Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park Phase 1 Play Survey 1
Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park Phase 1 Play Survey 1
Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park, Austin's largest park, spans 3,695 acres on the city's far eastern edge, just west of State Highway 130 and a short drive from downtown. The park features the 1,165-acre Lake Walter E. Long, rich with preserved habitats, and also houses the Travis County Exposition Center. Park amenities include hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, volleyball courts, boat ramps, and fishing piers. This survey is the first of several planned to gather community input for providing play amenities in the park during the upcoming scheduled infrastructure improvements based on the 2020 Vision Plan. You can learn more about these improvement on the project webpage. Your feedback is appreciated. All questions are optional.
We are excited to hear your thoughts on the types of play features you'd like to see in the park! Play areas are important for encouraging physical activity, creativity, and social interaction among children and families and can include traditional and nature-play features. Nature play encourages exploration, creativity, and interaction with the natural environment. It helps children build a strong connection to nature while enjoying outdoor activities. This survey will help us prioritize which play amenities are most important to you.
How far do you live from the park?
What are Traditional Play Features?
Traditional play features include structures and spaces that have been popular in playgrounds for decades. These often focus on physical activity and skill-building. Here are some examples:
- Swings: Classic, fun for all ages and helps build balance and coordination.
- Slides: A favorite for many, encouraging excitement while developing spatial awareness.
- Climbing Structures: These help children improve strength and coordination.
- See-Saws: Promotes teamwork and balance.
- Merry-Go-Rounds: Fun and fast-paced, encouraging cooperation and physical stamina
What is Nature Play?
Nature play features are designed to use natural elements into play spaces, allowing children to engage with their surroundings in a creative and sensory-rich way. Unlike traditional playgrounds with man-made equipment, nature play spaces encourage interaction with natural materials and landscapes. Some examples of nature play features include:
- Logs and Boulders: Natural climbing elements that promote balance, strength, and coordination.
- Sand or Dirt Play Areas: Spaces where children can dig, build, and explore with natural materials.
- Water Play: Areas with small streams, fountains, or splash zones for sensory exploration and discovery.
- Loose Parts: Natural items like sticks, leaves, stones, and pinecones that children can use to build, create, and imagine.
- Natural Trails and Tunnels: Pathways and spaces designed with natural materials for exploration and hide-and-seek.
- Wildflower Meadows: Open spaces that encourage free play, nature observation, and pollinator appreciation.
How important is it to you to have nature-based play features in the park?
Please select the top three nature play features you would most like to see in the park.
Are there other nature-play features or ideas you would like to suggest for this park?
Do you believe that nature play features can offer educational value such as learning about plants, wildlife, and ecosystems in a fun way?
How important are traditional play features to you when visiting a park?
Pick the top three traditional play features would you most like to see in the park?
Are there any other traditional play features you would like to see in the park?
What balance between nature and traditional play would you like to see in the park?
Any other thoughts about the future play features for the park that you would like to share?
Do you have any other comments about the park in general?
What City Council District do you live in?
If you are unsure, you can use the Council District Map: https://www.austintexas.gov/government#FindDistrict.