Priorities

We are a park district rich in history that was built through the generosity of its citizens, strategic partnerships, and dedicated team members. Even in times of significant economic downturns, we’ve been able to consistently provide outstanding park and recreational offerings to our community; however, with declining revenue both through fees and a declining tax base, along with population and demographic shifts, it has become difficult to provide the same level of service without an increase in revenue or a decrease in our footprint.

In 2018, the District directly engaged with an estimated 37,000 youth and adults over a six-month process. Based on feedback from the community, the Rockford Park District developed a five-year strategic plan and revised priorities to address how to best accomplish our mission and fulfill our vision given the current economic, demographic, and environmental challenges facing the Rockford region.

The Strategic Plan provides a series of recommendations that will help guide investment in District assets, along with decisions regarding obsolete, underutilized, or non-trending parks, facilities, and amenities. Feedback regarding recreational needs is being used to determine areas to reinvest in, eliminate, or strategically add. Citizens deemed top priorities, such as neighborhood parks, playgrounds, youth programs, Washington Park Community Center, and trails, along with arts and cultural programming.