Calling all community visionaries! The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is shaking things up in East Phillips, launching a paid initiative for locals to dive into the planning of their parks and open spaces. Yes, you heard that right, they're paying people to chat about how to spruce up Cedar Avenue Field Park and East Phillips Park. Creative thinkers are being roped in to engage residents and get the lowdown on what they want from their green spaces.
Posted by the MPRB, the Community Collaborator gig isn't just for show. They're all in on making sure the chosen few breathe new life into park planning. Proposals are due on April 17 but don’t just waltz in and expect to get picked. Whether you're into hosting virtual meet-ups or recording storytime videos with the locals, they're game if you are. Community Collabs have done wonders elsewhere, like with Cedar Lake and Lake of the Isles, according to official reports. So, if you've got a knack for rallying folks online or face-to-face, this might be your big break.
Want in? Well, MPRB’s not keeping secrets. They’re hosting an optional info session on March 21st — a perfect chance to get the deets straight from the horse's mouth. Applications can be snatched up online, or if you're the pen-to-paper type, printed out for your convenience. They've made it remarkably easy to throw your hat in the ring, but remember, the clock's ticking.
Let’s talk about why this matters. East Phillips Park didn’t cut the 2016 South Minneapolis service plan, but not because it was forgotten — it had a makeover not long ago, from 2009-2011. The vision for Cedar Avenue Field Park is already pretty stellar with plans for everything from skate spots to splash pads, but the MPRB’s not taking chances after getting an earful about safety worries and the need to serve all park-goers. One block apart, these parks are like siblings in a constant tug-of-war for attention and resources. And that's why MPRB's looking to get the whole neighborhood in the convo, to ensure both spots shine, officials say.
So, if you're tired of the same old swings and slides and have a vision that could make East Phillips the envy of Minneapolis, reach out to Emma Pachuta, the Project Manager. Finished proposals should be sent her way at [email protected], or if you're feeling nostalgic, mailed to MPRB's office. One thing's clear, if you want to leave your mark on the neighborhood parks, now’s the time to get involved and get paid for your two cents.
