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By J.O. Haselhoef
Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks released a survey this week to help understand the needs and wants of the community that uses south-side Jackson Park. The Friends hope to connect with the neighbors surrounding Jackson, especially zip code 53215, to ensure park users’ needs and desires are met.
Many know the 113-acre park from their childhoods — using the swimming pool, closed in 2019, and the Boat House, soon to be torn down. A Milwaukee County Park’s flood plain project, now underway, has enabled officials to reimagine the space, construct new soccer fields, basketball courts and other amenities.
The Friends group, well aware of the excellent infrastructure under construction and the limitations of the financially challenged County wondered what the community might need to ensure the park’s use?
“Should there be a concession stand for the soccer players?” asked Mike Goodman, Friends board member. “Do we need events and activities during the winter months? How are we ensuring that future generations will protect this wonderful green space?”
Surveys are available online in both English and Spanish until April 15. Paper copies are available by emailing the Friends at FoJMParks@gmail.com or calling/texting 414-377-4840.
County Parks relies heavily on Friends groups to give direction to the needs of the parks’ neighbors and make them a reality through their funding efforts. Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks, formed in 2025, is fiscally sponsored by The Park People of Milwaukee County.
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