These small parks have the lowest anticipated draw for
users across the city and are expected to be reached
mostly by walking or bicycling.
There are three Standard Baseline Amenities
associated with a Tier 1 Park. The park provides
access to a natural environment with a variety of
plantings (trees, shrubs, ground cover) and seating.
The site must provide at least one other Identifiable
Amenity, such as a play area or small lending library.
All amenities should be accessible by a paved route in
good condition.
TIER 1
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
TIER 2
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK *
COMMUNITY
PARK
Character Nature and Neighborhood
Social Space
Nature. Group
Gathering, and Play
Nature, Community Gathering,
Recreation and Play
Uses +
Users
Passive
Individuals to Small groups
Passive + Active
Individuals to Medium groups
Passive + Active
Individual to Large Groups
Standard
Baseline
Amenities
1.Natural Environment
2.Seating
3.Identifiable Amenity
1.Natural Environment
2.Seating
3.Play Amenity
4.Picnic Opportunity
5.Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
6.Recreation Amenity
1.Natural Environment
2.Seating
3.Play Amenity,
Inclusive+All-Abilities
4.Picnic Opportunity
5.Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
6.Recreation Amenity
7.Off-Street Parking
8.Permanent Restroom
9.Multi-Use Athletic Field
or Community Facility
Size No Size Requirements
Typically less than 1 acre
No Size Requirements
Over 2 acres should
provide off-street parking
No Size Requirements
Transport
Modes
Walking
Biking
Walking
Biking
Some Driving
Walking
Biking
Driving
Access
Radius
¼ mile ½ mile Entire City
Previous
Planning
Mini Park Neighborhood Park Community Park
Special Facility
Table 3-2: Park Typologies
* Both Undeveloped Park sites are attributed as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2.
Note: School (JUA) and Open Space Park Typologies do not have attributes such as Standard Baseline Amenities.
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There is no minimum or maximum size for a Tier 1 Park,
although they tend to be one acre or less. The Access
Radius is one quarter (¼) mile. Visitors are expected
to arrive by walking or biking.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 2)
A Neighborhood Park Tier 2 supports connection to
nature, social gathering of small groups, and recreation and play activities.
A Tier 2 Park includes more amenities and uses than a
Tier 1 Park, but it still oriented towards a single visitor or smaller groups of less than 20 people. As such,
there are at least two amenities—play and recreation—
designed for use by multiple and diverse visitors at a
single time, as well as amenities that support small
group gatherings such as picnics.
A Tier 2 Park provides, at minimum, the three Standard
Baseline Amenities required for a Tier 1 Park and three additional amenities. The Identifiable Amenity required in a Tier 1 Park is a Play Amenity for Tier 2 Parks.
The three additional Standard Baseline Amenities for
a Tier 2 Park are Picnic Opportunity, Multi-Purpose
Flexible Space, and Recreation Amenity. While not
a requirement, some Tier 2 Parks currently offer
permanent or portable restroom facilities.
There is no minimum or maximum size for a Tier 2 Park.
The Access Radius is one half (½) mile. A majority
of users are expected to arrive by walking or biking.
As a more amenitized park, visitors arriving by car is
anticipated. Neighborhood Parks (of either tier) over 2 acres in size should provide off-street parking.
COMMUNITY PARK
Community Parks are notable parks that offer spaces
for large group gatherings, amenities that support
dozens of users simultaneously, and the characteristics of a public community space. Community Parks are
heavily used and therefore have high use intensities,
generating the most visitors as a result of the amenities and recreational programming opportunities.
A Community Park provides, at minimum, the six
Standard Baseline Amenities required for a Tier 2
Park and three more (Off-street Parking, a Permanent
Restroom, and an Athletic Field or Community Facility).
The Play Amenity at Community Parks should offer
Inclusive+All-Abilities Play.
There is no minimum or maximum size for a Community
Park. For the purposes of this PROS Plan, this Park
Typology has an Access Radius area that spans the
entire city. Visitors are expected to arrive by walking, biking, and driving.
UNDEVELOPED PARK
Undeveloped Parks are sites owned by the City that
currently have limited or no park improvements. These
areas are slated for development into amenitized parks
within the PROS system. For the purposes of the
PROS Plan, the two Undeveloped Parks are planned
as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2. This designation sets
the foundation to assess existing conditions within the Park Typologies framework.
SCHOOL (JOINT USE AGREEMENT)
The City entered into JUA with BRSSD for the right to
use recreational spaces in exchange for a maintenance
commitment by the City. School (JUA) sites typically
provide an athletic field for public use outside of
school hours. Organized recreational activities such as soccer, baseball, and softball are programmed at these
sites. In prior planning documents, these parks were
categorized as "School Parks."
There are no Standard Baseline Amenities for School
(JUA) sites because the City does not own the sites.
Visitors expected to arrive by walking, biking, and
driving. The Access Radius is one half (½) mile.
OPEN SPACE
Open Spaces are minimally improved or undeveloped
natural areas open to the public for various recreational activities. Open Spaces offer hiking, bicycling, running, dog walking, and passive enjoyment of nature. There
is no minimum or maximum size or Standard Baseline
Amenities for Open Spaces. For the purposes of this
PROS Plan, this Park Typology has an Access Radius
area that spans the entire city.
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33 CHAPTER 3 | Existing Conditions
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PARKLAND BY NEIGHBORHOOD
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SCHOOL
OPEN
SPACE
Carlmont 3.0
Central 1.3 3.4
Chula Vista 4.5
Cipriani 7.3
Country Club 5.1
East Belmont 11.0
Hallmark 6.2 6.1
Homeview 0.9
Plateau 35.0
Skymont 1.3
Sterling Downs 1.3 6.5
Sunnyslope 21.1
Western Hills 5.1 7.4 282.5
CITY TOTAL 68.1 23.4 317.5
Source: Parks and Recreation Department, 2035 General Plan Table 3-3: Parkland by Neighborhood
Figure 3-2: Parkland Distribution in Belmont Neighborhoods CHULA
VISTA
CENTRAL
COUNTRY
CLUB
CIPRIANI
CARLMONT
WESTERN
HILLS
HALLMARK
HOMEVIEW
SUNNYSLOPE
STERLING
DOWNS
HARBOR
INDUSTRIAL
EAST
BELMONT
SKYMONT
PLATEAU
Neighborhood Park
Community Park
Undeveloped Park
School (JUA)
Open Space/Trailhead
PARKLAND DISTRIBUTION
The parkland in Belmont is well distributed across the
City and throughout the many neighborhoods (Figure
3-2). All but one neighborhood (Plateau) has at least
one developed or undeveloped park.
Belmont provides 3.5 acres of parkland for every
1,000 residents. As shown in Table 3-3, there are two
neighborhoods that far exceed the City’s cumulative
parkland acreage per 1,000 residents (Sunnyslope
and East Belmont). They provide over 10 acres of
parkland per 1,000 residents. There are over 25 acres
of parkland in these neighborhoods for approximately
2,470 people, which is the most parkland and the
fewest residents of any census tract in Belmont.
As an almost completely built-out city—only 8 percent
of land is identified as vacant in the General Plan—
opportunities to increase the quantity of parkland
are limited. Undeveloped parcels are scarce and
transitioning a developed parcel can be cost prohibitive.
Belmont must prioritize the improvement of the
experience in existing PROS sites over increasing park
acreage due to various constraints.
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Figure 3-3: Park Access Radius by Neighborhood
CHULA
VISTA
CENTRAL
COUNTRY
CLUB
CIPRIANI
CARLMONT
WESTERN
HILLS
HALLMARK
HOMEVIEW
SUNNYSLOPE
STERLING
DOWNS
HARBOR
INDUSTRIAL
EAST
BELMONT
SKYMONT
PLATEAU
Neighborhood Park ¼ mile (Tier 1) or
½ mile (Tier 2)
Community Park Entire City
Undeveloped Park * ½ mile
School (JUA) ½ mile
Open Space/Trailhead Entire City
ACCESS + CONNECTIONS
While all neighborhoods have parkland or open space,
the entire neighborhood may not be within a 10-minute
walk, typically considered as one half (½) mile. The
Access Radius approach identifies areas around a
PROS site that are considered accessible transit-wise,
and highlight portions of the City where parks are
not as easily reachable. The Access Radius for each
Park Typology, shown in Figure 3-3, is dependent on
the intended use intensity and anticipated modes of
arrival. The Access Radius for Undeveloped Parks is
based on the Park Typology it will become, and both
Undeveloped Parks identified in the PROS Plan are
considered Neighborhood Parks Tier 2. Neighborhoods
with low access to existing park amenities are:
• Plateau
• Cipriani
• Country Club
These neighborhoods are considered under-served,
and improvements to increase access to the existing
PROS sites is paramount.
Overall, Belmont provides a high level of access to
parks, with almost 90 percent of the population living
within a 10-minute (½-mile) walk of a park. The national average for the percent of population that lives within a 10-minute walk of a park is 55 percent, based on data
compiled by the Trust for Public Land. Belmont well
surpasses this average.
Due to the limited availability of land to create more
PROS sites, creating connections to support access
to and between existing parks is key. In the Belmont
Comprehensive Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan, parks are
identified as destinations prioritized for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements. Creating safe and
enjoyable connections between parks reduces access
barriers and mitigates pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.
The City’s improvements on Ralston Avenue and
collaboration with the Safe Routes to School program
align with reducing conflict and increasing connections between parks for non-motorized transport.
* Both Undeveloped Park sites are attributed as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2.
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AMENITIES
This plan used a standardized list of amenities to
inventory existing offerings within the PROS system
and evaluate their condition. Athletic fields at School (JUA) sites are included in the inventory. There are
four categories of Amenities: Standard Baseline,
Benchmarked, Priority, and Secondary. Full definitions
of the amenities are included in the Appendix.
STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
Shown in Figure 3-4 are the Standard Baseline
Amenities for each Park Typology that clearly define
the amenities a park must provide to meet the minimum
requirements. The quantity of Standard Baseline
Amenities required compound as the use intensity
increases, while also becoming more complex.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 1)
The simplest park in Belmont, a Neighborhood Park
Tier 1, has the fewest Standard Baseline Amenities. A
Tier 1 Park must provide a natural environment with
seating and an Identifiable Amenity.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 2)
A Neighborhood Park Tier 2 includes all Standard
Baseline Amenities encompassed by a Tier 1 Park,
replacing an Identifiable Amenity with a Play Amenity.
Additionally, a Tier 2 Park must provide a Picnic
Opportunity, Multi-Purpose Flexible Space, and a
Recreation Amenity. Since both Undeveloped Parks are
planned as Tier 2 Parks, they also have this attribute.
COMMUNITY PARK
A Community Park provides the most amenities for the
public. A Community Park provides all amenities of a
Tier 2 Park, as well as Off-Street Parking, Permanent
Restroom, and either a Multi-Use Athletic Field or
Community Facility. Playgrounds should be designed
to offer Inclusive+All-Abilities Play.
SEATING
STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
NATURAL
ENVIRONMENT
a
d
g
c
f
i
e
h
b
IDENTIFIABLE
(PLAY) AMENITY
OFF-STREET
PARKING
PERMANENT
RESTROOM
MULTI-USE
ATHLETIC FIELD
OR COMMUNITY
FACILITY
PICNIC
OPPORTUNITY
MULTI-PURPOSE
FLEXIBLE SPACE
RECREATION
AMENITY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
TIER 1
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
TIER 2 *
COMMUNITY PARK
Figure 3-4: Standard Baseline Amenities
* Both Undeveloped Park sites are attributed as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2.
Note: School (JUA) and Open Space Park Typologies do not have Standard Baseline Amenities.
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Playground at Davey Glen Park
Reservable Picnic Area at Twin Pines Park
Community Garden at Barrett Community Center
BENCHMARKED AMENITIES
Benchmarked Amenities are elements typically
provided by a park and recreation system. The
Benchmarked Amenities are:
• All-Abilities Playground
• Basketball Court (Full and Half)
• Multi-Use Athletic Field
• Play Element and Playground
• Reservable Picnic Area (Small and Large)
The quantity of Belmont’s Benchmarked Amenities
have been counted to generate a level of service
amenity ratio. Comparisons of benchmarked amenity
quantities and level of service Standard Amenity Ratios for comparable cities and at the national, regional, and state-wide level are discussed in Chapter 5.
PRIORITY AMENITIES
Priority Amenities were highly ranked in the community
input survey or were a topic of importance in feedback
discussions. These are amenities also considered
common in California public parks that are either limited or nonexistent in Belmont. The Priority Amenities are:
• Community Garden
• Dog Park
• Dog Parklet
• Pump Track (Bike Park)
• Skate Park
• Water Play (Pool and Spray Element)
SECONDARY AMENITIES
These are amenities not identified as Standard
Baseline, Benchmarked, or Priority, but in existence
currently or identified through community input as
potential amenities to provide in Belmont’s PROS
system. The Secondary Amenities are:
• Fitness Equipment Cluster
• Handball / Wallball Court
• Horseshoe Pit / Bocce Ball Court
• Outdoor Classroom
• Performance Space
• Teen Outdoor Space
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PARK AMENITY INVENTORY
BENCHMARKED
AMENITY TOTAL * PARK SCHOOL
All-Abilities Playground 0 0 0
Basketball Court (Full) 13 0 12
Basketball Court (Half) 6 4 2
Multi-Use Athletic Field 12 8 4
Play Element 0 0 0
Playground 20 15 5
Reservable Picnic
Area, Small 2 2 0
Reservable Picnic
Area, Large 2 2 0
Tennis Court 4 4 0
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 2 2 0
Dog Park 1 1 0
Dog Parklet 0 0 0
Pump Track (Bike Park) 0 0 0
Skate Park 0 0 0
Water Play, Pool 0 0 0
Water Play, Spray
Element 0 0 0
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment
Cluster 1 1 0
Handball / Wallball Court 5 1 4
Horseshoe Pit /
Bocce Ball Court 5 5 0
Outdoor Classroom 0 0 0
Performance Space 2 2 0
Teen Outdoor Space 1 1 0
* Quantities do not include any amenities at Open Spaces Table 3-4: Park Amenity Inventory (2021)
AMENITY INVENTORY
The Amenity Inventory evaluates current conditions
and accessibility of amenities to determine overall park health. Each amenity is identified with a green callout.
Table 3-4 provides a tally of the final inventory. The full Amenity Inventory matrix, identifying amenities at each park site, is included in the Appendix.
STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
Standard Baseline Amenities for the Park Typologies
were catalogued. A means that amenity exists on the
site. A means that amenity does not exist on the site.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 1)
Natural Environment
Seating
Identifiable Amenity
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 2)
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
COMMUNITY PARK
Tier 2 Requirements
Off-Street Parking
Restroom, Permanent
Athletic Field or Community Facility
AMENITY CONDITION
Every park amenity was evaluated and assigned a
condition rating of good, fair, or poor.
• GOOD: Features and facilities are functioning as
intended with minimal wear/damage. No immediate
action beyond preventative maintenance is required.
• FAIR: Features and facilities are showing some
signs of wear/damage. Function and service is
minimally impacted, and preventative maintenance
is recommended.
• POOR: Features and facilities are damaged or
worn to the point where basic functionality or user
safety is compromised. Immediate replacement is
recommended.
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YORKSHIRE WAY
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
ALEXANDER PARK
400 Block of Yorkshire Way
Neighborhood Park Tier 2
1.3 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Alexander Park is a high-use park tucked within a
residential neighborhood. The park’s entrance is off
Yorkshire Way through a narrow access path between
houses. The entrance is framed by a wooden trellis
at the street that establishes the park within the
surrounding neighborhood. A concrete walking path
circles a majority of the main lawn area and leads to a picnic area. There are two play structures, two tennis
courts, a half basketball court, a handball court, and
two horseshoe pits. A new permanent restroom was
constructed in 2017.
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YORKSHIRE WAY
1 3
5 4
6 2 5
7 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
1 Picnic and Horseshoe Area
2 Restroom, Permanent
3 Planting Area
4 Basketball Court (Half)
5 Playground
6 Tennis Courts
7 Multi-Use Lawn
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
GOOD FAIR POOR
AMENITY
• Wood benches are in fair
condition.
• BBQ is in poor condition.
• Restroom is new and in good
condition.
• Horseshoe pits are underutilized
and in poor condition.
• Tennis courts were resurfaced in
2022.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• No accessible benches.
• Paved areas and paths need to be
evaluated.
LANDSCAPE
• Entrance planting is in good
condition. Some planting areas are
bare.
• Lawn is in fair condition.
• Trees around perimeter of site are
in fair condition.
• Pear trees near playground require
trimming.
• Ivy needs removal by picnic areas.
• Large oak needs removal.
ALEXANDER PARK
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RALSTON AVE
BELBURN DR
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
BARRETT COMMUNITY CENTER
1835 Belburn Drive
Community Park
5.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Barrett Community Center is a repurposed school
building that offers classes, programs, and activities
such as dance and preschool. The site includes a
large athletic field, full basketball court, a playground, outdoor fitness equipment, a community garden, and
a baseball field. In 2020, a conceptual design was
developed that includes a new community center
building, pool, increased on-site parking, a dedicated
dog park area, and relocated and improved athletic
fields.
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RALSTON AVE
BELBURN DR
GOOD FAIR POOR
COMMUNITY PARK
Tier 2 Requirements
Off-Street Parking
Restroom, Permanent
Athletic Field or
Community Facility
1 Day Care Facility
2 Parking / Drop-Off
3 Community Garden
4 Shade Structure /
Picnic Tables
5 Basketball Court (Full)
6 Playground
7 Multi-Use Athletic Field
8 Redwood Trees
9 Fitness Equipment
1 5
4 2
8 6
7 3
2 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
9 AMENITY
• Shade structure is in good
condition.
• Picnic tables are in poor condition
in lawn area.
• Outdoor fitness equipment in good
condition.
• Playground in fair condition (not
Inclusive + All-Abilities).
• Community garden space appears
well maintained.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Most areas are accessible.
• Some ADA-accessible parking is
available.
LANDSCAPE
• Turf is in fair condition with some
drainage concerns.
• Trees around perimeter of site are
in fair condition.
• Trees around playground are in
good condition.
• Ivy near entrance needs
remediation.
• Entrance planting is sparse.
BARRETT COMMUNITY CENTER
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ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
VILLAGE DR
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
BELMONT
LIBRARY
BELAMEDA PARK
1110 Alameda de las Pulgas
Community Park
3 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Belameda Park is adjacent to Belmont Library. Large,
old-growth oak trees line the paths, which create a
sense of arrival to the park and the library. There is
setback and protected from the roadway with slight
elevation and a retaining wall. The playground was
completed in 2008 and is in good condition. Picnic
tables are in good condition. The rear of the site
is multi-family residential structures, with a small
access path to Village Drive. There is ADA access
to tables and walking paths. There is a bus stop
on Ralston Avenue adjacent to the park entrance.
There are areas that present opportunities for further
development.
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ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
VILLAGE DR
BELMONT
LIBRARY
GOOD FAIR POOR
COMMUNITY PARK
Tier 2 Requirements
Off-Street Parking
Restroom, Permanent
Athletic Field or
Community Facility
1 Play Element (Swing Set)
2 Playground
3 Walking Path (connects
to Village Drive)
4 Picnic Tables
5 Bus Stop
6 Multi-Use Lawn
7 Library Amphitheater Space
8 Off-Street Parking
1 5 4
8 6
3 7
2 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Tables are in good condition
• Playground is in good condition
(not Inclusive + All-Abilities).
• Swings are in good condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Site has accessible walkways and
table.
• Playground has accessible
entrance and some ground-level
play.
• Concrete path is in good condition.
LANDSCAPE
• Mature trees appear in good
condition, no hardscape crowding.
• Turf is in good condition.
• Entrance planting is sparse.
• Playground planting is sparse.
BELAMEDA PARK
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101 FREEWAY
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2018
NORTH
FIELD
MARINA
SOUTH FIELD
FIELD
BELMONT SPORTS COMPLEX
550 Island Parkway
Community Park
11 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
The Belmont Sports Complex consists of three multiuse athletic fields. Baseball, softball, and soccer are the primary activities that occur at the site. The North Field was recently renovated with synthetic turf, a
new backstop, new foul ball fencing, and new homerun fencing. The Marina and South Fields need new turf and some hardscape elements look problematic.
There is a fenced playground, a picnic area with a
BBQ area, and stored soccer nets north of the North
Field. Adjacent to the picnic and playground is an
open marsh area. The site was previously a landfill.
There is a Conference Center that can be rented for
events.
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GOOD FAIR POOR
COMMUNITY PARK
Tier 2 Requirements
Off-Street Parking
Restroom, Permanent
Athletic Field or
Community Facility
1 Playground
2 Picnic Area
3 Concession Stand
/ Restroom
4 Multi-Use Athletic Field
5 Synthetic Turf
6 Conference Center
7 Parking Lot
8 Bay Trail Connection
9 Pedestrian Bridge
10 Drop-Off Area
5 4
4 4
9 8
1 6 7
3 2
10 9
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2018
NORTH
FIELD
MARINA
FIELD
SOUTH
FIELD
AMENITY
• New PA system is needed.
• Hardscape is problematic.
• Foot bridge wood planks are in
poor condition.
• Bleachers are in good condition
(North Field) and poor condition
(Marina and South Fields).
• Restroom needs renovation.
• Picnic area needs renovation.
• BBQ is in poor condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• New field has ADA-accessible
bleachers.
• Path is accessible.
• Picnic area is accessible.
• Concrete walkway from parking lot
is accessible.
• Near Bay Trail connection and
bicycle bridge connection.
LANDSCAPE
• North Field is in great condition.
• Adjacent fields are in fair condition.
• Landscape near picnic area is
empty and needs separation from
marsh area.
• Trees near empty lot are in good
condition, needs planting near
tables.
BELMONT SPORTS COMPLEX
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MONSERAT AVE
BUENA VISTA AVE
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
CIPRIANI PARK
2525 Buena Vista Avenue
Neighborhood Park Tier 2
6 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Cipriani Park is immediately adjacent to Cipriani
Elementary School, but the site does not have a
JUA. Cipriani Park provides the only dedicated
dog park in Belmont. There is a multi-use athletic
field, playground, and picnic area. The dog park is
reachable from either the school parking lot or from
the Buena Vista Drive park entrance. The dog park
is a dirt lot with a chain link fence, a small shade
structure, and a fenced small dog area. There is a
playground located near the street, with a picnic area
shaded by large trees. The site has low accessibility,
steep terrain, and poor walking paths.
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MONSERAT AVE
BUENA VISTA AVE
GOOD FAIR POOR
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
1 Playground
2 Picnic Area
3 Multi-Use Athletic Field
4 Small Dog Park
5 Large Dog Park 3
4 5
2 1
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Small dog park area has a low
level of wood chips.
• Playground is in fair condition.
• Shade structure is in fair condition
• Benches, tables, and fountain
within dog areas are in fair
condition.
• Fences are in fair condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• No ADA access to the dog park.
• Entrance from school parking lot is
informal.
• Walk from park is not accessible
given the slopes and problematic
pavement.
LANDSCAPE
• Dog park users complain about the
area getting too muddy.
