national standards.
- Assess how well residents are currently served by City and partner recreation services, with a focus on improving access.
- Create a plan that promotes equity and balance across the park system, ensuring usability and accessibility for all residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
- Develop a strategy to guide future decisions and investments in parks and recreation, supported by a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
- Identify and prioritize community needs and interests for the next 15 years, considering trends in demographics, recreation, and social change.
- Outline a clear implementation program that includes funding opportunities, staffing needs, and cost estimates for high‑priority actions.
- Establish a financial strategy to address both immediate challenges and long‑term sustainability.
- Consider how parks connect with transportation, housing, land use, economic development, utilities, natural resources, and public safety.
- Ensure meaningful community engagement throughout the process, including outreach to underrepresented groups.
- Create policies for using parkland dedication fees to support the development and improvement of parks and facilities.
Project Map
Click on the markers in the map below to see the community's input.
