In 2015-2016, the City of Rochester developed a Parks & Recreation System Plan to help guide future improvements to make sure the facilities, programs, and amenities offered meet community needs, and to make sure that improvements were economically sustainable over the next 20 year period. The Parks & Recreation department is conducting a survey of residents to ensure the goals, policies and strategies of the System Plan developed in 2016 still meet the community’s needs. Polco is an external, independent firm has been contracted to conduct this survey.

The first part of this work includes a randomized sample survey, where a total of 5,500 households will be encouraged to provide their feedback anonymously.  In total, the survey includes eight questions and an additional set of demographic questions.  Community members should have already begun to receive notice if their household was selected.  An opt-in opportunity will also be made available to all Rochester community members in the coming weeks.

Parks & Recreation Director Paul Widman shares, “We are proud of the work that went in to the creation of the Parks & Recreation System Plan, which included a focus on community engagement.  Rochester has continued to grow and evolve, especially with use of the parks and trail system during the pandemic.  We look forward to seeing how this data informs how we move forward as a department.  Whether you and or your household utilizing the system today, we greatly appreciate your participation.”

In addition to the surveys, various community organizations will host a series of community conversations that are centered on the questions asked in the survey.  The goal is to help ensure we are hearing from all community members.

“Rochester is truly a diverse community, from those who have lived here their whole life, moved here to make Rochester their new home, or those who come here for medical treatment or care.  We are committed to taking steps to ensure as many voices are included in our review and decision making process,” shares Chao Mwatela, Diversity, and Equity & Inclusion Director.

The Parks & Recreation System Plan can be found on the City of Rochester website.  It is expected that the results from the survey and community conversation will be shared in early fall.