In 2004, the Kirkwood Park Board embarked on an ambitious plan to develop a ten year master plan for its 400 acre park system. Completed by Planning Design Studio staff, this plan recommended over 17 million dollars of improvements. A series of improvements known as "The Ridge" were identified in the plan as the first implementation project. Developed in four phases, the impressive list of improvements included a new concession stand, three new comfort stations, playgrounds, a renovated historic pavilion and several stand alone pavilions.

Also faced with a unique opportunity to develop a new park in an established area of the community, the City of Kirkwood again relied on Planning Design Studio to deliver Monfort Park, it's newest facility. This neighborhood park features a stone clad pavilion, an age-inclusive playground, benches and a drinking fountain, all located among carefully preserved mature trees.

The planning and design improvements to the Kirkwood Parks system recently received a design award from the Saint Louis Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects.