The City of Sonoma recently completed a comprehensive Parks Assessment in March 2022 to evaluate the condition of its seventeen parks and address the changing recreational needs of its residents. An essential goal of this assessment was to align with the recommendations proposed by the Recreation Task Force, contributing to the creation of a robust list of park improvement projects. These projects would strategically leverage Measure M funding and other general funds to enhance the infrastructure of the City's parks and provide an enjoyable experience for the community.
This initiative was undertaken by a dedicated team from the City Staff, who conducted thorough field assessments covering various aspects of the parks, including facilities, landscaping, accessibility, and community engagement opportunities. The assessment sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of each park's condition and identify areas in need of improvement. The resulting report, which will be released at a later date, outlines specific recommendations for significant infrastructure improvements in the City-owned parks.
These findings informed the staff's recommendations for park projects scheduled for initiation in the 2023/2024 fiscal year. Staff prioritized the three parks – Olsen, Sonoma Valley Oaks, and a New Park at 5th St. W & W MacArthur St - with the most urgent repair needs during the Capital Improvement Project (CIP) budget process, and these recommendations were subsequently approved by the Council as part of the FY 23/24 budget process.
