A plan that will guide future open space acquisition and usage in the city is almost complete, Ocean City Environmental Commission Chairman Pete Ault reported to City Council on Thursday.
The Commission expects to present the plan to the Ocean City Planning Board this summer. The research started with an August 2012 grant and included a public input process in which 307 people responded to a survey.
The top five “needs” identified by the public:
- Bike paths
- Hiking and walking trails
- Conservation areas
- Access to waterways
- Family picnic areas
Ault said the plan will help as the city applies for grants and it will help the city manage existing open space. He said the plan recognizes the density of development in Ocean City and seeks creative solutions — something as simple as widening sidewalks could create a running path … or the purchase of contiguous partial lots could create a small open space usage.
The report will be available at ocnj.us/openspace in the next week.
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In other business, City Council approved the appointment of Anne Gallagher to the Local Assistance Board.
Council also passed a resolution in recognition of Municipal Clerk’s Week. All council member and members of the public individually praised the work of City Clerk Linda MacIntyre and her entire staff.
