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--Matt Poock, Chair of Park & Recreation Board N O T I C E A meeting of the City of Evansville Park and Recreation Board will be held on the date and time stated below. Notice is further given that members of the City Council and Historic Preservation Commission may be in attendance. Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made by calling City Hall at (608)-882-2266 with as much notice as possible. City of Evansville Park and Recreation Board Regular Meeting City Hall, 31 S Madison St., Evansville, WI 53536 Tuesday, January 20, 2026 6:00 pm AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Motion to Approve Agenda 4. Motion to Waive the Reading of the Minutes from December 16, 2025 meeting and Approve them as Printed 5. Civility Reminder 6. Citizen Appearances 7. New Business A. Discussion on 2026 City Youth Baseball Leagues 8. Park’s Report A. General Park Updates B. Adopt-A-Park Updates 9. Old Business A. Park and Outdoor Recreation Plan Update 10. Upcoming Meetings A. Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. B. 2026: March 17, April 21 @ 6:30 p.m. (conflict with Common Council Re-organization), May 19, June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20, November 17, December 15 11. Adjourn City of Evansville Park and Recreation Board Regular Meeting City Hall, 31 S Madison St., Evansville, WI 53536 Tuesday, December 16, 2025 6:00 pm M INUTES 1. Call to Order: Poock called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. 2. Roll Call: 3. Motion to Approve Agenda by Merritt, seconded by Fuson. Motion passed 7-0. 4. Motion to Waive the Reading of the Minutes from November 18, 2025 meeting and Approve them as Printed by Sigl, seconded by Merritt. Motion passed 7-0. 5. Civility Reminder: Poock issued a reminder to be respectful of others. 6. Citizen Appearances: None 7. New Business: None 8. Park’s Report: Anderson hasn’t closed the park completely for the winter. There has been some ice fisherman out on the ice. A. Adopt-A-Park Updates: Anderson reported that one sign had been missed in putting the signs away for the winter, but it will be grabbed tomorrow. B. Aquatic Center Updates: The roof was replaced right before Thanksgiving. C. Discussion on Winter Park Closure of Leonard Leota Park: Evans will be continuing to monitor the ice depth to open the ice skating. 9. Old Business A. Park and Outdoor Recreation Plan Update: Survey has closed and will be waiting for the results. 10. Upcoming Meetings A. Tuesday, January 20,2026 at 6:00 p.m. B. 2026: January 20, February 17, March 17, April 21 (conflict with Common Council Re- organization), May 19, June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20, November 17, December 15 11. Adjourn: Poock adjourned the meeting at 6:08 p.m. Members Present/Absent Others Present Alderperson Erika Stuart P Scott Kriebs, Municipal Services Director Sue Merritt P Ray Anderson, Parks’ Custodian Lyman Fuson P Chad Sigl (arrived 6:04 p.m) P Chair, Matt Poock P Kris Evans P Sam Wallace P 4 Year Coach Pitch (6- 9y/o) T-Ball (4-6y/o) Program Total 2025 28 64 92 3 Teams Coach Pitch, 5 Teams T-Ball 2024 59 64 123 6 Teams each Coach Pitch, T-Ball 2023 66 77 143 2022 69 82 151 2021 86 63 149 2020 0 0 0 CANCELLED DUE TO COVID 2019 109 59 168 2018 106 90 196 7A Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 1 | Page City of Evansville – Survey Analysis Contents Background ................................................................................................................................................... 2 Survey Summary ........................................................................................................................................... 2 Active Transportation Summary ............................................................................................................... 2 Parks Survey Summary .............................................................................................................................. 4 Full Survey Results ........................................................................................................................................ 5 Transportation Methods ........................................................................................................................... 5 Transportation Use ................................................................................................................................... 6 Walking Concerns ..................................................................................................................................... 7 Biking Concerns ......................................................................................................................................... 8 Bicycle Use ................................................................................................................................................ 9 Electric Bicycle Use.................................................................................................................................. 10 Park Use .................................................................................................................................................. 