Open Space and Recreation Plan Update: Project Progress

Since the first Public Forum, significant progress has been made on updating Dedham’s Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). This effort is a collaborative initiative led by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), Town staff, and the Open Space and Recreation Subcommittee.

Following the forum, the project team gathered and reviewed valuable input from both the Community-Wide Survey and the 1st Public Forum back in October. This feedback has played a critical role in shaping the direction of the plan update. This information was gathered to get an initial idea about what's working well with the Town and any concerns since the last plan.

In late fall, the team conducted a comprehensive review of the Environmental and Land Inventory from the 2019 OSRP. This included identifying newly acquired parcels, reassessing existing Town-owned properties, and documenting current amenities and site conditions. MAPC has since updated the plan’s maps to reflect these changes.

During the early winter months, the team analyzed feedback from the survey and forum to better understand community priorities, needs, and gaps. This analysis helped guide the next phase of engagement.

By early spring, it became clear that additional outreach was needed to ensure broader community representation—particularly among youth and residents in environmental justice areas. In response, the team launched a series of targeted “Mini Forums” in place of a traditional public meeting format. These sessions were held at local middle and high schools, sports tryouts, the Dedham Housing Authority, and the Dedham Food Pantry. Community members were asked to share input on recreational preferences, desired amenities, and how they currently use open spaces.

OSRC Members - Ron W. And Martha C. at the Dedham Food Pantry.Environmental Specialist, Leonel Lainez at the Dedham Middle School.Town Staff and MAPC at the Dedham High School.

Results and analysis of the survey results and community forums will be available under the Document tab.

More updates will be shared as the project continues to move forward! And feel free to join the discussion during a OSRP Meeting! Happening on the first Monday of each month.