Park System Master Plan

Park System Master Plan
CITY OF
MA N S FIEL D , OH IO
DRAFT
For Administration
and City Council Review Only
April 1, 2020
Prepared by:
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Mansfield Park System Master Plan 2
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Acknowledgements
Prepared for the City of Mansfield, Ohio
Timothy Theaker, Mayor
Mark Abrams, Parks and Recreation Director
City Council:
President - Cliff Mears
1st Ward - Laura Burns
2nd Ward - Cheryl Meier
3rd Ward - Jon Van Harlingen
4th Ward - Alomar Davenport
5th Ward - Jason Lawrence
6th Ward - Jean Taddie
At Large - Phillip Scott
At Large - David Falquette
Park & Representative Committee:
Cheryl Meier - Chairman
Alomar Davenport - Vice Chair
Jean Taddie - Member
David Remy, Public Works Director
Tim Bowersock, Economic Development
Bob Bianchi, City Engineer
The Richland County Foundation

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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION 7
INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS 9
PARKS AND OPEN SPACE STANDARDS 10
PARKS INVENTORY 13
COMMUNITY INPUT/NEEDS ASSESSMENT 16
HOUSEHOLD SURVEY SUMMARY 17
PUBLIC MEETINGS 21
GOALS & OBJECTIVES 23
SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS 24
PARK CONCEPTS 27

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Introduction
The primary purpose of this report is to provide the City of Mansfield with
a community - based description of its current parks and recreation issues,
identified needs and realistic recommendations.
The plan will guide decision making in regards to capital improvements

and improvements to existing park space for the future. It is anticipated
that the plan will identify needed facility improvements and development
standards for said improvements; analyze outdoor facility needs, including
the designation of potential park, recreation, open space/greenway areas
and bikeways; develop language and preliminary conceptual layouts of
how these improvements will be incorporated into existing park land. Based
on a needs assessment and projected budgetary restraints, the City will
use this plan to identify development scenarios for existing and future park
space.
The implementation of this master plan will embody the City’s desire to
provide the highest quality parks and recreation facilities for this ever
changing community. This long-term vision can be achieved through the
identification of realistic, yet, innovative strategies for improvements
throughout the entire park system. The objective being to create a park
system that helps to continually improve the image and community pride
already found throughout the Mansfield community.
It is intended that this Master Plan will be a flexible document, presenting

findings that are evaluated, validated and/or modified periodically as the
City responds to unforeseen opportunities and constraints. Periodic updates
of the Master Plan are anticipated at approximately five-year intervals.

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Inventory and Analysis
Regional Context State of Ohio Parks
• Malabar Farm State Park
The City of Mansfield, located in Richland County Ohio, lies approximately Richland County Park District
65 miles northeast of Columbus, 65 miles southwest of Cleveland, and 91 • Richland B&O Bike Trail
miles southeast of Toledo. • Gorman Nature Center
• Cole Road Prairie
The City was founded in 1808 and incorporated as a City in 1857, • Hartman Woods
encompasses nearly 31 square miles of land area in Richland County. • Hemlock Falls
• Tugend Road Prairie
Demographics (Wikipedia) • Fleming Falls/Mowana
As of the 2010 census, there were 47,821 people, 18,696 households, and Mansfield Park System
10,655 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,549.1
inhabitants per square mile. There were 22,022 housing units at an Currently, the City is responsible for the development, maintenance and
average density of 713.4 per square mile. The racial makeup of the city programming of an extensive park system spanning thirty parks and
was 73.3% White, 22.1% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.7% totaling 325 acres.
Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.5% from other races, and 3.0% from two or
more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.9% of the population. All operations and capital development projects are funded by the City’s
general fund and the Parks and Recreation Department is funded solely
There were 18,696 households of which 27.5% had children under the age by the P.R.I.D.E levy which is a quarter percent income tax. The entire levy
of 18 living with them, 36.0% were married couples living together, 16.6% allots fifty percent to Mansfield’s Fire and Police departments, twenty-
had a female householder with no husband present, 4.4% had a male two percent to the Parks and Recreation Department, twenty percent for
householder with no wife present, and 43.0% were non-families. 37.1% of demolition and eight percent for street lighting. The Parks and Recreation
all households were made up of individuals and 14.6% had someone living Department allotment equals $816,000 this year. These funds support all
alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was the maintenance of the park facilities that includes mowing, landscaping
2.21 and the average family size was 2.88. and repair, including the upkeep for five enclosed pavilions.
The median age in the city was 38.5 years. 20.2% of residents were under The City’s Youth Athletic Association offers youth tee ball, baseball, softball
the age of 18; 10.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 28% were and tackle football and utilizes ball diamonds owned and maintained by
from 25 to 44; 26% were from 45 to 64; and 15.7% were 65 years of the City. In addition, Mansfield has expanded its recreation programs to
age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 53.0% male and 47.0% include a range of family activities throughout the year including a family
female. craft night once every month.
Regional Park and Recreational Facilities

In addition to its own system of 30 parks and open spaces, ranging in size
from the 1/2 acre Betzstone Park to the 84-acre Sterkle Park, the City‘s
parks and recreation and open space needs are being met by a number of
public and private entities.
Kingwood Center Gardens

Ohio Bird Sanctuary
Richland Carrousel Park
Snow Trails Ski Resort
The Ohio State Reformatory Mansfield Park System Master Plan 9
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Park and Open Space Standards
One outcome of the master plan is to develop planning standards that NRPA standard size: 5 acres (park only without school) with I to 2 Natural Resource Areas and Preserves:
represent the community’s preferred level of service related to the amount, developed acres per 1000 population.
type and distribution of parks and open space. This type of open space or parkland is set aside for preservation due
City of Mansfield: 33.5 acres with 0.7 acres per 1000 population. to significant natural characteristics, as an open space buffer for other
For the purposes of this study, the City’s parks and open space facilities development, or to save remnants of landscapes that are unique to a
have been classified into categories according to the National Recreation Mini Parks: particular place.
and Parks Association (NRPA) standards.
Typically the smallest unit of a park system, mini-parks serve limited or Site size and characteristics vary depending upon desired use.
These standards will be used to measure the level of service within existing isolated recreational needs within a 1/4 mile radius. Facilities may also
neighborhoods. The standards will also identify the potential needs of be specialized in use such as for children or senior adults and can include Bikeways, Trails, and Greenways:
the growing areas of the community. The end result will be a customized passive or active amenities.
hierarchical system of parks that are adaptable to the specific functional, These linear segments serve to connect community facilities such as schools,
location and resource preservation needs of the Village. parks, and other places containing the civic structure of a community to one
NRPA standard size: 1-acre less developed (typically between 2500 SF or another and to neighborhoods. Bikeways, Trails, and Greenways follow
The NRPA suggests that the community be served by various types of parks less than 5-acres) with 1/4 to 1/2 acre per 1000 population. natural corridors such as rivers, wooded areas or open spaces and cultural
that are reasonably distributed throughout the community and that there (man-made) corridors including streets, highways, railways, easements,
be 6.25 to 10.5 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. City of Mansfield: 0.1 acres with 0.002 acres per 1000 population. and utility routes. They can serve to preserve natural resources, provide
transportation linkages, and become recreation sites in and of themselves.
Joint Use Facilities:
Community Parks: Site size and characteristics vary depending upon desired use.
For the purposes of this study, joint use facilities mainly include school
Parks that serve the needs of the entire community or group of sites that are not owned by the City but are currently used for park City of Mansfield:
neighborhoods within a I to 1 - 1/2 mile radius. Ideal access is via non- and recreation uses. NRPA typically classifies this type of facility as a • North/South Linear Connector: +/- 1.5 Miles
residential arterial or collector streets. Developed amenities should include School-Park site within the Neighborhood Park category if there are joint • East/West Linear Connectors: +/- 3.6 Miles (4th Street & Park Ave.)
a balance of active and passive uses. ownership and maintenance agreements in place. • Richland B&O Trail within City limits: +/- 3.0 Miles
NRPA standard size: 25+ acres with 5 to 8 developed acres per 1000 NRPA does not list size standards for this type of facility.
population.
City of Mansfield: 305.7 acres with 6.4 acres per 1000 population. Special Use Areas:
Special Use Facilities include areas for single purpose recreational
Neighborhood Parks: activities such as golf courses or senior centers or sites of significant cultural
significance. Special use facilities typically serve an entire community and
Parks that are intended to function as the basic unit of a city park system are unique to a particular place.
by serving the needs of individual or combined neighborhoods within a 1/4
to 1/2 mile radius. Ideal access is via residential streets with connections Site size and characteristics vary depending upon desired use.
to bikeway, trail, and greenway system. Neighborhood parks should
have a balance of passive and active amenities and are not intended for n/a
programmed activities such as active sports uses. Neighborhood parks can
also include elementary schools as joint school-park sites.
Mansfield Community City Parks
OH-13
MYERS RD
Location Map
BO
HWY 233
WM
AN
1 Betzstone Park
ST
AMOY RD 2 Brushwood Park
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3 Buckeye Park
RICH
LAN
D SH 4 Burton Park
OH-
ALE
RD
39
5 Central Park
CA
IRN
SR
D 6 Cyclops Field
7 Deer Park
8 Dewey and Vine Field
PIPER RD
9 Dickson Park
D
POTH R RD
AL
LS 10 Fox Glen Park
GF
D
GR
IN
FLE
M 11 Hamilton Park
UR
WALKER LA SPR
SB
KE RD ING -42
IVE
MIL
L RD 6 US 12 Harvard Park
OL
13 John Todd Park
US
US-30
-3
0
14 Johns Park
17 Julia Underhill Park
WAYNE ST
-30
9 GRACE ST 15
ILLINOIS AVE
OH 23
4TH ST
PARK AVE 16 King Street Park
17 Liberty Park
MULLBERRY RD
21
PARK AVE
18 Linden Pool
LEXINGTON-SPRINGMILL RD
29
TRIMBLE RD
19 Linden Woods Park