12 Park Quality (Individual Parks) ................................................................................................................ 15 Park Quality (Overall Park System) ......................................................................................................... 17 Park Enjoyment ....................................................................................................................................... 18 Future Programming ............................................................................................................................... 19 Demographics ......................................................................................................................................... 20 Age ...................................................................................................................................................... 20 Income ................................................................................................................................................ 21 Transportation Demographics ............................................................................................................ 22 Location ............................................................................................................................................... 23 Household Characteristics .................................................................................................................. 24 Survey Distribution: ............................................................................................................................ 25 9A Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 2 | Page Background As part of the Parks and Active Transportation Plan, the City of Evansville conducted a public survey from 30 September to 16 November 2025. The survey gathered a total of 379 submissions over the response period. City staff distributed the survey via signage positioned in parks and City property, social media, City Hall postings, City website postings, public meetings and forums, and newspaper press releases. The survey asked respondents about their transportation methods, including transportation mode, use frequency, and objectives. It gathered concerns about walking and bicycling which may discourage those activities. Additionally, the survey asked respondents about electric-assisted devices, such as electric bikes and scooters, to help gauge community interest in them and understand decisions in their use. The parks section of the survey asked respondents about the parks they use, the frequency with which they visit the parks, and the activities in which they participate. Furthermore, the survey asked about satisfaction with the parks and desires for the future of Evansville’s park system. Survey Summary Ac�ve Transporta�on Summary 17 29 46 198 331 362 349 333 176 45 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Bike (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other (Non-Electric) Bike (Non-Electric) Walk/Wheelchair Active Transportation Methods (All) Yes No Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 3 | Page Survey responses indicate that the Evansville community regularly participates in active transportation methods. Most respondents (88%) walk or wheelchair a few blocks or more, with 62% reporting doing so at least two days a week. Over half (53%) of respondents reported riding a bicycle; most riders (46%) reported using their bicycles twice per month or more, and 7% of riders report using their bicycle at least twice per week. Only 4% of respondents answered that they have an electric bike; of those people, 59% responded that they ride it at least twice a month, while 24% reported riding at least twice per week. While only 12% of respondents reported using non-electric scooters, skateboards, or roller skates, those who are riders use their devices frequently; most users (39%) reported riding twice a week or more. This observation is even more pronounced in the smaller number (8%) of respondents who reported riding electric scooters, skateboards, and e-mobility devices; 66% of those people reported using their devices at least twice per week. Responses indicate that Evansville residents are active. Eighty-five percent of respondents report using active transportation methods for leisure, recreation, fitness, or walking a pet frequently or almost daily; while only 6% of respondents reported never doing so. Furthermore, most respondents (85%) in 3 4 17 20 79 4 19 18 235 28 10 6 11 75 91 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Bike (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other Walk/Wheelchair Bike (Non-Electric) Transportation Use Frequency (All) 104+ days - Two days a week or more on average 25-103 days – Between two days a month and two days a week on average 1-24 days - Two days or less a month on average 176 38 15 27 142 36 87 149 36 68 150 139 23 231 122 57 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Leisure, recreation, fitness, walking