• Park has limited planting.
• Mature trees near picnic areas
appear in good to fair condition.
CIPRIANI PARK
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COLLEGE VIEW WAY
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
COLLEGE VIEW PARK
1 College View Way
Neighborhood Park Tier 1
0.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
College View Park is a small park nestled within
a residential area. The park sits adjacent to the
Notre Dame de Namur University campus, which
is reachable through a pedestrian gate behind the
playground. The park contains a playground suitable
for 5 to 12 year olds and a small picnic area. Site
irrigation is battery operated. The central area is used by the community as a small gathering space. The
central lawn supports various activities.
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COLLEGE VIEW WAY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1
Natural Environment
Seating
Identifiable Amenity
1 Bench
2 Multi-Use Lawn
3 Drinking Fountain
4 Playground
5 Picnic Area
6 Access to Notre Dame
de Namur University
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 6
5 3 4
2 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Playground is in good condition.
• Playground wood chips levels are
low.
• Bench is in poor condition.
• Fence line is in fair condition.
• Picnic area is not established,
tables are in fair condition.
• Benches in central area are in
poor condition.
• Signage is very small.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Park is accessible with walkways
that appear compliant.
• Central space has problematic
hardscape.
LANDSCAPE
• Lawns are in fair condition.
• Large redwoods are in a
neighboring yard.
• Planting areas have disorganized
spacing.
• Trees appear to be in fair condition.
• Area by picnic tables is bare
without planting.
COLLEGE VIEW PARK
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DAVEY GLEN RD
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
DAVEY GLEN PARK
500 Davey Glen Road
Neighborhood Park Tier 2
1.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Davey Glen Park is a fully accessible park on a
hillside surrounded by a eucalyptus grove. The park
sits slightly lower than the adjacent road. There are
stairs and an ADA-accessible ramp into the park.
The park contains a rain garden and beautiful Marina
Strawberry trees line the fence separating adjacent
homes. The park provides a synthetic turf area,
accessible picnic tables, benches, and an intricate
play structure with rubber fall zones. The hillside is
planted with a no-mow grass species and decorative
boulders for visual interest.
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DAVEY GLEN RD
GOOD FAIR POOR
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
1 Entry Signage
2 Stairs
3 ADA-Accessible Ramp
4 Decorative Boulders
5 Rain Garden
6 Multi-Use Lawn
(Synthetic Turf)
7 Benches
8 Picnic Areas
9 Playground
10 No-Mow Grass Hillside
1 5
4 3
2 7 8
9 10
6 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Playground is in great condition.
• Picnic tables have some graffiti.
• Signage is in good condition.
• Concrete is in good condition.
• Benches are in good condition.
• Synthetic turf is in good condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Park is accessible.
• Picnic tables are accessible.
LANDSCAPE
• Plantings are thriving and appear to
be in good condition.
• Trees appear healthy.
• No-mow grass on hillside provides
a visual appeal.
DAVEY GLEN PARK
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HALLMARK DR.
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
HALLMARK PARK
2599 Hallmark Drive
Neighborhood Park Tier 2
5.2 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Hallmark Park has a residential community to the
north and open space to the south. The land to the
south belongs to the water district land and has a cross country course. The park include two tennis courts, a
small playground, picnic tables, and some benches.
There is an access road for the San Francisco Public
Utilities Commission (SFPUC) that park visitors can
pass through. Large growth pines are prevalent on
site. The site is only partially developed, with the
western half of the site untouched. Access is limited
due to terrain and condition of paths.
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HALLMARK DR.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
1 Benches
2 Tennis Courts
3 Asphalt Path
4 Playground
5 Picnic Area
6 Open Space
7 Access Gate
8 SFPUC Land
Cross County Course
GOOD FAIR POOR
4 3
2 5
6 8
7 1
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Tennis courts were resurfaced in
2022.
• Benches are in fair condition.
• Playground is in fair condition.
• Picnic tables are in fair condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Path slope near entrance appears
problematic.
• Uprooting is causing problems for
the asphalt and tennis courts.
LANDSCAPE
• Trees are uprooting the hardscape
and tennis court areas.
• Large areas are not planted.
HALLMARK PARK
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HASTINGS DR
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
HASTINGS TOT LOT PARK
2400 Hastings Drive
Neighborhood Park Tier 1
0.3 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Hastings Tot Lot Park is a small park on a steep
residential street. There is a trail connection to
Waterdog Lake Open Space. The park overlooks
the open space and offers excellent views. A small
playground with seating areas is the main attraction
of this park. A wooden stake fence surrounds the site.
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HASTINGS DR
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1
Natural Environment
Seating
Identifiable Amenity
1 Unplanted Area
2 Playground
3 Wood Post Fence
4 Bench
5 Picnic Table
Trailhead
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 5
4 3
2 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Playground is in fair condition.
• Playground fiber levels are low.
• Tables are in fair condition.
• Benches are in poor condition.
• Wood stake fence is in poor
condition.
• Playground lacks safety barrier
from adjacent street.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Slope and on-street parking pose
concerns for accessibility.
• Benches are not accessible.
• Tables are not accessible
LANDSCAPE
• Site lacks planting around the
playground areas.
HASTINGS TOT LOT PARK
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CARLMONT
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
HIDDEN CANYON PARK
End of Carlmont Drive
Undeveloped
4.8 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Hidden Canyon Park is an area that provides a
connection to the various multi-use trails within
Waterdog Lake Open Space. Near the entrance of the
park is a large rectangular space with a single paved
road that leads back to various trailheads. There is a
gravel parking lot. Street parking is somewhat limited
due to the location of the park at the terminus of a
neighborhood street.
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CARLMONT
1 Parking Lot
2 Restroom, Portable
3 Fence Line
4 Boot Brush
5 Paved Road
6 Cleared Space
7 Terminus of Paved Road
8 Box Culvert
Trailhead
GOOD FAIR POOR
3 4
2 1
5 6
7 8
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Paved road is in good condition.
• Fence line is in good condition.
• Parking gravel levels are low in
some locations.
• Parking stops are in fair condition.
• Bench is in fair condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Park is accessible from gravel
parking lot.
• Paved linear strip is within the park
area.
LANDSCAPE
• Naturalized area with native plants
on the hillsides.
• Park area is not planted.
• Parking lot is not planted.
• Parking lot trees are in good
condition and provide shade for
cars.
HIDDEN CANYON PARK
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SOLANA DR.
CHULA VISTA DR
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
MCDOUGAL PARK
1405 Solana Drive
Community Park
4.5 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
McDougal Park is adjacent to the Charles Armstrong
School (private school). The City grants the school
limited use of the park. Amenities consist of three
multi-use fields and a picnic area. The park has
limited street parking and no off-street parking. The
park is adjacent to residential homes to the north
and the school to the east. A line of eucalyptus trees
visually screen another adjacent school to the south.
There are two shipping containers utilized as storage
and a concession stand during games located away
from the bulk of the park behind a backstop. There
are portable restrooms on site.
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CHULA VISTA DR
COMMUNITY PARK
Tier 2 Requirements
Off-Street Parking
Restroom, Permanent
Athletic Field or
Community Facility
1 Restroom, Portable
2 Picnic Area
3 Storage Container
4 Concession Stand
5 Bleachers
6 School Parking
7 Batting Cage
8 Eucalyptus Trees
9 Multi-Use Athletic Field
GOOD FAIR POOR
5 5
5 4
3 2
1 6
8 7
9 9
9 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Infield creep is occurring.
• Portable restroom is in fair
condition.
• Storage containers are in poor
condition.
• Picnic tables are in poor condition.
• Benches are in poor condition.
• Fencing for diamonds is in fair
condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Park is not accessible.
• ADA-accessible seating and
walkways are needed
LANDSCAPE
• Fields appear to be in fair condition.
• Hillside is overgrown.
• Trees near entrance appear to be
in poor condition.
MCDOUGAL PARK
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RALSTON AVE
RALSTON AVE
101 ON RAMP
HILLER ST
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
O’DONNELL PARK
400 Block of Ralston Avenue
Neighborhood Park Tier 2
0.9 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
O’Donnell Park is located at the intersection of Ralston Avenue and the on-ramp to Highway 101 South.
The park’s two playgrounds were installed in 2019.
Park amenities include a wooden shade structure,
picnic areas, benches, a community garden, and two
half basketball courts. There is abundant gathering
space where trees provide ample shade. Lawn areas
provide flexible space near the playgrounds. There is
a portable restroom on site.
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RALSTON AVE
RALSTON AVE
101 ON RAMP
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
1 Basketball Court (Half)
2 Playground
3 Community Garden
4 Shade Structure
5 BBQ Area
6 Picnic Seating Area
7 Signage
8 Multi-Use Lawn
9 Restroom, Portable
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 1
9 5
7 4
3 8
2 2
6 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• BBQs are in poor condition.
• Shade structure is in fair condition.
• Tables in BBQ areas are in fair
condition.
• Playgrounds are new and in good
condition.
• Basketball courts are in fair
condition.
• Community garden is in good
condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Pathways near BBQ areas are
problematic.
LANDSCAPE
• Some areas are devoid of planting.
• Trees appear to be in good
condition.
• Lawn is in good condition.
O'DONNELL PARK
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MIDDLE RD
NORTH RD.
NOTRE DAME AVE
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
PATRICIA WHARTON PARK
Notre Dame Avenue + Middle Road
Neighborhood Park Tier 1
0.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Patricia Wharton Park is a small park that sits
between Notre Dame Avenue and Middle Road within
a residential neighborhood. The park is immediately
adjacent to a bus stop. The park contains two benches
and planting areas. The rear of the site slopes down
into a residential property.
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MIDDLE RD
NORTH RD
NOTRE DAME AVE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1
Natural Environment
Seating
Identifiable Amenity
1 Sloped Hillside
2 Benches
3 Central Planting
4 Planting Area
5 Bus Stop / Free Library
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 5
4 3
2 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Benches are in poor condition.
• Bench footings are exposed.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Path of travel is accessible.
• Concrete has cracks.
• Concrete is has trip hazards in
some locations.
LANDSCAPE
• Plantings are in good condition.
• Slope is not planted.
• Trees appear to be in good
condition.
PATRICIA WHARTON PARK
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RALSTON RANCH RD
RALSTON RANCH RD
CHRISTIAN DR
RALSTON AVE
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
RALSTON RANCH PARK
Across from 1 Ralston Ranch
Undeveloped
1.3 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Ralston Ranch Park is an undeveloped park site that
sits at the front of a neighborhood community along
Ralston Avenue. The site slopes down from the street
towards the residential area and sits slightly lower
than the street. The site has various trees, minimal
planting, and views of the Bay.
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RALSTON RANCH RD
RALSTON AVE
1 Sloped Hillside
2 Fuse Box and Irrigation
Controller
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 2
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• No furnishings are on site.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Undeveloped space.
• Road has a high slope off of
Ralston Ranch Road (East).
• Road has less of a slope on
Ralston Ranch Road (West).
LANDSCAPE
• Some trees need evaluation.
• Redwoods appear to be in fair
condition.
• Very little planting on hillside, needs
erosion control.
RALSTON RANCH PARK
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SEMERIA AVE
CASA BONA AVE
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
SEMERIA PARK
2322 Casa Bona Avenue
Neighborhood Park Tier 2
0.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Semeria Park sits within a residential community.
Park amenities include a playground, swing set,
lawn, fenced area, a single on-street ADA-accessible
parking space, benches, picnic area, and new planting
areas. The site is located at the divergence of two
roadways, which creates an appealing open space
for the community to gather within the neighborhood
context.
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SEMERIA AVE
CASA BONA AVE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2
Tier 1 Requirements
Play Amenity
Picnic Opportunity
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Recreation Amenity
1 Entry Sign / Seating
2 Multi-Use Lawn
3 Play Element (Swing Set)
4 Playground
5 Decorative Boulders
6 Accessible Parking
7 Picnic Area
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 4
5 3
2 7
6 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Playground is in good condition.
• Swing set is in good condition.
• Fall zones are in good condition.
• Decorative boulders are in good
condition.
• Benches are in good condition.
• Concrete is in good condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Park is accessible.
• ADA-accessible parking stall is
provided.
• Fall zone is rubber.
• Table is accessible.
• Fence in good condition.
LANDSCAPE
• Lawn is in fair condition.
• Trees provide shade to seating
areas and are in good condition.
• Plantings appear to be in good
condition.
SEMERIA PARK
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RALSTON AVE
6TH AVE
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
TWIN PINES PARK
30 Twin Pines Lane
Community Park
21.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Twin Pines Park is a central and important park within
Belmont and home to the Parks and Recreation
Department. The park is bisected by Belmont Creek
and include a large grove of eucalyptus trees with
various programmed areas. The park contains
playgrounds, nature play areas, group picnic areas
with BBQs, horseshoe pits, rentable recreation
buildings, and trail connections. There is a lawn
used for community events. Creek exploration is
attractive for children and various groups use the trail connections as recreational space. A Master Plan for
the park was completed in 2019.
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RALSTON AVE
6TH AVE
COMMUNITY PARK
Tier 2 Requirements
Off-Street Parking
Restroom, Permanent
Athletic Field or
Community Facility
1 Parking Lot
2 Twin Pines Manor
3 Senior / Community Center
4 Open Green
5 Performance Stage Area
6 Horseshoe Pit
7 Twin Pines Lodge
8 Restroom
9 Playground
10 Belmont Creek
11 Picnic Area
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 6
6 5
5 7
4 8
8 3
10 11
2 9
9 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Playgrounds are in good to fair
condition (not Inclusive + AllAbilities).
• Tables are in fair to poor condition.
• Restroom by parking lot is in fair
condition.
• Drinking fountains are in poor to
fair condition.
• BBQs are in poor to fair condition.
• Picnic areas are in fair condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Parking is located near
playground.
• Redwood picnic area has an
accessible pathway.
• Restroom pathway is not paved.
LANDSCAPE
• Entrance area, creek, and picnic
areas lack planting.
• New tree plantings appear to be in
good condition.
• Eucalyptus logs sit in open space.
• Trails are not delineated on the
south side.
• Creek erosion needs addressing.
• Creek access needs improvement.
• Eucalyptus trees should be
assessed.
TWIN PINES PARK
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ELDER DR
WAKEFIELD DR
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
WAKEFIELD PARK
Wakefield Drive + Elder Drive
Neighborhood Park Tier 1
1 acre
PARK OVERVIEW
Wakefield Park is a small undeveloped park site that
sits elevated from the surrounding neighborhood.
There are panoramic views of San Francisco, East
Bay, and Fremont areas. The space has minimal
planting, with a few old growth trees that create a
sense of arrival and destination. There is a wonderful
sense of security created within the park because of
its notable elevated from the surrounding context.
The site offers a peaceful respite in an otherwise
busy and congested environment.
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ELDER DR
WAKEFIELD DR
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1
Natural Environment
Seating
Identifiable Amenity
1 Cleared Space
2 Benches
3 Trash Receptacle
4 Old Growth Trees
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 4
3 2
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Benches are in fair condition.
• Trash receptacle is in good
condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Site is not accessible.
• Entry area grade is problematic.
• Site has no paved path of travel.
LANDSCAPE
• Sparse planting on site, mostly
naturalized shrubs.
• Old growth trees appear to be in
good condition.
• Area is mostly empty.
WAKEFIELD PARK
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CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
CENTRAL ELEM. SCHOOL
525 Middle Road
School (JUA)
3.4 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
This multi-use athletic field is under a JUA. There is
a playground and outdoor learning space adjacent to
the rectangular, medium-sized field. The playground
has been recently constructed. Current conditions
for irrigation are unknown due to construction of
the new playground. The field is separated from the
adjacent neighborhood apartments by a 6-foot chain
link fence and buffered visually with planting. There
is a temporary restroom near the field. Not included
in the JUA are blacktop amenities, such as basketball
courts, a handball court and other game spaces
typical of an elementary school.
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1 Outdoor Classroom
2 Multi-Use Athletic Field
3 Playground
4 Restroom, Portable
5 Perimeter Trees
6 Blacktop
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 4
6 5
3 2
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Soccer nets appear to be in fair
condition.
• Fence is in fair condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Field turf is in fair condition.
• Site is accessible from parking lot.
• No bleachers for watching field
games.
LANDSCAPE
• Turf needs replacement in some
areas.
• Uneven grades in some areas.
• Perimeter trees appear to be in
good condition.
CENTRAL SCHOOL
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CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
FOX ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
3100 St. James Road
School (JUA)
6.1 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
This multi-use athletic field is under a JUA. There
is an old playground with benches surrounded by
turf, connected to the path bisecting the park and a
trailhead. Students use the trail to travel to and from school. There are problems with irrigation due to the
system’s age. Gophers are an issue on site. A new
playground (not shown in the aerial) is located close
to the blacktop. Not included in the JUA are blacktop
amenities, such as basketball courts, wall ball courts, and other game spaces typical of an elementary
school.
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GOOD FAIR POOR
1 Playground
2 Bisecting Path
3 Fence Line
4 Multi-Use Athletic Field
5 Blacktop Amenities
Trailhead
4 3
5 2
1 1
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Multi-use field is in poor condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Pathway to playground is
accessible.
• New playground is accessible from
asphalt.
LANDSCAPE
• Fields are in poor condition with a
very uneven surface.
• Irrigation system is not operating
properly.
• Rodent problem in the fields.
• Tree near old playground appears
to be in fair condition.
FOX ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
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CAMBRIDGE STREET
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
NESBIT SCHOOL
500 Biddulph Way
School (JUA)
6.5 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
This multi-use athletic field is under a JUA. Nesbit
School is an elementary and middle school. The
field is available for public use outside school hours, typically between the hours of 4pm to 8pm on
weekdays and all day on the weekends. There is a
preschool to the north of the lawn. Not included in
the JUA are blacktop amenities, such as basketball
courts, wall ball courts, and other game spaces
typical of an elementary school.
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CAMBRIDGE STREET
1 Foul Ball Fencing
2 Infield
3 Preschool
4 Parking Lot
5 Soccer Nets
6 Blacktop Amenities
7 Restroom, Portable
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 5
4 6
3 2
7 2
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Infields appear to be in fair
condition.
• Backstops are in poor condition.
• Portable restroom is on site.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• School has accessible parking.
• Field is accessible from school’s
blacktop area.
LANDSCAPE
• Fields are in poor condition
• Irrigation concerns due to the age
of the system.
• Trees in field appear to be in good
condition.
• Geese are prevalent on fields.
NESBIT SCHOOL
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CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
RALSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL
2675 Ralston Avenue
School (JUA)
7.4 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
This multi-use athletic field is under a JUA. There is a walking track surrounding the open field. A concrete
amphitheater was recently constructed that faces out
towards the lawn. Large eucalyptus trees line the east
side of the field. The site is susceptible to wind due to its location on the hilltop surrounding Waterdog Lake,
which is immediately south of the site. There is an
old ropes course straddling City property that is no
longer in use. Not included in the JUA are blacktop
amenities, such as basketball courts.
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1 Public Entry
2 Amphitheater Seating
3 Paved Loop
4 Eucalyptus Trees
5 Multi-Use Athletic Field
6 Foul Ball Fencing
7 Ropes Course
8 Dirt Loop
9 Blacktop Amenities
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 5
4 8
3 9
7 2
6 6
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Fields are in fair condition.
• Backstops are in fair condition.
• Paved path is in good condition.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Walking track is only half paved.
LANDSCAPE
• Irrigation concerns due to the age
of the system and rodents.
• Dirt path is not delineated in some
areas.
• Trees to the east appear
problematic.
• Cracked concrete housings.
• No plantings along loop.
• Field is overgrown beyond the
fence line.
RALSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL
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RALSTON AVE
J ARTHUR YOUNG FWY
SUGARLOAF
MOUNTAIN
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
SAN JUAN CANYON
4122 Marsten Avenue / 3500 Bartlett Way
Open Space
35 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
San Juan Canyon is a large undeveloped open
space area with various trailheads leading into San
Mateo with connections to Sugarloaf Mountain.
There are various entry points for this trail system off Bartlett Way, Marsten Avenue, and Bishop Road. The
trail system has idyllic views and old growth trees.
Native species line the trails and create a serene
atmosphere. The City acquired the land in 2009.
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RALSTON AVE
SUGARLOAF
MOUNTAIN
1 Entry (Bartlett Way)
2 Entry to Sugarloaf
3 Entry (Marsten Road)
Trailhead
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 3
2 SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• No furnishings are on site.
• Some signage is present at new
trailheads.
• Lacking signage within the trail
network.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Trails are not paved.
• Dirt trails have problematic grades.
• Trails are rugged but are clear of
debris.
LANDSCAPE
• Naturalized areas.
• Old growth trees provide natural
scenery.
• Native species are present.
SAN JUAN CANYON
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JUNIPERO SERRA FWY
CONTEXT MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
WATERDOG LAKE
Across from 2839 Hallmark Drive
Open Space
282.5 acres
PARK OVERVIEW
Waterdog Lake is an expansive undeveloped open
space. Many of the open space trails are accessible
from Hidden Canyon Park. A path from Ralston
Avenue leads users through beautiful groupings of
native oaks, California buckeye, and eucalyptus
trees, which eventually leads to Waterdog Lake. The
site does not have a restroom. The open space offers
various activities such as hiking, mountain biking,
fishing, and dog walking.
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JUNIPERO SERRA FWY
1 Hallmark Drive Entrance
2 Trail to Lake
3 Open Space
4 Trail Connection
5 Waterdog Lake
Trailhead
GOOD FAIR POOR
1 5 4
3 2
SITE MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
AMENITY
• Benches are in fair condition.
• No permanent restrooms.
• Portable restrooms at trailheads.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Path to lake is partially unpaved
but in fair condition.
• No paved areas near the lake.
LANDSCAPE
• Erosion control is needed for areas
on pathway leading to the lake.
• Mostly old growth trees and
naturalized or native species.
WATERDOG LAKE
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Waterdog Lake Open Space
OPEN SPACE ASSESSMENTS
In spring 2022, WRA Environmental Consultants
evaluated Belmont's open spaces. The study includes
an Environmental Assessment and a Recreation Use
Assessment. WRA was specifically engaged for this
due to their science-based process and professional
expertise. This study was conducted to inform and
support the development of the PROS Plan. Given the
trail damage that occurred as a result of storms taking place in 2023, stewardship of Belmont's open spaces
remains a priority to the City and its residents.
The Environmental Assessment collected data
regarding sensitive biological communities, specialstatus species, and trail conditions. The Recreation Use Assessment uses various measurement
techniques to collect data regarding recreation use
and trends. Both site visits and desktop research were
used to compile the information and findings provided
in the Open Space Management Plan (OSMP). The
OSMP, found in the Appendix, is supplemented by
data tables, a discussion of the regulatory background
and methodology, and the overall conclusions of both
assessments.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
INTRODUCTION
The Environmental Assessment reviewed the existing
conditions of the biological resources, recreation, and wildfire hazards at Waterdog Lake (WDL) and San Juan
Canyon (SJC). It assessed both areas for the presence
of sensitive biological communities, special-status plant species, and special-status wildlife species. It also
assessed the potential for the site to support specialstatus species and assessed the baseline quality of habitats near trails. This enables the City to track and evaluate any changes in habitat quality to implement
management actions accordingly.
