Lehi Family Park, designated as the city's 'top parks priority for the 2023 fiscal year,' will operate its primary family attractions, like the splash pad, on a strictly seasonal basis, open only from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A common challenge is that significant park investments provide only part-time access for families, limiting consistent community engagement, according to Heraldextra.
City councils are making family-friendly parks a top priority, but the actual construction and year-round accessibility of these green spaces remain limited. Despite unanimous council prioritization, the seasonal nature of key park features means cities invest in 'part-time' community engagement rather than continuous benefits.
Based on current city initiatives and operational realities, communities will see gradual improvement in park infrastructure, but consistent, year-round access for families will likely remain a challenge without further policy adjustments.
New Green Spaces Taking Shape
1. Lehi Family Park
Best for: Families seeking new recreational facilities.
Lehi City Council voted unanimously to pass a resolution specifying Lehi Family Park as the top parks priority for the 2023 fiscal year. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2023 for this 85-acre park, which includes a 420-square-foot splash pad and a playground area, according to Lehi-ut.
Strengths: Explicitly prioritized by the city council, indicating significant investment and a large development plan. Offers dedicated features like a splash pad and playground.
Limitations: Key family attractions, including the splash pad and playground, operate on a strictly seasonal basis, limiting year-round utility.
Price: Free.