a pet Going to school or work Shopping or errands Social activities How often do you bike, walk, use a mobility device such as a wheelchair for the types of trips listed below? Almost Daily Frequently Infrequently Never Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 4 | Page Evansville use active transportation for social activities at some point, and 47% of respondents do so frequently or almost daily. However, a majority of respondents do NOT often use these methods for necessary trips such as shopping and commuting. Active modes of transportation were reported as “infrequent” or “never” by 73% of respondents for errands or shopping, and by 80% of respondents for going to school or work. When asked about their concerns with walking or using a mobility device, the most frequently reported response (34%) was regarding the lack of lighting in the early or late hours. The condition of sidewalks and trails, and the lack of connections between them, gathered similar response frequencies (34% and 32%, respectively). (Although 30% of respondents reported they did not have any concerns, over 25% of those who selected that response proceeded to identify additional concerns; an adjusted response rate is approximately 22% that did not have additional concerns.) Many respondents (32%, adjusted) indicated they did not have any concerns with biking. Concerns about biking included not feeling safe near fast-moving traffic (30%), not enough bike paths/routes (28%), poor pavement conditions (27%), and a lack of connection between bike paths/routes (26%). Parks Survey Summary The greatest number of respondents (37%) indicated that Evansville’s park and recreation programs are of very high importance to them, and 27% responded that they were of high importance. Another 26% rated them as being moderately important, and only 11% of respondents indicated they were of low or very low importance. Additionally, 78% of respondents use the parks at least monthly, and 24% do so nearly every day. The most popular activity at the parks is walking – 95% of respondents claimed to have walked in the parks in the past year. The next most popular activities were swimming at the Aquatic Center (59%), community events (55%), and dog walking (50%). Bicycling (45%), using playground equipment (40%) and using the splash pad (37%) were also among widely popular activities. Based on this survey, Leonard Leota Park is the most visited park in Evansville by a large margin – 96% of respondents indicated they had visited it in the last year. The second and third most popular parks are Larson Acres Park (70%) and the Evansville Aquatic Center (67%). While Evansville’s parks are popular, few respondents rated their facilities and programs as “excellent.” Only Evansville Aquatic Center received a majority “excellent” rating. Larson Acres Park, Veteran’s Memorial Spraypad, and Leonard Leota Park gathered a majority “good” rating, and all others were rated as “average.” Additionally, Evansville Dog Park, Franklin Park, and Brzenzinski Park gathered a larger amount of “below average” and “poor” votes than other parks. Respondents rated Evansville Parks as “good” overall, as well as on appearance and safety. However, both cleanliness and maintenance were rated as “average” Relatively few respondents rated the overall park system as “below average” or “poor” on any specific category. The survey asked respondents about desires for future park programming. Four of the top five answers were event-based activities, including park festivals (67%), music events (61%), “Art in the Park” events Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 5 | Page (41%), and fitness events (34%). Walking and biking paths were the second most requested addition (64%), while ice skating and canoeing/kayaking were also popular seasonal activities at 34% for both. Full Survey Results Transporta�on Methods Survey responses indicate that the Evansville community regularly participates in active transportation methods. Most respondents (88%) walk or wheelchair a few blocks or more, with 62% reporting doing so at least two days a week. Over half (53%) of respondents reported riding a bicycle; most riders (46%) reported using their bicycles twice per month or more, and 7% of riders report using their bicycle at least twice per week. Only 4% of respondents answered that they have an electric bike; of those people, 59% responded that they ride it at least twice a month, while 24% reported riding at least twice per week. While only 12% of respondents reported using non-electric scooters, skateboards, or roller skates, those who are riders use their devices frequently; most users (39%) reported riding twice a week or more. This observation is even more pronounced in the smaller number (8%) of respondents who reported riding electric scooters, skateboards, and e-mobility devices; 66% of those people reported using their devices at least twice per week. 17 29 46 198 331 362 349 333 176 45 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Bike (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other (Non-Electric) Bike (Non-Electric) Walk/Wheelchair Active Transportation