WDL is approximately 293 acres and features trails
which meander through chaparral, oak woodland, and
riparian habitats; a viewshed of the San Francisco Bay; and Waterdog Lake at its center. SJC is approximately
82 acres, located approximately three quarters (¾) of
a mile west of WDL across from Ralston Avenue. WDL
and SJC feature similar habitats and both sites are
generally surrounded by single-family residential land
use. Figure 3-5 depicts both open spaces, their trail
networks, and residential surroundings.
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APPENDIX 3
Belmont Open Space Management Plan
January 2024
WRA, Inc.
Figure 2.1. Study Area
Belmont Open Space Management Plan
January 2024
WRA, Inc.
Figure 2.1. Study Area
Figure 3-5: San Juan Canyon and Waterdog Lake Open Spaces DRAFT | FINAL
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Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail
ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS
WILDLIFE AND PLANT SPECIES
In WDL and SJC, 7 special-status wildlife species have
moderate to high potential to occur (Table 3-5), while
13 special-status plant species are present or have
moderate to high potential to occur (Table 3-6). Plant
species observed are mostly native with the exception
of developed portions of the site, non-native annual
grasslands, and eucalyptus groves. Over 90 percent of
the study area consists of native biological communities with both non-sensitive and sensitive communities
present (Table 3-7). Invasive species were observed,
generally limited to patches of less than 50 square feet, representing a small portion of the overall area.
The overall habitat quality in both open spaces
was determined to be high to moderate, with the
areas adjacent to trails and residential development
generally being of moderate quality. Areas with limited anthropogenic influence (set back from residential uses and major trails) contain high quality habitats. Figures 3-6 and 3-7 show the location of biological communities in WDL and SJC, respectively.
WILDLIFE
POTENTIAL SPECIES
Moderate
or higher
potential
to occur
• Western (Pacific) pond turtle
(Actinemys marmorata), CDFW
Species of Special Concern
• Olive-sided flycatcher
(Contopus cooperi), CDFW
Species of Special Concern
• White tailed kite (Elanus leucurus),
CDFW Fully Protected Species
• San Francisco (saltmarsh)
common yellowthroat (Geothlypis
trichas sinuosa), CDFW
Species of Special Concern
• Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus),
WBWG Medium
• San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat
(Neotoma fuscipes annectens),
CDFW Species of Special Concern
• American badger (Taxidea taxus),
CDFW Species of Special Concern
Unlikely
to occur
• California red-legged frog (Rana
draytonii). Federal Threatened,
CDFW Species of Special Concern
Table 3-5: Wildlife Likelihood to Occur in Study Area
PLANTS
POTENTIAL SPECIES
Present • Franciscan onion (Allium peninsulare
var. franciscanum), CRPR 1B.2.
• San Francisco collinsia (Collinsia
multicolor), CRPR 1B.2.
• Western leatherwood (Dirca
occidentalis), CRPR 1B.2.
• Arcuate bush-mallow
(Malacothamnus arcuatus),
CRPR 1B.2.
• Woodland woolythreads (Monolopia
gracilens), CRPR 1B.2.
• Chaparral ragwort (Senecio
aphanactis), CRPR 2B.2.
High
potential
to occur
• San Mateo woolly sunflower
(Eriophyllum latilobum),
FE, SE, CRPR 1B.1.
Moderate
potential
to occur
• Bent-flowered fiddleneck
(Amsinckia lunaris), CRPR 1B.2.
• Pink star-tulip (Calochortus
comosa), CRPR 4.2.
• California bottle-brush grass
(Elymus californicus), CRPR 4.3.
• Harlequin lotus (Hosackia
gracilis), CRPR 4.2.
• Bristly leptosiphon (Leptosiphon
acicularis), CRPR 4.2.
• Choris’s popcornflower
(Plagiobothrys chorisianus var.
chorisianus), CRPR 1B.2.
Table 3-6: Plant Likelihood to Occur in Study Area
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APPENDIX 3
Belmont Open Space Management Plan
January 2024
WRA, Inc.
Figure 2.3. Waterdog Lake and Open Space Land Cover Types
Belmont Open Space Management Plan
January 2024
WRA, Inc.
Figure 2.3. Waterdog Lake and Open Space Land Cover Types Figure 3-6: Waterdog Lake Open Space Land Cover Types
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WRA, Inc.
Figure 2.2. San Juan Canyon Open Space Land Cover Types WRA, Inc.
Figure 3-7: San Juan Canyon Open Space Land Cover Types CHAPTER 3 | DRAFT Existing Conditions
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Habitat: Coyote Brush Scrub Habitat: Annual Grassland
BIOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE STUDY AREA
BIOLOGICAL
COMMUNITY1
NATURAL
COMMUNITY3
WATERDOG LAKE
(ACRES)
SAN JUAN CANYON
(ACRES)
%
STUDY AREA
Non-sensitive
Broadleafed Upland Forest Coast Live Oak
Woodland 146.75 48.59 52.1
Broadleafed Upland Forest Eucalyptus Groves 1.59 0.05 0.4 Coastal Scrub Coyote Brush Scrub 18.82 18.45 9.9
Chaparral California Sagebrush
Scrub 22.84 - 6.1
Chaparral Chamise Chaparral 52.01 - 13.9
Chaparral Mixed Shrub 8.97 - 2.4
Valley and Foothill
Grassland
Non-Native Annual
Grassland 8.78 4.93 3.7
Developed2 0.84 2.07 0.8
Sensitive4
Broadleafed Upland Forest California Bay Woodland 22.62 - 6.0 Riparian Woodland Arroyo Willow 7.23 5.87 3.5
Riparian Woodland California Buckeye
Groves 1.70 1.68 0.9
1 Holland (1986)
2 Biological community not described in Holland (1986)
3 Sawyer et al. (2009)
4 Determination based on the List of California Sensitive Natural Communities (CDFW 2021) Table 3-7: Biological Communities within the Study Area CHAPTER 3 | DRAFT Existing Conditions
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WILDFIRE
Table 3-8 shows the fire hazard ratings for fuel
vegetation types as determined by the East Bay
Regional Park District (EBRPD). The majority
(approximately 147 acres) of vegetation in the WDL
area is coastal live oak, which has a low hazard rating and ignition potential, since it is associated with OakBay woodland. This also applies to the SJC, with the majority of vegetation there mapped as coastal live
oak. However, based on the San Mateo County Hazard
Mitigation Plan, the California Department of Forestry
and Fire Protection has rated Belmont’s open spaces
as having very high wildfire hazards for WDL and high
wildfire hazards for SJC. These hazard ratings are
based on multiple factors including vegetation type and density, topography, weather, potential fire behavior,
and potential for damage to human life and structures.
Both WDL and SJC have steeply sloped, vegetated
areas adjacent to residential areas. Fires that start on slopes tend to travel uphill. The area west of Hastings Drive is classified as chamise which is associated
with the North Coastal Scrub-Xeric vegetation type
and has an extreme fuel hazard rating. Based on
aerial photograph review, there is a buffer of grass or no vegetation between much of the housing west of
Hastings Drive and the chamise vegetation.
Figures 3-8 and 3-9 depict areas that were treated for
wildfire fuel reduction by the City between 2019 and
2021.
FIRE HAZARD RATING
FOR FUEL VEGETATION TYPES
VEGETATION TYPE
HAZARD
RATING
IGNITION
POTENTIAL1
Grasslands + Herbaceous Vegetation
Coastal Prairie Moderate 2
Serpentine Bunchgrass
Grasslands
Low 2
California Annual
Grasslands
Moderate 1
Ruderal Vegetation Moderate 3
Scrub Vegetation
Maritime Chaparral
(Manzanita-Chinquapin)
Extreme 6
North Coastal
Scrub-Xeric
Extreme 4
North Coastal
Scrub-Mesic
High 8
Coyote Brush Scrub High 4
Non-native Scrub High 6
Woodlands + Forest Plantations
Mature Eucalyptus
Forest
High 1
Young Eucalyptus
Forest
High 2
Mature Monterey
Pine Forest
Moderate
to High
2 Young Monterey
Pine Forest
High 2
Oak-Bay Woodland Low 6-8
Redwood Forest Low 8
Riparian Woodland Low 8
Source: Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan, EBRPD, 2010
1 Ignition potential was ranked 1 to 10, where the highest potential is represented by a “1” and the lowest potential is ranked by a “10.” Table 3-8: Fire Hazard Rating for Fuel Vegetation Types DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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Waterdog Lake Open Space
Belmont, CA
Figure 2.5. Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas Near Hallmark Drive Waterdog Lake Open Space
Belmont, CA
Figure 2.4. Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas Near Hastings Drive Waterdog Lake Open Space
Belmont, CA
Figure 4. Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas Near Hastings Drive Waterdog Lake Open Space
Belmont, CA
Figure 4. Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas Near Hastings Drive Figure 3-8: Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas near Hastings Drive Figure 3-9: Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas near Hallmark Drive CHAPTER 3 | DRAFT Existing Conditions
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TRAIL EROSION
WRA documented trail conditions for approximately
13 miles of trails during March and April 2022. The
purpose of the evaluation was to generally characterize environmental conditions in the trail network, which
were used to develop recommendations presented later
in this document. This effort was not a comprehensive
inventory. The qualitative review of trail conditions on both mapped trails (those shown by City maps) and
previously unmapped trails (those which are not shown
on City maps, and are not permitted for public use) was based on the level of erosion and vegetation impacts
observed.
Trail erosion categories include high, medium, and
low erosion; these categories are defined in Table 3-9, along with a representative photo of the category. Point data were collected along the trail feature which are
shown in Figure 3-110 and Figure 3-101. In addition,
WRA noted stream crossing locations and determined if
adjacent vegetation shows signs of impacts (trampling
and/or what appears to be obvious/illegal vegetation
trimming). Approximately 50 stream crossings were
identified along existing trails with varied crossing
mechanisms, such as a free-span wooden footbridge,
a plank placed across the stream, or stepping stones
that may pose risks to the riparian habitat below.
TRAIL CONDITIONS
EROSION CATEGORY SAMPLE IMAGE
HIGH
There are more than two deep ruts located
along the length of the trail, and there are
several observations that it significantly
interferes with pedestrian and cycling activities
where it causes trail users to create additional
pathways to avoid this erosion feature.
For this category, evidence of trail user
impacts resulting from the erosion feature
includes more than one of the following: trail
widening, braided trails, unsanctioned trails,
soil compaction, and vegetation trampling.
MEDIUM
There are one or two noticeable ruts forming
along the length of the trail, and there are
some observations that it significantly interferes
with pedestrian and cycling activities.
For this category, evidence of trail user impacts
resulting from the erosion feature includes
one of the following: trail widening, braided
trails, unsanctioned trails, soil compaction,
and vegetation trampling.
LOW
There is a shallow rill forming along
the length of the trail, but there are no
observations that it significantly interferes
with pedestrian and cycling activities.
There is no evidence of trail users
negatively impacting adjacent vegetation
to avoid this erosion feature.
Table 3-9: Trail Conditions Note: Sample images above were taken within Belmont's open spaces.
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APPENDIX 3
Figure 3-10: Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail Assessment
Belmont Open Space Management Plan
January 2024
WRA, Inc.
Figure 3.2. Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail Assessment
Belmont Open Space Management Plan
January 2024
WRA, Inc.
Figure 3.2. Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail Assessment
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Figure 3-11: San Juan Canyon Open Space Trail Assessment WRAI
Figure 3.1. San Juan Canyon Open Space Trail Assessment WRA, Inc.
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Recreational Use of Waterdog Lake Open Space Trails
Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail Over Stream
Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail Over Stream
The trails have a relatively small footprint, representing approximately 5 acres or 1.3 percent of the total open
space acreage. Most trail erosion locations were found
in the larger WDL area, and among those locations,
the majority were assessed as exhibiting a low level of erosion. The number of locations assessed as having
high erosion were about 1 in 10, or 8 to 11 percent for WDL and 0 to 8 percent for SJC.
These results demonstrate that the trail systems are
in relatively good condition overall, but that there
are specific locations of high erosion that should be
addressed immediately.
Table 3-10 summarizes the trail erosion instances.
TRAIL EROSION INSTANCES
TYPE LOW MED HIGH TOTAL
WATERDOG LAKE
Mapped 127
(56%)
77 (34%)
25 (11%) 229
Unmapped 59
(83%)
7 (10%)
6 (8%) 71
SAN JUAN CANYON
Mapped 5
(38%)
7 (54%)
1 (8%) 13
Unmapped 11
(85%)
2 (15%)
0 (0%) 13
Table 3-10: Trail Erosion Instances
Note: Public access is not permitted on unmapped trails.
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SUMMARY OF VISITOR SURVEY AND COUNT METHODS
METHOD
WHO VISITORS ARE
/ VISITOR
PERCEPTIONSWHAT ACTIVITIES VISITORS DOWHERE VISITORS GONUMBER OF VISITS On-site visitor survey
Pros: gather lots of information at once for people actively using the area Cons: time and resource intensive, only a snapshot in time
X X X X
Online visitor survey
Pros: gather lots of information at once, assess latent demand and reasons for not using open space areas, or decreased open space use Cons: Not all potential respondents have internet access, more difficult to control the sample of respondents selected to survey
X X X X
Visitor counts from on-site observer
Pros: easily collect digital data
Cons: time and resource intensive
X X X
Visitor counts from remote motion-activated camera
Pros: remote data collection
Cons: time intensive or expensive data analysis
X X X
Visitor counts from automated counters
Pros: remote data collection
Cons: more types of data are more expensive
X X X
Visitor counts from cellphone location data
Pros: data is voluntarily collected and preexisting
Cons: unknown data reliability and potentially expensive X X
Table 3-11: Summary of Visitor Survey and Count Methods
RECREATION USE ASSESSMENT
INTRODUCTION
Recreation use is typically categorized as follows: who the visitors are, what activities they do, where they
go, and how many visits a site receives. Measuring
recreation use can provide monthly, seasonal, and
annual data for visitation, but also can be used for
funding requests, facility and open space planning, utility capacity estimates, and future management actions.
Understanding the visitors and their perceptions can
help the City meet visitor preferences for open space
recreation. Table 3-11 provides a summary of methods
available to evaluate recreation use. The Recreation
Use Assessment also reviewed current and potential
future open space recreation trends to identify best
practices for trail usage, layout, and maintenance
within the City of Belmont. The OSMP in the Appendix
contains an in-depth overview of data collection
methodologies that were chosen for this study.
RECREATION USE FINDINGS
TRAIL USAGE
The activities occurring on trails in both open spaces
seem to be consistent, allowing hiking, dogs on leash,
and biking. These types of activities are generally
referred to as passive, which makes the recreation
use occurring in both areas consistent with existing
policy on all parcels. The Environmental Assessment
found that wildlife habitats in WDL and SJC are in
good condition, further suggesting that the current trail usage and trail density are not having undue negative
impacts.
TRAIL DENSITY
Trail density is calculated by the total miles of trail over the acreage of the open space. Table 3-122 and 3-13
show the total trail mileage and trail density, respectively, for both mapped and previously unmapped trails.
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San Juan Canyon Open Space
WDL and SJC have trail systems that are similar in
density when compared to nearby open space areas
(Table 3-14).
WDL (293 acres) has a trail density of about 0.03 miles per acre for mapped trails. Comparable to WDL in area,
the Laurelwood/Sugarloaf Open Space (225 acres) in
San Mateo has a trail density of 0.02 miles per acre.
The Laurelwood Park and Sugarloaf Mountain Open
Space Management Plan Amendment (2015) found
a number of existing trails which are not mapped and
not utilized in the trail density calculation (City of San Mateo Parks and Recreation, 2015). When WDL's
previously unmapped trails are included, the trail
density increases to 0.04 miles per acre.
SJC (81 acres) has a trail density of 0.01 miles per acre for mapped trails. When unmapped trails are included,
the density increases to 0.03 miles per acre. Similar in size to SJC are Big Canyon and Eaton Parks (74 acres
combined) in San Carlos, where the combined trail
density is 0.05 miles per acre. The 2012 San Carlos
Hillside Trails Plan also indicated that well established, unmapped trails existed (City of San Carlos, 2012).
These unmapped trails would further increase the trail
density in Big Canyon and Eaton Parks. These San
Carlos parks allow hiking and dogs on leash, but do
not allow bikes.
TRAIL DENSITY
(TRAIL MILES PER ACRE)
TYPE
WATERDOG
LAKE
SAN JUAN
CANYON
Mapped 0.03 0.01
Mapped +
Previously Unmapped 0.04 0.03
Table 3-13: Trail Density in Belmont Open Spaces
COMPARABLE TRAIL DENSITIES
(TRAIL MILES PER ACRE)
TOTAL SIZE
(ACRES)
TRAIL
DENSITY
Laurelwood/Sugarloaf
Open Space 225 0.02
Big Canyon + Easton Parks 74 0.05
Table 3-14: Comparable Trail Densities
MILES OF TRAILS
IN BELMONT OPEN SPACES
TYPE
TRAIL MILES
WATERDOG
LAKE
SAN JUAN
CANYON TOTAL
Mapped 8.57
(81%)
1.04 (45%)
9.61 (75%)
Previously
Unmapped
1.96 (19%)
1.26 (55%)
3.22 (25%)
All 10.53
(100%)
2.3 (100%)
12.83 (100%)
Table 3-12: Miles of Trails in Belmont Open Spaces
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WHERE WE WANT TO BE
CHAPTER 4 COMMUNITY INPUT
CHAPTER 5 NEEDS ASSESSMENT
CHAPTER 6 GOALS
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WHERE WE WANT TO BE
CHAPTER 4
Community Input
Community engagement is the first step in identifying
“Where We Want To Be.” Community input was
foundational to the PROS Plan and instrumental in the
creation of the recommendations herein.
A majority of community feedback was collected
virtually due to restriction in place for the COVID-19
pandemic. Almost 5,000 instances of engagement
were recorded from participants for the PROS Plan,
providing significant guidance for Belmont’s PROS
system over the next 15 years.
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
OPPORTUNITIES
EVENT / MEETING LOCATION DATE(S)
Citywide Survey Virtual 4/1 thru
4/30/2021
Focus Groups + Neighborhood Meetings
Youth & Teen Virtual 6/3/2021
District / Joint-Use Virtual 6/4/2021
Dog Owners Cipriani Park 6/8/2021
6/15/2021
Seniors Virtual 6/8/2021
Youth Sports Virtual 6/24/2021
Schools Virtual 6/29/2021
Inclusion Virtual 6/29/2021
Hidden Canyon
Park Virtual 10/18/2021
Ralston Ranch Park Virtual 10/20/2021
Youth Advisory
Committee Virtual 11/18/2021
Pop-Up Booths
Concerts in the Park Twin Pines Park 8/29/2021
9/19/2021
Egg Adventure Hunt Twin Pines Park 4/16/2022
Earth Day Twin Pines Park 4/23/2022
Open House
Open Space
Management Plan
Hidden
Canyon Park 6/13/2022
Advisory Committee
#1 Goals + Guiding
Principles Virtual 3/4/2021
#2 Outreach
Summary Virtual 5/31/2021
#3 Park-Specific
Recommendations Virtual 9/30/2021
#4 Open Space
Management Plan Virtual 4/5/2022
#5 Open Space
Management Plan Virtual 5/31/2022
Table 4-1: Community Engagement Opportunities
OVERVIEW
Beginning in Spring 2021, community outreach efforts
were conducted in a hybrid manner, utilizing virtual
platforms and in person participation opportunities to
hear from the Belmont community. Table 4-1 and Table
4-2 summarize the engagement opportunities and
presentations that were held for the PROS Plan.
OUTREACH METHODS
Approximately 5,000 instances of engagement
were recorded from participants for the PROS Plan.
Respondents shared preferences, priorities, and
identified gaps for improvement in the PROS system.
The PROS engagement efforts employed a wide range
of materials and formats to maximize project awareness
and community participation. Methods included the
creation of an Advisory Committee, an online survey,
in-person and virtual focus groups, community popup events, neighborhood meetings, a comprehensive social media campaign, and public presentations.
Throughout the duration of the PROS planning process,
a dedicated project website and email address were
available for the public to learn more about the PROS
Plan, stay up-to-date on the project process, and share their thoughts with the project team.
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The PROS Advisory Committee was formed at the
outset of the project to provide insights, support
outreach, and advise the PROS Plan.
• Insights: Represent a diverse
perspective of interests and ideas
• Outreach: Gather feedback and serve as
community liaison to Master Plan team
• Advise: Review and provide input
on the Master Plan process
The Advisory Committee is a group of engaged
community members, with representatives from City
commissions and Belmont residents with different
backgrounds and interests. Brief bios for all Advisory
Committee members are included in the Appendix.
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The Advisory Committee members are:
• Rui Bao
• Lynn Bell
• David Braunstein
• Nelson Corteway
• Dan Deguara
• Ulla Foehr
• Karen Haas-Foletta
• Sanaa Kapur
• Eli Latimerlo
• Austin Lee
• Craig Michaels
• Caroline Pyrz
• Sergio Raddavero
• Abby Sanders
• Scott Sisemore
• Bob Stahl
• Dean Wilson
• Susan Wright
PARKS + RECREATION COMMISSION
The Parks and Recreation Commission were heavily
involved in the PROS Plan. The seven appointed
members and two appointed youth members provided
updates at each month’s meeting about the PROS Plan
and provided regular content for the PROS Plan team to
consider and address. The PROS Plan was discussed
at over 20 Parks and Recreation Commission meetings.
PROJECT WEBSITE + EMAIL
The project website (BelmontPROSplan.com) was
launched in January 2021 as a resource for the
community to learn about the project and stay up-todate on the project progress, receive announcements on events, review presentations and draft excerpts,
and share input on the PROS Plan. From January 2021
to January 2024, the website was visited approximately
12,000 times by about 9,600 unique visitors.
The project email ([email protected])
allowed interested community members to share their
thoughts and comments to inform the planning process.
In total, over 950 emails were received (January 2021
through January 2024). All emails were posted to
the project website to increase project transparency.
All emails received at the project email address are
included in the Appendix.
Additionally, emails received by the Parks and
Recreation Commissioners were posted to the project
website. From November 2020 through January 2024,
over 650 emails were received.
FOCUS GROUPS + NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS
Throughout 2021, over 75 people participated in 11
focus group interviews. Focus group topics are listed
in Table 4-1. Neighborhood meetings were held for
the two Undeveloped Parks (Hidden Canyon Park
COMMUNITY PRESENTATIONS
EVENT / MEETING LOCATION DATE(S)
Parks + Recreation Commission
Project Updates Virtual Monthly
Amenity Ratios Virtual 2/3/2021
Park-specific
Recommendations Virtual 11/3/2021
Draft Final Plan Virtual 7/6/2022
Draft Final Plan Virtual 1/10/2024
Draft Final Plan Virtual 2/7/2024
City Council
Outreach Strategy Virtual 3/9/2021
Park-specific
Recommendations Virtual 11/23/2021
Goals + Strategies Virtual 3/22/2022
Draft Final Plan Virtual 7/12/2022
Final Plan Virtual 3/12/2024
Planning Commission
Status Update Virtual 4/6/2021
Other
Belmont-Redwood
Shores School District Virtual 3/9/2021
Belmont + Redwood
Shores Rotary Club Virtual 3/29/2021
Council of Cities Virtual 5/28/2021
Youth Advisory
Committee Virtual 11/18/2021
Table 4-2: Community Presentations
and Ralston Ranch Park) in October 2021. Conducted
virtually, the meetings were advertised by postcards
sent to nearby residences of the site and announced
on the project website’s event page. Over 50 people
participated in both neighborhood meetings.
