City of Salem parks are currently being used extensively by the community on a drop-in and a reserved basis. The reservable group picnic areas (Cascade Gateway, Minto-Brown, Riverfront parks) are at capacity durning the highest use times. Drop in groups (i.e. company picnics, birthday parties, concerts, church gatherings, weddings, day care, and other special events) are having significant impacts on non-reservable areas in upper Laffelle area in Bush's Pasture Park, Brush College Park, and Wallace Marine Park.
Along with a full set of large community events in Riverfront Park, the new series of free concerts were popular and added new excitement to the park. The park is very busy in the summer months with families at the playground; going to the Carousel and A. C. Gilbert Discovery Village; events in the park; runners and joggers; and others.
The new and/or renovated neighborhood parks (Northgate, Wes Bennett, Weathers, Highland) are attracting higher than before use due to the new amenities in the parks (splash fountains, stages, etc.) along with Neighborhood Associated sponsored events in those parks. Use of the park and school district system of ballfields continues to be heavy, demand during the peak season is greater than the field availability. The changing demands for parks will be evaluated as part of the 2008 Comprehensive Park and Recreation System Master Plan process currently underway and scheduled to go to the Council in February 2008.
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