Methods (All) Yes No Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 6 | Page Transporta�on Use Responses indicate that Evansville residents are active. Eighty-five percent of respondents report using active transportation methods for leisure, recreation, fitness, or walking a pet frequently or almost daily; while only 6% of respondents reported never doing so. Furthermore, most respondents (85%) in Evansville use active transportation for social activities at some point, and 47% of respondents do so frequently or almost daily. However, a majority of respondents do NOT often use these methods for necessary trips such as shopping and commuting. Active modes of transportation were reported as “infrequent” or “never” by 73% of respondents for errands or shopping, and by 80% of respondents for going to school or work. 3 4 17 20 79 4 19 18 235 28 10 6 11 75 91 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Bike (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other (Electric) Scooter/Skate/Other Walk/Wheelchair Bike (Non-Electric) Transportation Use Frequency (All) 104+ days - Two days a week or more on average 25-103 days – Between two days a month and two days a week on average 1-24 days - Two days or less a month on average 176 38 15 27 142 36 87 149 36 68 150 139 23 231 122 57 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Leisure, recreation, fitness, walking a pet Going to school or work Shopping or errands Social activities How often do you bike, walk, use a mobility device such as a wheelchair for the types of trips listed below? Almost Daily Frequently Infrequently Never Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 7 | Page Walking Concerns When asked about their concerns with walking or using a mobility device, the most frequently reported response (34%) was regarding the lack of lighting in the early or late hours. The condition of sidewalks and trails, and the lack of connections between them, gathered similar response frequencies (32% and 31%, respectively). (Although 30% of respondents reported they did not have any concerns, over 25% of those who selected that response proceeded to identify additional concerns; an adjusted response rate is approximately 22% that did not have additional concerns.) 6 8 15 19 26 35 43 54 57 61 72 73 110 113 119 125 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 I don’t know how to get where I want to go by walking or using a mobility device I fear someone will harm or harass me It takes too long to get where I need to go The routes are not accessible for people with disabilities I need to transport other people or goods with me Other (please specify) Please enter a comment There are not enough places to cross streets where it feels safe I don’t feel safe walking or using a mobility device near fast- moving motor vehicle traffic There are not enough sidewalks or paths in my neighborhood Lack of shade, trees, benches, and other amenities along my route There is inconsistent snow, leaf, or debris removal There are few destinations (grocery store, jobs, shops, schools, parks) within walking or rolling distance I don’t have any concerns or frustrations with walking or using a mobility device Lack of connections in the paths and/or sidewalk routes The trails or sidewalks are in poor condition Not enough lighting to walk at night or in the early morning What are your main concerns or frustrations with walking or using a mobility device such as a wheelchair, if any? (Please select your top five concerns) Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 8 | Page Biking Concerns Many respondents (32%, adjusted) indicated they did not have any concerns with biking. Concerns about biking included not feeling safe near fast-moving traffic (30%), not enough bike paths/routes (28%), poor pavement conditions (27%), and a lack of connection between bike paths/routes (26%). 3 5 9 16 21 31 31 33 46 46 51 93 96 98 107 126 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 I fear someone will harm or harass me I have a bicycle, but it is broken, and I don’t know how to fix it I don’t know how to get where I want to go on bike routes It takes too long to get where I need to go Other (please specify) Please enter a comment. There is not enough snow, leaf, or debris removal I need to transport other people or things with me There are not enough places to cross streets where it feels safe There is not enough bike parking or a safe place to store a bicycle There are few destinations (grocery store, jobs, shops, school, park) within a bikeable distance There is not enough lighting to bike at night or in the early morning Lack of connections in the paths and/or bike routes Pavement conditions are poor There are not enough paths and/or bike routes I don’t feel safe near fast-moving motor vehicle traffic I don’t have any concerns or frustrations with bicycling What are your main concerns or frustrations with biking? (Please select your top five concerns) Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 9 | Page Bicycle Use Most respondents (80%) own a bike, and 40% are confident riding in most streets with bike lanes but they prefer separated bike paths. About a third of residents rated themselves as very confident and comfortable riding in most traffic conditions. 