ONLINE SURVEY
The online survey was conducted online using the
SurveyMonkey platform. Over 2,800 responses were
received. The survey informed the PROS Plan about
current likes and uses of Belmont’s PROS sites and
identified desired amenities. The full survey results are included in the Appendix.
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COMMUNITY THEMES
Through the community engagement process, the
following 10 common themes arose:
AMENITIES FOR SOCIAL
+ PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Community members articulated a preference for
their PROS system to continue to offer amenities for
social and physical activity. Of survey respondents, 90 percent reported using Belmont parks and facilities for individual exercise, while 47 percent reported using the parks to gather with friends and family. Twin Pines Park (which offers reservable picnic areas and hosts citywide events like Concerts in the Park) and Belmont Sports
Complex received the highest satisfaction ratings from
survey takers, highlighting the community’s desire to
utilize these public facilities for social and physical activity.
MORE SEATING OPPORTUNITIES
Belmont residents expressed a desire for additional
amenities that encourage people to linger, gather, and
socialize in the parks. Participants in the youth, senior, and dog park focus groups cited additional seating as a high priority for park improvements. These three focus
groups also requested additional shade, spaces for
gathering and socializing, as well as other amenities to enhance comfortability at PROS sites.
A significant percentage of survey respondents cited
using Belmont parks for more reflective, nature-based
activities, with 60 percent identifying “commune with
nature” and 55 percent selecting “peace and quiet”
as their primary reason to visit Belmont’s PROS sites.
This use pattern supports the community desire for
more seating opportunities, with over 50 percent of
respondents identifying additional benches and places
to sit as one of the top six amenities to enhance the
Belmont PROS experience.
PHYSICAL CONNECTIONS
A cohesive, physically-connected PROS system is
desired for Belmont. This theme was noted by the
PROS Advisory Committee and at several Parks and
Recreation Commission meetings as an overarching
goal to foster active transportation modes to PROS
sites. A robust and connected bicycle and pedestrianfriendly network makes it easier for residents and visitors to access the City’s facilities without a car.
AMENITIES FOR DIVERSE
INTERESTS
The Belmont community desires a PROS system that
offers amenities for a diverse range of interests. At the conclusion of the online survey and focus group efforts, priority amenities were identified as important based on the amount community input. Priority amenities include
a community garden, dog parklet, skate park, pump
track, and water play options. At the youth focus group, participants expressed support for a pump track, which
are becoming more popular throughout the nation.
Addition of a skate park facility was also a popular
suggestion noted in emailed comments.
ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL ABILITIES
Belmont’s PROS sites should be accessible and
inclusive for all abilities. They should accommodate
users with both physical and/or developmental
differences, and future improvements should be
designed and implemented to increase inclusivity at
Belmont’s parks. The theme of inclusion was cited as
one of the guiding principles of the PROS plan process.
Participants in the inclusivity focus group noted desires for inclusive play elements for older individuals, so as to accommodate more than just small children. They
also desired opportunities for sensory and tactile play options, and protected spaces with multiple sight-lines and access points for easy supervision.
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CREATE MORE WITH LESS
With Belmont’s finite amount of available and
undeveloped land, it is a priority to create more with
less. In order to increase and create new amenities, it is critical to strategically layer uses at existing PROS sites to meet public demand. Potential strategies particularly identified at the school district and youth sports focus groups include implementing and maintaining joint-use
agreements with school sites, and extending usable
time to existing facilities by adding lighting to sports fields or utilizing synthetic turf so that nighttime and/or winter use is an option.
CONNECTING WITH NATURE
Connecting with nature is important to Belmont
residents, and both the Advisory Committee and
Parks and Recreation Commission agree. There is an
identified need for accessible opportunities to enjoy the City’s natural beauty and outdoor spaces. Approximately 60 percent of survey respondents reported communing
with nature as one of the top five reasons to visit one of the City’s parks, recreation facilities, or open spaces.
Seeking “peace and quiet” was reported by 55 percent
of respondents as another one of the top reasons to
visit Belmont’s PROS sites, echoing the community’s
value on simply enjoying the natural landscape aspects
within their parks. Survey respondents also expressed
an interest in “more nature-oriented activities,” when
asked about activities that would enhance their
experience with outdoor recreation programs.
Furthermore, a large number of public comments from
residents throughout the Bay Area were received from
Waterdog Open Space enthusiasts voicing support
for the trail network, balanced recreation use, and
expanded access.
AVAILABLE FOR MANY
USES + USERS
The community desires their PROS sites to be
able to accommodate a range of uses and users.
Concerns around usage conflicts on Open Space
trails were a frequent topic of discussion at Parks
and Recreation Commission meetings and within
emails received from the public. Belmont’s open
spaces offer opportunities for fishing, interpretive
walks, nature watching, volunteering, and partnering
with schools for educational adventures. To create an
inclusive PROS system and cultivate appreciation of
Belmont’s natural resources, it is important for the City to thoughtfully develop ways to accommodate different
uses on trails and maintain a safe experience for all
users. Participants and Advisory Committee members
overwhelmingly supported implementation of balanced
recreation use in Belmont’s open spaces at the fifth
Advisory Committee meeting.
Open Space Management Plan Open House
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NATURAL RESOURCES
Residents of Belmont value the natural beauty
found within their parks and open spaces. There is a
demonstrated desire among community members and
the Parks and Recreation Commission for a stronger
focus on environmental stewardship, sustainability, and resiliency with the City’s natural resources. Specifically, Belmont’s tree canopy was cited as an important
natural resource. Approximately 65 percent of survey
respondents identified maintaining and enhancing
the tree canopy as one of the top six amenities that
would enhance the Belmont park experience. The
Parks and Recreation Commission also emphasized
the importance of adding more trees in parks and
beyond. Trees offer shade and cooler microclimates
for recreation and social interaction and a changing
tapestry of color throughout the year. They also mitigate noise pollution, screen unattractive views, and provide shelter and food for wildlife in Belmont.
"
PROS Plan Banner at Barrett Community Center
HONOR BELMONT’S
UNIQUE LANDSCAPE
The City of Belmont offers a unique combination of
developed parkland and an abundance of well-loved
open spaces and trails. Numerous emails from the
public were received emphasizing community support
for the City to protect wildlife and natural habitat when appropriate, prioritize accessibility and sustainability maintenance of the trails as they are, and demonstrate
a high degree of environmental stewardship. The
importance of environmental stewardship and honoring
the unique landscape was also echoed by the Parks
and Recreation Commission as well as numerous
community and Advisory Committee members.
Early in the PROS planning process, open space was
identified as a critical concern of the community. A
dedicated effort to further study Waterdog Lake and
San Juan Canyon Open Spaces is presented in the
Appendix.
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INFORMING THE BIG IDEAS
The community themes were shaped into the PROS
Plan’s four BIG IDEAS. The Big Ideas are the
organizational framework for the Goals, Strategies, and Recommendations presented later in this document.
THE CITY AS
YOUR BACKYARD
OUTDOOR
RECREATION
FOR ALL
CELEBRATE THE
OUTDOORS
ENVIRONMENTAL
+ FINANCIAL
HONOR BELMONT’S SUSTAINABILITY
UNIQUE LANDSCAPE
AVAILABLE FOR
MANY USES + USERS
NATURAL RESOURCES
CONNECTING
WITH NATURE
CREATE MORE WITH LESS
ACCESSIBLE FOR
ALL ABILITIES
AMENITIES FOR
DIVERSE INTERESTS
PHYSICAL CONNECTIONS
MORE SEATING
OPPORTUNITIES
AMENITIES FOR SOCIAL
+ PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
ENHANCE OUR PUBLIC SPACES TO
CREATE A THRIVING AND COMPLETE
PARK, RECREATION, AND OPEN
SPACE NET WORK THAT IS INTEGRAL
TO THE CITY’S URBAN FABRIC.
THOUGHTFULLY ENRICH THE CITY’S
PARKS AND OPEN SPACE SITES
TO PROVIDE EQUITABLE AND
INCLUSIVE ACCESS FOR CURRENT AND
FUTURE RECREATION ACTIVITIES.
PROTECT AND ENLIVEN BELMONT’S
EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL
RESOURCES AND LEGACY.
CREATE ECOLOGICALLY HEALTHY AND
FINANCIALLY VIABLE GREEN SPACES
THAT WILL ENDURE INTO THE FUTURE.
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WHERE WE WANT TO BE
CHAPTER 5
Needs Assessment
Building on existing conditions evaluation and feedback from the community, this chapter examines the level of
service Belmont provides in their PROS system. The
needs are derived from staff and community input.
The gap analysis assessed benchmarked amenities
provided by comparison cities and national values to
identify and align with recreation trends.
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Fitness Equipment Cluster at Barrett Community Center
Playground at College View Park
Horseshoe Pits at Alexander Park
AMENITY RATIO
Belmont provides a high-quality park system with many
amenities. Amenity levels of service are determined
to understand how the quantity of amenities serves
the community system-wide. Amenity Ratios were
developed using the Amenity Inventory and a projected
quantity of people served by a single amenity. The
Amenity Inventory and definitions of the amenity
categories are found in Chapter 3.
Through discussions with the community and City
staff, Amenity Ratios were assessed, evaluated, and
adjusted to meet the Belmont’s needs now and into
the future. The Amenity Ratios include the amenities
offered in the Neighborhood Parks, Community Parks,
and School (JUA) sites. School-located amenities are
only available for public use outside of school hours.
CURRENT AMENITY RATIOS
RESIDENTS SERVED BY A SINGLE AMENITY
Table 5-1 provides the number of residents served by a
single instance of an amenity. For Belmont,
understanding the service level amenities provide was
the foundation for evaluating gaps and needs. The
ratios can range drastically, from one instance serving just 1,300 residents (a playground), to one instance
serving all 26,470 residents (a dog park). Amenity
Ratios are calculated using the following formula:
Residents Served by an Amenity
Population 26,470 people = 1,300 : 1 Amenity Quantity 20 Playgrounds A lower quantity of people a single instance of an
amenity serves, such as playgrounds (1,300:1),
indicates Belmont has provided a high quantity of the
amenity in relation to the total population. Playgrounds are especially prevalent across the city—for every 1,300 people, there is one playground. A higher quantity of
people a single instance of an amenity serves, such a
dog park (26,500:1), indicates there is a low quantity of the amenity in relation to the total population. With only one dog park, the single instance serves Belmont’s
entire population. Some benchmarked amenities do not
currently exist in Belmont (pump track) and therefore
do not have an Amenity Ratio.
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CURRENT AMENITY RATIOS
RESIDENTS SERVED BY A SINGLE AMENITY
BENCHMARKED AMENITY
PARK + SCHOOL PARK SCHOOL
RESIDENTS SERVED RESIDENTS SERVED RESIDENTS SERVED
All-Abilities Playground
Basketball Court (Full) :1 :1 :1
Basketball Court (Half) :1 :1 :1
Multi-Use Athletic Field :1 :1 :1
Play Element
Playground :1 :1 :1
Reservable Picnic Area, Small :1 :1
Reservable Picnic Area, Large :1 :1
Tennis Court :1 :1
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden :1 :1
Dog Park :1 :1
Dog Parklet
Pump Track (Bike Park)
Skate Park
Water Play, Pool
Water Play, Spray Park
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster :1 :1
Handball / Wallball Court :1 :1 :1
Horseshoe Pit / Bocce Ball Court :1 :1
Outdoor Classroom
Performance Space :1 :1
Teen Outdoor Space :1 :1
Table 5-1: Current Amenity Ratios, Residents Served by a Single Amenity = 1,000 residents served by a single amenity
= 0 residents served by a single amenity (none existing) CHAPTER 5 | DRAFT Needs Assessment
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CURRENT AMENITY RATIOS
AMENITY PER 1,000 RESIDENTS
BENCHMARKED AMENITY
PARK + SCHOOL PARK SCHOOL
% SINGLE AMENITY % SINGLE AMENITY % SINGLE AMENITY
All-Abilities Playground N/A N/A N/A
Basketball Court (Full) :1,000 :1,000 :1,000
Basketball Court (Half) :1,000 :1,000 :1,000
Multi-Use Athletic Field :1,000 :1,000 :1,000
Play Element N/A N/A N/A
Playground :1,000 :1,000 :1,000
Reservable Picnic Area, Small :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Reservable Picnic Area, Large :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Tennis Court :1,000 :1,000 N/A
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Dog Park :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Dog Parklet N/A N/A N/A
Pump Track (Bike Park) N/A N/A N/A
Skate Park N/A N/A N/A
Water Play, Pool N/A N/A N/A
Water Play, Spray Park N/A N/A N/A
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Handball / Wallball Court :1,000 :1,000 :1,000
Horseshoe Pit / Bocce Ball Court :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Outdoor Classroom N/A N/A N/A
Performance Space :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Teen Outdoor Space :1,000 :1,000 N/A
Table 5-2: Current Amenity Ratios for Belmont, Amenity per 1,000 Residents = 1 per 1,000 residents
= 0 per 1,000 residents
AMENITY
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AMENITY PER 1,000 RESIDENTS
The same data was used to evaluate the quantity of
a single amenity type that is available for every 1,000 Belmont residents. This was calculated using the
following formula, using playgrounds as an example:
Amenity per 1,000 Residents
Amenity Quantity 20 Playgrounds = 0.76
(Population / 1,000) 26.47
Fuller bars in Table 5-2 indicate that this type of
amenity has a higher level of service, meaning there
are more instances of this amenity available to the
public (proportional to the overall population). For
example, there are 0.76 playgrounds, or 76 percent of
a single playground, for every 1,000 residents. This is a very high level of service. Inversely, there are 0.04 dog parks for every 1,000 residents. This is a low level of service.
A summary of the Current Amenity Ratios is provided
in Table 5-3 on the following page. A higher number
of residents served by a single instance indicates that there are fewer of these amenities available per person.
For example, if every resident of Belmont was using
a community garden at the same time—distributed
equally—there would be 13,200 people at each one.
Alternatively, the higher number of an amenity available for every 1,000 residents, the better level of service.
BENCHMARKING
Benchmarks for three comparable cities, jurisdictions
of a similar size across the nation, and all of California were used to compare Amenity Ratios as compiled by
the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA).
Not all amenities were compared in the benchmarks.
The results are shown in Figure 5-1.
The benchmarking process illuminates how Belmont
compares to its peer municipalities. The benchmarking
data from peer communities is used to establish goals
for improvement. For three of the five benchmarked
amenities, Belmont well exceeds the comparison cities
as well as State and national averages. For every
1,000 residents in Belmont, there are 0.72 basketball
courts (inclusive of both half and full size courts), 0.76 playgrounds, and 0.45 multi-use athletic fields.
There are only two benchmarked amenities that
Belmont does not have the highest level of service
for the purposes of this analysis. Belmont provides
just half the amount of a tennis court for every 1,000
residents compared to Saratoga, which provides the
highest level of service for this amenity type. Tennis
courts are the only benchmarked amenity that have an
Amenity Ratio below the national average.
COMPARING CURRENT AMENITY RATIOS
AMOUNT OF ONE AMENITY PER 1,000 RESIDENTS
BENCHMARKED AMENITY 0.0 0.5 1.0
Basketball Court *
Multi-Use Athletic Field *
Playground *
Reservable Picnic Area
No CA or National Benchmarks
Tennis Court *
Belmont Burlingame San Carlos Saratoga California National * Includes amenities at School (JUA) sites.
Figure 5-1: Comparing Current Amenity Ratios, Amenity per 1,000 Residents CHAPTER 5 | DRAFT Needs Assessment
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CURRENT AMENITY RATIOS
BENCHMARKED AMENITY
PARKS + SCHOOLS PARKS SCHOOLS Quantity Residents Served by Single Instance __ of ONE Amenity per 1,000 Residents Quantity Residents Served by Single Instance __ of ONE Amenity per 1,000 Residents Quantity Residents Served by Single Instance __ of ONE Amenity per 1,000 Residents
All-Abilities Playground - - - - - - - - -
Basketball Court (Full) 13 2,000 0.49 1 26,500 0.04 12 2,200 0.45 Basketball Court (Half) 6 4,400 0.23 4 6,600 0.15 2 13,200 0.08 Multi-Use Athletic Field 12 2,200 0.45 8 3,300 0.30 4 6,600 0.15 Play Element - - - - - - - - -
Playground 20 1,300 0.76 15 1,800 0.57 5 5,300 0.19
Reservable Picnic Area, Small 2 13,200 0.08 2 13,200 0.08 - - - Reservable Picnic Area, Large 2 13,200 0.08 2 13,200 0.08 - - - Tennis Court 4 6,600 0.15 4 6,600 0.15 - - -
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 2 13,200 0.08 2 13,200 0.08 - - -
Dog Park 1 26,500 0.04 1 26,500 0.04 - - -
Dog Parklet - - - - - - - - -
Pump Track (Bike Park) - - - - - - - - -
Skate Park - - - - - - - - -
Water Play, Pool - - - - - - - - -
Water Play, Spray Park - - - - - - - - -
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 1 26,500 0.04 1 26,500 0.04 - - - Handball / Wallball Court 5 5,300 0.19 1 26,500 0.04 4 6,600 0.15 Horseshoe Pit / Bocce Ball Court 5 5,300 0.19 5 5,300 0.19 - - - Outdoor Classroom - - - - - - - - -
Performance Space 2 13,200 0.08 2 13,200 0.08 - - -
Teen Outdoor Space 1 26,500 0.04 1 26,500 0.04 - - -
Table 5-3: Current Amenity Ratios
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Community Garden at Barrett Community Center
Dog Park at Cipriani Park
Reservable Picnic Area at Twin Pines Park
IDEAL AMENITY RATIOS
This process culminated in Ideal Amenity Ratios
for Belmont shown in Table 5-4. The Ideal Amenity
Ratios indicate the level of service that each amenity
type should provide to maintain a high-quality PROS
system, meeting current and future demands.
For some amenities, the Ideal Amenity Ratio and the
Current Amenity Ratio are the same. For instance,
the level of service of basketball courts (full and half) remains the same. This means the total quantity of
courts is sufficiently meeting demand.
For other amenities, the Ideal Amenity Ratio is higher
than the Current Amenity Ratio. This means the current
quantity of an amenity is not enough to service the
existing needs of the City. For example, reservable
picnic areas, both large and small, are highly-used.
Social gathering space was also highly ranked by the
community. Therefore the Ideal Amenity Ratio requires
a higher quantity of reservable picnic areas with a
higher level of service ratio to adequately meet current need and to reflect the community interest.
High-interest amenities received a significant change
in desired level of services based on survey results,
feedback received via email, and comments from focus
groups and pop-up events. Working closely with Parks
and Recreation staff and the Belmont community,
the desired service levels were adjusted iteratively to ensure that the desired level of service is plausible
given the parkland available.
In rare instances, the Ideal Amenity Ratio is lower
than the Current Amenity Ratio. For example, the
Ideal Amenity Ratio for handball or wallball courts was reduced. The existing courts are not heavily used and
there was little demand for additional courts.
Amenities such as pump tracks, skate parks, and AllAbilities playgrounds are not currently available in Belmont. Amenities without a Current Amenity Ratio
have been assigned an Ideal Amenity Ratio based on
benchmarks, recreation trends, or community input.
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IDEAL AMENITY RATIOS
BENCHMARKED AMENITY
RESIDENTS SERVED BY A
SINGLE AMENITY INSTANCE
AMOUNT OF ONE AMENITY
PER 1,000 PEOPLE
RESIDENTS SERVED ITEM % SINGLE AMENITY PEOPLE
All-Abilities Playground 26,500 :1 4% :1,000
Basketball Court (Full) 2,000 :1 49% :1,000
Basketball Court (Half) 4,400 :1 23% :1,000
Multi-Use Athletic Field 2,000 :1 49% :1,000
Play Element 8,800 :1 11% :1,000
Playground 1,500 :1 68% :1,000
Reservable Picnic Area, Small 6,600 :1 15% :1,000
Reservable Picnic Area, Large 8,800 :1 11% :1,000
Tennis Court 4,400 :1 23% :1,000
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 8,800 :1 11% :1,000
Dog Park 13,200 :1 8% :1,000
Dog Parklet 13,200 :1 8% :1,000
Pump Track (Bike Park) 26,500 :1 4% :1,000
Skate Park 26,500 :1 4% :1,000
Water Play, Pool 26,500 :1 4% :1,000
Water Play, Spray Park 26,500 :1 4% :1,000
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 13,200 :1 8% :1,000
Handball / Wallball Court 6,600 :1 15% :1,000
Horseshoe Pit / Bocce Ball Court 6,600 :1 15% :1,000
Outdoor Classroom 26,500 :1 4% :1,000
Performance Space 13,200 :1 8% :1,000
Teen Outdoor Space 8,800 :1 11% :1,000
Table 5-4: Ideal Amenity Ratios = 0 people = 1,000 people 0% Amenity 100%Amenity DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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IDEAL AMENITY QUANTITY
The Ideal Amenity Ratio identifies the amenities that
are already meeting the required quantities, amenities
that need to be increased to meet the ideal level of
service, and amenities that are provided in excess
and therefore do not need to be increased. The Ideal
Amenity Quantities were calculated by dividing the total population by the Ideal Amenity Ratio. For example,
the Ideal Amenity Ratio for a community garden is one
garden to serve 8,800 people (8,800:1). By dividing
the City’s population (26,470) by the residents served
by a single garden, it can be determined that three
community gardens are required to serve the 2022
population of Belmont.
To calculate the future need for an amenity, the
same calculation is done using the forecasted 2035
population from the 2017 General Plan. The City’s
Housing Element is under revision to reflect additional housing units as required by the California Department
of Housing and Community Development and projects a
higher population increase as a result. The calculations in this chapter do not reflect the Housing Element
projections. More information about the impact of the
revised population forecast is included in the Appendix.
NEEDS: CURRENT (2022) AMENITIES
Table 5-5 presents the quantity of amenities necessary
to serve the 2022 population. The “exists” column
equates to currently available amenities that were
documented in the PROS Amenity Inventory. The
“ideal” column is the quantity of an amenity required
to meet the identified level of service. The “+ add”
column is the additional amenities required to meet the identified level of service (the difference between exists and ideal).
For most identified amenities, Belmont has set itself a higher level of service than it currently provides. These are denoted by a positive value in the “+ add” column.
In some instances, a surplus of an amenity already
exists than is required to meet the Ideal Amenity
Ratio (a negative number in the “+ add” column). The
PROS Plan does not recommend demolishing surplus
amenities to meet the 2022 population calculations.
