Monterey creates new Parks and Recreation Master Plan

The city of Monterey hosted a public workshop Wednesday to get input for its Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Residents gathered at the Monterey Youth Center to discuss everything from new trails to parks and safety.

It’s been nearly 30 years since the Parks and Recreation plan has been updated. One big topic wasthe recreation trail along Del Monte Avenue. Some residents said it’s just too overcrowded.

“One of the problems is that the rec trail is becoming so busy. We’re having conflicts between cyclists and pedestrians,” said Monterey resident Bob Evans.

An avid cyclist, Evans rides the rec trail every day. He said the city needs to put up more signs warning pedestrians.

“There are some parts of our recreation trail that quite frankly we are calling over loved,” said Kim Bui-Burton, the city community services director.

Bui-Burton said residents also want to see more flat fields, ocean activities, updated community centers and more lighting for safety.

“People are interested in being able to use some of our park facilities in the evenings, also along the recreation trail,” said Bui-Burton.

Bui-Burton hopes to bring a new master plan to the City Council by next spring for approval.It is agood start for residents like Evans, who still has lots of ideas.

“I’d like to see the train restored so that kids can play on it again,” said Evans.