Why have an Open Space and Recreation Plan?

A state-approved Open Space and Recreation Plan makes the town eligible for state and federal grants involving historic preservation, open space acquisition, and development of recreation facilities.

The Plan serves as a guidance and reference document for the town when decisions about land use/protection and other town needs and issues relating to conservation, agriculture, historic properties and recreation arise. The Committee works with town officials and related local and regional conservation, historic or agricultural entities to implement the recommended actions in the 7-year Plan which address town natural resource, recreation and conservation needs.

An approved Open Space and Recreation Plan improves the town’s Commonwealth Capital Score; important criteria for state grant eligibility regarding transportation and development.

Finally the Open Space and Recreation Plan constitutes a major element for a Town Master Plan. Sterling has not had a Master Plan since the 1960’s. Completion of the Open Space Plan is a major step towards completion of a Master Plan, should Sterling decide to go forward with this endeavor.