NEEDS: FUTURE (2035) AMENITIES
This PROS Plan looks 15 years into the future. As
the population of Belmont increases, the quantity of
amenities to sustain the Ideal Amenity Ratios must also increase. This analysis assumes the required amenities
identified for the 2022 population were constructed.
Table 5-6 presents the amenities necessary to serve
the forecasted 2035 population, as identified in the
General Plan. Table 5-7 shows the differences in Ideal
Amenity Quantities between 2022 and 2025 population
scenarios.
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IDEAL AMENITY QUANTITY
FUTURE 2035 POPULATION
BENCHMARKED AMENITY 2022
2035
IDEAL
2035
+ ADD
All-Abilities Playground 1 1 0
Basketball Court (Full) 13 15 + 2
Basketball Court (Half) 6 7 + 1
Multi-Use Athletic Field 13 15 + 2
Play Element 3 3 0
Playground 20 20 0
Reservable Picnic
Area, Small 4 5 + 1
Reservable Picnic
Area, Large 3 3 0
Tennis Court 6 7 + 1
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 3 3 0
Dog Park 2 2 0
Dog Parklet 2 2 0
Pump Track (Bike Park) 1 1 0
Skate Park 1 1 0
Water Play, Pool 1 1 0
Water Play, Spray Element 1 1 0
Water Play, Spray Park 1 1 0
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 2 2 0
Handball Court / Wall Ball 5 5 0
Horseshoe Pit /
Bocce Ball Court 5 5 0
Outdoor Classroom 1 1 0
Performance Space 2 2 0
Teen Outdoor Space 3 3 0
Table 5-6: Ideal Amenity Quantities for 2035 Population 2022: The assumed quantity of an amenity given that
the ideal service level for the 2022 population was met. 2035 IDEAL: The quantity of an amenity that would
meet the ideal service level for the 2035 population.*
2035 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added to
meet the ideal service level for the 2035 population.*
Note: The 2022 quantities were determined in 2021.
* Based on the General Plan population projections. More information about the impact of the 2023-2031 Housing Element update and its revised population forecast is included in the Appendix.
EXISTS: The current quantity of an amenity.
2022 IDEAL: The quantity of an amenity that would
meet the ideal service level for the 2022 population.
2022 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added
to meet the ideal service level for the 2022 population.
Note: The existing and 2022 quantities were determined in 2021.
IDEAL AMENITY QUANTITY
CURRENT 2022 POPULATION
BENCHMARKED AMENITY EXISTS
2022
IDEAL
2022
+ ADD
All-Abilities Playground 0 1 + 1
Basketball Court (Full) 13 13 0
Basketball Court (Half) 6 6 0
Multi-Use Athletic Field 12 13 + 1
Play Element 0 3 + 3
Playground 20 18 0
Reservable Picnic
Area, Small 2 4 + 2
Reservable Picnic
Area, Large 2 3 + 1
Tennis Court 4 6 + 2
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 2 3 + 1
Dog Park 1 2 + 1
Dog Parklet 0 2 + 2
Pump Track (Bike Park) 0 1 + 1
Skate Park 0 1 + 1
Water Play, Pool 0 1 + 1
Water Play, Spray Element 0 1 + 1
Water Play, Spray Park 0 1 + 1
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 1 2 + 1
Handball / Wallball Court 5 4 0
Horseshoe Pit /
Bocce Ball Court 5 4 0
Outdoor Classroom 0 1 + 1
Performance Space 2 2 0
Teen Outdoor Space 1 3 + 2
Table 5-5: Ideal Amenity Quantities for 2022 Population DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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EXISTS: The current quantity of an amenity.
2022 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added
to meet the ideal service level for the 2022 population. 2035 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added
to meet the ideal service level for the 2035 population* (assuming that none were constructed to meet the
ideal service level for 2022).
Note: The existing and 2022 quantities were determined in 2021. * Based on the General Plan population projections. More information about the impact of the 2023-2031 Housing Element update and its revised population forecast is included in the Appendix.
IDEAL AMENITY QUANTITIES
FUTURE 2022 AND 2035 POPULATIONS
BENCHMARKED AMENITY EXISTS
2022
+ ADD
2035
+ ADD
All-Abilities Playground 0 + 1 0
Basketball Court (Full) 13 0 + 2
Basketball Court (Half) 6 0 + 1
Multi-Use Athletic Field 12 + 1 + 2
Play Element 0 + 3 0
Playground 20 0 0
Reservable Picnic
Area, Small 2 + 2 + 1
Reservable Picnic
Area, Large 2 + 1 0
Tennis Court 4 + 2 + 1
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 2 + 1 0
Dog Park 1 + 1 0
Dog Parklet 0 + 2 0
Pump Track (Bike Park) 0 + 1 0
Skate Park 0 + 1 0
Water Play, Pool 0 + 1 0
Water Play, Spray Element 0 + 1 0
Water Play, Spray Park 0 + 1 0
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 1 + 1 0
Handball / Wallball Court 5 0 0
Horseshoe Pit /
Bocce Ball Court 5 0 0
Outdoor Classroom 0 + 1 0
Performance Space 2 0 0
Teen Outdoor Space 1 + 2 0
Table 5-7: Overall Amenity Quantities to be Added
Multi-Use Athletic Field at Belmont Sports Complex
Playground at Alexander Park
Dog Park in Cipriani Park
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WHERE WE WANT TO BE
CHAPTER 6
Goals
This chapter transitions the PROS Plan from the
current status of the PROS system (Where We Are)
to the ideal future (Where We Want To Be). The
information presented in the previous chapters was
synthesized to inform actions for the PROS system
over the next 15 years. This chapter presents the
Goals and summarizes the relationships between the
Big Ideas, Guiding Principles, and Community Themes
that came together serve as the guiding framework for
the PROS Plan.
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ENHANCE OUR PUBLIC SPACES TO CREATE A THRIVING AND
COMPLETE PARK, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE NETWORK THAT IS INTEGRAL TO THE CITY’S URBAN FABRIC.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
• Make all users feel welcome and safe
• Advance community health and well-being
• Foster a sense of community and
encourage social interaction
• Utilize transparent community
process to inform decisions
COMMUNITY THEMES
• Amenities for Social + Physical Activity
• More Seating Opportunities
• Physical Connections
• Connecting with Nature
• Available for Many Uses + Users
• Honor Belmont’s Unique Landscape
PROS
GOAL 1
CONNECT BELMONT AND UNIFY PROS SITES BY ENCOURAGING A ROBUST PEDESTRIAN, BICYCLE, AND PUBLIC TRANSIT NETWORK.
PROS
GOAL 2
FOSTER A HEALTHY COMMUNITY THROUGH SPACES, AMENITIES, PROGRAMS,
AND PUBLIC ART THAT PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, SOCIAL INTERACTION, AND BELMONT’S CULTURE.
PROS
GOAL 3
MEET EVOLVING COMMUNITY NEEDS BY ESTABLISHING NEW USES, IMPROVED SPACES, AND A VARIETY OF RECREATION AMENITIES.
BIG IDEA: THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD
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THOUGHTFULLY ENRICH THE CITY’S PARKS AND OPEN SPACE SITES TO
PROVIDE EQUITABLE AND INCLUSIVE ACCESS FOR CURRENT AND
FUTURE RECREATION ACTIVITIES.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
• Provide equitable access to resources
and activities across the entire city
• Promote inclusion to people of all
backgrounds, regardless of race, gender,
sexual orientation, socioeconomic
position, or physical/cognitive ability
• Offer services and activities across a
range of interests, abilities, and ages
COMMUNITY THEMES
• Amenities for Diverse Interests
• Accessible for All Abilities
• Create More with Less
• Available for Many Uses + Users
PROS
GOAL 4
IMPROVE COMMUNITY HEALTH THROUGH DIVERSE, EQUITABLE, AND INCLUSIVE SPACES AND AMENITIES WITH ACCESSIBLE ROUTES.
PROS
GOAL 5
ENSURE FUTURE SUCCESS THROUGH ADAPTABILITY, FLEXIBILITY, AND SUPPORT FOR MANY USES AND USERS.
PROS
GOAL 6
ACTUALIZE PROS PLAN BY DEVELOPING STRONG PARTNERSHIPS ACROSS PRIVATE, PUBLIC, AND COMMUNITY GROUPS.
BIG IDEA: OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR ALL
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BIG IDEA: CELEBRATE THE OUTDOORS
PROTECT AND ENLIVEN BELMONT’S EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL
RESOURCES AND LEGACY.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
• Respect the beauty and importance
of our natural resources
• Adapt to changing conditions and needs
COMMUNITY THEMES
• Amenities for Social + Physical Activity
• Connecting with Nature
• Natural Resources
• Honor Belmont’s Unique Landscape
PROS
GOAL 7 DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT AN OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN (OSMP).
PROS
GOAL 8
HIGHLIGHT LOCAL ECOSYSTEMS THROUGH EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS PARKS AND OPEN SPACES.
PROS
GOAL 9
ENRICH OUTDOOR RECREATION THROUGH TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS, VOLUNTEER COLLABORATIONS, AND WAYFINDING FEATURES.
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BIG IDEA: ENVIRONMENTAL + FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
CREATE ECOLOGICALLY HEALTHY AND FINANCIALLY VIABLE GREEN SPACES THAT WILL ENDURE INTO THE FUTURE..
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
• Reflect our commitment to environmental
resilience and sustainability
• Provide well maintained and
actively managed facilities
COMMUNITY THEMES
• Create More with Less
• Natural Resources
• Honor Belmont’s Unique Landscape
PROS
GOAL 10
NURTURE AND STRENGTHEN NATURAL RESOURCES THROUGH EFFICIENT AND INNOVATIVE LANDSCAPE DESIGN.
PROS
GOAL 11
DIVERSIFY FUNDING SOURCES TO ENSURE HIGH-QUALITY, ACTIVELY-MANAGED, AND WELL-MAINTAINED PROS ASSETS.
PROS
GOAL 12
PRIORITIZE SUSTAINABLE, RESILIENT, AND RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE PRACTICES.
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HOW WE GET THERE
CHAPTER 7 STRATEGIES
CHAPTER 8 RECOMMENDATIONS
CHAPTER 9 IMPLEMENTATION
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HOW WE GET THERE
CHAPTER 7
Strategies
This chapter presents the Strategies which were
used to inform the Recommendations presented in
the following chapter. The Strategies are organized
by the PROS Goal that it responds to. This chapter
also presents the Objectives and Policies unique to
Belmont’s open spaces.
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Belmont Sports Complex Athletic Field
Barrett Community Center
Davey Glen Park
STRATEGIES
The PROS Plan provides a comprehensive suite of
Strategies, applicable to the PROS system as a whole,
to provide guidance to the City for future improvements to Belmont’s outdoor amenities.
The Strategies can be viewed as broad initiatives to
address opportunities and constraints within the PROS
system, while establishing the intention and inspiration for future improvements as available resources and
conditions evolve over time.
The Strategies build upon the PROS Goals, which
largely originate from the Park, Recreation, and Open
Space Element and Conservation Element of the City’s
General Plan. They relate to site design, operation, and investment of resources in the PROS system.
Chapter 8 presents the Recommendations for the
PROS system that were informed by the Strategies
presented in this section.
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PROS GOAL 1: CONNECT BELMONT AND UNIFY PROS SITES BY
ENCOURAGING A ROBUST PEDESTRIAN, BICYCLE, AND PUBLIC TRANSIT NETWORK.
Strategy 1.A
Support the implementation of the Comprehensive
Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan (2016) for creation of
bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure that connects
PROS sites as key destinations.
Strategy 1.B
Develop and implement an Interconnect Toolkit to
facilitate active transportation to and between parks.
The Toolkit should consider bike racks, water stations
(with bottle-filling and dog bowls), bicycle repair
stations, seating, and route information, at a minimum.
Strategy 1.C
Create pedestrian- and bike-centric activities and
programs within parks, such as learn-to-bike amenities, and across Belmont, like organized races or runs, to
foster community interest.
Strategy 1.D
Think of the streets as public realm when evaluating
new opportunities to provide recreation and gathering
space.
Strategy 1.E
Provide multi-use trail links to and through open space in and around Belmont. Consider the trail network a
means to increase pedestrian connectivity across the
city. Explore opportunities for easements to expand the multi-use trail network.
Strategy 1.F
Improve access, especially in underserved areas
without opportunity for parkland increase, where
topography or limited sidewalks limit pedestrian,
bicycle, and mass transit access to existing PROS
sites.
PROS GOAL 2: FOSTER A HEALTHY COMMUNITY THROUGH SPACES, AMENITIES,
PROGRAMS, AND PUBLIC ART THAT PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, SOCIAL INTERACTION, AND BELMONT’S CULTURE.
Strategy 2.A
Develop amenities to facilitate physical exercise in
parks and open spaces, such as looped walking paths
and fitness equipment.
Strategy 2.B
Create gathering spaces to facilitate social interaction.
When replacing or adding seating opportunities, use
a clustered or paired seating arrangement to support
group conversations in addition to single seats or
benches.
Strategy 2.C
Prioritize new recreational programs that support
community health and wellbeing for all ages, abilities, and interests.
Strategy 2.D
Support and encourage placemaking to strengthen
community connections.
Strategy 2.E
Increase quiet and passive use opportunities for users
to interact with natural spaces, especially in higher
density areas.
Strategy 2.F
Implement the Public Art Master Plan (2020) in parks to reflect the City’s dedication to art and culture.
Strategy 2.G
Create an Activation Plan to identify unique and
innovative ways to energize the PROS system and
further increase park activity and visitation.
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD
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Twin Pines Park Tree Canopy in Autumn
PROS GOAL 3: MEET EVOLVING COMMUNITY NEEDS BY ESTABLISHING NEW USES, IMPROVED SPACES, AND A VARIETY OF RECREATION AMENITIES.
Strategy 3.A
Increase the experiential qualities of PROS sites to
create memorable and distinctive visitor experiences.
Strategy 3.B
Pursue pop-up park installations, such as parklets
and mobile recreation vehicles, to provide park and
recreation opportunities in areas without permanent,
physical amenities.
Strategy 3.C
Capitalize on remnant or underutilized areas of Cityowned land to craft new public green spaces, with special attention towards addressing the parity of
parkland distribution, by pursuing opportunities to
increase acreage wherever possible.
Strategy 3.D
Conduct a Usage Study to understand high-use and
low-use PROS sites and amenities.
Strategy 3.E
Actively engage with new development projects within
the Belmont Village Specific Plan area to ensure quality parks and public spaces are provided.
Strategy 3.F
Consider the community’s needs and preferences in
the development of Hidden Canyon Park and Ralston
Ranch Park.
Strategy 3.G
Consider increasing off-leash space for dog running,
events, and exercise.
Strategy 3.H
Ensure that residential and non-residential development projects contribute to Belmont’s PROS resources
commensurate to their impacts if parkland dedication
is not feasible.
Strategy 3.I
Explore methods to increase efficient and year-round
use of athletic fields, with considerations towards the reduction of water use and capture of surface water
runoff, in the evaluation of synthetic turf.
Strategy 3.J
Evaluate fields and courts across the city for the
opportunity to provide lighted facilities for evening
recreation and play.
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PROS GOAL 5: ENSURE FUTURE SUCCESS THROUGH ADAPTABILITY, FLEXIBILITY, AND SUPPORT FOR MANY USES AND USERS.
Strategy 5.A
Design new and upgraded PROS amenities and
facilities that are versatile and attractive to the diverse and evolving Belmont community.
Strategy 5.B
Incorporate looped walking paths within and through
parks as safe, accessible, and pleasant experiences to
walk, run, and roll.
Strategy 5.C
Rethink low- or single-use spaces and intentionally
layer compatible features and programs to maximize
the functional value of existing parkland. For example, new striping on existing courts increases the practical usefulness of a single amenity’s footprint.
Strategy 5.D
Provide recreational programs and activities, such as
workshops and classes, that are relevant, interesting,
and impactful to multiple generations and backgrounds.
Strategy 5.E
Provide for non-traditional forms of recreation as
new trends and community needs arise. Remain
open-minded and amenable towards emerging
unconventional uses of parks and facilities.
Strategy 5.F
Promote flexible multi-use and multi-purpose spaces in
all new design and improvement projects to ensure the
relevancy and utility of these sites as community needs evolve.
Strategy 5.G
Periodically conduct a programming needs assessment
for an in-depth evaluation of the participation and
engagement levels of program offerings, ensuring that
Belmont’s recreation needs are met.
PROS GOAL 4: IMPROVE COMMUNITY HEALTH THROUGH DIVERSE,
EQUITABLE, AND INCLUSIVE SPACES AND AMENITIES WITH ACCESSIBLE ROUTES.
Strategy 4.A
Prioritize park renovations, improvements, and
development in neighborhoods that are less-served by
existing PROS offerings to address parity in amenity
distribution.
Strategy 4.B
Incorporate universal design principles in all new PROS construction by providing spaces that are intuitive to
understand with identical or equivalent experiences for visitors with diverse abilities and cognitive levels.
Strategy 4.C
Provide adequate and conveniently-located comfort
features, such as seating and shade, to support use at
PROS sites.
Strategy 4.D
Consider the physical needs of different user groups
when planning and designing parks and trails and
when selecting amenities and furnishings.
Strategy 4.E
All amenities and spaces within a park should be
accessible by a safe path of travel.
Strategy 4.F
As play equipment ages and becomes eligible for
replacement, design the new play space for inclusivity
and adaptability to support healthy childhood
development in a welcoming and imaginative
atmosphere.
OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR ALL
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Twin Pines Park
PROS GOAL 6: ACTUALIZE PROS PLAN BY DEVELOPING STRONG
PARTNERSHIPS ACROSS PRIVATE, PUBLIC, AND COMMUNITY GROUPS.
Strategy 6.A
Provide public engagement opportunities in all PROS
planning and design projects to capture community
desires for their city’s backyard.
Strategy 6.B
Collaborate with community advocates to provide
culturally-relevant experiences that celebrate diversity and raise awareness about unique traditions and
practices.
Strategy 6.C
Support partnerships with private businesses for
operations at PROS sites to generate revenue for the
Parks and Recreation Department that are compatible
with recreational access and the restoration of sensitive natural resources.
Strategy 6.D
Encourage long-term, volunteer-based public
stewardship of parks, open spaces, and trails bolster
ongoing maintenance and improvement efforts.
Strategy 6.E
Complement and supplement City recreational
offerings by strengthening partnerships with local
public agencies and private or non-profit organizations that offer relevant outdoor programming opportunities.
Strategy 6.F
Continue to utilize JUAs to expand the available PROS
sites in the constrained and developed jurisdictional
boundary. Discuss improvements of JUA sites and
amenities to benefit the public’s use.
Strategy 6.G
Streamline internal bureaucratic processes and
encourage partnerships with non-governmental entities
to compliment existing public art and placemaking
endeavors.
Strategy 6.H
Co-host creative events with civic organizations that
serve as platforms to promote ongoing volunteer
opportunities and spark collaboration between
community groups to collectively care for the PROS
system.
OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR ALL
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PROS GOAL 7: DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT AN OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN (OSMP).
CELEBRATE THE OUTDOORS
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Objective ES-1: Vegetation Protection Sustain
and promote viable and diverse native plant
communities that are characteristic of the region.
Objective ES-2: Wildlife Protection Maintain and
promote healthy and diverse native wildlife
populations.
Objective ES-3: Water Resources Protect and restore
natural water courses, wetlands, and hydrologic
processes.
Objective ES-4: Science-Based Management Use
and document scientific knowledge of comparable
open space resources and widely accepted
and well documented resource management
techniques as a basis for management decisions.
Objective ES-5: Expand Ability Expand ability to
perform natural resource management.
BALANCED RECREATION USE
Objective BR-1: Balanced Recreation Uses Provide
diverse, nature-dependent recreation activities in
the city’s open space areas.
Objective BR-2: Trail Management Improve and
maintain trails to be environmentally sustainable.
Objective BR-3: User Compatibility Facilitate and
encourage multi-use compatibility on trails.
Objective BR-4: Enhance Partnerships Enhance
partnerships and programs aimed at improving
recreation experiences.
NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
Objective NH-1: Wildfire Hazards Reduce the risk
and severity of wildland fire and minimize the
impact of fire suppression activities within City
open spaces and adjacent residential areas.
Objective NH-2: Protect Life + Property Protect
life and property from natural hazards, including
neighboring communities during mitigation or
hazard events.
Objective NH-3: Improve Cooperative Planning
Improve cooperative planning to respond to
natural hazards.
The OSMP establishes the Objectives for Belmont’s Open Spaces, listed below.
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PROS GOAL 9: ENRICH OUTDOOR RECREATION THROUGH TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS, VOLUNTEER COLLABORATIONS, AND WAYFINDING FEATURES.
Strategy 9.A
Facilitate volunteer opportunities and advance
stewardship with fun and engaging opportunities to
care for our valuable natural environment.
Strategy 9.B
Offer areas of respite, such as benches with shade
and trail rest points, along paths and trails to support outdoor recreation for all.
Strategy 9.C
Create trails to vista points or activity spaces that are as accessible as possible given the terrain restrains.
Strategy 9.D
Identify locations where trails can be improved or
established in open space to connect the city and
other open space areas neighboring Belmont, such as
Sugarloaf Mountain and San Juan Canyon.
Strategy 9.E
Create a wayfinding signage system to educate and
increase community use of PROS spaces. Provide
pedestrian and bicycle transportation information, such as directions, route distance, and travel duration, to the nearest PROS site.
PROS GOAL 8: HIGHLIGHT LOCAL ECOSYSTEMS THROUGH EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS PARKS AND OPEN SPACES.
Strategy 8.A
Highlight the natural features within Belmont’s parks
and open spaces through unique educational and
recreational hands-on programs.
Strategy 8.B
Incorporate environmental education elements into
park designs, such as interpretative signage and
trailhead bulletins.
Strategy 7.C
Increase stewardship efforts with organizations whose
mission supports natural education.
Strategy 8.D
Promote public awareness of sustainable practices
being implemented in the PROS system. Consider
methods to increase public knowledge about
environmentally-friendly choices in their homes and
local neighborhoods.
Strategy 8.E
Improve public access to the Belmont Creek waterway,
especially in Twin Pines Park, when restoring or
enhancing the riparian habitat. Use temporary signage
to explain the specific restoration methods and how
visitors can avoid disturbing these efforts.
CELEBRATE THE OUTDOORS
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PROS GOAL 11: DIVERSIFY FUNDING SOURCES TO ENSURE HIGH-QUALITY, ACTIVELYMANAGED, AND WELL-MAINTAINED PROS ASSETS.
PROS GOAL 10: NURTURE AND STRENGTHEN NATURAL RESOURCES
THROUGH EFFICIENT AND INNOVATIVE LANDSCAPE DESIGN.
Strategy 11.A
Prioritize funding towards projects that increase equity and inclusivity at PROS sites.
Strategy 11.B
Implement existing master plans for Twin Pines Park
and Barrett Community Center.
Strategy 11.C
Actively pursue grants and partnerships to implement
PROS improvements.
Strategy 11.D
Explore funding sources that support recreation
programming or assist with operations and
maintenance.
