Recently, parks and recreation was recognized as a major component to Prince William citizen’s quality of life (Strategic Issue Analysis study 2008). Parks in Prince William are a major contributor to everybody’s well being, physical and psychological.
The Park Authority is the largest employer of youth in Prince William County, and is the primary provider for recreation in our community. Researchers recognize that it is more cost-effective to give youth a positive outlet through recreation and help young citizens build character through team play than to not offer supervised activities. It is widely recognized that significantly less public funds are required to recreate than incarcerate youth.
The Park Authority is currently developing the next Strategic Plan. This planning document will guide park and recreation program development for the period 2011-2015. Public input regarding this planning process is encouraged and necessary so that planners understand the needs of the community.
The next Strategic Plan Public Meetings are scheduled for Monday evenings. On August 10 at 7:30 p.m. and also September 14, meetings will be held at the George Hellwig Park Administration building, 14420 Bristow Road, Manassas, VA 20112.
Additional meetings have been scheduled by County Planning Staff to consider amendments to the Comprehensive Plan Open Space Chapter. This Plan can impact significantly the Park Authority's ability to develop new parks in the Western parts of Prince William - an area that is currently under-served by public parks. You are encouraged to attend any of these meetings. Information can be found here: http://www.pwcgov.org//default.aspx?topic=040073001410004148
We encourage interested citizens to attend one of these meetings to voice your opinion regarding proposed Strategic Plan or Land Use Plan development that will impact the delivery of recreation in your community.