- Community and stakeholder engagement
- Intergovernmental coordination
- Multichannel outreach
- Expanded public and recreational access
- Shoreline and recreational enhancements
- Environmental and ecological improvements
- Infrastructure and roadway expansion
- GIS data collection and mapping
- Conceptual designs
- Permitting requirements
- Safety and enforcement recommendations
GZA was retained by the Coventry Redevelopment Agency (RDA) to lead the preparation of a recreation master plan for a 659-acre reservoir. The Redevelopment Plan encompasses Johnson’s Pond, its dam and the surrounding area to provide enhanced public recreational public access including boat launch and parking facilities, swimming beach areas, as well as enhanced and new park design options that feature trails, canoe and paddle boat launches as well as observation and fishing piers.
Challenge
This planning effort is a community-driven process and involves defining a Redevelopment Study Area boundary, gathering public input, and developing actionable strategies for access, recreation, and environmental protection.
Solution
Due to the sensitive nature of the project and the need for a robust community and stakeholder engagement, GZA developed a detailed outreach process, including monthly RDA meetings, targeted stakeholder outreach meetings, community surveys, and public workshops. GZA is leveraging digital tools (website, social media, email databases), traditional media (press releases, flyers, handouts), and direct contact to maximize awareness and engagement in coordination with the RDA.
GZA’s landscape architects developed desktop assessments and concept designs of proposed improvements for two existing recreation/open space areas. Developing visual assets and designs will help the community understand the possibilities for the Dam property and an existing park space to encourage more dialogue.
Benefit
By actively engaging the community, civic associations, businesses, and government, the outreach plan strives to make diverse voices are heard. This will lead to a redevelopment strategy that genuinely reflects the community’s needs, priorities, and vision. Diverse input helps identify existing issues, potential improvement strategies, and desired amenities. This feedback guides the planning team to develop solutions that are practical, widely supported, and more likely to succeed.