20% 80% Do you own a bicycle? No Yes 9% 17% 34% 40% How would you describe your bicycling comfort level? Not confident: I don't/am not comfortable riding a bike Less confident: only feel safe on separated paths with few traffic crossings and local streets Very confident: confident and comfortable riding with traffic on the road in most traffic situations Confident: often comfortable biking on most streets with bike lanes, but prefer separated paths Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 10 | Page Electric Bicycle Use Only 6% of respondents own an e-bike, while 11% have used one in the past, and 31% are interested in trying an e-bike. Most respondents (53%) have not ridden an e-bike and are not interested in doing so. Of those 20 respondents who reported owning e-bikes, most (84%) owned a standard bike prior to that purchase, and 81% say they use their e-bike more often than they had used their standard bike. A sizable minority (27%) of e-bike owners have a condition that makes e-bikes easier to ride than non- assisted bicycles. Respondents indicated that the greatest reasons for purchasing an e-bike are for recreation (47%), to ride longer distances (34%), and to ride with less effort (32%). The factors that would have the greatest influence on their purchase decision is price (72%), living near comfortable bicycle facilities like bike lanes and paths (33%), and for health benefits (29%). 10 10 40 117 198 0 50 100 150 200 250 I regularly ride an e-bike that I own I occasionally ride an e-bike that I own I use(d) a borrowed e-bike No – I have never ridden an e-bike but I am interested in doing so No – I have never ridden an e-bike and I am not interested in doing so Do you ride or have you ridden an e-bike (electric bicycle) that you own or borrow? Select all that apply: Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 11 | Page 16 13 16 3 3 43 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Did you have a standard bicycle prior to purchasing your e- bike? Do you ride your e-bike more often than you rode your standard bicycle? Do you have a physical condition or limitation that makes riding a regular bike difficult or uncomfortable, but riding an e-bike works better for you? Electric Bike Use Yes No 8 8 11 13 13 18 20 23 34 40 49 52 71 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 A medical condition reduced my ability to ride a standard bicycle Other (please specify) Please enter a comment. Because I live or work in a hilly area To avoid traffic and/or parking hassles in my car To be able to keep up with friends/family To carry cargo or kids For environmental reasons To save money on transportation To increase fitness To start bicycling or to bicycle more often To ride with less effort To ride longer distances to places I need to go For recreation purposes What would be, or were, your top three reasons for purchasing or using an e-bike? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 12 | Page Park Use The greatest number of respondents (37%) indicated that Evansville’s park and recreation programs are of very high importance to them, and 27% responded that they were of high importance. Another 26% rated them as being moderately important, and only 11% of respondents indicated they were of low or very low importance. Additionally, 78% of respondents use the parks at least monthly, and 24% do so nearly every day. 42 48 51 62 83 89 96 209 0 50 100 150 200 250 Other (please specify) Please enter a comment. Environmental benefits Having places to charge outside of my home Better understanding e-bikes and how to use them Health benefits Having a bicycle shop nearby that works on e-bikes Living near comfortable bicycle facilities such as paths or bike lanes Price Please select the three most important factors that would influence your decision to purchase an e-bike. 40 96 102 138 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 low or very low importance moderate importance high importance very high importance How important are park and recreation programs to you? Commented [JV1]: Based on the graph these were reversed - I changed the text to match the graph. Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 13 | Page The most popular activity at the parks is walking – 95% of respondents claimed to have walked in the parks in the past year. The next most popular activities were swimming at the Aquatic Center (59%), community events (55%), and dog walking (50%). Bicycling (45%), using playground equipment (40%) and using the splash pad (37%) were also among widely popular activities. Based on this survey, Leonard Leota Park is the most visited park in Evansville by a large margin – 96% of respondents indicated they had visited it in the last year. The second and third most popular parks are Larson Acres Park (70%) and the Evansville Aquatic Center (67%). 17 66 89 91 112 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 once a year seasonally 1-3 times a month 4 or more times a week 1-3 times a week How often do you use the parks? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 14 | Page 9 9 16 19 23 38 47 47 66 74 75 76 87 94 100 102 117 126 138 150 171 189 208 224 357 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 Community Gardening Scouts Boating Skateboarding/Skating Ice Skating Tennis Basketball Disc Golf Pickleball Dog Park Soccer Picknicking Canoe/Kayak Baseball/Softball/Teeball Running/Jogging Hiking Fishing Nature/Bird Watching Splash Pad Using Playground Equipment Bicycling Dog Walking Community Events Swimming at the Aquatic Center Walking Which activities have you or your family participated in over the last 12 months? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 15 | Page Park Quality (Individual Parks) While Evansville’s parks are popular, few respondents rated their facilities and programs as “excellent.” Only Evansville Aquatic Center received a majority “excellent” rating. Larson Acres Park, Veteran’s Memorial Spraypad, and Leonard Leota Park gathered a majority “good” rating, and all others were rated as “average.” Additionally, Evansville Dog Park, Franklin Park, and Brzenzinski Park gathered a larger amount of “below average” and “poor” votes than other parks. 34 41 78 87 103 104 163 248 259 358 Franklin Park Brzenzinski Park Evansville Dog Park Peace Park Wind Prairie Park Countryside Park Veteran's Memorial Spraypad Evansville Aquatic Center Larson Acres Park Leonard Leota Park 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 What parks have you visited in the last year? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 16 | Page Open Response: Please enter any addi�onal comments or concerns about the quality of individual parks in the box below. The text responses to this question were reviewed by CARPC staff. The following summary was generated by Chat GPT and edited to more accurately reflect the survey responses. Survey respondents expressed strong appreciation for Evansville’s parks and recognize their importance to community life, particularly flagship spaces such as Lake Leota and natural areas like Wind Prairie Park. At the same time, the most consistent message is concern about the condition, safety, and upkeep of existing facilities. Many residents feel that basic maintenance has not kept pace with community expectations. Playgrounds, bathrooms, athletic fields, the dog park, and the Lake Leota skatepark were cited most frequently as needing attention. Comments emphasize outdated or damaged playground equipment, disliked sand surfacing, poorly maintained or poorly lit bathrooms, underutilized or locked ballfields, and 5 7 10 11 21 31 57 66 89 155 28 21 28 47 58 72 158 125 125 117 157 148 155 182 139 120 146 104 104 46 55 54 58 48 30 36 41 20 24 12 28 34 37 13 10 10 7 9 5 6 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Brzenzinski Park Franklin Park Evansville Dog Park Countryside Park Peace Park Wind Prairie Park Leonard Leota Park Veteran's Memorial Spraypad Larson Acres Park Evansville Aquatic Center Rate each park's recreational facilities/programs: Excellent Good Average Below Average Poor Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 17 | Page an aging skatepark that is viewed as unsafe. While opinions on overall spending vary, there is broad agreement that reinvestment in current assets should be prioritized before adding new facilities. Residents also highlighted the need for improved connectivity, accessibility, and communication. Requests include better trails and sidewalks, clearer signage and wayfinding, enforcement of park rules (particularly leash laws), and expanded or better-communicated programming. Overall, feedback reflects a desire for clearer priorities, visible improvements, and consistent maintenance to protect the long-term value of the park system. Park Quality (Overall Park System) A majority of respondents rated Evansville Parks as “good” or “excellent” overall and on most specific aspects. The park system’s highest scores are for safety and lowest for maintenance, though even on maintenance only 12% rated the system as “below average” or “poor”. Open Response: Please enter any addi�onal comments or concerns about the overall quality of Evansville parks in the box below. The text responses to this question were reviewed by CARPC staff. The following summary was generated by Chat GPT and edited to more accurately reflect the survey responses. Survey respondents generally value Evansville’s park system and recognize its positive impact on quality of life, particularly flagship parks such as Lake Leota, Larson Acres, and Wind Prairie. Many residents describe these parks as community assets and note that recent investments—especially at Larson Acres and trail improvements at Lake Leota—have been successful. 