Every project at Three Rivers starts in the Planning Department, taking the project from an initial concept to a completed master plan.

Department staff develops a public engagement process to gather input and ideas from community members, partners and other stakeholders. They also conduct research studies, examine trends and assess cultural resources.

Three Rivers planning staff collaborates with the Metropolitan Council, Hennepin County, cities, other public agencies and private organizations while developing the project’s master plan. They also research funding partners and apply for grants. A complete master plan is the finished product of a planning department project.

The Department of Planning is also responsible for the comprehensive system plan for the Park District.

The goal of the Planning Department is to provide the highest quality services while supporting the Park District mission of promoting environmental stewardship in a natural resources-based park system.