Parks board to hold workshop after survey shows strong interest in trails and walking

The Lucas Parks & Open Space Board agreed to hold a workshop to turn the recently completed parks survey into a prioritized action plan, targeting June 28 as the proposed date for a lunchtime session. Chair (S1) said the survey shows trails and walking are residents’ top priorities and urged the board to use the workshop to develop a clear list of project priorities to present to the incoming city manager and City Council.

Chair (S1) framed the survey results bluntly: “The creation of trails is paramount in this thing,” and pointed to recurring comments that residents want multiuse trail and sidewalk connections. Staff member Joshua (S3) told the board there were 430 resident responses with walking and running registering the highest level of interest; S3 also noted 178 mentions requesting pickleball, though board members emphasized trail and sidewalk investment as a top aim.

Board members discussed timing and membership for a focused workshop, saying they want the new city manager, John Whitsall, and the mayor engaged in the process once the manager is on board. Staff will prepare a formal agenda for the special workshop, gather relevant materials including the city’s existing master trail plan, and return with a proposed timeline that could move prioritized items to City Council consideration.

Next step: staff will schedule the workshop (target June 28), prepare a focused agenda and supporting materials, and coordinate with the new city manager and mayoral liaison.