What's New?
The Parks and Open Space element includes recommendations from multiple planning initiatives that were completed since the last 2004 update. These include, but are not limited to, the Small Parks Management Strategies report, the CapitalSpace Plan, the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative, the National Park Service's Paved Trail Study, internal review of adapting designed landscapes and sensitive lighting of the region’s parks. Links to many of these initiatives are provided in the "Resources" section at the bottom of the page. The goal of the updated Parks & Open Space Element is to protect and enhance the National Capital Region’s parks and open space system–for recreation; as commemorative and symbolic space; as social, civic, and celebratory space; and to provide environmental and educational benefits. While protection of the park and open space system is an overarching goal, the updated goal statement recognizes the multiple functions and benefits that parks and open space provide and that improvements and change are required to maintain high levels of use.
The element is organized around six guiding principles, which create a vision for parks and open space in the region through improved stewardship, utilization, maintenance, planning, and design.
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A
Protect the Historic Features of Parks and Open Space
How can the federal government protect the significant design features of historic parks and designed landscapes, while allowing modifications for contemporary uses? -
B
Encourage Stewardship of Natural Resources
How can the federal government ensure protection, appropriate usage, and enhancement of the region's natural resources for years to come? -
C
Balance Commemorative Works within Parks
How can the federal government effectively balance commemorative works with other important park functions that are critical to creating successful public spaces? -
D
Improve Access to, and Connections between, Parks and Open Space
How can the federal government prioritize access to, and connections between, parks and open spaces in the region in order to provide residents and visitors alike with a variety of outdoor experiences in a range of settings? -
E
Balance Multiple Uses within Parks
How can the federal government encourage multiple uses and functions within parks while also protecting the existing natural and cultural features? -
F
Build a Cohesive Parks and Open Space System
How can the federal government identify opportunities for partnership and coordination efforts when planning, managing, and protecting parks and open space in the region?
Latest Updates
Timeline
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Last Update
The Parks & Open Space Element was last updated in 2004.
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Comprehensive Plan Update Adopted
The Commission adopted updates to all the elements of the Comprehensive Plan with the exception of the Parks & Open Space Element.
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Commission Meeting
The Commission released the draft Parks & Open Space Element for public comment.
View the Draft Element View the Presentation Watch the Video -
Federal Register Notice
The comment period begins with the official notice posted to the Federal Register.
Read the Notice -
Open Houses
NCPC hosted two open house events for the public to learn more about the updates to the Parks & Open Space Element. Both meetings covered the same content. They were offered at different times for your convienience.
Info Boards Presentation -
Public Comment Period Closed
NCPC accepted public comments on the Parks & Open Space Element through May 7, 2018.
Comments Received -
Commission Meeting
The Commission adopted the revised element. The 2004 policies will remain in effect for 60 days after the publication of a Federal Register notice announcing the Commission’s adoption. At that time the updated element’s policies will be effective and used by staff to evaluate future projects.
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Revised Element Takes Effect
The revised Parks & Open Space Element will become effective 60-days after the publication of a Federal Register Notice announcing the adoption of the revised Parks and Open Space Element by the Commission.
Federal Register Notice Notice
Parks and Open Space in our Region
The federal government’s parks and open space landholdings in the region are significant: The National Park Service owns approximately 42,000 acres of parkland in the region, and 8,500 acres in Washington, DC alone. In addition to these parks, many other agencies own land that we classify as open space (but may have limited public access), such as cemeteries, wilderness preserves, and open areas on federal campuses and military installations. The photos below highlight the variation parks and open spaces that are governed by this element.