Benton Parks seeking community input; committee to hold first meeting of 2021

The Benton Parks and Recreation Department is seeking input on what amenities and programs that residents would like to see made available to the community.

A survey has been created that Benton Parks and Recreation Director Stephanie Jones said will help to shape the future of the Benton Parks system.

“We would like to expand our parks facilities and provide diverse recreation opportunities for our community,” Jones said. “We would love your input in ranking the following ideas listed below, with one being the item you would like to see the most, and 12 being the item that is least important.” The options include:

• An archery range.

• Mountain biking trails.

• A tennis/pickleball complex.

• Neighborhood parks.

• The renovation of C.W. Lewis Stadium.

• A championship disc golf course.

• Turf ballfields.

• An indoor water park.

• Campground facilities.

• Nature hiking trails.

• A soccer complex.

• Paved bike trails.

A comment section is also provided as part of the survey so residents can provide additional feedback. The survey can be accessed through the link provided on the Benton Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

“We always appreciate your suggestions and thank you for taking the time to assist us,” Jones said.

The Benton City Council Parks committee will hold its first meeting of the year at 5:15 p.m. Jan. 12 in the council chambers.

Items on the agenda include:

• Concessionaire RFP.

• Inclusive playground expansion.

• Update on parks projects, The meeting will be held at the Benton Municipal Complex, located at 114 S. East St.

All meetings are open to the public and attendance is encouraged. Social distancing measures will be enforced and masks are required to attend the meeting. The meetings will also be live streamed on the city’s Facebook page.