2022 Parks and Open Space Plan Interactive Map

The 2022 Parks and Open Space Plan (POSP) establishes a vision for the park system that responds to the needs of the diverse population of Kent today and into the future. Through transparency and engagement, the plan seeks to build community trust and ownership in the planning process, creating key metrics and tools based on that process that drive future decision-making. The POSP establishes four key goals tied to nine distinct outcomes which are utilized to prioritize strategic projects.

A primary object of the POSP was to also establish a baseline of geospatial mapping and analysis to promote equity within the park system. Heat mapping is a powerful geospatial mapping tool that allows for multiple layers of information to be layered together to reveal patterns and deficiencies that can guide planning and priorities. The goal of heat maps in the park context is to identify high-need areas for future park investments. A scoring system based on park access, quality and quantity of amenities, and equity metrics were used to inform a ranked list of existing park properties that have the highest potential impact on access and equity. In addition to helping identify areas of the city with the highest need for investments in existing parks, the heat maps can also be used to help identify potential areas for property acquisitions.

Over the next six years the heat maps will be updated to show progress as project are completed and new ones identified. The intention of this mapping tool is to show which priority projects have been completed and what impact those new or renovated parks have on Kent residents.

Want to explore yourself? Check out the page and learn more with our Interactive Map.