The 2024-2033 comprehensive master plan was developed over the course of ten months from November 2023 through August 2024. This included a review of the District’s current situation; engagement with the community, partners, District Board of Commissioners, and District staff; and a series of strategy sessions with the District’s staff and Planning Team to establish a set of strategic priorities and goals based on the District and Downers Grove community’s needs and preferences.

The master plan is designed to capture the current needs and opportunities of the District and Downers Grove community and support the District in carrying out its mission. It is meant to assist the District with achieving its vision by aligning efforts related to the District’s parks, facilities, services, and resources around a set of strategic priorities and goals over the next 10 years.

Strategic Priorities

Priority 1:

Effectively utilize resources and partnerships to address District and community needs and improve our readiness for future challenges and demands.

KEY THEMES: SUSTAINABILITY • PRESERVATION • FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY • COLLABORATION • MANAGING GROWTH • MAINTAINING SPACES • RESPONSIVENESS

Priority 2:

Provide modern parks and facilities that offer improved and expanded recreational opportunities for public use and programs.

KEY THEMES: HIGH QUALITY PARKS, FACILITIES, AND SERVICES • PRESERVATION • SERVING ALL AGES • MANAGING GROWTH • MAINTAINING SPACES • RESPONSIVENESS

Priority 3:

Continue plans for development of Gelwicks Park that expand opportunities for both active and passive recreational use by the public.

KEY THEMES: HIGH QUALITY PARKS, FACILITIES, AND SERVICES • FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY • COLLABORATION • MANAGING GROWTH • RESPONSIVENESS

Priority 4:

Continuously monitor, evaluate, and adapt to emerging trends, shifting operational requirements, evolving community needs, and customer expectations.

KEY THEMES: SUSTAINABILITY • SERVING ALL AGES • MANAGING GROWTH • RESPONSIVENESS • EVALUATION

Priority 5:

Deliver high-quality recreation programs, events, and services that align with the insights from the most recent Recreation Program Assessment.

KEY THEMES: HIGH QUALITY PARKS, FACILITIES, AND SERVICES • SUSTAINABILITY • SERVING ALL AGES • MANAGING GROWTH • RESPONSIVENESS • EVALUATION

view the master plan

2023-24 aGENCY GOAls