This July, Claremore will join communities across the United States in celebrating Park and Recreation Month. This initiative aims to promote building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. It also allows an opportunity to recognize the dedicated professionals and volunteers responsible for maintaining our local, state and community parks.
With activities for families, fitness buffs and nature lovers, Claremore is home to 16 parks, a recreation center, a community center, and more than 1,200 acres of fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. Our 16 miles of trails, which began as a community effort, today offer biking experiences for every level of rider. Also ideal for hiking and running, the Claremore Mountain Bike Trails are among the best in the state.
To ensure our parks and trail systems continue serving residents and guests as quality outdoor recreation opportunities for years to come, we are completing a Parks & Trails Master Plan and Youth Sports Plan process. This effort began in early May with a come-and-go community discussion to provide citizens an opportunity to discuss what they would like for the future of our community parks system. Additionally, many of you received a survey in the mail to provide feedback that will help us draft future goals and initiatives for our community parks, trails and youth sporting efforts.
In addition to this effort, Claremore recently received two grants that will increase our community’s walkability. With these funds, we will utilize existing drainage channels to provide over two miles of trail access from Rogers State University (RSU) to Cat Creek Dog Park and then to the Park on Muskogee Ave.
Providing high-quality facilities and recreation opportunities for our citizens is a top priority for our city leadership and parks team. Walkable neighborhoods allow for more physical activity to be incorporated into residents’ daily lives, as well as increase community engagement and sense of place. Through these efforts, we aim to meet our mission to be a premier destination for residents and visitors alike.
You can learn more about these and future projects by connecting with the City on our social media channels and the Claremore mobile app. I encourage you to stay engaged for upcoming opportunities to support and participate in our Parks & Trails Master Plan.
I also ask you to join me in thanking our staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide exceptional service, amenities, and programs through our Parks and Recreation Department. Our incredible team works tirelessly and takes pride in serving Claremore.
You can find a complete list of outdoor adventure opportunities at clarmore.com. I encourage you to get out and discover some of the best park and recreation locations in your backyard!
Until next time,
John W. Feary
Claremore City Manager