13
20 Maple Lake Park
E
MILLSBORO RD
NU
21 Middle Park
E
AV
N
IO
22 Newman Street Park

AR
M
ALT
AR 30 23 North Lake Park
D
COOK ROAD
24 Optimist Park
HWY 314 25 Prospect Park
MA
26 Redwood Park
LOGAN RD NSF
IELD
LUC 27 Ritters Run park
WASHINGTON NORTH RD
A S RD
2 28 Sherman Estate Park
STRAUB RD
Key
29 South Park
MAIN ST
1
I-7
1/2 Mile Radius 30 Sterkel Park

OH-13
E RD
1 Mile Radius
B+O Trail
MIDDLE BELLVILL
HANLEY RD
Mansfield
Corporation Limit
HWY 327
US-42
B+O Trail 0 3000’ 6000’

Mansfield Neighborhood City Parks
OH-13
MYERS RD
Location Map
BO
HWY 233
WM
AN
1 Betzstone Park
ST
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

3 Buckeye Park
RICH
LAN
D SH 4 Burton Park
OH-
ALE
RD
39
5 Central Park
CA
IRN
SR
D 6 Cyclops Field
7 Deer Park
PIPER RD
9 Dickson Park
D
POTH R RD
AL
LS 10 Fox Glen Park
GF
D
GR
15 IN
FLE
M 11 Hamilton Park
UR
WALKER LA SPR
SB
KE RD ING -42
IVE
MIL
L RD US 12 Harvard Park
OL
11 13 John Todd Park
US
US-30
-3
0
14 Johns Park
16 14 8
Julia Underhill Park
WAYNE ST
-30
9 GRACE ST 15
ILLINOIS AVE
OH
4TH ST 22 16 King Street Park
PARK AVE
17 Liberty Park
MULLBERRY RD
28
PARK AVE
18 Linden Pool
TRIMBLE RD
12 20 19 Linden Woods Park

27
19 20 Maple Lake Park
E
MILLSBORO RD
NU
21 Middle Park
E
AV
25
N
IO
9 22 Newman Street Park

AR
M
ALT
24 23 North Lake Park
AR
D
COOK ROAD
24 Optimist Park
4 1
26
MA
26 Redwood Park
LOGAN RD NSF
IELD
WASHINGTON NORTH RD
A S RD
STRAUB RD
Key
29 South Park
MAIN ST
1
I-7

OH-13
E RD
1 Mile Radius
B+O Trail
MIDDLE BELLVILL
HANLEY RD
Mansfield
Corporation Limit
HWY 327
US-42
B+O Trail
Mansfield Mini City Parks
OH-13
MYERS RD
Location Map
BO
HWY 233
WM
AN
1 Betzstone Park
ST
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

3 Buckeye Park
RICH
LAN
D SH 4 Burton Park
OH-
ALE
RD
39
5 Central Park
CA
IRN
SR
D 6 Cyclops Field
7 Deer Park
PIPER RD
9 Dickson Park
D
POTH R RD
AL
LS 10 Fox Glen Park
GF
D
GR
IN
FLE
M 11 Hamilton Park
UR
WALKER LA SPR
SB
KE RD ING -42
IVE
MIL
OL
13 John Todd Park
US
US-30
-3
0
14 Johns Park
WAYNE ST
-30
9 GRACE ST 15
ILLINOIS AVE
OH
4TH ST
17 Liberty Park
MULLBERRY RD
28
PARK AVE
18 Linden Pool
TRIMBLE RD

20 Maple Lake Park
E
MILLSBORO RD
NU
21 Middle Park
E
AV
N
IO

AR
M
ALT
AR 23 North Lake Park
D
COOK ROAD
24 Optimist Park
MA
26 Redwood Park
LOGAN RD NSF
IELD
WASHINGTON NORTH RD
A S RD
28 Sherman Estate Park
STRAUB RD
Key
29 South Park
MAIN ST
1
I-7

OH-13
E RD
1 Mile Radius
B+O Trail
MIDDLE BELLVILL
HANLEY RD
Mansfield
Corporation Limit
HWY 327
US-42
B+O Trail 0 3000’ 6000’

Mansfield Special Use City Parks
OH-13
OH-13
MYERS RD
Location Map
BO
HWY 233
WM
AN
1 Betzstone Park
ST
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

3 Buckeye Park
RICH
LAN
D SH 4 Burton Park
OH-
ALE
RD
39
5 Central Park
CA
IRN
SR
D 6 Cyclops Field
7 Deer Park
PIPER RD
9 Dickson Park
D
POTH R RD
AL
LS 10 Fox Glen Park
GF
D
GR
IN
FLE
M 11 Hamilton Park
UR
WALKER LA SPR
SB
KE RD ING -42
IVE
MIL
OL
13 John Todd Park
US
US-30
-3
0
14 Johns Park
WAYNE ST
-30
9 GRACE ST 15
ILLINOIS AVE
OH
4TH ST
17 Liberty Park
MULLBERRY RD
PARK AVE
5 18 Linden Pool
TRIMBLE RD

20 Maple Lake Park
18
E
MILLSBORO RD
NU
21 Middle Park
E
AV
N
IO

AR
M
ALT
AR 23 North Lake Park
D
COOK ROAD
24 Optimist Park
7 HWY 314 25 Prospect Park
MA
26 Redwood Park
LOGAN RD NSF
IELD
WASHINGTON NORTH RD
A S RD
STRAUB RD
Key
29 South Park
MAIN ST
1
I-7

OH-13
E RD
1 Mile Radius
B+O Trail
MIDDLE BELLVILL
HANLEY RD
Mansfield
Corporation Limit
HWY 327
US-42
B+O Trail 0 3000’ 6000’