36 38 41 54 58 180 147 160 162 194 128 138 131 132 97 26 36 32 18 20 6 18 12 11 7 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Overall Maintenance Cleanliness Appearance Safety How would you rate Evansville's parks on: Excellent Good Average Below Average Poor Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 18 | Page The most consistent concern across responses is insufficient maintenance and uneven quality between parks. Smaller neighborhood parks are frequently described as run down, poorly maintained, or unsafe compared to larger parks. Common issues include deteriorating playground equipment, overgrown weeds, poor grass conditions, unsanitary or outdated bathrooms, vandalism, trash, and limited lighting. Several respondents emphasized that the city often invests in new facilities but does not allocate enough resources for ongoing upkeep. Safety and usability concerns also emerged. Residents cited vandalism, poor lighting (particularly at Lake Leota after dark), off-leash dogs, uneven or unsafe surfaces, and the deteriorated skatepark as issues affecting comfort and safety. Many respondents expressed interest in better connectivity through walking and biking paths, improved signage and wayfinding, increased tree planting and shade, and expanded programming. Opinions on funding remain mixed, but there is broad agreement that consistent maintenance, clearer priorities, and targeted reinvestment would significantly improve overall park quality. Park Enjoyment Open Response: What do you love most about Evansville parks? 1: Commonly used words from responses to this question. The text responses to this question were reviewed by CARPC staff. The following summary was generated by Chat GPT and edited to more accurately reflect the survey responses. Survey respondents overwhelmingly expressed pride in Evansville’s parks and emphasized their importance to daily life, community identity, and overall quality of life. Many residents described the park system as exceptional for a community of Evansville’s size, with Lake Leota repeatedly identified as a signature destination and a defining feature of the city. Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 19 | Page The most frequently cited strengths are natural beauty, accessibility, and variety. Residents value mature trees, the lake and creek, wildlife, prairies, and scenic walking and biking paths that can be enjoyed year-round. Parks are appreciated for being well distributed across town, walkable from many homes, and offering diverse experiences—from quiet nature observation to active recreation, sports, and family play. Community use and shared experiences are also central to what residents value. Respondents highlighted festivals, fishing, disc golf, the aquatic center, playgrounds, and informal gatherings as key benefits. Many noted that parks are places where people of all ages connect with neighbors, relax, and spend time outdoors without needing to spend money. Even critical comments were often framed as a desire to protect and improve parks that residents already care deeply about. Future Programming The survey asked respondents about desires for future park programming. Four of the top five answers were event-based activities, including park festivals (67%), music events (61%), “Art in the Park” events (41%), and fitness events (34%). Walking and biking paths were the second most requested addition (64%), while ice skating and canoeing/kayaking were also popular seasonal activities at 34% for both. Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 20 | Page Demographics Age The greatest number of respondents (30%) were in the 35 to 44 year-old age bracket, while the second and third most represented age brackets were 45 to 54 (23%) and 55 to 64 (16%). Respondents represented every age demographic; however, below age 25 and above age 65 were underrepresented, while ages between 35 and 64 were overrepresented. Ages 25 to 34 were only about one percent greater than 2020 Census proportions. 29 31 32 40 43 69 84 87 100 105 113 118 121 121 122 146 219 227 239 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 Pump track/BMX track Skate Park Skateboarding/Skating Tennis Shuffleboard Bird Watching Groups Volunteer Programs Pickleball Summer Camps Adult Sports Family Movie Nights Nature Information Ice Skating Canoe/Kayak Fitness in the Parks Art in the Parks Music in Parks Walking/Biking paths Park Festivals In the future, what recreation activities would you like to see in the parks? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 21 | Page Income The income profile of survey respondents is skewed higher than the 2020 Census data, reflecting the facts that the census data is 5 years out of date and the survey respondents include a disproportionate percentage of residents in their prime earning years (35-64). 0.00% 5.00% 10.00% 15.00% 20.00% 25.00% 30.00% 35.00% Under 25 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-84 85 + Age Distribution Survey 2020 Census 1 5 9 10 36 58 60 87 113 85 + Under 18 18-24 Prefer not to answer 65-84 25-34 55-64 45-54 35-44 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 What is your age? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 22 | Page Transporta�on Demographics Approximately 9% of respondents experience a disability that affects their mobility, and 3% declined to disclose their ability. Most respondents (88%) answered that they do not experience such a disability. