Bloomington Parks Survey Shows Strong Community Support, Guides Next Five-Year Master Plan

Results from the Parks and Recreation 2025 community survey show strong support for the City’s parks, trails, programs, and services, with 90% of respondents expressing a favorable opinion of the Department.
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The survey, conducted in late 2025 with 405 Bloomington residents, asked community members about park usage, satisfaction, and priorities for future investment. The results represent a statistically valid sample reflecting a cross section of Bloomington residents, with responses weighted to match U.S. Census demographics.

Residents reported high satisfaction with Bloomington’s parks, trails, and facilities, with average satisfaction scores above 8 out of 10 for overall experience, safety, cleanliness, and access.

Bloomington’s trail system and major parks remain among the most widely used community assets. The B-Line Trail (73%) and Switchyard Park (69%) were the most visited locations in the past year, followed by Bryan Park (55%) and Griffy Lake Nature Preserve (48%).

Residents also expressed strong interest in outdoor experiences and community events. The survey found the highest demand for trails for walking, hiking, and biking, open space and natural areas, and park amenities such as benches and drinking fountains.

Community programs received strong marks. Residents reported high participation and satisfaction with events and activities, including outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and nature-based programs. Overall satisfaction with parks and recreation programs averaged 8.4 out of 10.

The survey explored residents’ willingness to support improvements to aging recreational facilities. Between 68% and 78% of respondents indicated support for funding improvements to facilities such as Bryan Park Pool, Winslow Sports Complex, Twin Lakes Recreation Center, and Frank Southern Center.

The survey showed residents value the department’s commitment to inclusion and equitable access, with 91% of respondents saying their household feels represented and included in Bloomington Parks and Recreation services and programs.

“This feedback provides valuable guidance as we plan for improvements and investments in Bloomington’s parks and recreational facilities,” said Parks and Recreation Director Tim Street. “Residents clearly value parks, trails, and outdoor spaces as essential parts of Bloomington’s quality of life.”

The survey results will play a central role in shaping the department’s next five-year master plan by identifying the community’s top priorities for parks, facilities, programs, and services. As part of the planning process, the department will evaluate long-term financial sustainability:  balancing revenues with community needs to ensure continued investment in existing assets, thoughtful planning for future capital projects, and the ability to maintain a strong, dedicated Parks workforce that delivers high-quality services to residents.

The Master Plan consultant,  110%, Inc. of Salida, Colo., will present a draft of the Master Plan to the Board of Park Commissioners at their regular meeting April 23. The final Master Plan will be presented to the Board for final adoption in May.

For more information about the Parks and Recreation community survey, or about the Department's Master Planning process, email Parks and Recreation at [email protected] or call 812-349-3700.