Strategy 11.E
Include maintenance considerations in all development,
redevelopment, enhancement, and maintenance
projects.
Strategy 11.F
Require high-quality planning, design, and construction administration for all future projects.
Strategy 11.G
As the PROS system evolves, evaluate and supplement
City maintenance staffing and budgets to ensure highquality conditions of amenities and assets.
Strategy 11.H
Periodically review the City’s parkland dedication
and in-lieu fee requirements, development costs, and
building trends to address any changes that could
necessitate a Park Impact Fee Nexus Study.
Strategy 11.I
Develop an approach to acquire open space lands to
conserve scenic areas, natural drainage ways, and
plant and wildlife habitat.
Strategy 10.A
Use durable and low-maintenance material choices in
all park development.
Strategy 10.B
Consider permeable paving options when adding paths
or replacing non-permeable paths.
Strategy 10.C
Increase shade and tree canopy across the city with
succession tree planting, volunteer planting events,
and monitoring of existing trees for health and longevity.
Strategy 10.D
Use native, drought-tolerant, low-water plants in all
park projects.
Strategy 10.E
Utilize the Open Space Management Plan to address
trail erosion impacts.
Strategy 10.F
Protect native habitat without limiting public enjoyment of the natural environment unduly.
ENVIRONMENTAL + FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
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Waterdog Lake Open Space
PROS GOAL 12: PRIORITIZE SUSTAINABLE, RESILIENT, AND RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE PRACTICES.
Strategy 12.A
Maximize water and energy efficiency in all PROS
decisions. Support energy- and water-efficient “smart”
upgrades, including installation of solar (photo-voltaic) panels, infrastructure for electric vehicle charging
stations, and rain-sensing irrigation systems, in all new or upgraded sites.
Strategy 12.B
Continue to support and implement the Climate Action
Plan (2017).
Strategy 12.C
Integrate stormwater treatment, detention, and storage
systems into all parks.
Strategy 12.D
Incorporate succession tree planting into regular park
maintenance considerations.
Strategy 12.E
Transition to LED when replacing and upgrading
lighting, with special consideration given to minimizing light pollution.
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The Open Space Management Plan (OSMP), initiated
by PROS Goal 7, provides a programmatic framework
to protect and manage Waterdog Lake (WDL) and San
Juan Canyon (SJC) Open Spaces. The Objectives of
the OSMP, illustrated on a previous page, are organized into three Themes:
Objectives are general statements articulating a desired outcome, which are further broken down by Policies.
As discussed in Chapter 3, an Environmental
Assessment and a Recreation Use Assessment
were conducted for the OSMP. The findings of these
assessments, a review of the City’s existing goals
and policies for protecting and managing open space
areas, and extensive community feedback informed the
Policies. Tables 7-1 through 7-5 present the Policies
organized by Objective.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (ES)
OBJECTIVE POLICY DESCRIPTION
ES-1
Vegetation
Protection
P1
Limit trail construction, and facility development in riparian and other wetland areas (and associated buffers) to protect them from disturbance. Recreational, educational, and other programmatic activities should be conducted in previously developed areas, when possible, to minimize impacts to riparian/wetland areas.
P2
Monitor open space conditions with an emphasis on documenting the location, distribution, and abundance of special-status plants and plant communities, native grasses, wildflowers, and other native flora.
P3
Align or relocate, modify trails to avoid impacting sensitive habitats such as wetlands and areas where endangered species are present. Avoid aligning trails along the boundaries of sensitive habitats.
P4
Protect riparian ecosystems and habitat to maintain natural hydrologic process, water quality, and wildlife benefits. If necessary, enhance and restore riparian habitats to improve function.
P5 Protect common native plant species from disturbance, such as trampling, and disease, such as Sudden Oak Death.
P6 Monitor and control exotic or nuisance plant species.
P7 Preserve and enhance riparian, stream, and other wetland communities locally and in coordination with other agencies to continue providing important habitat networks.
Table 7-1: Environmental Sustainability Policies
OPEN SPACE OBJECTIVES + POLICIES
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
BALANCED RECREATION USE
NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (ES)
OBJECTIVE POLICY DESCRIPTION
ES-2
Wildlife
Protection
P8 Monitor sensitive terrestrial and aquatic wildlife species in terms of their presence/ absence and potential to occur on City of Belmont open space lands.
P9 Avoidance of sensitive wildlife species, critical breeding or nesting seasons, and critical breeding or nesting habitats during trail or facility construction.
P10 Protect common native wildlife species from disturbance, and disease.
P11 Preserve and enhance native wildlife habitat locally and in coordination with other agencies to continue protecting important habitat networks.
ES-3
Water
Resources
P12 Protect surface and ground water from chemical contamination.
P13 Minimize unnatural soil erosion and sedimentation of waters and wetlands ES-4
Sciencebased
Management
P14 Develop performance measures when designing City projects for the purpose of open space management and collect monitoring data to evaluate project success.
P15
Designation and evaluation of trail improvement project proposals will be based on the environmental sustainability and on best available data, including inventories of wildlife, and vegetation resources. The City will undertake site specific and programmatic efforts to extend and improve upon the biological data and recreational benefits underlying its decision-making criteria.
ES-5
Expand Ability
P16 Develop written agreements with volunteer groups to perform natural resource management tasks.
P17 The City will lead, coordinate, or partner with institutions, agencies, and organizations when conducting natural resource management activities.
P18 Expand volunteer restoration programs subject to established protocols to ensure optimal environmental protection.
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BALANCED RECREATION USE (BR)
OBJECTIVE POLICY DESCRIPTION
BR-1
Balanced
Recreation
Uses
P19
Trail access should be provided for a range of user capabilities and needs (including persons with physical limitations) in a manner consistent with State and Federal regulations. The Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas will inform trail improvement and maintenance where conditions permit.
P20 Design and improve trails to facilitate safe trail use by all visitors with a focus toward slowing travel speeds, adjusting sight lines, and establishing safe passing zones.
P21
The City may prohibit certain trail uses or apply increased trail use restrictions within certain areas to enhance safety, minimize conflicts between trail users, and protect natural resources in sensitive resource areas.
P22 Maintain high quality visitor experiences.
P23 Diversify recreation opportunities in the open space areas, subject to policies that apply to all users of these areas.
BR-2
Trail
Management
P24 Authorized trailheads include site and trail identifying signage, allowed uses, posted trail map, garbage can with securable lid, and a dog waste bag dispenser.
P25
Monitor and evaluate open space trail conditions on City open space lands to identify significant erosion, informally created trails, trail redundancy or otherwise unnecessary trail segments.
P26
Maintain trails by improving drainage, hardening, widening based on critical evaluations, and in accordance with trail building standards in Section 3.5.3, or equivalent sources.
P27 Conduct any grading activities necessary for trail maintenance before soil conditions inhibit their excavation, movement, and compacting.
P28
Modification to any open space resources on open space lands is prohibited unless authorized personnel have given express approval to perform such tasks, including trail construction, improvement, closing, or decommissioning trails.
P29 Authorized trails must have wayfinding signage and associated naming conventions.
P30
Evaluate opportunities to construct new trails that could connect with other regional trails, with existing City recognized trails, and by designating other trails not currently formally recognized as part of the City’s open space trail system.
P31 Evaluate opportunities to implement trail calming design features.
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BALANCED RECREATION (BR)
OBJECTIVE POLICY DESCRIPTION
BR-3
User
Compatibility
P32
To provide visitor opportunities to experience natural sounds, no amplified sounds – i.e. portable speakers – are allowed on open space lands unless expressly approved as part of a group activity permit.
P33
On multiuse trails, the following etiquette rules apply: cyclists yield to all other trail users, pedestrians yield to equestrians. Downhill travel yield to uphill travel. Maintain safe speeds and announce yourself when passing.
P34 Use of Belmont open space lands is subject to the City’s existing regulations, including hours of operation. Entry into Waterdog Lake is prohibited.
P35 On multiuse trails, follow best practices and City Code re: : group size s. Groups of 25 or more require a permit under City code (Ch 16, Article II, Sec 16-28).
BR-4
Enhance
Partnerships
P36 Develop written agreements with volunteer groups to perform trail maintenance or construction tasks.
P37
Identify locations where trails can be improved or established in open space to connect the City and other open space areas neighboring Belmont, such as Sugarloaf Mountain. Coordinate with San Mateo County and the City of San Mateo.
Table 7-4: Balanced Recreation Use Policies (Continued) Belmont Open Space Views
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NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION (NH)
OBJECTIVE POLICY DESCRIPTION
NH-1
Wildfire
Hazards
P38 Evaluate the potential to reduce forest fuel loading through the removal of smaller trees to reduce forest floor fuel buildup and ladder fuels.
P39
Prepare wildland fire response plans and include suppression activities, first responders, mutual aid agreements, as well as detailed maps of infrastructure and sensitive resources to be avoided.
P40 Prohibit activities that have a high risk of sparking fires during periods of extreme fire hazard.
P41
Close open space areas of particular concern during extreme fire weather, as determined by San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department, and increase patrol levels where appropriate.
P42 Consider use of a grazing program to reduce grassland fuels, brush encroachment, and encourage the vigor of native grass and forb species.
P43
Manage scrub, shrub, and chaparral communities to maintain a mosaic of ages and species within strategic management corridors on roads, ridgetops, and near residential development or other critical infrastructure to compartmentalize preserves and reduce fuel loads.
P44 Minimize and reduce ground disturbance, erosion, and rehabilitation efforts associated with heavy machinery fire suppression.
P45
Develop guidelines for post-fire appropriate rehabilitation measures to address erosion, revegetation, invasive species, trail and road stability, security, public safety, and natural and cultural resources.
P46 Limb fallen trees/branches to reduce aerial fuels along trails.
NH-2
Protect Life
and Property
P47 Manage dead and dying trees to limit wind throw and falling trees and limbs.
P48 Manage severe erosion areas on hill slopes and near/within streams.
P49 Respond to trail and open space impacts resulting from severe weather, landslides, or other natural events.
NH-3
Improve
Cooperative
Planning
P50 Participate in county Fire Safe Councils and any relevant Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) efforts.
P51 Partner with abutting property owners to manage adjacent vegetation and fuel levels.
P52 Work with PG&E to identify areas where wildlife risks could be reduced through increased vegetation management and/or transmission line undergrounds.
Table 7-5: Natural Hazard Mitigation Policies
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CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN 145 PART 3.
HOW WE GET THERE
CHAPTER 8
Recommendations
This chapter proposes future improvements derived
from the existing conditions analysis, community
feedback, and needs assessment presented earlier
in this plan. They directly respond to the Strategies
presented in the previous chapter.
Recommendations include upgrades, additions, and
reconfigurations specific to individual PROS sites as
well as proposed improvements for the entire PROS
system. This chapter also recommends improvements
specific to Belmont’s open spaces.
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SYSTEM-WIDE
The System-wide Recommendations are listed
alphabetically below, associated with the Big Idea and
Strategy that informed it.
ACTIVATION PLAN
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD, Strategy 2.G
An Activation Plan is an initiative to energize existing and future PROS sites with recreation programming,
community events, and unique activities. People make
places, and an active PROS site increases interest
and use in the space. An Activation Plan focuses on
means and methods to increase activity with unique
programming such as a book festival, self-defense
class, dog training workshop, picnic day, and other
reoccurring or one-off events specific to the community’s interests. An Activation Plan can focus on a specific site or the entire system—Twin Pines Park and the Belmont
Sports Complex represent opportunities for further
activation to attract and engage residents, employees,
and visitors of Belmont.
INCLUSIVE + ALL-ABILITIES PLAY
OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR ALL, STRATEGY 4.F
The cultural and social values of diversity, equity, and inclusion are core to the City of Belmont. An inclusive PROS system is reflected in the Guiding Principles
and Goals of this plan. Multiple Strategies reference
recreation opportunities that are designed for a diverse population of visitors.
The System-wide Recommendation for Inclusive+AllAbilities Play proposes that all playground upgrades and replacements in the PROS system evaluate the
inclusion of these elements and principles in their
design. Further, all Community Parks in Belmont should
only upgrade existing playgrounds with Inclusive+AllAbilities playgrounds going forward. Open space trail accessibility improvements could include efforts
to ensure that several segments can accommodate
mobility devices, each offering distinctive recreation
experiences. In doing so, Belmont will enrich the quality of life for all residents.
OVERVIEW
The PROS Plan presents a comprehensive set of
Recommendations that are derived from the analyses
and considerations that guided this study. The
Recommendations directly respond to the Strategies
presented in the previous chapter, focusing on the
equitable distribution of amenities throughout the
community. Recommendations were bolstered by the
community engagement process, which served as a
key component of the PROS Plan.
SYSTEM-WIDE
System-wide Recommendations are potential
pathways to carry out established Goals and Strategies
across the entire PROS system. They are informed by a
holistic review of Belmont’s unique outdoor resources,
established best management practices for the region,
and new, creative approaches to increase visitation
and usage.
PARK-SPECIFIC
This chapter provides a detailed map of each park
and locates potential improvements, informed by the
site assessments and inventories, to satisfy the park’s Standard Baseline Amenities requirement as dictated
by its individual Park Typology.
OPPORTUNITIES
This chapter presents ideal locations for new parks to
increase access to public green space in a strategic
manner. This section also outlines potential joint-use
agreements (JUA) with local schools to offer additional recreational opportunities.
OPEN SPACE
This chapter also proposes improvements for Belmont’s
open spaces, focused on striking a balance between
recreational use, environmental preservation, and the
reduction of natural hazards.
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Pop-up Park Installation Example: Park + Play
Pop-up Park Installation Example: Foam Blocks
INTERCONNECT TOOLKIT
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD, Strategy 1.B
An Interconnect Toolkit is a means to facilitate active transportation to and between parks. Beyond routes
to increase ease of access to PROS sites for walking,
biking, and public transport, the Toolkit should consider bicycle racks and repair stations, water stations
(with bottle-filling and dog bowls), seating, and route information along the interconnections.
The Interconnect Toolkit should be used in collaboration with Safe Route to Parks. A joint effort between the
National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA)
and Safe Routes Partnership, Safe Routes to Parks is a
program that promotes safer and easier access to PROS
sites via walking, biking, and public transportation.
Belmont has identified a need to increase access and
connectivity to parks. Utilizing the Safe Routes to Parks framework will guide the City to create connections and increase access to the existing PROS sites.
POP-UP PARK INSTALLATIONS
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD, Strategy 3.B
Belmont has limited opportunity to increase parkland
acreage as an almost fully developed city. There
are areas and neighborhoods of the City that have
low access to and are underserved by the existing
parkland. A possible method to increase recreational
opportunities to address this gap is a pop-up park
installation, which can take many forms:
• Public parklets can activate an underutilized
pocket of the urban environment, such as on-street
parallel parking spots or off-street parking lots, to
increase community gathering space. Parklets can
be temporary, or they can be implemented as a
more permanent conversion to vibrant public space.
• A mobile recreation vehicle can bring temporary
recreation and play elements to an underserved
area or existing PROS site to invigorate or
supplement existing amenities. Examples of play
and programming possible with a mobile recreation
vehicle are portable basketball hoops, skate
ramps, health and wellness workshops, arts and
crafts, board games, and movable lawn games.
• Pop-up play experiences are movable play
elements and materials that can be located in a
PROS site for a period of time to supplement a
community, test a play amenity without committing
to permanent installation, or increase the experience
at a site for a period of time or event. Pop-up play
experiences can rotate through PROS sites or be
a one-off installation. They can be easy integrated
with other programs and recreational offerings and
should feature creative play opportunities aligned
with new trends and evolving community interests.
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Buckeye Reservable Picnic Area in Twin Pines Park
SOCIAL GATHERING SPACE
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD, Strategy 2.B
Social gathering spaces are an intrinsic element of
our public parks and open spaces. This could be a
bench to chat with a neighbor, a picnic table to eat with friends, or a reservable picnic area to host an outdoor celebration event. All developed parks in Belmont have
a bench, and almost all have at least one picnic table.
The Vision Statement for the City defines the community character with “We connect with each other in all kinds of gathering places.” As social gathering places for
people of all ages, abilities, cultural backgrounds, and lived experiences, PROS sites are important public
spaces that foster social connections and serve as
community hubs. Successful spaces for interaction
are places where people—often from many parts of
the community and/or diverse backgrounds—meet
naturally and interact comfortably because of the nature or attraction of the space and its associated activities.
In addition to providing a natural green area, parks offer playgrounds, picnic tables and grills, sports fields, and other facilities bringing together adults and children alike.
Gathering spaces can build community connections
to increase social cohesion, or the strength of
relationships and the sense of solidarity among
members of a community. Community cohesion is
a social determinant of health, also known as the
conditions in the environments where people are born,
live, learn, work, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of quality-of-life outcomes and risks.
Seating locations to promote social interaction and
lingering—an intentional lengthening of a park or public space visit due to it being enjoyable to remain—should
generally follow these guidelines:
• Place seating with a view of the action while
removed from the main flow of pedestrian traffic.
• Consider innovative and untraditional
seating options to offer unique and
memorable visitor experiences.
• Orient several benches at 90° to 120° angles rather
than linear rows, allowing groups to face each other.
• Provide both clustered and isolated seating
opportunities for various levels of privacy.
• Offer seating in both the sun and the shade,
ideally with protection from wind and rain.
• Space seating opportunities with enough room
for a wheelchair to fit between to engage in the
group conversation in a comfortable manner.
• Supply both fixed and movable seating
elements (where feasible).
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Usage Study Example: Park Behavior Mapping Usage Study Example: Observation
USAGE STUDY
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD, Strategy 3.D
Usage Studies gather measurable data about usage
patterns to understand how to best optimize the
limited resources that are available to the Parks and
Recreation Department. The gathered measurements
provide data to evaluate many aspects of a park or
open space site, such as quantity of visitors, amenity
utilization, high- or low-traffic areas, access points and methods, group sizes, and more. Usage measurements
quantify the use of PROS sites and amenities, including characteristics of their users, and can inform PROS
management about other issues related to sites usage.
Without measurements, it is impossible to know
whether a PROS system is meeting the needs of its
community members. The PROS Plan Community
Survey asked respondents for data similar to what can
be gathered in a Usage Study, but a Usage Study can
generate more precise and accurate information than a
general survey.
Assessments can be as simplistic or detailed as
staffing, budget, and schedule allow. Studies can be
for a point in time (meaning conducted once to create
a snapshot of usage during a specified duration) or
over time (meaning a study conducted annually, or
seasonally) to compare changes. There are benefits
and costs associated with both, and based on the
usage measurements requested, either can achieve
the desired results.
Methods to measure park usage are numerous.
Systematic observation is the most commonly used.
With representative times of day and days of the week,
a general estimate of a PROS site utilization can be
determined either through on-site observations or
various technological approaches such as park behavior
mapping. Typically, observation is done at both peak
and low-use times for a broader understanding of site
and amenity usage and users. Site or amenity usage
measurements can be extensive, including duration of
use per user, quantity of users in a certain time frame, circulation patterns around or into a site, and more.
User characteristics can range from simple (counting
quantity of users) to more detailed, including estimated age group, race/ethnicity, and level of physical activity (such as sedentary, moderate, or vigorous).
A Usage Study at Hidden Canyon Park, for example,
would allow staff to understand this undeveloped park’s current conditions and visitor activities. Subsequent
and periodic Usage Studies at this location, as the
recommended park improvements are implemented in
phases, would provide useful feedback and highlight
any impacts or changes to the site and surrounding
community. Follow-up Usage Studies are most valuable
when conducted following the same methodology and
timing as the initial Usage Study.
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EXISTING MASTER PLAN
Two parks in Belmont have recently adopted master
plans: Twin Pines Park Master Plan (2019) and Barrett
Community Center Conceptual Design Plan (2020).
Creation of these master plans utilized extensive public engagement efforts to inform the preferred amenities.
The PROS Plan recommends implementing the master
plans for these two parks.
MINOR IMPROVEMENT
Several parks require only minor adjustments to
meet the Standard Baseline Amenity requirements as
outlined by their Park Typology. These parks feature
amenities identified as being in good condition.
UPGRADED OR NEW AMENITY
These parks are functioning well but have the ability
to meet community needs to a higher degree with
upgraded or new amenities. In some instances, the
amenities are nearing the end of their usable life and
have been identified for replacement.
RECOMMENDATION MAGNITUDES
Each park in the City was evaluated for access,
proximity, and available space to host new or enhanced
amenities. The Recommendation Spectrum was
used to outline and contextualize the Park-specific
Recommendations presented in the PROS Plan.
This tool organizes improvements by the magnitude
of change, spanning from the creation of a new park
to the implementation of a minor improvement or
existing master plan. The Recommendation Spectrum
is used to frame Park-specific Recommendations
for the Community Park, Neighborhood Park, and
Undeveloped Park Typologies. It is not applied to
schools with joint-use agreements (JUA) because the
sites are owned by Belmont Redwood Shores School
District (BRSSD). It is also not applied to the Open
Space Park Typology, because management of these
sites is covered in a separate section given the unique considerations for these valuable resources.
The following section defines the magnitudes as shown
in Figure 8-1 and presented in Table 8-1.
PARK-SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS Magnitude
EXISTING
MASTER PLAN
MINOR
IMPROVEMENT
UPGRADED OR
NEW AMENITY
PARK
REDESIGN
UNDEVELOPED
PARKS
NEW PARK
OPPORTUNITY
Existing Condition
Master plans
recently
adopted
Created with
extensive
community input
Parks recently
developed or
in very good
condition
Current park
functioning well
Rethink
accessibility
and park layout
No change
in use
Existing park is
undeveloped
Add parkland
To fill gaps in
park access
City-owned
property
Recommendation
Implement
existing
master plan
Minor
improvements
identified
to maintain
high quality
Upgrade
existing
amenity or
new amenity to
meet identified
needs or gaps
Undertake park
design plan
Develop and
amenitize site
Create,
develop, and
amenitize site
Figure 8-1: Recommendations Spectrum
INCREASING MAGNITUDE OF RECOMMENDATIONS
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RECOMMENDATION MAGNITUDE PER PARK SITE
SITE PROPOSED TYPOLOGY RECOMMENDATION MAGNITUDE
Alexander Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Upgraded or New Amenity Barrett Community Center Community Existing Master Plan Belameda Park Community Upgraded or New Amenity
Belmont Sports Complex Community Upgraded or New Amenity Cipriani Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Park Redesign
College View Park Neighborhood Tier 1 Minor Improvements Davey Glen Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Minor Improvements
Hallmark Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Park Redesign
Hasting Tot Lot Park Neighborhood Tier 1 Park Redesign
Hidden Canyon Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Undeveloped Park McDougal Park Community Upgraded or New Amenity
O’Donnell Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Upgraded or New Amenity Patricia Wharton Park Neighborhood Tier 1 Minor Improvements Ralston Ranch Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Undeveloped Park Semeria Park Neighborhood Tier 2 Minor Improvements
Twin Pines Park Community Existing Master Plan
Wakefield Park Neighborhood Tier 1 Minor Improvements
Table 8-1: Park Recommendation Magnitudes
PARK REDESIGN
Three parks are considered poorly accessible or underutilizing their acreage. These sites have been identified for a park redesign including creation of design master plans for accessibility-related improvements.
