Open Space and Recreation Plan

What is an Open Space and Recreation Plan?

The Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) provides Westfield with the opportunity to assess the current conditions of our natural resources and recreational amenities, what the next goals are in protecting natural resources and recreational amenities, and how we accomplish these goals. Planning for how our community uses its land helps us to balance the benefits of development without losing valuable open space and recreation assets. Additionally, having an approved OSRP allows the City to be eligible to apply for grant programs administered by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, Division of Conservation Services. 

What is 'Open Space'?

For the purpose of the OSRP, open space is defined as conservation, forest, recreation, and agricultural lands, and amenities such as green buffers on roadways. Open space can be used for both passive and active recreation. It is important to note that the use of the phrase "open space" throughout the OSRP does not mean the land being legally protected under Article 97 of the Amendments to the Massachusetts Constitution. 

• Passive Recreation - Any outdoor activity that occurs in a natural setting with minimum disturbance of the natural and cultural resources and that is consistent with quiet enjoyment of land. This includes activities hiking, walking, camping, fishing, or canoeing, and many more. 
• Active Recreation - Any outdoor recreation that requires significant alteration of the natural landscape to provide playground or active sports facilities. This includes activities such as soccer, horseback riding, pickleball, yoga, and more.

Who is developing the 2026 OSRP Plan?

In March 2025, a call was put out to members of the community and city officials seeking motivated volunteers to be a part of an OSRP Committee, which is guiding the development of the Plan in concert with our consultant, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.  The City conducted an online survey (receiving over 300 responses) and held a public visioning session in November to gather public input to order to shape a community-responsive plan.