Center of Attention: Southwest Community Center Portland Parks and Recreation Portland, Oregon - design, construction and aquatic programmes of community centre

Parks & Recreation, Feb, 2001 by J. Douglas Macy

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT TIPS

Appoint a Citizens Task Force to represent the public and to advise throughout the siting, programming and design process. Include a diversity of ages and interests that include both active and passive recreation. Make sure task force meetings are open and welcoming to the public.

Hold a series of public forums to discuss ideas and explore options. Advertise meetings well through newspapers and flyers. Make meeting conclusions and key decisions available for public review via newsletters.

Conduct public opinion polls by telephone and mail on topics such as siting, programming, design and fees. Distribute questionnaires after public meetings and tabulate results.

Have an open door policy with media representatives and citizens. Invite reporters to attend meetings. Provide regular updates in newsletters and newspapers. Distribute a Q&A flyer to reinforce facts and minimize rumors. Discuss the project on community access television,

Doug Macy is a landscape architect and founding partner of the Portland-based firm, Walker Macy. He has extensive experience in site planning and design for major parks and recreation facilities, and natural resource projects throughout the United States. Doug's projects demonstrate his commitment to design excellence, the preservation of sensitive environmental areas, and stewardship of the natural landscape. Throughout his 28 years of experience, he has collaborated with local, regional, state and national parks organizations to plan and implement solutions that have long-term merit and provide a quality environment for active and passive recreation. In both his professional and personal activities, Doug enjoys being outside in the natural environment. He visits parks and public open spaces throughout the nation to learn more about the physical elements of planning and design and for flyfishing, photography, and other recreational activities. Check out one of his major projects in the article, "Center of Attention: Southwest Community Center".