Misc. Buildings
Softball Field
Undeveloped
Monuments &
Neighborhood
Tennis Courts
Trails / Trail
Lake / Pond
Sports Field
Playground
Open Lawn
Horse Shoe
Park Name
Picnic Area
Frontage /
Ownership
Community
Baseball /
Special Use
Basketball
for Fishing
Volleyball
Swimming
Corn Hole
Restrooms
Community
Feature /
Historical
Gardens
Pavillion
Mini Park
Soccer /
Features
Wildlife
Fountain
Gazebo
Acreage
Acreage
Acreage
Acreage
Plants /
Shelter
Water
Indoor
Access
Access
Parcel
Courts
Grills
Court
Road
Area
Pool
Pit
1 Betzstone Betzstone Avenue 270750027000 City of Mansfield x 0.4
2 Brushwood Brushwood Drive 589350005000 City of Mansfield x 21.4
3 Buckeye Riva Ridge Drive 569214302027 City of Mansfield x 2.5
4 Burton Sunset Boulevard 569250002000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x x x 7.5
5 Central Park Street N/A City of Mansfield R.O.W. x x x x 2.3
289003702004 x x x x
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6 Cyclops Field N. Main Street City of Mansfield 15.3
289003618001
261150002000 x x
7 Deer Home Road South City of Mansfield 4.5
372850005000
8 Dewey & Vine Vine Street 270509814000 City of Mansfield x x 1.7
9 Dickson Davis Road 270750007000 City of Mansfield x x x x x 1.5
589350006000 x x x x x
10 Fox Glen Straub Road 589350007000 City of Mansfield 36.8
589350008000
270450045000 x x x x x x x x
11 Hamilton Fern Avenue 270450060000 City of Mansfield 24.7
270450037000
12 Harvard Harvard Ave. 270250019000 City of Mansfield x x 3.1
270650004000 x x x x x x x x x x
13 John Todd Bowers Ave. 270650005000 City of Mansfield 18.1
289050068000
14 Johns Johns Ave. 270450002000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x x x x 4.9
15 Julia Underhill Dillon Road 270450041000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x 1.3
270450071000 x x x x x x
270450072000
270450073000
270450074000
16 King Street King Street City of Mansfield 3.1
270450075000
270450076000
270450077000
270450078000
17 Liberty Grace Street 270550006000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 25.4
270207501000 x x
270207502000
270207503000
270207504000
270207505000
270207506000
18 Linden Pool Donald Court City of Mansfield 3.1
270207507000
270207508000
270207509000
270207511000
270207512000
270207513000
19 Linden Woods Linden Circle West 270209703017 City of Mansfield x x 1.9
20 Maple Lake Fairlawn Avenue 270250001000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x x 10.2
21 Middle Rowland Avenue 270350009000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x 17.9
22 Newman Street Newman Street 270550033000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x 1.4
270350009000 x x x x x x x x x x
270350010000
270303011000 (N/A)
270303011001
23 North Lake Westbrook Ave. City of Mansfield 20.2
270303012002
270303012003
270303014000
270350082000
289012811001 x x x
24 Optimist Carol Lane 289050009000 City of Mansfield 1.2
289012813000
25 Prospect Marquis Avenue 270750001000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x x x 2.6
26 Redwood Redwood Road 270750017000 City of Mansfield x x x 1.5
270150207000 x x x x
270150208000
270150209000
27 Ritters Run Ohio St. City of Mansfield 1.5
270150213000
270150210000
270150206000
28 Sherman Estate Sherman Pl. 270350007000 City of Mansfield x 0.1
29 South Park Binkerhoff Avenue 270250003000 City of Mansfield x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 35.0
289050090000 x x x x x x x
30 Sterkel Hollywood Ln. City of Mansfield 80.7
289050089000
Total: 305.7 33.5 0.1 12.3
Total Acreage 351.7

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Community Input/Needs Assessment
Approach and Methodology included rental properties.
Due to the number and distribution of open space that the City is currently 3. Community-Wide E-mail
accustomed to and the valued historic character existing throughout the
community, it was determined that a “Community Outreach” approach Specific directed e-mails were sent to those residents currently on the
that involved input from the general public and City staff was the best City’s contact list, as well as, specifically targeted individuals previously
approach for assistance in the development of this master plan. involved in the City’s public clean-up events, the Mansfield Bloom
Committee and the Chamber of Commerce.
The community outreach involved several steps:
• Household Park System Survey 4. Social Media Posts & Press Releases
• Parks & Recreation Staff input
• Public meeting A City-wide press release was issued and notifications to the following
social media sites were posted:
As an initial step, the physical site amenities within each of the existing • The Parks & Recreation Facebook page
parks were inventoried. Unique characteristics specific to each park were • Earth Stewardship Celebration
identified and measured against all other parks within the system. Then, • City of Mansfield Shade Tree Commission
national standards were applied to help determine whether the current • Mansfield Storm Water Management
level of service being provided to the community was appropriate. • Richland News and Information Facebook page
• Twitter
Since this is the first parks system master plan undertaken by the City of • Facebook
Mansfield, this effort will provide the means to observe trends that are
important for the park system now and into the future. Mayor, City Council and Parks & Recreation Staff Input
Household Survey for Parks The Mayor and Mansfield Parks and Recreation staff members were also
involved in an interactive brainstorming session to provide ideas on the
A ‘Survey Monkey’ on-line community survey was created to solicit input ways in which the City provides services to the community through its parks
from all community members and supporters of the Mansfield community. and open spaces.
The survey asked residents to respond with specific questions regarding the
existing state and condition of the City’s parks and open space and how Additionally, individual interviews were conducted with each City Council
the City should invest in and focus on in future development of its parks. member on a one-on-one basis to solicit input and gather feedback
The survey was made available to the public via the City’s website from regarding the City’s individual parks and park system as a whole.
May 1st through June 8th, 2019. The public was notified and made aware
of the on-line survey through a variety of public notifications. They were: The value of their knowledge and understanding of the current conditions
of each of the park facilities proved to be a valuable part of the planning
1. The Spring Cityline Newsletter process.
Residents of Mansfield were reminded in the Mayor’s newsletter to Public Input Meeting
participate in the on-line household survey. Live links were provided to
direct people to the appropriate web location to take the survey. A single public community meeting was conducted at the North Lake Park
Pavilion on Thursday June 27, 2019, in which participants were asked
2. Utility Bill Insert their thoughts on the current state of the parks and open spaces within the
Mansfield community and what types of development needs the City should
A single sheet insert was included in the May 2019 water & sewer bills focus on. These highly interactive sessions gathered input and facilitated
of over 19,000 City of Mansfield residential and business properties discussions of the major issues and needs of the parks throughout the
notifying them of the opportunity to take the household survey. This also community. Mansfield Park System Master Plan 16
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Household Survey Summary
A ‘Survey Monkey’ on-line household survey was created to solicit input 1. Please mark how strongly you agree or disagree with this statement: 3. Please mark all the ways you currently use Mansfield parks
from all community members and supporters of the Mansfield community. City park facilities make Mansfield a more livable community?
The survey asked residents to respond regarding the existing state and
condition of the City’s parks and open space and how the City should invest
in and focus on in future development of its parks. Over 330 households
responded with complete surveys. This approach by the park district
attempted to offer every resident an opportunity to participate in the park
planning process.
The following is a summary of the park system survey results. The entire
household survey results, including individual comments, is located in the
appendix portion of this document.
2. How would you rate park facilities within the Mansfield community? 4. Please rate the following park planning strategies

DRAFT FOR REVIEW
5. Please indicate which parks you use by rating how well they satisfy your 7. Thinking of the playgrounds and play equipment at the parks you use, 9. Please mark how strongly you agree or disagree with this statement: The
park needs? how would you rate the playgrounds and play equipment? physical condition and maintenance of City park facilities is adequate?
6. Please indicate which parks you use by rating how well they satisfy your 8. Please mark how strongly you agree or disagree with this statement: The 10. Please indicate the primary way you or your family travel to the parks:
park needs? City of Mansfield needs more parks and open spaces?

DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Survey Demographics 13. How many people reside in your household? 15. Your age?
11. Are you a resident of the City of Mansfield?
12. How long have you lived in Mansfield or the surrounding area? 14. How many school age children reside in your household? Aquatics Related Questions
16. Do you feel that Mansfield’s pools meet the needs of the community?

DRAFT FOR REVIEW
17. Regarding The Future of the Community Pool: 19. If we have a city pool open, how important are the following existing 21. If you’re currently not utilizing the pool, or are using it infrequently,
features: what would increase your attendance?
20. Please rank the importance of the following features if they were to be
added to the pool complex
18. Level of agreement with the following statements

DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Public Input Meeting
A public input meeting was conducted on June 27, 2019 at the North Park Residents said that they would like to see true pedestrian friendly the parks and programming.
Pavilion located within North Park. Combined, approximately 47 people connections between parks to facilitate bike riding and walking to provide
attended and offered comments. Short introductory presentations were a safe North/South connection. Julie Parsons “Fun in the Parks” was successful and should be done again.
made by Mark Abrams, Parks and Recreation Director and discussions were
led by the EMH&T planning team. The presentation included a powerpoint Address safety issues in parks through increased visibility, police presence, The public cares about their community, we would like to know how we can
presentation summarizing the results from the Household Survey for the cameras and safety kiosks. help with maintenance and upkeep of facilities.
group to consider. The presentation was followed by an open forum
discussion. Provide programs and activities in parks such as: Farmers Markets, At the conclusion of the meeting, we encouraged individuals in attendance
Gardening Classes, Fitness Classes, Rock Wall Climbing, etc. to talk to their neighbors, children’s teachers and friends and reminded
The following comments and issues were discussed at the meeting: them about the importance of their opinions throughout this master plan
Please repair the steps going down into South Park. process.
Some type of community education would be helpful to make people
aware of what parks and recreation has to offer to the community. Many in Please improve and increase signage within all of the parks.
attendance claimed to have never received any information regarding the
household survey. Create a better information outreach system. Increased maintenance on all park restrooms. It would also be convenient
• Social media if they were actually opened during the day.
• Local media
• Get the word out Create Public Art Spaces to reduce vandalism.
Mansfield is a ‘Nostalgic Community’ and the parks should represent that There was general agreement that providing a skate park would be a
feeling. Can we use the park system as an opportunity to promote good great amenity in the community. It would keep people from going to other
things that are happening within the community? cities and towns. A “Concrete Bowl” style was preferred over superficial
metal or wood surface structures.
Please provide sidewalks and/or parking spaces in the community’s “top Benefits would be:
parks”. • It will help keep kids out of trouble
• It will keep kids off of street and private property
Sidewalks throughout the City would be nice to connect neighborhoods and • Try to have materials donated
not force people to walk in the street. • Let interested kids and residents donate their time to help build it
• Potential locations would be:
The City’s youth should have input into the proposed improvements. • Burton Park
• Hamilton Park
We would like the parks and aquatic spaces to address accessibility issues • Johns Park
and be inclusive • Liberty Park
• This was listed as a “top priority” • Maple Lake Park
• Also mentioned was the desire for an accessible play space at • Newman Street
Prospect Park specifically • North Park
There is no need to add additional park space, fix up and remediate the Some residents feel that the “North Side” of town of town has been
current parks. neglected.
Strong desire to see nice affordable pools in more than just one Make use of the existing “Adopt a Park” Program.
neighborhood.
Utilize sheep and goats to upkeep lawn areas.
Site furnishings, equipment, tables, benches in parks should not be
moveable to avoid vandalism and theft. Make a system in which people can sign up to volunteer and/or donate for Mansfield Park System Master Plan 21
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Goals and Objectives
The goals and objectives of this master plan were developed through a restrictions • Create a park foundation to raise funds through public and private
community based approach. Various meetings were held with the Parks & • Consistently reevaluate all parks annually to determine the required partnerships for parks, trails, and recreational programs
Recreation Staff to discuss these system-wide recommendations. level of maintenance needs • Identify opportunities to return non-park related maintenance practices
back to their appropriate City departments (Service Department,
Provide equal service to the entire community Maintain and improve safety within each of the parks Storm Water Department, etc.)
• Promote community health and wellness for residents using the parks • Provide clear and understandable signage to help enhance the feeling
• Make all parks welcoming and easily accessible for all levels of users of safety by allowing people to orient themselves within the parks Establish a continuous communication and public awareness campaign
• Promote all types of public open space within the community regardless • Consider formal or informal surveillance or the extent to which • Focus on the creation of a new park district image and identity as a
of use (active, passive, or natural) park activities can be observed by people to reduce vandalism, catalyst for improved community pride
• Provide the community with a variety of park and open space options inappropriate activities or the perception of isolation • Make the community aware of current parks and trails, their sizes and
• The Parks and Recreation Department should react to the reasonable • Enhance lighting to enhance the perception of safety and enhance night components through the quarterly newsletter and the internet
desires of the community time surveillance • Provide the community with up-to-date maps and descriptions of all
• Promote Parks and Recreation as an essential City service • Conduct audits of all playground equipment to identify deficiencies facilities
and/or necessary improvements
Improve the appearance of the current park system • Design for all ages and ranges of physical abilities Partner with other community groups, associations and park districts
• Create standards for signage, lighting and site furnishings • Design barrier-free handicapped accessible facilities • The Richland County Foundation
• Encourage recycling throughout the community • Provide sanitary, modern restroom facilities in community parks when • Richland Area Chamber of Commerce
• Establish an improvement strategy to aid the City and the Parks feasible • SXSW419
Department in determining order, timing and extent of various park • Integrate sidewalks and safety crosswalks when feasible • Richland County Parks
improvements based on available resources • Mansfield City Schools
Develop a multi-use trail system strategy
Develop system-wide maintenance standards • Create standards for the entire City trail network Pursue private development partnerships for recreation and leisure
• Reduce the amount of manicured mowing and develop no-mow areas • Create a linear multi-use trail network activities throughout the community
within the park where feasible • Strengthen internal neighborhood connectivity • Encourage local businesses to participate, volunteer, donate services
• Upgrade and maintain all parks to meet high level of safety and • Identify and connect important elements throughout the community and/or provide sponsorships
quality standards • Create a dynamic system that integrates easily into the B&O Trail • Promote local economic development opportunities through dialogue
• Place emphasis on the quality of maintenance of existing parks rather with the Mayor’s office and City Economic Development Director
than the acquisition of additional park space Create more efficient use of existing facilities and services
• Provide ‘High Level Maintenance’ to parks areas with reasonably high • Pursue and encourage joint uses with schools
visitation and use • Encourage churches and other community services to share resources
• Provide ‘Moderate Level Maintenance’ to parks areas with moderate • Do not duplicate services that another adjacent community may
levels of visitation, moderate use or budgetary restrictions already provide
• Provide ‘Moderately Low Level Maintenance’ to parks areas with low • Identify volunteering opportunities within the community
levels of visitation, low use, undeveloped open space or budgetary • Identify alternative funding sources throughout the community Mansfield Park System Master Plan 23
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Recommendations
This chapter outlines a series of recommendations for parks in Mansfield. Recreate a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board A collaborative, community-based design would be strongly encouraged
These recommendations are based on the findings of the community needs to engage local youth throughout the community in the skatepark design
assessment and are mainly inclusive of existing park and open space A Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will provide recommendations process. Ultimately, the design should at least consider street sections
facilities. All of the recommendations are designed to help the City achieve in order to enable the City of Mansfield’s Department of Parks and with rails and ledges, beginner, intermediate and advanced bowls,
its long-term open space goals. Recreation to plan, program and maintain the City’s parks and provide spectator seating, shaded areas and lighting. A pump track should also be
recreational program guidance for the general welfare of Mansfield considered as a optional design element.
residents. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will advise the City
System-Wide Benefits Council, Mayor, Department of Parks and Recreation Director, and other Potential skatepark locations may include Prospect Park, former 4th Street
city departments as necessary. Additionally, the Parks and Recreation school site (identified in the 2019 Mansfield Rising Plan), former Cline
Throughout the entire master plan process, The City of Mansfield has held Advisory Board will advocate for and develop public interest in the Parks Avenue school site (identified in the 2019 Mansfield Rising Plan).
onto a vision for a park system that is one of a walkable, accessible, and Recreation Department’s activities.
interconnected park and open space system supporting a wide variety of
active recreation and outdoor experiences and opportunities. Identify property within the existing park system to develop Create a series of connected green spaces using the existing
an aquatics facility open spaces opportunities within the community
This ideal park system should contain a variety of park types, each
offering certain types of recreation and/or open space opportunities. Since the closing of Linden Pool in 2016, Liberty Pool has served as the The North/South Linear System
While each of the park types found throughout the community may only option for Mansfield residents in search of outdoor swimming, as Ford Maple Lake Park, South Park, Middle Park, North Lake Park and the B&O
individually serve a primary function, collectively they should all meet Hill and Unity Polls also closed several years prior. Trail are all adjacent to one another, visually connected and yet don’t feel
the needs of the entire system working toward the overall benefit of the physically connected.
community. In this manner, the park system can serve a wider range of As a signature community destination, the pool and aquatic facility
Mansfield residents on variety of levels. should consider a new modern swimming pool area, zero depth entry Connectivity of all of these open spaces can be achieved by developing
area, toddler pool, lap pool, diving pool, slides and pool deck areas a multi-use trail system supported with traffic control devices, signalized
Rarely does an individual park serve a single purpose for visitors. Whether containing zones for shade and sunning. The aquatic facility should also crosswalks, tunneling under City streets, signage, maps, literature and a
visiting a community park or a neighborhood park, residents typically have contain a modern pool house containing accessible changing areas, lockers, public awareness campaign.
several amenities to choose from. Most park users will visit a park, not so restrooms, concessions and party spaces.
much because of what type of park it is, but because of the amenities that The East/West Linear System
it provides. Many parks include, in some form, general open space, picnic The development of a centrally located pool would help promote a Create standard bike lanes and/or sharrows along 4th street and Park
shelters, restrooms, playgrounds, community gardens, trails and pathways, greater sense of community and improve the health and well-being of Avenues.
benches and other site furnishings and active recreation zones. Each of Mansfield residents. A collaborative, community-based design process
these parks may individually serve a specific purpose, but together they should be conducted to engage residents and appropriate stakeholders. A standard bike lane is a portion of the road set aside by markings for use
contribute to the resident or visitor’s overall experience. by bicyclists. Generally placed between the lane of parked cars and the
Potential aquatic facility locations may include Liberty Park, Hamilton Park, travel lane, bike lanes provide dedicated space for people riding bikes but
Each of these features should not all be included in every individual park, former 4th Street school site (identified in the 2019 Mansfield Rising Plan), do not provide physical barriers preventing automobiles from encroaching
but the goal of the parks department should be to have a park serving this former Cline Avenue school site (identified in the 2019 Mansfield Rising into the space. Bicycle riders should always ride with traffic.
variety of needs within walking distance of each resident. Ideally, the full Plan).
range of basic amenities may be provided at one site, but in some cases, The term sharrow stands for “shared use arrow” and refers to a visual
basic park amenity access could be achieved through the combination of pavement marking depicting a bicycle beneath a double chevron. A
several parks within an area for residents to choose. Identify property within the existing park system to develop a sharrow does not create dedicated space for bicyclists, but is used to
skatepark communicate to both drivers and bicyclists that a particular roadway
Upon review, our assessment and consideration of the public comments, is likely to be used by cyclists and where on the roadway cyclists are
there were several uses that were missing that could improve the park A common comment that continued to surface throughout the community recommended to ride. Cyclists who understand the markings will generally
system tremendously. engagement process was the identification of programmed activities for ride directly over the sharrows if they are placed properly.
young people, teens and young adults within the community. Specifically the The Downtown Urban System
development of a skatepark.
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
(From the Mansfield Rising Downtown Investment Plan 2019) Improve Existing Facilities
With the Carrousel serving as a hub, develop a series of linear parks
that make use of existing green spaces, alleys, parking lots, vacant and Provide modern sanitary restrooms in all community parks and where Consider the development of an adult fitness zone
underutilized properties to connect to the pending Imagination District, feasible in neighborhood scale parks. This was a frequently requested
Municipal Building, and perimeter parking. element brought up throughout the public process. Create an outdoor, adult fitness zone or ninja course within one of the
City’s community parks and along a multi-use trail. As adult obesity
Transform key alleys as destinations and safe walkways by closing them Provide picnic shelters with running water and electricity in all community continues to increase, encouraging regular physical activity is an important
off to vehicular traffic and making their primary function for gathering, parks. This was a highly requested element that was brought up consideration for public health. The City should identify ways to make
exploring, and art. Key opportunity spaces include the alley East of Dan continuously throughout the public process. physical activity and exercise more accessible, available, affordable,
Lew Exchange, Dickson Avenue, Temple Court, and Luther Place. pleasurable, and ultimately, more useful.
Provide drinking water and electricity within specific neighborhood parks.
Continue masterplan improvements to North Lake Park The request for water and electricity may create the need for additional Potential fitness zone locations may include North Lake Park.
lighting and security for prevention of vandalism and general safety.
The continued development of North Lake Park represents one of the Make inclusive play spaces a priority when considering the
City’s best opportunities to increase the level of park service within the Provide drinking fountains along trails and in passive areas. re-design of future and existing playgrounds
community. A fully developed North Lake Park will be a very visible
commitment to the City. This community park should be designed as a major Encourage all parks to be “pet friendly” An inclusive playground addresses the needs of all children including those
recreational facility centered around the lake, Touby Run, Richland B&O who may have limitations regarding their neurological, intellectual, social,
Trail, the existing pavilion, potential linear trail network and the specific Create an education campaign that encourages pet owners to follow leash emotional or physical abilities.
need for active recreation. The current active general open space areas regulations in all public spaces. Provide pet waste stations and drinking
within the park must remain an important program element within the water within City parks where feasible. An inclusive playground accommodates EVERYONE and challenges them at
master plan. New playground equipment, shelters and additional parking their own developmental level.
should also be integrated into a new internal circulation approach. Implement community-wide connectivity plan by relating all
development, infrastructure improvements and zoning plans The City should consider inclusive alternatives when developing new or
Integrate ‘Central Park’ into the park and open space system to the future system. redesigning existing play spaces throughout the community when feasible.
Central Park must be designated as an integral part of the City’s park Throughout the public meetings and mail in surveys, Mansfield residents Place a high emphasis on ADA compliance
system in much the same way as a showcase park. The downtown offers identified walking and bike trails as an important recreational activity
the opportunity for community activity and festivity. It is also an area for and community need. Pedestrian and bicycle path connectivity will then not The City shall make their parks, programs and services accessible to all
passive recreation and enormous historic significance. The downtown makes only support an important recreational activity but will also satisfy certain people with disabilities. This requirement extends not only to physical
an extremely positive contribution to the character of the community. This transportation needs related to trips to neighborhood schools, access access, but also to departmental policy ensuring that all people with
extremely important civic space should be considered into any future between neighborhoods, trips to downtown, and equally important regional disabilities can take part in, and benefit from, the programs and services
development opportunities and future streetscape enhancement projects. connections to the B&O Trail. offered by the City.
Promote the joint use of school sites and facilities The City must seek opportunities to make system connections as part of all
private development and public infrastructure projects when feasible and
Several of the City schools are an integral part of many neighborhoods the property acquired through those means should be usable for specific
within the community. School sites serve as very important components parks & recreational needs.
of the park system. In many cases, outdoor recreation space is generally
not available, as school activities are scheduled well into the evening. Develop a series of nature-based playscapes
Improvements to school grounds should be planned in cooperation with the
school district and service the widest community use possible. In most cases Nature based play environments are dynamic, vegetation rich, intentionally
this would only include the enhancement of passive green spaces, where designed play spaces that encourage an affinity for nature in all children.
available for neighborhood recreation uses. Nature playscapes typically use natural materials such as logs, boulders,
water, earth forms and plant material, never compromising safety. Mansfield Park System Master Plan 25
Mansfield City Parks
OH-13
MYERS RD
Location Map
BO
HWY 233
WM
AN
ST
AMOY RD
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

