The majority of respondents (69%) indicated that they have not visited a community pool in the last year. Of the ones who have, Chestnut Hill pool ranked higher than Belle Valley Pool, although a portion of respondents (5%) attended both pools. Respondents in age groups 35 to 44 and 60+ both indicated a higher-than-average number of pool visits, although they do represent the highest overall response rates. The data indicates that the presence of younger children in households correlates with the number of pools visits.
Q11: If you have not visited a Millcreek Township Park or Facility, what barriers keep you from visiting a Township Park or Recreation Facility?
For respondents who indicated they had not visited a Millcreek Township park or parks facility, the majority of responses indicated the reason as being too busy or choosing to spend free time in other ways. Of respondents who chose to provide an expanded answer to 'other', two main themes emerged: not being aware of all the parks in Millcreek Township / not knowing where they were located, and the desire for better pool availability both by open time and as an indoor amenity.
Amenities & Activities
The data indicates the most important amenities that residents want close to home are trails for walking, running, or biking, followed by places for children to play, exercise facilities, and areas to relax or enjoy the outdoors.
Exercise facilities are a top priority for the 60+ age group in addition to trails, while places for children to play are most important for the 35 to 44 age group. Small neighborhood parks also placed highly across all respondent categories. The data indicates that as age increases, there's a shift towards outdoor amenities and natural areas, as well as facilities that cater to community gatherings and fitness.
Q12: What is the most important opportunity to have close to home?