Survey provides Milton with parks road map

Milton residents want the city's parks and recreation efforts focused on paved, multi-purpose trails, according to results of a recreation assessment poll released Tuesday.

The survey, conducted in March by The Schapiro Group, drew 2,629 responses, about 23 percent of the city's households. The Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey was commission to provide the city a clear road map for what residents expect from their burgeoning recreation system.

Findings from the survey include:

- Sixty-nine percent of respondents said the city should provide paved, multi-purpose trails, followed by playgrounds (60 percent), picnic spaces (52 percent) and natural areas (50 percent.

- City festivals and holiday celebrations are most desired by residents, with concerts and activity classes following closely.

- Youth sports remain popular with respondents, with four options ranking among the top 10 desired programs.

- Grant money ranks as the first choice among residents for recreation funding. A capital improvement bond and user fees followed close behind. Increased property taxes finished last.