RICH
LAN
D SH
OH-
ALE
RD
39
CA
IRN
SR
D
OLIVESBURG RD
PIPER RD
D
POTH R RD
JULIA UNDERHILL PARK LS
SP AL
RIN N GF
GM MI
WALKER LA ILL CYCLOPS FIELD FLE
KE RD RD
-42
HAMILTON PARK US
NEWMAN STREET PARK
US
KING STREET PARK US-30

-3
0
DEWEY AND VINE FIELD
WAYNE ST
9
-30 NORTH LAKE PARK GRACE ST
OH LIBERTY PARK
4TH ST JOHNS PARK
MULLBERRY RD
ILLINOIS AVE
PARK AVE
MIDDLE PARK
CENTRAL PARK
PARK AVE SOUTH PARK
TRIMBLE RD
HARVARD PARK SHERMAN ESTATE PARK

E
MAPLE LAKE PARK JOHN TODD PARK

NU
E
AV
MILLSBORO RD RITTER RUN PARK

N
LINDEN WOODS PARK

IO
AR
M
PROSPECT PARK
LINDEN POOL
ALT DICKSON PARK

AR
D
DEER PARK COOK ROAD
OPTIMIST PARK
STERKEL PARK
BRETSTONE PARK HWY 314
REDWOOD PARK MA
BURTON PARK LOGAN RD NSF
IELD
LUC
WASHINGTON NORTH RD
A S RD
STRAUB RD BRUSHWOOD PARK
FOX GLEN PARK

1
I-7
BUCKEYE PARK
MAIN ST
OH-13
E RD
B+O Trail
MIDDLE BELLVILL
HANLEY RD
HWY 327
US-42
0 3000’ 6000’
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Individual Park Recommendations

1 Betzstone Park
LAND BANK PROPERTY Neighborhood Park
0.37 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations
Richland County, Ohio

City of Mansfield,
• As requested by the City of Mansfield
MASTER PLAN
administration, this property is
recommended to be placed in
the Richland County Land Bank
whose mission is to make a positive,
sustainable impact on the community
by strategically acquiring vacant or
abandoned properties, reducing blight,
and returning them to productive use,
PARKS MASTER PLAN

improving the quality of life for county
BETZSTONE PARK
residents.
BASE MAP
• The park shall be maintained in its
current state until final transfer of the
property to the land bank
Sidewalk Connection Key
BETZSTONE AVE Property Line
Client: City of Mansfield
Job Number: 20171060

Date: September 2017
0 25’ 50’
Mansfield Park System Master Plan Sheet:

28
2 Brushwood Park
Community Park
21.65 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
• Verify future easement and potential
access points
• Provide neighborhood connections
where appropriate
• Prepare an internal ADA accessible
Existing Wet LILAC CT W path system to accommodate future
Area access to the natural environment and
boardwalks
THISTLE DR
Future
• Provide boardwalks for groups outings,
PARKS MASTER PLAN

