SOMERS — Residents received their first glimpse of future parks in the town during an open house Monday.

On display were conceptual plans for six parks with a variety of features, including basketball and tennis courts, a nature center, soccer fields and a splash pad.

Many of the two dozen residents who attended said they appreciated the general layout of features unique to each of the proposed parks.

The informal presentation allowed residents to ask questions of park commissioners, Town Board members and Steven Brunner, senior landscape architect for Ruekert-Mielke, the firm that did a comprehensive study of Somers’ parks and recreation programs.

Smaller neighborhood parks are planned for the Country Charm and Valley View subdivisions; another will honor slain Kenosha County Sheriff’s Deputy Frank Fabiano.

Larger park proposals include the 24.2-acre Gitzlaff parcel north of Town Hall, 7511 12th St. South of Town Hall, an existing 14-acre parcel will be expanded, while a 34.7-acre parcel on Highway EA behind it will bring added recreation opportunities.

Carol Larsen favored planning for park development because people need places where they can enjoy nature and activities in the open.

“When I think of the future, I think of the people who will enjoy these parks, and it’s important for the future of our kids,” she said.

Sandra Barrett said she especially liked the concept plan for 1.7-acre Fabiano park at 12th Street near Sheridan Road, and like Larsen, appreciated the types of features that catered to kids, such as the basketball court.

“I like the little parks, and I think they’re a nice idea because it brings families and neighbors together.”

Barbara Willkomm, the Park Commission’s newest member, said she liked the concept for Country Charm, overall, but was concerned it lacked off-street parking. She was especially impressed with the Gitzlaff property plan which calls for a nature center and trails.

Willkomm said Somers has a great opportunity to showcase its natural surroundings.

“I’m excited for Somers because they say it’s a community that is a diamond in the rough. I think it’s a gem, and with parks you get to know your neighbors,” she said.