PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — The City of Zephyrhills is once again asking the public to weigh in on the city’s future.

This time, city officials want the public’s take on what they’d like to see when it comes to its parks.

An Open House was held Thursday night where people could weigh in on what programming they want to see and any changes they’d like made. 

It’s part of the effort to update the city’s parks and recreation master plan.

More aquatic activities and programs for teens were among the suggestions.

“Well, for one thing, they’re free,” Zephyrhills resident Erica Freeman said of what she’d like to see. “In this economy, it’s so important to have someplace you can go where you don’t have to spend money, but you get a lot from it.”

One big change on the way is construction is taking place at Hercules Park.

It’s the first newly built park in Zephyrhills in more than 40 years.

The $7.4 million project sits next to two schools and townhomes that are under construction.

Officials say the city’s population increased by 64% in the past decade.

Public Works Director Shane LeBlanc said parks are an important part of adapting to that growth.

“It’s a little rough right now because it’s under construction, but the end product is going to be a jewel for the community,” LeBlanc said. “I think the demand is there. The more development that we have, the more residential, the more demand for parks.”

Residents can still give input for consideration in the Parks and Rec master plan. Click on the link to take the city survey on parks.