Park Access
BRUSHWOOD PARK
interpretive programming, observation
BASE MAP
Natural of nature and ADA accessibility
Undisturbed • Seek partnership opportunities with
Zone the local business community and/or
BUCKTHORN CT
manufacturing companies
• Maintain the open space in an ‘off-line’
status until significant improvements can
be made
• Continue to limit access along
Brushwood Drive to prevent vandalism,
trash dumping and deviant behavior
Future Key
Park Access
Property Line
ELDERBERRY DR
Future Boardwalk
Residential Nature Trail Pathway
Development Future
Residential Nature Zone
Development Potential Neighborhood
No Access Access Point
Barrier BRUSHWOOD DR G
Future Neighborhood

0

Access Point
0 100’ 200’
Mansfield Park System Master
Sheet:
Plan 29
3 Buckeye Park
2.58 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
RIVA RIDGE
DR
PARKS MASTER PLAN

BUCKEYE PARK
NA
BASE MAP
SU residents.
AD
RS • The park shall be maintained in its
*
AIL
TR
AK
DO
RE
Key
Property Line
YORK ST W

0 50’ 100’
Mansfield Park System Master Plan Sheet:
30
4 Burton Park
Neighborhood Park
3.18 acres
BRIARWOOD RD
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Mow
VD Zone
SE T BL
SUN
Pickle
P Recommendations

Ball
City of Mansfield,
REDWOOD RD • Make improvements to parking &
MASTER PLAN
Proposed
Picnic Shelter dedicate lots for specific uses in the lower
Play area
ground Basket • Improve parking lot efficiency for the
Ball pavilion in the upper area
P • Provide new playground equipment
Pav • Plant a wildflower meadow
ilion • Resurface the basketball court and
Tennis
Courts No Mow Zone consider conversion to 2 half-courts
PARKS MASTER PLAN

• Make improvements to the tennis courts
• Add pickleball courts
BURTON PARK
BASE MAP
No Mow Zone • Add picnic shelter to accommodate
pickle ball and upgraded playground
Shelter
P
Wildflower Meadow
Key
FAIR Property Line
OAK
S BLV
D Vehicular Circulation
PAUL BLVD
Mow Zone
No Mow Zone
Wildflower Meadow

0 50’ 100’

Sheet:
5 Central Park
Neighborhood Park
2.00 acres
Decorative
Intersection
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Treatment Decorative
Intersection
Treatment
N PARK ST

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
Recommendations
• Use decorative pavement along Park
Gazebo
Avenue and at intersections to promote
traffic calming
• Upgrade Park Avenue to a more
Korean War MLK Jr pedestrian friendly zone in materiality
Memorial Memorial for larger community events while
maintaining vehicular circulation
• Expand Central Park into community
PARKS MASTER PLAN

and commercial spaces through the
CENTRAL PARK
Decorative creative use of materials, landscaping
BASE MAP
Intersection and site furnishing upgrades
Treatment • Incorporate the park into Downtown
PARK AVE E
Decorative Redevelopment opportunities and
Intersection future streetscape enhancements plans
Treatment
• Priority maintenance focus
• Use space to promote park activities,
programming, and historically significant
events
• Central Park is worthy of a more
detailed masterplan which engages the
S MAIN ST
Fountain local business community
S DIAMOND ST
• Evaluate the benefits of returning streets
to two-way travel similar to the South
Diamond Street effort
Key
Property Line
S PARK ST
Decorative Vehicular Circulation
Intersection
Treatment Decorative Street Enhancement
Intersection
Treatment Park Expansion Zone

Programmed Green Space
0 25’ 50’
Mansfield Park System Master Plan 32 Sheet:
6 Cyclops Field
Community Park
15.85 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Railway Yard Access Road
Recommendations
• Make parking lot improvements

City of Mansfield,
Limit all vehicular access Pla • Dedicate a single point of entry/exit
MASTER PLAN
beyond this point yg • Add safe turning lanes southbound and
ro
und Batting northbound to Main Street/OH-13
N MAIN ST / OH-13
Cages • Provide a circular multi-use trail system
• Upgrade all playground equipment
• Provide batting cages
• Add an additional picnic shelter
• Upgrade the press box
• Relocate Hamilton Park light fixtures
• Make upgrades to all fields
PARKS MASTER PLAN

P • Limit all vehicular traffic to City
CYCLOPS FIELD
Limit all vehicular access maintenance vehicles only within
BASE MAP
beyond this point internal field areas
• Verify ownership discrepancies
• Improve drainage
• Consider corporate partnership such as
the Warren Rupp Company
• Maintain clear access to the Ashland
Railway Yard
P
Key
Limit all vehicular access
d
beyond this point un
ro Property Line
yg
Proposed Structure
Pla
Paved Trail
No Vehicular Access
P
Parking

0 50’ 100’
7 Deer Park
Neighborhood Park
5.50 acres
Recommendations
• Relocate shelter and provide family
restrooms
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

• Improve the trailhead connection to
the Richland B&O Trail and the County
Land Conservancy property
• Create a picnic area
• Make parking lot improvements
D
ER

OM
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
SH
Existing Water Wells
No Mow Zone
County Land
Conservancy
PARKS MASTER PLAN

BASE MAP
DEER PARK
AIL
O TR
B&
Key
AND
L Property Line
Mow
RICH
Zone Shelter / Family Restroom
Pedestrian Circulation
P
Vehicular Circulation
Mow Zone
No Mow Zone
P
Parking Improvements

DRIVEWAY
0 50’ 100’
8 Dewey and Vine Park
1.68 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

VINE ST

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
Recommendations
Teach Me whose mission is to make a positive,
Child Care Center sustainable impact on the community
PARKS MASTER PLAN
DEWEY AND VINE FIELD

BASE MAP
DEWEY AVE
residents.
Key
Property Line
SPRING ST

0 25’ 50’
Mansfield Park System Master Plan 35 Sheet:
9 Dickson Park
Neighborhood Park
5.00 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

City of Mansfield,
PARKS MASTER PLAN
MASTER PLAN
Mow
DICKSON PARK
BASE MAP
Zone
Recommendations
• Mowing reduction along the wooded
area
• Consolidate play equipment, upgrade
*
playground equipment and provide
appropriate fall protection
• Provide an ADA accessible route from
the sidewalk
RD • Provide opportunities for butterfly or
VIS
DA pollinator gardens
No Mow Zone
Key
Property Line

* Park Signage
Playground Structure
Accessible Path
Mow Zone

No Mow Zone

BIGELOW RD
0 25’ 50’
Mansfield Park System Master Plan 36Sheet:
10 Fox Glen Park
Neighborhood Park
HOLIDAY DR
34.97 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
CE
DA
R
CR
EE
K
CO
VE
DOUGWOOD DR
W
ILM
PO ING
PARKS MASTER PLAN

IN TO
T N
FOX GLEN PARK

BASE MAP
Recommendations
• Provide parking lot improvements along
Straub Road
• Enhance on-site neighborhood
connections with paved trail
NA • Provide secondary, multipurpose nature
KARLSON DR NT
UC trail improvements
KE • Provide a trail map to help walkers and
TD
R hikers navigate designated trails
• Increase maintenance efforts regarding
CAPE COD
downed trees, branches that block trails
and repair trail erosion
• Provide park signage
DR
Key
Property Line
BAILEY DR
Existing Structure
GALEWOOD AVE
Paved Trail
Nature Trail

P
Parking
P
STRAUB RD W
0 100’ 200’
Sheet:
11 Hamilton Park
20.55 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

HARMON ST
Recommendations

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
GRANDVIEW AVE
STOCKING AVE
residents.
PARKS MASTER PLAN

FERN AVE
HAMILTON PARK
BASE MAP
Key
US-30
Property Line
W LONGVIEW AVE

CARDINAL AVE
STOCKING AVE
DUDLEY AVE

0 100’ 200’
12 Harvard Park
3.12 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

HARVARD AVE

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
Recommendations
MAUMEE AVE by strategically acquiring vacant or
PARKS MASTER PLAN

HARVARD PARK
BASE MAP
residents.
Key
Property Line
PE
AR
CE

DR
0 50’ 100’
Mansfield Park System Master Plan 39Sheet:
13 John Todd Park
Community Park
21.71 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

DALE AVE
BOWERS AVE
Recommendations

• Provide opportunity for pollinator
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
gardens to support local butterfly
habitat
Multi-Use field/ • Encourage interpretive and educational
GREENDALE AVE opportunities around old growth trees
Baseball Field
BIRD CAGE WALK • Improve shelter to include restrooms
• Develop the lower area as a nature
PARKS MASTER PLAN

preserve supporting current habitats and
JOHN TODD PARK

‘Botany Blitz’ programs
BASE MAP
• Maintain current maintenance schedule
P B-Ball Allow to for existing baseball field and basketball
Court Naturalize court
Remove Play • Allow baseball field to also be used for
X
and Shelter
Allow to
Shelter multi-use sports
Naturalize
Key
Property Line
300
Structure
150
Nature Trail
GEM AVE
75
Mow Zone
EMERALD AVE
AGATE AVE
TOPAZ AVE
RUBY AVE
No Mow Zone
P
Playground

