BEAUMONT, Texas — The City of Beaumont is launching its first "Parks Master Plan" to bring new parks and recreation spaces over the next 10 years and is asking residents for their input.
Beaumont announced a plan to bring new facilities, parks, recreation areas and more fun activities for residents of all ages to enjoy.
The city is conducting a community survey to get a better sense of what the community prioritizes.
"Well we're excited about the city's parks master plan," said assistant city manager June Ellis. "This will be the first time in 22 years that the city has implemented a parks master plan. So it's really long overdue."
The City of Beaumont says the master plan is to improve existing parks and prioritize where to create new parks.
"Maybe a basketball court, volleyball court, just make it like a big park instead of like a trail have everything all in one," said resident Rayne Carpenter. "They could probably put a pool out here or something."
Carpenter enjoys walking along Folsom Trail and says she would like to see a park added.
"I would like to see a water fountain, and also maybe a playground because I have my brothers in the car," she said. "They were kind of hot, so they went to go sit down. So if they have something to distract themselves with, that would be great."
City leaders say they understand that parks are not only a place to play, but where dreams are created for children like 12-year-old Bryton McGrue.
"I like basketball, and I want to keep practicing, trying hard work," said McGrue. "And try making it to the league someday when I get older."
Levi Heath, a six-year-old child, has a different idea about what he wants to see at parks.
"I want to see a pool," said Heath. "[I want to] play pickle ball."
The city says their plan aims to improve the overall quality of life for current residents.
"We want to first improve it for attracting new residents to the city," said Ellis.
Wendy G is a visitor from Plano and would like to see more trails in Beaumont.
"Where I live there's so many trail systems, we just pick a different one everyday," she said. "And so in Beaumont I just have to kind of use the same ones."
Residents will have until August 1 to complete the survey online.
"You can utilize this survey to actually put out your ideas of like how to change Beaumont," said Sandra Bahena. "Not just keep it like a small city."
For residents who decide to complete the survey, it should take five to 10 minutes.
Citizens are encouraged to answer each question and provide their opinions. All family members in a household can complete their own survey.
All survey answers will remain anonymous and confidential.
"Your feedback will play a pivotal role in this process, and it is crucial that we create a vision that reflects the wants and needs of Beaumont’s diverse community," said the city. "Your participation in this survey is a vital step towards making that vision a reality. Thank you for your commitment to building a brighter, greener future for Beaumont.
Residents will also be able to give input and ask questions in person at upcoming public meetings.
The city is currently planning dates and will provide updates soon.
"Parks are the heart of a vibrant, healthy, and connected community," said the city in a social media update. "As we shape the future, we want your input as to what you want to see."
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
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