Defiance Parks & Riverfront Master Plan
About
The City of Defiance proudly announces the launch of the Parks and Riverfront Master Plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents by developing vibrant, community-focused park and riverfront spaces. This project stems from the 2023 Comprehensive Community Action Plan, which highlighted the community's passion for improving public spaces and the environment.
The City of Defiance has partnered with Jones Petrie Rafinski (JPR) and Hometown Initiatives, LLC, both chosen for their expertise in park and riverfront development and implementation. As an architecture and engineering firm in Fort Wayne, IN, JPR is known for its innovative and cost-effective community solutions. Hometown Initiatives, LLC, from Auburn, Indiana, specializes in community engagement, planning, and development.
To ensure the Defiance Parks and Riverfront Master Plan is truly community-driven, the team is launching an online survey, attending a Family Fun Friday event, and hosting a community workshop. These engagement opportunities are designed to gather valuable input from residents and stakeholders, ensuring their voices are heard and incorporated into the planning process.
The project will unfold in three phases. Phase 1 focuses on community engagement and analysis. Phase 2 will develop preliminary plans and strategies for the riverfront parks. Phase 3 finalizes the Master Plan Design, including a detailed report, funding assessments, and an Implementation Plan.
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Get notified on upcoming engagements and the latest project related news.
Important Dates
Community Survey - Online
Residents are encouraged to participate in an online survey that will be available from August 1 through September 1, 2024. The survey seeks input on current park usage, desired amenities, and visions for the riverfront’s future. The feedback gathered will play a crucial role in shaping the Master Plan. The survey can be found online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Defiance2024 The survey is now closed.
Family Fun Friday Event
Residents are encouraged to attend the Family Fun Friday event on August 2 in Downtown Defiance and participate in the scavenger hunt. The project team will be stationed at one of the scavenger hunt locations, eager to gather community feedback on the current parks system and its future. They will also offer visitors more information about the Master Plan. [https://visitdefianceohio.com/events/main-street-events/family-fun-fridays/
Community Workshop
A community workshop will be held September 23, from 6-8pm at the Stroede Center for the Arts, 319 Wayne Avenue, Defiance. This interactive session will provide a platform for residents to share their ideas, discuss concerns, and collaborate on the design of future park and riverfront enhancements.
DRAFT Opportunity Analysis & Appendix Released
The DRAFT Opportunity Analysis & Appendix can be found in Supporting Documents.
Steering Committee Meeting - Concepts
The concept boards shared at this meeting can be found in Supporting Documents.
Community Survey - Phase 2
Residents are encouraged to pick their favorite concepts via an online survey that will be available from November 14 - December 2, 2024. The survey seeks input on concept designs for the riverfront, individual parks, and connectivity. The survey can be found online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/DefiancePh2
The survey is now closed.
Open House
An Open House will be held Wednesday, March 19th, from 6-8pm at the Stroede Center for the Arts, 319 Wayne Avenue, Defiance. This interactive session will provide a platform for residents to see the new park designs after months of data gathering and public meetings. Come see the future of the Defiance Parks!
[Community Presentation Slides]
[https://cityofdefiance.com/DocumentCenter/View/2007/Community-Workshop-Presentation---3192025]
[Community Presentation Boards]
https://cityofdefiance.com/DocumentCenter/View/2008/Community-Presentation-Boards---3192025
Joint Meeting of Parks Commission & Planning Commission
JPR will present the concepts at a joint meeting of the Parks Commission and Planning Commission with special guests Defiance County Metro Parks Board members. This meeting will allow these groups to comment on the designs and gather input. The meeting will be held in the City Council Chambers on Thursday, April 3rd from 5 to 6:30 pm.
Presentation at Council
The consultant will present concepts to City Council on Tuesday, April 8th at 7 pm. This will complete Phase 2 of the Parks & RIverfront Master Plan.