0 75’ 150’
14 Johns Park
Neighborhood Park
4.86 acres
W LONGVIEW AVE
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations
DUDLEY AVE
City of Mansfield,
• Renovate and potentially expand the
MASTER PLAN
pavilion
• Use the pavilion as a winter farmer’s
Access and Parking market alternative
STOCKING AVE
Quadrant • Other pavilion uses to consider could be:
JOHNS AVE
Pavilion Expansion child care, elderly programs, after school
Quadrant programs, homework assistance, etc.
• Create a safe parking lot
P Remove
X • Improve basketball courts and restrooms
CARDINAL AVE
PARKS MASTER PLAN

Picnic Shelter • Add a picnic shelter near basketball
Shelter • Reserve parking around pavilion for ADA
Pavilion
JOHNS PARK
BASE MAP
spaces only
X
JOHNS PARK ENTRANCE ST
Playground Remove • Provide year round rentals at pavilion
Playground • Consolidate play equipment, upgrade
Basketball General Open Space • Provide better connectivity to the
Court
X
and Play Quadrant neighborhood with safety crosswalks
Remove • Replace sidewalks where needed
Structure
BUCKLEY AVE
Key
Property Line
Structure
WOODLAND AVE
Crosswalk
Mow Zone
Playground

0 50’ 100’
15 Julia Underhill Park
1.29 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

DEAN RD

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
Recommendations
PARKS MASTER PLAN
JULIA UNDERHILL PARK

BASE MAP
DILLON RD
residents.
Key
Property Line
WARREN RD

0 25’ 50’
Sheet:
16 King Street Park
Neighborhood Park
2.97 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations

City of Mansfield,
• Provide better connectivity to the
MASTER PLAN
neighborhood with safety crosswalks
US-30 appropriate fall protection
• Reconstruct the picnic shelter and
provide restrooms
• Maintain on-street parking
• Add multi-use path
• Provide multiple basketball courts
PARKS MASTER PLAN

• Provide multipurpose field
KING STREET PARK

BASE MAP
• Remove/Improve internal sidewalks
Multiple
Shelter Basketball Courts
X
Multi-Use
Fields
X
Existing Sidewalk
KING ST
Key
Property Line
Picnic Shelter/Restrooms
ALLISON AVE
Crosswalk
Mow Zone
Playground

0 50’ 100’
17 Liberty Park
Community Park
25.37 acres
Recommendations
• Develop the northern third of the park
DAV
IDS LN as an outdoor aquatic facility (± 7+
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

acres) and consider a splash pad as an
alternative
• Redevelop the vehicular drive as a
single point of entry with a turn-around
• Make repairs to the existing vehicular
bridge
• Develop the hillside as an outdoor
amphitheater and sledding hill

• Relocate the flag memorial
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
Potential Pool / • Consolidate play equipment, upgrade
Aquatics Site playground equipment and provide
and Parking appropriate fall protection
• Develop the old “Duck House” area as a
nature-based play scape
VINE ST • Upgrade, dredge and renovate the
pond, pond edge and dam
• Renovate the southeast pavilion and
maintenance building and upgrade its
PARKS MASTER PLAN

associated parking
• Renovate the basketball courts
LIBERTY PARK
BASE MAP
Tennis • Provide additional picnic shelters
Courts • Provide an internal dedicated looped
path system
Duck
House
Nature
Based B-Ball
SPRING ST Courts
Play Area Key
P P
Property Line
Shelter/
5TH AV
X
Structure
VAN BUREN AVE
Restroom
CENTRAL AVE
E
Renovate Pavilion Mow Zone

Pond
No Mow Zone
P
Renovated Pond
W LONGVIEW AVE
P
Nature Playground

4TH AVE
6TH AVE
7TH AVE
8TH AVE
9TH AVE

PIE LN
0 100’ 200’
Sheet:
18 Linden Pool
3.05 acres
MANC
HESTE
R RD
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
Recommendations
RD

S LINDEN
PARKS MASTER PLAN

MUTH RD
LINDEN POOL
BASE MAP
residents.
Key
MILLSBORO EAST RD Property Line

0 25’ 50’
Sheet:
2.24 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
W LINDEN CIR the Richland County Land Bank
E and returning them to productive use,
N CIR
LINDE improving the quality of life for county
residents.
PARKS MASTER PLAN
LINDEN WOODS PARK

BASE MAP
S LINDEN RD
Key
MANCHESTER RD Property Line

0 50’ 100’
20 Maple Lake Park
Neighborhood Park
1.19 acres
SOUTH PARK
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

SOUTH PARK
MAPLE ST
Recommendations

City of Mansfield,
Multi-Use • Provide better connectivity to the
MASTER PLAN
OAKWOOD DR
Field neighborhood with safety crosswalks
MAUMEE AVE • Consolidate play equipment, upgrade
Pickle appropriate fall protection
MAPLEDALE AVE
FAIRLAWN AVE
Ball • Develop an inclusive playground here
TAYLOR RD
MARLOW RD
• Replace existing shelter with small shelter
• Provide area for shade and bleachers at
P tennis courts
• Provide physical separation between
PARKS MASTER PLAN

tennis courts and Oakwood Drive
MAPLE LAKE PARK

PAXTON PL Rest
BASE MAP
B-Ball Room • Construct safe off-street parking lots
Courts • Upgrade the basketball courts
X HIGHLAND AVE • Construct pickle ball courts

• Maple Lake Park will develop as the
south anchor of north/south linear park
S LINDEN RD
connection to the Richland B+O Trail
P Key
Tennis
LINWOOD PL
Courts P Property Line
il Vehicular Circulation
O Tra
B+
North Park Play Pedestrian Circulation
Crosswalk
Middle Park ARLINGTON AVE
Mow Zone
No Mow Zone
South Park MUTH RD P

Playground / Skatepark
Maple Lake COLEMAN RD

Park
LINWOOD CIR 0 100’ 200’
21 Middle Park
Community Park
23.00 acres
PARKWAY DR
AR K
AVE
DR
HELEN AVE
OOD
RAE AVE
LMW
NORTH P
ROOK
E
VE
PARK A
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

WESTB
W 6TH ST
W4

TH
ST Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
• Continue pedestrian access only policy
• Convert the asphalt road to trail system
focused on pedestrian connectivity
to the north and south as part of the
communities linear O/S system with safe
RAE AVE
respite zones
RD
HELEN AVE
EN W LONGVIEW AVE • Middle Park will develop as a central
LIND anchor of north/south linear park
N connection to the Richland B+O Trail
PARKS MASTER PLAN

Bridge • Provide safe E/W neighborhood
Picnic connections where feasible
MIDDLE PARK
BASE MAP
Area
• Add flashing pedestrian crossing signals
HEINEMAN BLVD
at W. 4th street and Park Ave.
D
• Renovate the picnic shelter and

BLV
upgrade the picnic area

ARK
BURTON AVE • Repair the bridge connection to the

WP
GARFIELD PL proposed picnic area
WESTERN AVE
• Redevelop the sledding hill that
BRICKMAN AVE
previously existed
AUSDALE AVE
• Consider a nature-based playscape or

nature play trail in this park
il
W LONGVIEW AVE
W 3RD ST
O Tra
B+
g Hill
North Park Key

Sleddin
Property Line
Middle Park
Crosswalk
PARK AVE W
BRINKERHOFF AVE
Potential Neighborhood
WELLINGTON AVE
GLENWOOD BLVD
PARKWOOD BLVD
South Park
HOFFMAN AVE
Connection
STEWART AVE
SHADY LN
Maple Lake No Mow Zone

T

TS

ES Park
EC R
PIN SOUTH PARK 0 75’ 150’
0.06 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

GRACE ST Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
WAYNE ST
NEWMAN ST
PARKS MASTER PLAN
NEWMAN STREET PARK

residents.
BASE MAP
W LONGVIEW AVE
Key
QUINCY ST
Property Line

0 25’ 50’
Sheet:
23 North Lake Park
Community Park
20.05 acres
LAWNSDALE AVE
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

SACKMAN ST

City of Mansfield,
RELOCATED RICHLAND EXISTING RAIL
MASTER PLAN
B & O TRAIL Recommendations
• Remove all vehicular circulation from
IL around the pond and transition to
B & O TRA
RICHLAND pedestrian access only
• Close Rae and Helen Avenues to
through traffic
• Provide a new parking lot at the
FUTURE OPEN SPACE Touby Run
Rowland Avenue park entrance
OPPORTUNITY AREA Bridge to • Provide pedestrian access to the Island
PARKS MASTER PLAN

Island • Naturalize the pond edge
Basket P
NORTH LAKE PARK

Ball • Replace picnic shelters around pond
P
BASE MAP
FUTURE FLOOD
MITIGATION DAM X • Remove eastern bridge condition by
reconfiguring the pond edge
• North Lake Park will develop as the
P
X Remove Vehicular north anchor of north/south linear park
ROWLAND AVE
Access to Park connection to the Richland B+O Trail
P
X
Pavilion • Develop a ninja warrior course behind
Remove Vehicular
HELEN AVE
Access to Park the pavilion
Play
AVE
Key
PARKWAY DR
ground
DR
OOD
ROOK
Property Line
ELMW
DR
RAE AVE
WESTB
OOD
il
Tra
B+O Pedestrian Circulation
ELMW
North Park
Crosswalk
Middle Park Footbridge
W 6TH AVE
Mow Zone
Renovated Pond
South Park
P
WESTERN AVE

W4

TH Maple Lake Proposed Dam
ST Park
0 50’ 100’
Sheet:
24 Optimist Park
Neighborhood Park
1.22 acres
LN
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

DA
LIN
Recommendations

City of Mansfield,
*
• Mowing reduction along the wooded
MASTER PLAN
area
Mow
Play playground equipment and provide
CAR • Provide an ADA accessible route from
OL
LN Carol Lane
• Provide opportunities for butterfly or
pollinator gardens
No Mow Zone • Continue to allow access to
PARKS MASTER PLAN

existing nature trails cut in by local
OPTIMIST PARK
BASE MAP
neighborhood residences
Key
Property Line

* Park Signage
Playground Structure
Accessible Path
Mow Zone
No Mow Zone

0 25’ 50’
25 Prospect Park
Neighborhood Park
2.50 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

GIBSON AVE

Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
• Develop a skatepark within this park
MASTER PLAN
• Make improvements to the existing
parking lot
• Provide additional parking if necessary
• Demo the existing pavilion building and
P shelter
Skate Park • Replace all deteriorated sidewalks and
add additional pedestrian connections
• Provide a picnic shelter with restrooms
PARKS MASTER PLAN

adjacent to the playground
MARQUIS AVE
GILBERT AVE
PROSPECT PARK
X
BASE MAP
• Make appropriate neighborhood
Picnic Demo Shelters
Shelter pedestrian connections and improve
w/
Restrooms X crosswalks at all of the intersections
• Provide general open space for
neighborhood activities and general
Open play
Space
P Key
Open
Playground Space Property Line
Crosswalk
WOLFE AVE Mow Zone
P
Playground

0 25’ 50’
26 Redwood Park
Neighborhood Park
1.38 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

SHERBROOK RD

City of Mansfield,
Recommendations
MASTER PLAN
• Provide a picnic shelter adjacent to the
playground
• Make appropriate neighborhood
pedestrian connections
• Provide general open space for
neighborhood activities and general
PARKS MASTER PLAN

Playground
play
REDWOOD PARK
• Provide seating and swings for adults
BASE MAP
Shelter
• Provide security lighting
Key
Property Line
REDWOOD RD
General Open Space
Playground

0 25’ 50’
Sheet:
27 Ritters Run Park
1.54 acres
BLYMYER AVE
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

OHIO ST
Recommendations

City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
PARKS MASTER PLAN

residents.
RITTERS RUN PARK

BASE MAP
STURGES AVE
Key
Property Line

0 25’ 50’
28 Sherman Estate Park
LAND BANK PROPERTY Mini Park
0.15 acres
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
MASTER PLAN
W4 abandoned properties, reducing blight,
TH
ST and returning them to productive use,
PARKS MASTER PLAN

SHERMAN ESTATE PARK

residents.
BASE MAP
SHERMAN PL
Key
SYCAMORE ST
Property Line

0 25’ 50’
29 South Park
Community Park
15.00 acres
Trail
B+ O
North Park
MIDDLE PARK
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

PARK AVE
Middle Park
SHADY LN
WELLINGTON AVE
South Park
Recommendations
ST • Provide signalized pedestrian crossings
ST

HOFFMAN AVE
Maple Lake R E
City of Mansfield,
Park EC at Park Ave and Maple St. to provide
PIN
MASTER PLAN
good safe neighborhood connectivity
• Convert the lower asphalt road to
trail system focused on pedestrian
GLENBECK LN
connectivity to the north and south

S LINDEN RD
as part of the communities linear O/S

system with safe respite zones
• South Park will develop as a central
Pavilion anchor of north/south linear park
connection to the Richland B+O Trail
PARKS MASTER PLAN

BRINKERHOFF AVE
• Provide safe E/W neighborhood
BASE MAP
SOUTH PARK
connections where feasible
• Maintain block house, log cabin,
blacksmith shop and other significant
historic structures
Log • Relocate maintenance facility to a more
Cabin
efficient location
Block
House Key
Property Line
Structure
S LINDEN RD
Crosswalk
FAIRLAWN AVE
X
Remove Existing Under Road Circulation
MARLOW RD
Maintenance
Building Mow Zone
No Mow Zone

MAPLE ST

MAPLE LAKE PARK 0 100’ 200’
30 Sterkel Park
Community Park
83.49 acres
RD
WINWOOD DR
D
OO
DRAFT FOR REVIEW

W
GE
ED
Richland Co.
Public Health
Sterkel
Baseball
ST Complex
E
E
AV
RK
EL RUSTIC LN
ON BL
VD

GT
Recommendations
City of Mansfield,
XIN
• Implement the existing Sterkel Park
MASTER PLAN
HOLLYWOOD LN
LE
Shoppes at Master Plan

Sterkel Park Offices at • Provide a park wide neighborhood
Sterkel Park connectivity plan
• Make connections to other community
Medical services
HILLCREST ST
RD
Office • Provide opportunity for pollinator
YMCA
LL
Building gardens to support local butterfly
HO Raintree habitat
SC
PARKS MASTER PLAN

Residential • Encourage interpretive and educational
opportunities
STERKEL PARK
BASE MAP
• Provide more shelters with some to
P include restrooms
Medical playground equipment and provide
CenturyLink Office DREAM DR appropriate fall protection
Office Building
Richland County
Children Services
Key
Property Line
Turtle Creek
VD
BL
Apartments Pedestrian Circulation
D
OO
EVANS AVE
AVE Potential Circulation
W
JAMES
GE
RID
Mow Zone
P
Medical
Office
Building

W COOK RD
0 150’ 300’

Park System Master Plan

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What is the purpose of the park system master plan?

What is the purpose of the park system master plan?

What recommendations are made for South Park?

What recommendations are made for South Park?

Park System Master Plan

Timothy Theaker, Mayor

Mark Abrams, Parks and Recreation Director

Tim Bowersock, Economic Development

Bob Bianchi, City Engineer

The Richland County Foundation

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 3

INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS 9

PARKS AND OPEN SPACE STANDARDS 10

COMMUNITY INPUT/NEEDS ASSESSMENT 16

HOUSEHOLD SURVEY SUMMARY 17

GOALS & OBJECTIVES 23

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 5

The plan will guide decision making in regards to capital improvements

It is intended that this Master Plan will be a flexible document, presenting

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 7

Regional Park and Recreational Facilities

Kingwood Center Gardens

DRAFT FOR REVIEW

19 Linden Woods Park

22 Newman Street Park

1/2 Mile Radius 30 Sterkel Park

B+O Trail 0 3000’ 6000’

DRAFT FOR REVIEW

12 20 19 Linden Woods Park

9 22 Newman Street Park

1/2 Mile Radius 30 Sterkel Park

DRAFT FOR REVIEW

19 Linden Woods Park

22 Newman Street Park

1/2 Mile Radius 30 Sterkel Park

B+O Trail 0 3000’ 6000’

DRAFT FOR REVIEW

19 Linden Woods Park

22 Newman Street Park

1/2 Mile Radius 30 Sterkel Park

B+O Trail 0 3000’ 6000’

DRAFT FOR REVIEW

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 15

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 17

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 18

11. Are you a resident of the City of Mansfield?

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 19

18. Level of agreement with the following statements

Mansfield Park System Master Plan 20

DRAFT FOR REVIEW

KING STREET PARK US-30

DEWEY AND VINE FIELD

HARVARD PARK SHERMAN ESTATE PARK

MAPLE LAKE PARK JOHN TODD PARK

MILLSBORO RD RITTER RUN PARK

LINDEN WOODS PARK

ALT DICKSON PARK

BRETSTONE PARK HWY 314

STRAUB RD BRUSHWOOD PARK

FOX GLEN PARK