Open Space and Trails Plan

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bicyclist riding on trail in desert desert landscape with cactus pond in open desert

The City of Henderson is in the process of updating the Open Space and Trails Plan (OSTP), which was adopted in 2005. The plan update aims to continue creating an interconnected system of protected desert environments throughout the built environment with parks, off-street trails, and open spaces for the purposes of recreation and education, with compatible cultural programs to enhance our community's unique image and sense of place.

2005 Open Space and Trails Plan

Adopted December 6, 2005

Today's Challenge

The Mojave Desert's unique plants, wildlife, steep slopes, and expansive valleys within and surrounding the City of Henderson define our community's sense of place and provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and trail use for residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds' enjoyment and relaxation.

With a current population of approximately 336,534, the City is expected to continue to experience tremendous population growth in West Henderson and through infill projects. In order to balance growth with conservation efforts, residents and City leadership have acknowledged the need to begin protecting the Henderson's special places through the Open Space Plan.

Tomorrow's Vision

As Henderson continues to grow, respect and conservation of our land, washes, and natural resources are important. This can be achieved by integrating the desert environment into the community as it grows, conserving through development, building around Henderson's special places with:

New and infill development thoughtfully integrated into the desert environment.
Trails strategically planned adjacent to washes in natural areas and along improved flood control facilities, easily accessible and aesthetically pleasing.
Restoration of disturbed areas to the extent possible with healthy soils for revegetation of native plants and wildlife ecosystem.
Preservation of steep slopes for their scenic views and connectivity of natural landscapes and wildlife corridors.

Project Goals

The Plan serves as an important policy document to guide the City of Henderson in outdoor recreation programming, public facilities maintenance, and community planning for the next ten years. The Open Space and Trails Plan will be updated to:

Identify and protect special places, provide accessible trails, and conserve natural resources while maintaining the City's vibrant economy.
Protect lands for resource conservation, wildlife, passive recreational activities, and educational opportunities while continue improving the citizen's quality of life.
Develop open space principles and policies to be incorporated into the Henderson Strong Comprehensive Plan update.

Project Milestones

open space and trails project timeline

Community Outreach

Help chart a vision for the future of Henderson's open space and trails! Please complete a survey between now and March 18, 2024 to be entered into a drawing for a $25 Walmart gift card.