CHAPTER ONE • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY NAPERVILLE PARK DISTRICT INDOOR RECREATION SPACE NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Population by Age - Comparison Over Time
14,000
12,000
10,000
In addition to considering community feedback and other data including demographics and trends, the Naperville Park District’s organizational guiding plans are influential in determining the direction of the District. The key organizational documents considered in formulating the Indoor Recreation Space Needs Assessment include: • 2023 Master Plan • 2023-2025 Strategic Plan • 2022 Community Interest and Opinion Survey
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
> 5 Years
5-9 Years
10-14 Years
15-19 Years
20-24 Years
25-29 Years
30-34 Years
35-39 Years
40-44 Years
45-49 Years
50-54 Years
55-59 Years
60-64 Years
65-69 Years
70-74 Years
75-79 Years
80-84 Years
85 Years <
2020 2016 2010
49.2%
The 2020 census data reflects a nearly even split population between the genders of the community: 49.2% male and 50.8% female. Taking into account the total population under age 19 (~26%) and the population ages 30-49 (~27%), this data continues to reflect Naperville as a community built for families. As referenced in the previous plan, it is important to note the large increase in the senior population (ages 55 and over) - empty-nester residents who raised a family in the community are choosing to stay in Naperville. The American Planning Association predicts “[o]lder adults to outnumber children by 2034 for the first time in
50.8%
American history” (Katz & Kaplan, p. 9). Further, “[b]y 2060, older adults and children together are projected to comprise more than 43 percent of the population, as compared with 38 percent in 2016. It is a scenario of old and young unlike any prior period in American history” (Katz & Kaplan, p.4). This senior sector of the population will continue rising, especially as life expectancy increases over time. Naperville is providing more senior living facilities and alternative housing for downsizing, allowing for aging in place. This growth further illustrates an increased need for senior-oriented facilities, as well as additional recreation/open space that provide opportunities for senior-oriented programs and activities. Given both of these demographic characteristics, the Park District should continue its application of “intergenerational” planning for all ages and abilities to experience a variety of parks and recreation opportunities throughout the community.
8 Naperville Park District | 2023 MASTER PLAN
DEMOGRAPHICS & TRENDS
Conducting an analysis of demographics and trends was essential to developing the Indoor Recreation Space Needs Assessment. Its purpose was to provide the Naperville Park District with insight into the general makeup of the population they serve and identify market trends in recreation. DEMOGRAPHICS • With a still-growing population, the District will need to strategically invest, develop, and maintain programs and facilities in relation to current and future residential growth. • Naperville’s aging population indicates a need for the District to refocus on opportunities for the 55+ age populations. • A high median household and per capita income suggests potential disposable income at both the individual and family levels - the District should be mindful of this when pricing programs and events. • Program offerings need to reflect an increasingly diverse population, supported by communications and public outreach; as such, the District will need to evaluate and consider shifting its program offerings over time. TRENDS National recreation trending data provide a broader perspective that helps to compare similarities or understand differences that are seen more locally. Currently, the top three sports most heavily participated in the United States are basketball, golf, and tennis – all of which have participation figures well above other sports. Additionally, pickleball continues to be the fastest growing sport in America and fitness trends continue to grow, with favorability shown for exercise that can be done in multiple environments including in a virtual class setting. Swimming, which is deemed to be a lifetime activity, continues to show strong interest; all aquatic activities saw moderate increases in participation nationally.
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