Waukee Parks exploring more green space, kayaks in future

State of play: Waukee Parks and Recreation is developing a comprehensive master plan for the first time since 2010 that will set a roadmap for the next 10 to 15 years, director Matt Jermier tells Axios.

• The plan will assess existing parks and programs, map future trails and identify spots for new parks.

How it works: A Waukee ordinance requires residential developers to provide land at no cost to the city for parkland development, with the land size calculated based on the number of residents in a development.

• The city also purchases land if there are any gaps beyond the provided parkland.

Zoom in: The city already has several ideas in mind, including offering kayak and canoe rentals at the future Civic Campus site.

• They also want to add more rentable facilities, including sports and pickleball courts.

The intrigue: Jermier also said the city could consider building a skatepark, since that's a missing amenity.

What's next: Several projects were recently approved in the city's capital improvement plan:

• Trail connections from Triumph Park heading north to new developments.
• Raccoon River Valley Trail reconstruction along Hickman from the trailhead to roughly Stivers Ford.
• Warrior Park improvements are slated for fiscal year 2027-28.
• Centennial Park improvements will focus on renovating the open-air shelter, restrooms and parking near the playground installed last year.

📣 Shoutout: Residents can share ideas for the parks master plan here.