by LISA MACNEIL
[email protected]
The winds were picking up, so the team from Florida State University’s Urban and Regional Planning department moved the Open House inside to one of the equipment rooms at Anderson Snow Sports Park to discuss its Master Plan for future expansion on March 5, 2020.
Michelle Miller, Senior Planner with Hernando County explained that the funding for the park expansion comes from a state grant from the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO). The next steps are to finalize a plan, have the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approve it, and submit the plan to the state by a deadline in May. Additional funding sources are being considered.
At the Open House, members of the community examined maps put together by Hernando County’s Planning Department in partnership with Florida State University (FSU). According to Jeremy Crute, the Project Manager with the FSU team, more than 1000 people responded to The Anderson Snow Park Master Plan Survey offered online from February 3 through February 17, 2020.
Participants provided feedback on what they would like to see Anderson Snow Sports Park look like, whether it be more sports-related such as ball fields and courts, or more of a nature park, with greenspace and hiking trails.
Additionally, a third map, a compilation of top survey results featured an amphitheatre, food truck parking, a splash park, a dog park and multi-use buildings.
A few parents said they would like to see a traditional playground built as well. At a previous meeting held at the Hernando County Library, several young people had their chance to let the planning team know what they would like to see most at the park. Using markers and Legos, the kids drew on the maps, and built slides and other climbable structures they would like included.
Features Unique to Each Map
Sports City
Amphitheatre with overflow parking
Practice Fields
Maintenance and Multi Use Buildings
Additional Soccer Fields
Sports Facilities
Splash Park
Pickleball / Tennis / Basketball Court
Pavillion
Preserve Park
Disc Golf
Green Promenade
Bike Station with Repair / Wash or Rentals
Features Based on Survey Results
Mountain Bike Trail
Expanded parking / Food Truck Platforms
Rock Climbing
Pavillion / Farmer’s Market / Picnic Shelter
Dog Park
Trail Head
Walking / Multiuse Trails
