Abstract

This thesis is concerned with the internal development of a regional Park system. In order to understand the function of a regional park it is useful to compare the numerous kinds of outdoor areas and the activities related to each area. The general relationships are, perhaps, better understood if areas and activities are grouped, in spite of some loss in detail. Many classification systems are possible; this one is recommended by the Resources for the Future, Inc. They classify recreation areas into three meaningful types: user-oriented, intermediate, and resource-based.

Background: The rapid growth and organization of St. Louis County requires that decisions must be made now regarding the allocation of land for public parks and outdoor recreation facilities. In the effort to provide for present park needs and future expectations, the St. Louis County Planning Commission recently conducted an analysis of the gross need for regional parks based on a standard of 15 acres of regional park land per 1,000 population. On the basis of this study, it was proposed that a system of approximately 45,000 acres of regional parks should be established for the St. Louis metropolitan region.

The location of this park system was based on land use, topography, availability of sites, and the natural character of the area. This system would provide an interconnecting green belt surrounding greater St. Louis, and would follow the Missouri and Meramec River Valleys with a connecting band to the West. This proposed open space system would be composed of three great inter-connected regional parks; the National Lewis and Clark Missouri River Parkway, the Western Regional Park, and the Lower Meramec River Park.

Included in this proposal is a scenic road system which would serve as a connecting link between elements of the park system. It would supply needed facilities for the large numbers of persons desiring a park-like environment for pleasure driving and recreation. At the present time, the regional park proposal holds no official status. In time, this proposal will be presented to the State and Federal agencies who will be responsible for purchasing the needed land and providing the necessary recreational facilities. No detailed demand study has been made concerning the need and location for recreational facilities.

Comments

Print version is Library Use Only/Restricted Circulation. Located at Kranzberg Art & Architecture Library.

Degree

Master of Architecture (MArch)

Author's Department

Graduate School of Architecture

Author's School

Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts

Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

1966

Language

English (en)

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