d.
The newest recreational offering is a pickleball court at Orchardly Park. The 2-court facility opened in July 2022.
3.
Continue landscape planting programs on public properties, pocket parks, and along roadways to further enhance the character of Oakwood.
a.
Under the leadership of the Director of Leisure Services and the City Horticulturist, and with regular assistance from the citizens Beautification Committee, annual landscape planting programs remain robust, year after year. Oakwood’s tree-lined streets and boulevards provide the foundation for public landscaping, supplemented by myriad annual and perennial plantings throughout the city.
4.
Cooperate with Oakwood City Schools in the provision of recreational services.
a.
The city and schools share public facilities on a regular basis including outdoor recreation/athletic fields and indoor gymnasiums. The latest cooperative ventures include Lane Stadium and the Old River Sports Complex, and the Shafor Park Tennis Facility.
5.
Preserve and protect open space areas and environmental features throughout the City.
a.
While land-use development is important in Oakwood, it is not undertaken at the expense of preserving open spaces and environmental features. The Houk Stream natural area, Elizabeth Gardens and Loy Garden lands are examples of the city’s commitment to retaining open space.
b.
Over the years, the city has provided targeted public services and undertaken numerous projects relating to sustainability. Attached hereto as Appendix A is a list of those services and projects.
6.
Work closely with local community groups and other voluntary organizations in the provision of recreational services within the City of Oakwood.
a.
The city regularly works with community partners in organizing and conducting programs at the Oakwood Community Center. An example is blood drives held in cooperation with the Community Blood Center. These blood drives are held several times each year.
NEW OBJECTIVES:
1.
Study the desirability, feasibility and cost implications of constructing new indoor and/or outdoor recreational facilities within and around Oakwood; proceed with projects if supported by the community and if funding is available.
a.
The 2016 Lane Stadium project discussed above is the single best example of a major outdoor facility constructed after obtaining support from the community.
2.
Identify opportunities for more fully utilizing selected existing park sites and recreational areas.
a.
The Irving Field property that had formerly been used heavily for soccer and field hockey is now underutilized and is viewed as a location for a future indoor gymnasium. The city is beginning to consider options for this reuse.
3.
Educate and encourage private property owners to preserve and protect open space areas and environmental features on their property.
a.
City staff, the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals regularly encourage property owners to preserve and enhance landscaping, open spaces and