Analysis: Openspace

CURRENT OPEN SPACE IN TOWN

Maintaining open space within a community, whether it is for recreational use or simply as a natural buffer, creates a very welcoming and environmentally aware atmosphere. This is important to Pinetop-Lakeside due to the popularity of outdoor activities in the area. People come to the area to enjoy the forests, lakes, creeks and meadows. It is to the town's advantage to be proactive in preservation and maintenance of open space throughout the town. Then, through the development of a green way and trail system, connections can be make between these wonderful features, creating safe and beautiful routes throughout the entire community. The Urban-Environmental-Grid graphically illustrates how a community can be woven together in a mix of open space, greenways, roads, and structures. It may be unrealistic to maintain all of these open spaces. However, it is important to consider the best use for these spaces while the town still has an option to preserve the natural ecology.