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Less than $25,000 $25,000 - $49,999 $50,000 - $74,999 $75,000 - $99,999 $100,000 or more Income Distribution Survey Census 2020 6 20 32 51 64 199 Less than $25,000 $25,000 - $49,999 $50,000 - $74,999 $75,000 - $99,999 Prefer not to answer $100,000 or more 0 50 100 150 200 250 What is your yearly household income? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 23 | Page Most respondents (62%) had two cars available to their household, while 16% had three. Households with more than three cars or only one car each comprise 11% of respondents. Only one respondent indicated that their household did not have a car. Loca�on Most respondents (86%) indicated that they live in Evansville, while another 10% live in the Town of Union. Fewer than 5% of respondents live in the Towns of Magnolia, Porter, Center, or elsewhere. Of those respondents who live in Evansville, 20% have resided there for less than five years, and another 20% of respondents have lived in Evansville for between 5-10 years. Another 19% of respondents have lived in Evansville for between 21-35 years, a fifteen-year period, while 14% of respondents lived in the 3% 9% 88% Do you experience a disability that impacts your ability to get around, or your mobility choices? Prefer not to answer Yes No 1 40 43 59 236 None More than three One Three Two 0 50 100 150 200 250 How many automobiles are kept at home for use by members of your household? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 24 | Page City for 11-15 years and another 14% between 16-20 years. Those who have lived in Evansville for over 36+ years had the smallest response rate of 13%. Household Characteris�cs One-third of respondents indicated they have two people living in their household, and 28% have four people; 17% of respondents have three people, 13% have five people, and 3% have six or more people. Another 6% of respondents live alone. Most respondents (59%) have at least one child in their home. However, a large minority (41%) have no children at home. The second most common response was two children (28%), followed by one child 0 1 2 6 7 36 325 Village of Footville Town of Center Town of Porter Other (please specify) Please enter where you live. Town of Magnolia Town of Union City of Evansville 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Where do you live? 41 46 47 61 65 65 More than 36 Years 11-15 Years 16-20 Years 21-35 Years 0-5 Years 6-10 Years 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 How long have you lived in Evansville? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 25 | Page (18%), three children (10%), and four or more (3%). Survey Distribu�on: The majority of respondents (52%) heard about the survey via social media, and a large number from City Hall or other sources (39%). Relatively few respondents selected that they heard about the survey from the City website (5%), meetings or forums (3%), or newspapers (1%). 11 23 47 65 106 124 Six or more One (Only me) Five Three Four Two 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 How many people live in your house? 10 39 68 103 152 Four or more Three One Two None 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 How many children live in your house? Park Plan Update Agenda Item 9A Survey Analysis 26 | Page Final Thoughts Open Response: Please enter any addi�onal comments or concerns about transporta�on, parks, or recrea�on in the box below. The text responses to this question were reviewed by CARPC staff. The following summary was generated by Chat GPT and edited to more accurately reflect the survey responses. In the closing comments, respondents largely focused on practical, action-oriented improvements rather than new major expansions. The most common requests emphasize building a safer, more connected community through better walking/biking infrastructure, along with stronger attention to accessibility, maintenance, and safety. Many residents want the city to prioritize fixing and completing existing routes (sidewalk gaps, uneven bricks, lighting, snow removal) and to ensure new developments meet bike/path commitments. A second cluster of feedback centers on better activation and management of existing park assets: more programming (especially for adults and teens), stronger coordination for events and tournaments, and improved communications/leadership (calls for a full-time Parks & Rec/Recreation Director or more active committee). Lake Leota-specific ideas appear frequently—kayak launch/rentals, benches, winter access, fishing support, and reopening or repurposing the park store (snacks, games, party room, rentals). Several comments also reiterate priorities from earlier sections: skatepark renovation, sand-free playground surfacing, field improvements, and better dog park conditions. Finally, respondents again show mixed views on spending and taxes. Some urge restraint and oppose further investment, while others explicitly support targeted spending—especially on maintenance, safety, accessibility, and trail connections—arguing that high use and tax levels warrant visible upkeep and service quality. 2 12 20 143 191 Newspapers Meeting or Forum City Website City Hall and Other Social Media 0 50 100 150 200 250 How did you hear about this survey?