Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Barnes Preserve experienced a significant increase in use. The Board recognizes the increased outdoor recreation as part of a growing trend and wants to provide more conservation and recreational resources to residents and visitors alike. However, to do so, the Park District must evolve from the single-park, volunteer-run organization it has been since its inception and become a publicly funded county entity. The Park District has already acquired additional land through a generous gift, but it can not be developed without funding. The Park Board has been engaged in an extended Strategic Planning process to identify and strengthen the Park District’s values. This process is ongoing and will continue, with the goal of presenting the people of Wayne County an opportunity to show their support for a fully funded, multi-property Park District.