Veterans Park Master Park Plan Community Meeting, September 24, 2020

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.” – Albert Einstein

A Veterans Park Planning meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2020 at 6 p.m., sponsored by the Newcastle Parks Committee and open to the public.

Newcastle residents have seen a lot of improvements in our parks in the past year, but one important piece that has been lacking is a comprehensive long-term vision for developments in the parks. Veterans Park is Newcastle’s largest park in land area, but much of the park is undeveloped.

Developing the park will take years and millions in funds to complete, which is why a solid and professionally designed plan makes all the difference. Improvements to the park are guided by community surveys and expert guidance. The City is currently working with Howard-Fairbairn Site Design, an Oklahoma City architectural firm, to develop a Veterans Park plan so improvements happen on a regular and reliable basis.

“We need people with imagination and vision to help create a park that serves everyone well,” says Kevin Self, City Manager. “We anticipate that this meeting will be the first of many where we seek input and ideas from the public on how to develop this park.”

The Veterans Park Master Park Plan meeting will be hosted by City staff and a team of architects from Howard-Fairbairn Site Design. Their goals will be to:
•    Inform the public on the master planning approach and schedule
•    Describe the existing park inventory and site conditions
•    Summarize the recent online community parks survey
•    Facilitate a workshop in the development of Veterans Park concepts

"As people make Newcastle their home, our focus is on continual improvement of parks and other amenities in Newcastle to build community connectivity and improve the quality of life for our residents," said Jeannette McNally, Economic Development Director.

Long-range park planning should help lower costs and simplify development while still making the most of improvements.

"I'm thrilled to see Newcastle growing but staying focused on community improvement", explained Cindy Frizzell, Former Council Member and Newcastle Parks Board Chair. "Our growth can be a positive thing that helps fund improvements just like our new splashpad in Veterans Park, as well as giving everyone a place to gather and enjoy Newcastle together."