City “Master Plan” for parks, recreation centers and libraries needs community input

The City of Salinas is asking for community input on a wide array of projects listed on its “Master Plan” of infrastructure improvements.

In the past residents have asked for more lighting at city parks to improve safety.

Some amenities are also asked for, including splash pads and more baseball/soccer fields.

There’s also talk of extended library hours and the addition of youth programs.

“Recreation centers and libraries are safe havens for our community and our youth,” says Kristan Lundquist with Salinas Parks and Recreation. “They have positive mentors in those locations working to provide alternative opportunities and provide that ‘stop-grap’ during those critical hours after school where parents are working so kids need those safe spaces.”

Overall there are about 50 projects within the Master Plan the city’s parks and recreation team hopes community members can narrow down by listing which should be kept at a higher priority than others.

“They really want us to take care of the existing facilities we have before we go looking for new spaces or facilities,” says Lundquist.

The city has been accepting input from residents for some time regarding any concerns they may have related to area parks, recreation centers or libraries.

Thursday night was the first of three scheduled meetings between residents and the city Parks and Rec team.

The second meeting will be at the Bread Box on Sanborn Road Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. This one accomodates those who speak spanish.

The third meeting will be at the John Steinbeck Library on Feb. 28. at 6 p.m.