UNDEVELOPED PARK
There are two sites considered Undeveloped Parks
by the Parks and Recreation Department, both
recommended for development into Neighborhood
Parks Tier 2.
NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY
As an almost completely built-out city, there are
limited opportunities to increase parkland acreage
or improve access coverage in low-access areas.
Recommendations for opportunity sites work towards
improving both. As potential new PROS sites, these
areas would need extensive improvement.
SCHOOL (JUA)
The City has a JUA with BRSSD for four school
athletic fields, which allows limited public access to
the field outside of school hours. The City provides
landscape maintenance for the athletic field and shares the cost of water. Since the City does not own this
land, recommendations for these sites will require a
consensus agreement and cost-sharing with BRSSD to
implement. Recommendations for School (JUA) sites
are not evaluated by the Recommendations Spectrum.
OPEN SPACE
Open Space recommendations are not included
in the Recommendations Spectrum. These sites
are discussed in more detail in the Open Space
Management Plan (OSMP).
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RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
The following pages illustrate the Park-specific
Recommendations and identify opportunity sites for
future park and recreation amenities. Each PROS
site has a Recommendations Map with a legend
illustrating how to read the recommendation symbols.
If a recommendation symbol does not have a number,
it indicates that the recommendation is park-wide or
otherwise does not have a specific location.
STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 1)
a Natural Environment
b Seating
c Identifiable Amenity
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 2) *
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
COMMUNITY PARK
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity g Off-Street Parking b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space h Permanent Restroom c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity i Athletic Field or Community Facility
Table 8-2: Standard Baseline Amenities
* Both Undeveloped Park sites are attributed as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2.
Note: School (JUA) and Open Space Park Typologies do not have Standard Baseline Amenities.
STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
All sites are measured against the Standard Baseline
Amenities requirement for their assigned Park Typology.
For most sites, the Standard Baseline Amenities are
already existing; for some sites, the park is lacking
one or more. Some parks have been assigned a new
Park Typology, and some parks are undeveloped and
therefore lack the Standard Baseline Amenities for any
Park Typology. The Standard Baseline Amenities are
identified on each Recommendations Map and can be
referenced in Table 8-2 below.
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RECOMMENDATION TYPES
Recommendations that go beyond Standard Baseline
Amenities are grouped by category, defined below.
ACCESSIBILITY
This classification includes enhancements which
increase safety and enhance circulation to and within
the park. Accessibility improvements are intended to
ensure that community members of all abilities have an
equal opportunity to enjoy parks and outdoor facilities.
Examples of accessibility improvements include:
• Path additions – adding new paths to connect all
amenities and offer continuous walking loops.
• Path improvements – implementing minor repairs
or improvements to existing paths or rebuilding
path components (e.g., entrance stairs, ramps,
and pathways) to comply ADA standards.
• Technology – offering free Wi-Fi internet
for safety and convenience.
• Neighborhood connectivity – adding
crosswalks to connect to adjacent parks, trails,
schools, and community gathering locations.
• Parking – increasing standard and/or ADA
parking spots, increasing off-street parking
spots, and adding bicycle repair stations.
• Placemaking – increasing visibility and
adding art features, murals, or entrance
and gateway improvements.
AMENITY
Park amenities are the physical features that visitors
directly interact with. Facilities are defined as features with larger footprints like sport courts, gathering
spaces, bike tracks, play structures, and shade
structures. Equipment differs from facilities in that
these have a smaller footprints and consist of individual items like outdoor fitness elements, benches, picnic
tables, bicycle repair stations, BBQs, storage sheds,
trash receptacles, and drinking fountains. Examples of
amenity improvements include:
• Enhance facilities – resurfacing and restriping
courts, modernizing play structures, rejuvenating
outdoor classroom space, creating safety barriers
between play structures and busy streets.
• Enhance equipment – repairing and relocating
features to optimize use, reorienting seating
elements to improve view, and replacing
furnishings at or near their end of usable life.
• Amenity additions – installing new and
attractive facilities and equipment.
• Programming – collaborating with schools, creating
reservation systems for equipment and facilities,
and promoting accessible social gathering spaces.
LANDSCAPE
Landscaping features are natural elements that visitors passively interact with, serving as a critical piece of the user experience. The proposed landscaping actions
offer benefits such as increasing habitat and food
sources for local wildlife populations or extending the use of recreational amenities. Examples of landscape
improvements include:
• Native plants – expand native planting areas.
• Maintenance – maintain existing landscaping
(monitor and replace as needed).
• Signage – Add interpretation elements such
as educational and wayfinding signage.
• Increase usage – Transition some existing
fields to synthetic turf where feasible
to increase annual usable time.
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15’
10’
20’
20’
15’
10’
10’
10’ YORKSHIRE WAY
4 6
5 8
7 e
c
f
f
b
f
d
a
2 1
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
ALEXANDER PARK
NEIGHBORHOOD-SERVING RECREATION OASIS
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 3 DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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386
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CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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Tennis and Pickleball Courts Bocce Ball and Horseshoes
ADA Accessibility to All Amenities
Inclusive+All-Abilities Play
Looped Walking Path(s) Celebrating the Park Entrance
3 RECOMMENDATIONS UPGRADED OR NEW AMENITY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
AMENITY
4 Resurface and restripe tennis courts to
include pickleball
(completed Summer 2022)
5 Repair/replace BBQs
6 Add bocce ball court
7 Replace an existing
playground with Inclusive+AllAbilities Play*
Increase seating opportunities
LANDSCAPE
8 Monitor Oak tree
Enhance existing plantings
with native and droughttolerant species
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
Expand tree canopy and
shade with tree plantings
(maintain central lawn
without obstruction)
ACCESSIBILITY
Park redesign plan for
proposed park amenities
1 Continue looped walking
path around lawn
2 Provide ADA-accessible path
to existing and new amenities
3 Increase visibility and
celebrate the park by
enhancing the street entrance
experience (incorporating
art, such as murals, along
the entrance access)
ALEXANDER PARK
CHARACTER IMAGES
1 6
2 4 7
* No accessible parking available at park site. Site served only by on-street parking in residential neighborhood.
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HOW WE GET THERE
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140’
140’
120’
RALSTON AVE
BELBURN DR
2 3
i
i
h
g
f c
e
d
a
a
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 b
BARRETT COMMUNITY CENTER
COMMUNITY-SUPPORTING GATHERING PLACE
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
388
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Seating Implement Existing Master Plan
Belmont Community Center
Conceptual Design Report
City of Belmont
February 2020
Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field
Native Planting Areas
INTERIM RECOMMENDATIONS EXISTING MASTER PLAN
COMMUNITY PARK STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity g Off-Street Parking b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space h Permanent Restroom c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity i Athletic Field or Community Facility
AMENITY
1 Add seating opportunities
2 Remove fitness equipment
and re-use at alternative
park location
Implement the Barrett
Community Center
Conceptual Design Report
(see next page)
LANDSCAPE
3 Construct multi-use athletic
field in Conceptual Design
Report as synthetic turf
Improve native planting
near entrance
ACCESSIBILITY
No recommendations
CHARACTER IMAGES
1 3
BARRETT COMMUNITY CENTER
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HOW WE GET THERE
158 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
Figure 8-2: Barrett Community Center Site Concept Plan
Source: Belmont Community Center Conceptual Design Report (2020) 2 3
4 5 8
7 1
6 BARRETT COMMUNITY CENTER
COMMUNITY-SUPPORTING GATHERING PLACE
5 10
9 CONCEPTUAL DESIGN REPORT (2020)
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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390
159
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD
AMENITY
2 Add dog parklet
3 Add pool (water play)
4 Add spray park (water play)
5 Relocate and upgrade
playground with
Inclusive+All-Abilities Play
6 Construct new
community center
7 Consider synthetic turf for
multi-use athletic field
8 Relocate multi-use
sports court
9 Add picnic area
LANDSCAPE
10 Plant trees to increase shade
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Restructure parking size
and configuration
RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPLEMENT EXISTING MASTER PLAN
Dog Parklet
Community Center
Pool Spray Park
Inclusive+All-Abilities Play Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field 5 CHARACTER IMAGES
2 6
3 7
4 BARRETT COMMUNITY CENTER
CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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HOW WE GET THERE
160 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
220’
200’
180’
160’
160’
200’
180’
ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
5 i
h
g
c
c
a
e
d
f
b
2 3
1 RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
4 BELAMEDA PARK
ALL-AGES LEARNING AND EXPLORING SPACE
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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392
161
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD
Recreation Amenity Multi-Use Path Teen Outdoor Space
Learn-to-Ride Loop Native Planting Areas
f
3 1
4 5
2 Inclusive+All-Abilities Play
CHARACTER IMAGES
RECOMMENDATIONS UPGRADED OR NEW AMENITY
COMMUNITY PARK STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity g Off-Street Parking b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space h Permanent Restroom c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
(Add fitness equipment course) i Athletic Field or Community Facility
AMENITY
2 Create a teen outdoor space
to complement offerings
at the Belmont Library
3 Continue path to create
walking and learn-to-bike
loop west of parking lot
Increase seating opportunities
Consider Inclusive+AllAbilities Play in playground
LANDSCAPE
4 Add native planting
near entrance
5 Refresh planting
around playground
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Create walking loop extension
Increase entrance and
connection opportunities to
create better park access
Add Wi-Fi access to site
BELAMEDA PARK
CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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HOW WE GET THERE
162 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
5’ 5’ 10’
5’
10’
10’
10’ 10’ 10’ 10’ 10’ 0’
0’
10’
5’
5’
10’
20’
101 FREEWAY
NORTH FIELD
SOUTH FIELD
MARINA FIELD
2 3
4 i
i
i
i
h
h
g
a
f
f
f
c
d
e
7 7
5 b
b
b
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2018
8 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 6 6
BELMONT SPORTS COMPLEX
ATHLETIC HUB FOR THE ENTIRE CITY
1 DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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394
163
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD
Social Gathering Space
Fitness Equipment
Pump Track
Native Planting Areas Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field
CHARACTER IMAGES
RECOMMENDATIONS UPGRADED OR NEW AMENITY
COMMUNITY PARK STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity g Off-Street Parking b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space h Permanent Restroom c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity i Athletic Field or Community Facility
AMENITY
2 Create an accessible
social gathering space to
promote social interactions
3 Redevelop underutilized
space with a pump track
4 Add a fitness equipment
course around North
Field path
5 Relocate picnic tables
Increase seating opportunities
LANDSCAPE
6 Add native planting areas
7 Consider transitioning
South Field and Marina
Field to synthetic turf
8 Add interpretive signage
about marsh and bay ecology
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Add bicycle repair station
2 3
4 6 7
Bicycle Repair Station
1 BELMONT SPORTS COMPLEX
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HOW WE GET THERE
164 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
460’
460’
460’
440’
440’
440’
440’
480’ 480’
440’ 440’
MONSERAT AVE
4 1
2 2
2 3
e
a
c
d
f
b
BUENA VISTA AVE
5 7
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
6 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 8 CIPRIANI PARK
THE SOCIALIZE SPOT WITH DOGS
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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396
165
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD
Seating Add Trees for Shade
ADA Accessibility to All Amenities Reservable Picnic Area (Small) Playground Redesign Dog Park
6 RECOMMENDATIONS PARK REDESIGN
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
AMENITY
4 Establish a reservable
picnic area (small)
5 Upgrade playground structure
6 Redesign dog park area
and surfacing to better
address community needs
Increase seating opportunities
Consider additional
amenities in partnership
with adjacent school
LANDSCAPE
7 Add trees around
perimeter of fenced dog
park area for shade
8 Evaluate multi-use flexible
lawn for turf improvements
ACCESSIBILITY
Park redesign plan to
improve accessibility
and space utilization
1 Formalize dog park entrance
from school’s parking lot
2 Create ADA-accessible
path to all existing and
new amenities
3 Rebuild entrance stairs,
ramp, and pathway from
Buena Vista Ave
CHARACTER IMAGES
2 4
7 5
CIPRIANI PARK
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HOW WE GET THERE
166 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
240’
220’
240’
COLLEGE VIEW WAY
5 3
2 a 4
c
b
b
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 1 COLLEGE VIEW PARK
SOCIAL NEIGHBORHOOD SPOT
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
398
167
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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ADA Accessibility to All Amenities Seating Native Planting Areas Trees for Shade
1 4 5
RECOMMENDATIONS MINOR IMPROVEMENTS
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment
b Seating
c Identifiable Amenity
AMENITY
3 Continue to refill wood
chips in playground
area periodically
4 Replace benches
LANDSCAPE
5 Add planting area
near picnic area
Plant trees to increase shade
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Assess paved surface
for access and repair/
replace as needed
Consider creating an
interconnected pedestrian
and bicycle priority route
between College View
Park, Semeria Park, and
Patricia Wharton Park
2 Explore opportunities to
connect to NDNU/Stanford
University Campus
CHARACTER IMAGES
COLLEGE VIEW PARK
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HOW WE GET THERE
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100’
160’
120’
200’
140’ 100’
120’
140’
180’
200’
160’
180’
DAVEY GLEN RD.
a
a
b c
d
e
f
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
DAVEY GLEN PARK
TUCKED-AWAY ENVIRONMENTAL GEM
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
400
169
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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Recreation Amenity
f
RECOMMENDATIONS MINOR IMPROVEMENTS
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
(Add signage for walking loop)
AMENITY
No recommendations beyond
Standard Baseline Amenities
LANDSCAPE
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
ACCESSIBILITY
No recommendations
CHARACTER IMAGES
DAVEY GLEN PARK
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401
HOW WE GET THERE
170 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
720’
680’
720’ 740’ 760’
720’
700’
660’ 660’ 640’ 660’
640’
66 0’
680’
700’
720’
780’
600’ 560’ 560’ 600’ 640’
800’
HALLMARK DR.
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 2 f
c
d
a
b
e
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 3 HALLMARK PARK
ACTIVE NATURAL TERRAIN
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
402
171
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
Playground
ADA Accessibility to All Amenities Tennis and Pickleball Courts e 1 2
3 RECOMMENDATIONS PARK REDESIGN
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
(Create seating in shaded area)
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
AMENITY
2 Resurface and restripe tennis courts to
include pickleball
(completed Spring 2022)
3 Update, expand, and
consider relocating
playground structure
Increase seating opportunities
LANDSCAPE
Plant trees to replace
declining existing trees across
the site (succession planting)
Plant trees to increase shade
Consider adding native
planting areas
ACCESSIBILITY
Park redesign plan to
improve accessibility
and space utilization
1 Evaluate path accessibility
and reconstruct as needed
CHARACTER IMAGES
HALLMARK PARK
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HOW WE GET THERE
172 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
500’
480’
480’ 500’ 520’
HASTINGS DR
2 4
3 5
7 6
a
c
b
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
8 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
HASTINGS TOT LOT PARK
CHILD-ORIENTED PLAY ZONE
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
404
173
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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Seating
Playground Native Planting Areas
Replace Retaining Wall Safety Barrier
2 5
3 6
4 RECOMMENDATIONS PARK REDESIGN
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment
b Seating
c Identifiable Amenity
AMENITY
2 Replenish playground fibar
3 Replace and consider
reorienting benches for
eyes on the playground
and sunset view
4 Replace wood stake fence
5 Create safety barrier
between playground and
adjacent Hasting Drive
6 Update play structure
LANDSCAPE
7 Create native planting
area around playground
8 Add interpretive signage
to educate about native
plants and open space
ACCESSIBILITY
Park redesign plan for
proposed park amenities
1 Add crosswalk for
connectivity to park and
adjacent trailhead
CHARACTER IMAGES
HASTINGS TOT LOT PARK
CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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HOW WE GET THERE
174 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
500’
480’
460’
460’
480’
480’
500’
520’
520’
500’
480’
460’
420’
400’
380’
460’
440’
480’
500’
480’
440’
460’
420’
400’ 380’ 360’ 340’ 320’
360’ 340’ 320’ 300’ 280’ 280’ 300’ 340’ 380’ 400’ 420’ 440’ 460’ 480’ 500’ 520’
CARLMONT DR
4 a
f
f
f
a
b
RECOMMENDATIONS ILLUSTRATIVE CONCEPT
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 2
3 c
d
For illustration purposes only. This graphic is conceptual in nature, and any park design decisions will require additional public review. e
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
HIDDEN CANYON PARK
THE GATEWAY TO OPEN SPACE
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
406
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Seating Opportunities
Open Space Gateway
Picnic Area
Permanent Restroom
Nature Play Element
Outdoor Classroom
b
e 4
c
3 d
CHARACTER IMAGES
RECOMMENDATIONS UNDEVELOPED PARK
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
(Add small picnic areas)
b Seating
(Add seating opportunities) e
Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
(Add an outdoor classroom)
c
Play Amenity
(Add nature play element) f Recreation Amenity
AMENITY
3 Add restroom with
drinking fountain
4 Add a gateway element
Add seating opportunities
LANDSCAPE
Maintain native plantings
Remove non-native plants
Add shade (trees or shade
structure) to seating areas
ACCESSIBILITY
Park design plan for proposed
amenities and accessibility
1 Add ADA-accessible
parking stall
2 Increase quantity of parking
stalls to better accommodate
current parking demand
HIDDEN CANYON PARK
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176 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
260’
260’
270’
220’
280’ 280’ 270’
260’
280’
240’
220’
280’
SOLANA DR.
CHULA VISTA DR
a
b
b
d b
e
f
i
4 1
2 5
6 3
c
g
h
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
MCDOUGAL PARK
TEAM SPORTS ATHLETIC VENUE
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
408
177
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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Play Amenity
Picnic Tables
Permanent Restroom
Seating Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field
ADA Accessibility to All Amenities
c
4 h
5 6
CHARACTER IMAGES
RECOMMENDATIONS UPGRADED OR NEW AMENITY
COMMUNITY PARK STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity g Off-Street Parking (Adjacent school, limited hours)
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space h Permanent Restroom (Add permanent restroom)
c
Play Amenity
(Add All-Abilities Play) f Recreation Amenity i Athletic Field or Community Facility
AMENITY
2 Add an accessible
gathering space to promote
social interaction
3 Replace storage containers
4 Replace picnic tables
5 Replace benches
Increase seating opportunities
LANDSCAPE
Evaluate condition of trees
on hillside and remove
or treat as needed
6 Consider transitioning
multi-use athletic fields
to synthetic turf
Plant trees to increase shade
ACCESSIBILITY
Park redesign plan proposed
amenities and accessibility
Create ADA-accessible
path to all existing and
new amenities
1 Explore adding stairs
(ramp preferred) for access
closer to Solana Drive
MCDOUGAL PARK
Note: Improvements at this site will be further reviewed in collaboration with Charles Armstrong School.
CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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HOW WE GET THERE
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15’
0’
15’
20’
a
b
c
c
d
e
f
f
1 2
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
3 3
RALSTON AVE
O’DONNELL PARK
MULTI-USE NEIGHBORHOOD SPACE
4 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
HOW WE GET THERE DRAFT
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179
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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Reservable Picnic Area (Small) Shade, Tables, and Outdoor Games Native Planting Areas
RECOMMENDATIONS UPGRADED OR NEW AMENITY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
AMENITY
1 Establish as a reservable
picnic area (small)
2 Replace BBQs
3 Refurbish the existing
half basketball courts
4 Add shade, tables,
and outdoor games
LANDSCAPE
Refresh planting areas
with native plants
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
ACCESSIBILITY
No recommendations
CHARACTER IMAGES
1 4
O’DONNELL PARK
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260’
280’
280’
260’
MIDDLE RD
NORTH RD
NOTRE DAME AVE
b
a
a
b
c
1 2
4 RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
3 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
PATRICIA WHARTON PARK
THE NEIGHBORHOOD’S SOCIAL SPACE
DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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412
181
CHAPTER 8 | Recommendations
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ADA Accessibility to All Amenities Seating Boulder as Informal Seating 1 2 3
Native Planting Areas
4 RECOMMENDATIONS MINOR IMPROVEMENTS
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment
b Seating
c Identifiable Amenity
AMENITY
2 Replace seating
3 Add boulders or stumps as
seating or play elements
in center planter area
LANDSCAPE
4 Add native planting to hillside
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Evaluate path accessibility
and reconstruct as needed
Consider creating an
interconnected pedestrian
and bicycle priority route
between Patricia Wharton
Park, Semeria Park, and
College View Park
CHARACTER IMAGES
PATRICIA WHARTON PARK
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540’
560’
580’
600’
520’ 500’ 500’ 520’
540’
560’
620’
600’
580’
640’
RALSTON RANCH RD
RALSTON RANCH RD
RALSTON AVE
a
b
c
d
e f
RECOMMENDATIONS ILLUSTRATIVE CONCEPT
Source: Google Earth, 2020
For illustration purposes only. This graphic is conceptual in nature, and any park design decisions will require additional public review. ICON LEGEND a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
RALSTON RANCH PARK
A NATURAL SPACE TO RELAX
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Seating
Small Seating Space
Picnic Opportunity
Walking Path
Natural Play Element
b
e
c
f
d
Native Planting Areas
CHARACTER IMAGES
RECOMMENDATIONS UNDEVELOPED PARK
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
(Add individual picnic tables)
b Seating
(Add benches) e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space(Add small seating space) c Play Amenity
(Add natural play element) f Recreation Amenity(Add walking path)
AMENITY
No recommendations beyond
Standard Baseline Amenities
LANDSCAPE
Monitor trees and
replace as necessary
Add native planting areas
Utilize trees from Ralston
Avenue and as visual
screening and wind protection
ACCESSIBILITY
Whole park design for
amenities and accessibility
with a park design plan
RALSTON RANCH PARK
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400’
460’
440’ 420’
260’
460’
460’
460’
440’
420’
SEMERIA AVE
400’
CASA BONA AVE
c
e d
b
a
f
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
SEMERIA PARK
THE LOCALS’ PLAYGROUND
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Recreation Amenity
f
RECOMMENDATIONS MINOR IMPROVEMENTS
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 2 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity
b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity
(Add fitness signage)
AMENITY
1 Trash receptacle access
from sidewalk
LANDSCAPE
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
ACCESSIBILITY
Consider creating an
interconnected pedestrian
and bicycle priority route
between Semeria Park,
Patricia Wharton Park,
and College View Park
CHARACTER IMAGES
SEMERIA PARK
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220’
280’
60’
400’
280’
260’
240’
220’
200’
180’
100’
140’
80’
80’
260’ 300’ 340’ 380’ 420’ 440’ 420’
240’
80’
100’
120’
140’
160’
50’
260’ 240’ 200’ 180’ 160’ 140’ 120’ 100’ 80’ 60’ 50’
380’ 360’ 340’ 320’
200’
RALSTON AVE
6TH AVE
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
f
b
c
c
a
i
e
h
h
h
d
d
d
g
g
3 3
3 2
1 4
5 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations)
TWIN PINES PARK
THE HEART OF BELMONT
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BBQs
Implement Existing Master Plan Picnic Tables
June, 2019
ADA Accessibility to All Amenities
1 4
3 INTERIM RECOMMENDATIONS EXISTING MASTER PLAN
COMMUNITY PARK STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment d Picnic Opportunity g Off-Street Parking b Seating e Multi-Purpose Flexible Space h Permanent Restroom c Play Amenity f Recreation Amenity i Athletic Field or Community Facility
AMENITY
Implement Twin Pines
Park Master Plan
3 Evaluate and repair picnic
tables in poor condition
4 Replace BBQs
5 Replace drinking fountain
LANDSCAPE
Maintain high-quality
landscape condition
across the site
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Evaluate path accessibility
and reconstruct as needed
2 Pave path to restroom
CHARACTER IMAGES
TWIN PINES PARK
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Figure 8-3: Twin Pines Park Concept Plan
Source: Twin Pines Park Master Plan (2019)
1 10
2 11
11 8 3
5 7
7 9
6 4
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 3 5
TWIN PINES PARK
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AMENITY
5 Renovate playground
structure and expand with
Inclusive+All-Abilities Play
6 Add water play element
7 Renovate picnic area
8 Add bocce ball court
9 Add teen outdoor space
10 Add multi-use lawn
LANDSCAPE
11 Establish and improve
visual and physical access
connections to Belmont Creek
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Restructure arrival zone
to strength visual and
physical connections
2 Prioritize pedestrian
experience in Town
Square area
3 Develop trail connections
beyond park boundaries
4 Add looped walking path
Looped Walking Path
Bocce Ball Court Teen Outdoor Space Creek Access
Water Play Element
4 9
6 8 11
CHARACTER IMAGES
RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPLEMENT EXISTING MASTER PLAN
TWIN PINES PARK
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580’
620’
540’
560’
600’
620’
640’
660’
520’
540’
560’
580’
660’ 640’ 620’
ELDER DR
WAKEFIELD DR
1 b
a
c
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
3 ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) 2 WAKEFIELD PARK
THE PARK WITH THE VIEW
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Identifiable Amenity Walking Path Seating
Trees for Shade Native Planting Areas
c 1 2
RECOMMENDATIONS MINOR IMPROVEMENTS
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment
b Seating
c
Identifiable Amenity
(Create overlook opportunity)
AMENITY
2 Add benches
3 Add entrance signage to
increase park visibility
LANDSCAPE
Plant trees to increase shade
Add native planting areas
Public art opportunity
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Improve existing walking path
CHARACTER IMAGES
WAKEFIELD PARK
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50’
50’
50’
60’
80’
100’
120’
140’
80’ 60’ 50’
100’
140’
160’
180’
200’
220’
220’
200’ 180’
120’
1 3
2 RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
CENTRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
JOINT USE AGREEMENT (JUA)
ICON LEGEND
# Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
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Walking Path Outdoor Classroom Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field 1 2 3
CHARACTER IMAGES
AMENITY
2 Rejuvenate outdoor
classroom space
LANDSCAPE
3 Consider converting the
multi-use athletic field to
synthetic turf to increase
annual usable time
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Create looped walking
path around lawn
Central Elementary School is part of BRSSD. The City
of Belmont has entered into a JUA which allows limited
public access to the field and lawn area outside of school hours while providing landscape maintenance. Since
the City does not own this land, all recommendations
for this site would require consensus agreement and a
cost-sharing with BRSSD to implement.
CENTRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
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640’
600’ 620’
620’
640’
640’
640’
660’
660’ RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 ICON LEGEND
# Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
FOX SCHOOL
JOINT USE AGREEMENT (JUA)
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Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field
1 CHARACTER IMAGES
AMENITY
No recommendations
LANDSCAPE
1 Consider converting the
multi-use athletic field to
synthetic turf to increase
annual usable time
ACCESSIBILITY
No recommendations
Fox Elementary School is part of BRSSD. The City of
Belmont has entered into a JUA which allows limited
public access to the field and lawn area outside of school hours while providing landscape maintenance. Since
the City does not own this land, all recommendations
for this site would require consensus agreement and a
cost-sharing with BRSSD to implement.
FOX SCHOOL
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20’
15’
20’
15’
20’
CAMBRIDGE STREET
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 ICON LEGEND
# Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
NESBIT SCHOOL
JOINT USE AGREEMENT (JUA)
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Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field
1 AMENITY
No recommendations
LANDSCAPE
Consider converting the
multi-use athletic field to
synthetic turf to increase
annual usable time
ACCESSIBILITY
No recommendations
Nesbit School is part of BRSSD. The City of Belmont
has entered into a JUA which allows limited public
access to the field and lawn area outside of school
hours while providing landscape maintenance. Since
the City does not own this land, all recommendations
for this site would require consensus agreement and a
cost-sharing with BRSSD to implement.
1 CHARACTER IMAGES
NESBIT SCHOOL
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560’ 540’
500’
540’ 520’
540’
520’
500’
480’
500’
480’
460’
440’
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 2
ICON LEGEND
# Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
RALSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL
JOINT USE AGREEMENT (JUA)
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Walking Path Synthetic Multi-Use Athletic Field
1 2
AMENITY
No recommendations
LANDSCAPE
Consider converting the
multi-use athletic field to
synthetic turf to increase
annual usable time
ACCESSIBILITY
1 Update exterior path at
property line to better
connect to ropes course
south of the school if
former ropes course is
activated for other use
Ralston Middle School is part of BRSSD. The City of
Belmont has entered into a JUA which allows limited
public access to the field and lawn area outside of school hours while providing landscape maintenance. Since
the City does not own this land, all recommendations
for this site would require consensus agreement and a
cost-sharing with BRSSD to implement.
2 CHARACTER IMAGES
RALSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL
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OPPORTUNITIES
NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY SITES
The PROS Plan identifies three potential sites for new
parks in Belmont. As an almost completely built-out
City, there are limited opportunities for new park sites.
All sites are on land currently owned by a public entity.
These sites should be considered as opportunities to
provide additional park acreage to Belmont residents.
RALSTON AVENUE + OLD COUNTY ROAD
There is an opportunity for a new park at the intersection of Ralston Avenue and Old County Road in the Sterling
Downs and Homeview neighborhoods. The site
straddles Ralston Ave and is between the Caltrain
tracks and Old County Road.
This area was proposed for a Park/Plaza land use
classification in the Belmont Village Specific Plan
(2017). This designation highlights places that may
be suitable to serve the outdoor recreational needs
of the community on publicly-owned land. Areas with
this designation may consider amenities such as play
structures, seating, fountains, public art, and special landscape features, as well as walkways and trails that are part of larger circulation networks.
During the PROS Plan process, this site was recognized
during the Housing Element 2023-2031 update process
as a potential housing opportunity. Recommendations
for improvements to this site may be temporary, pending the development of the downtown area. The City is
evaluating all development options at this location.
OAK KNOLL DRIVE
Oak Knoll Drive is a residential street that terminates in a cul-de-sac with trees and planting in a dirt area at the center, located in the Central neighborhood. This site
was identified by feedback from adjacent residents.
ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
Alameda de las Pulgas is an arterial street that
traverses Belmont from north to south. At the northern
edge of the city, at the intersection with Forest Avenue the Cipriani and County Club neighborhoods, there are
opportunities for new park space on either edge of the
right-of-way.
POTENTIAL AGREEMENTS
The City has an existing JUA with BRSSD for four school sites: Central Elementary School, Fox Elementary
School, Nesbit School, and Ralston Middle School.
Public access to amenities through JUAs fluctuate over
time. The City will continue to pursue opportunities
as they arise. The City may consider establishing or
expanding JUAs with the following schools, or other
organizations, to facilitate and enhance public access
to outdoor green space:
CRYSTAL SPRINGS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Crystal Springs Middle School is a private school
located adjacent to Ralston Middle School. The City has an existing JUA in place. The site has a synthetic turf soccer field and a dual-use basketball and volleyball
court that are ideal opportunities to expand recreation opportunities available for Belmont residents.
CARLMONT HIGH SCHOOL
Carlmont High School is an ideal opportunity to pursue
a JUA with the Sequoia Union High School District. The
school has seven tennis courts, two diamond fields, a
track, a football field, and a basketball court that could supplement recreation amenities provided by the City.
NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL
Notre Dame High School is located adjacent to
the Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU)/
Stanford University campus. The high school has
multiple recreation amenities that could supplement
opportunities available to Belmont residents, including a diamond field and volleyball courts.
NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR UNIVERSITY/
STANFORD UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
Currently, the City does not have a JUA with the NDNU/
Stanford University campus. There are two tennis
courts, a soccer field, and undeveloped area on the
north and east campus edges due to the topography.
Entering into a JUA with the campus for public access
to the tennis courts is a potential option to help maintain the Ideal Amenity Ratio. The undeveloped areas
have unofficial trails connecting College View Park to
campus and Ralston Avenue. Formalizing pedestrian
access from the Central neighborhood to the campus is
a potential opportunity to improve public access.
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FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
In addition to the opportunity site at Ralston Avenue
and Old County Road, the Specific Plan notes that
additional parks, open spaces, and public spaces are
required to be provided in development projects on
lots over 12,000 square feet within the Village Core,
Station Core, and Village Corridor Mixed Use area.
As parcels within these districts are redeveloped in
the future, the PROS Plan encourages projects on
these sites to feature public green space components,
such as a pocket park or plaza, specifically near new
housing developments. The City will continue to seek
opportunities with property owners and housing/
commercial developers to offer additional amenities,
such as tennis courts and synthetic turf fields, to the growing Belmont community.
INCREASE IN PUBLIC PARKLAND
As noted in earlier chapters, Belmont provides 3.5 acres of parkland and 15.5 acres of open space acreage per
1,000 residents. The General Plan has a goal of 5
acres of parkland per 1,000 residents with no acreage
goal for open space. While the identified opportunities do not reach the desired parkland ratio from the
General Plan, any increase in publicly-available green
space is beneficial and should be pursued given the
increase in housing projects as a result of the 2023-
2031 Housing Element update process. Opportunity
sites may increase park access in neighborhoods with
lower parkland acreage per resident. Parkland acreage
with opportunity sites is shown in Table 8-3.
RETHINKING THE STREETSCAPE
Over 18 percent of Belmont land is public right-of-way.
This public space is mostly dedicated to automobiles
as travel lanes and parking. Aligning with other City
planning documents, innovative approaches to
allocate public right-of-way land will be imperative for establishing active transportation methods as attractive and efficient ways to move about the City. Transitioning our streets to prioritize the health and safety of
pedestrians and bicyclists over vehicular movements
will improve the quality of the streetscape and the
connectivity of the PROS system as a whole.
Participants in the community engagement process
were supportive of increasing the ease of access for
walking and biking to PROS sites. Given the limited
opportunities to develop new parks, enhancing the
active transportation network will enable residents to
further connect with existing recreational amenities.
Parks with adjacent bus stops offer opportunities
to ensure that children have a safe place to wait for
the bus and navigate to school. By acknowledging
the important role transportation systems have in
our communities and their intersection with parks,
the City can implement solutions that have two-fold
benefits to the safety of residents, students, visitors, and employees alike. While specific streetscape
improvement opportunities were not identified in this
analysis, the PROS Plan supports further consideration
towards underutilized right-of-way land and its potential to offer key connections to parks in Belmont.
Rethinking the Streetscape
PARKLAND ACREAGE
WITH OPPORTUNITY SITES
PARK TYPE
TOTAL
ACRES
ACRES
PER 1,000
RESIDENTS
Neighborhood Parks 23.4 0.9
Community Parks 44.7 1.7
Schools (JUA) 23.4 0.9
New Park Opportunity Sites 0.9 0.03
Potential Agreements 7.1 0.3
Total 99.5 3.8
Table 8-3: Parkland Acreage with Opportunity Sites
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NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY SITES + POTENTIAL AGREEMENTS
SITE PARK TYPOLOGY SIZE (AC.) ADDRESS
1 Ralston Ave + Old County Rd * Neighborhood Tier 1 0.6 Ralston Ave / Old County Road 2 Oak Knoll Drive Neighborhood Tier 1 0.1 End of Oak Knoll Drive 3 Alameda de las Pulgas Neighborhood Tier 1 0.2 Alameda de las Pulgas / Forest Avenue
4 Crystal Springs Middle School School (JUA) 1.4 10 Davis Drive 5 Carlmont High School School (JUA) 3.8 1400 Alameda de las Pulgas 6 Notre Dame High School School (JUA) 1.9 1540 Ralston Avenue 7 Notre Dame de Namur
University/Stanford University
Tennis Courts and Soccer Field
School (JUA) 0.3 1500 Ralston Avenue
8 Notre Dame de Namur
University/Stanford
University Open Space **
School (JUA) 14.0 1500 Ralston Avenue
* Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options. ** Temporary site only.
Table 8-4: New Park Opportunity Sites and Potential Agreements
RECOMMENDATION MAGNITUDE PER PARK OPPORTUNITY SITE
SITE PARK TYPOLOGY RECOMMENDATION MAGNITUDE
Ralston Avenue + Old County Road * Neighborhood Tier 1 New Park Opportunity Oak Knoll Drive Neighborhood Tier 1 New Park Opportunity Alameda de las Pulgas Neighborhood Tier 1 New Park Opportunity * Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options.
Table 8-5: Recommendation Magnitude per Park Opportunity Site Opportunity: Terminus of Oak Knoll Drive Opportunity: NDNU/Stanford University Campus
!"#
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Figure 8-4: Opportunity Sites Map
4 2
6 1
8 7
5 3
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40’
RALSTON AVE
CALTRAIN
OLD COUNTY RD
EL CAMINO REAL
BELMONT VILLAGE S
Active Use Frontage Overlay
0 200
Village Core
Station Core
Village Corridor Mixed Use
Village High Density Residential
Public Facility
Park/Plaza
Caltrain
Waterways/Lakes
Belmont Village Planning Area
City of Belmont
Source: City of Belmont, 2014; San Mateo County Assessor's Parcel Database, 2014 Caltrain Stat ion
EL CAMINO REAL
OLD COUNTY RD
RALSTON AVE
SOUTH RD
6TH AVE
GRAN
WESSEX
MASONIC WAY
HOLLY RD
ELMER ST
5TH AVE
HILL ST
MIDDLE RD
FURLONG ST
BROADWAY
EMMETT ST
GORDON AVE
LAUREL AVE
CYPRESS AVE
WALTERMIRE ST
O'NEILL AVE
Caltrain
GRANADA ST
ST
EL CAMINO REAL
RALSTON AVE
Twin Pines
Park
Proposed Bicycle/Pedestrian Underpass
Proposed New
Rights-of-Ways
Active Use Frontage Over
Village Core
Station Core
Village Corridor Mixed Us
Village High Density Resid
Public Facility
Park/Plaza
Source: City of Belmont, 2014; San M
Proposed Bicycle/Pedestri
RECOMMENDATIONS ILLUSTRATIVE CONCEPT
Source: Google Earth, 2020
a
1 b
c
2 a
3 RALSTON AVE + OLD COUNTY ROAD
LOCUS OF URBAN LIFE
Figure 8-5: Park/Plaza in Belmont Village Specific Plan Note: Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options.
OPPORTUNITY SITE
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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Natural Environment
Dog Parklet
Identifiable Amenity
Public Art
Seating
Placemaking
a
1 b
2 c
3 AMENITY
1 Add dog parklet
2 Add placemaking space to
host community gathering,
event space, pop-up
business space, etc.
3 Install public art piece
LANDSCAPE
No recommendations
ACCESSIBILITY
Park design plan for
amenities and accessibility
Create ADA-accessible
path to all existing and
new amenities
RECOMMENDATIONS TEMPORARY NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a
Natural Environment
(Add gateway planting)
b Seating
(Add benches)
c
Identifiable Amenity
(Add skate park)
CHARACTER IMAGES
RALSTON AVE + OLD COUNTY ROAD
Note: Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options.
CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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440’
460’
460’
440’
460’
460’
440’
OAK KNOLL DR
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
OAK KNOLL DRIVE
FOR NEIGHBORHOOD PLAY
b c
a
OPPORTUNITY SITE
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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Seating Identifiable Element Native Planting Areas
b c
AMENITY
No recommendations beyond
Standard Baseline Amenities
LANDSCAPE
Add native planting areas
ACCESSIBILITY
Park design plan for
amenities and accessibility
Encourage creation of a
“safety circle” at the terminus
of Oak Knoll Drive to
highlight park use in center
RECOMMENDATIONS NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment
b Seating
(Add benches)
c
Identifiable Amenity
(Add play element)
CHARACTER IMAGES
OAK KNOLL DRIVE
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360’ 380’
360’
380’
ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
LA CASA AVE
FOREST AVE
RECOMMENDATIONS MAP
Source: Google Earth, 2020
1 b
c
a
a
b
ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
REPURPOSING RIGHT-OF-WAY
2 2
3 4
OPPORTUNITY SITE
ICON LEGEND
a Existing Standard Baseline Amenity # Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Specific location recommended within the park)
a Recommendation: Add Standard Baseline Amenity Recommendation: Add accessibility, amenity, or landscape (Apply throughout the park OR has numerous possible locations) DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD
Seating Nature Play Element Looped Walking Path
Native Planting Areas
b c 1
RECOMMENDATIONS NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK TIER 1 STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
a Natural Environment
b Seating
(Add benches)
c
Identifiable Amenity
(Add nature play element)
AMENITY
3 Add bicycle repair station
4 Add fence or protective
barrier between play
element and roadway
LANDSCAPE
Add native planting areas
ACCESSIBILITY
Park design plan for
amenities and accessibility
1 Add looped walking path
2 Encourage creation of
sidewalks along and
connecting to park
CHARACTER IMAGES
ALAMEDA DE LAS PULGAS
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Views from Belmont
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
BALANCED RECREATION USE
NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
OPEN SPACE THEMES
The Open Space Recommendations were generated
from existing City goals and policies for protecting
and managing open space areas, feedback from
the community, the Environmental Assessment, and
the Recreation Use Assessment. The findings of
the Environmental Assessment and Recreation Use
Assessment are found in Chapter 3 and the Open
Space Objectives and Policies are found in Chapter 7.
The full OSMP is found in the Appendix.
OPEN SPACE RECOMMENDATIONS
OPEN SPACE RECOMMENDATION RATINGS
CATEGORY DESCRIPTION
EASY
These actions can be performed
immediately under existing
City programs, funding, or with
minimal additional effort.
MEDIUM
These actions require additional
planning, equipment, staffing,
funding—either internal or external,
or other operational changes.
HARD
These actions may require
substantial planning, interagency
coordination, staffing, funding,
or other operational changes.
Table 8-6: Open Space Recommendation Ratings
Each Open Space Recommendation is assigned a
rating as easy, medium, or hard to implement. The
feasibility designation scale incorporates two aspects
by which an action can be evaluated: the operational
capacity of the City’s existing programs, funding, and
staff to implement the action, and the scope of the
action. Definitions of the ratings are found in Table 8-6.
Tables 8-7, 8-8, and 8-9 present the Open Space
Recommendations by Theme (listed below) and ties
them to the Policy it is responding to.
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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
EASY MEDIUM HARD
1. Provide educational materials
on Sudden Oak Death (SOD)
and information about how to
minimize the spread of SOD
at high use trailheads. (P5)
1. Realign, add drainage, or
otherwise improve trail sections
identified in the Recreation Use
Assessment as having “high”
erosion levels. The Rambler Trail
was identified as a top priority
given its severity. Prioritize other
trail segments for improvement
and incorporate into a multiyear workplan. (P13/P26)
1. Periodically inventory trails
and facilities to assess any
impacts to watercourses, riparian
areas, and wetlands, and
prepare plans for protection or
restoration, as appropriate. (P3)
2. To the extent possible, avoid
vegetation management activities
during nesting bird season,
February 1 to August 31. If nesting
bird season cannot be avoided,
conduct nesting bird surveys per
California Department of Fish and
Wildlife (CDFW) guidance. (P9)
2. Implement an “early detection
and response” protocol as
defined in the Environmental
Assessment, to monitor and
control new or spreading exotic
or undesirable species. Create
an agreement and work plan
with existing volunteer groups to
perform the work in accordance
with the protocol. (P6/P16)
2. Conduct protocol surveys
for sensitive wildlife or plant
species, as defined by the
USFWS or CDFW, in areas
where these species have at
least moderate potential to occur,
whenever conducting ground
disturbing activities. (P2)
3. Temporarily close trails
during extremely wet conditions.
Temporary closure periods will be
determined by City staff based
on evaluation of conditions and
forecasted weather patterns. (P13)
3. Actively seek additional funding
sources to support natural
resource management. (P17)
3. Improve trail stream crossings
by either realigning the trail to
prevent crossing the stream
altogether or elevating the trail
over the stream. (P3/P4/P9/P13)
4. Prohibition of dogs in water
bodies. Dogs are not allowed
to enter any water bodies,
including streams and marshes,
on open space lands. Messaging
and signage and education
should be developed. (P13)
4. Restore and expand native
bunchgrass areas. (P2/P6/P18)
5. Avoid ground disturbing
activities like trail maintenance
and construction activities
prior to rain events. (P13)
5. Install wildlife cameras at high
activity locations or in riparian
habitats to monitor wildlife
presence. Coordinate with local
agencies and non-profits (e.g.
Felidae) to share wildlife camera
data to support wildlife distribution
study regionally. (P7/P17)
6. Engage volunteer groups to
monitor plant and wildlife species
using citizen science efforts like
Audubon Christmas Bird Count
or “bio-blitzes.” (P5/P10)
6. Install decontamination stations
at high use trailheads to prevent
the spread of SOD. (P5)
Table 8-7: Environmental Sustainability Open Space Recommendations CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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BALANCED RECREATION USE
EASY MEDIUM HARD
1. Increase education and
enforcement of open space
regulations including dogs on
leash, speed limits, amplified
sound, etc. (P23/P32)
1. Designate existing connection
routes or build new trails between
open space areas and to other
adjacent protected lands. (P30/P35)
1. Implement an e-bike pilot
program similar to existing
regulations on nearby Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District.
The City will observe the effects
of the pilot to determine if
additional studies, outreach, and
policies are needed. (P21/P23)
2. Periodically conduct visitor
surveys to gauge experiences
for all trail users. (P22)
2. Implement single-use and
one-way trail segments in areas
identified in the Recreation Use
Assessment following sufficient
public outreach. (P21)
2. Add calming features on
trails to reduce speed, and add
landings for respite, passing,
and vistas. (P20/P31)
3. Clearly identify property
boundaries of open space lands
and develop an education and
enforcement program for adjacent
landowners conducting illegal
modifications to open space lands
(e.g. building trails to access
open space lands from their
house or neighborhood). (P28)
3. Evaluate potential new naturebased recreation programming for open space lands. Specifically,
collaborate with environmental
educators or other groups to
develop a series of docent
led nature walks for a variety
of audiences. (P22/P23)
4. Develop a standard trail
naming policy for designated
trails. The naming policy will
be adopted on all open space
signage and messaging. (P29)
4. Incorporate or decommission
trails identified in the Recreation
Use Assessment following
further public outreach. (P20)
5. Update regulatory signage at
trailheads to use a consistent design
across City open space lands. (P24)
5. Decommission redundant
trail segments. Conduct decompaction and revegetation
where needed. (P1/P20)
6. Develop a policy for managing
organized group use of open space
lands, such as camps, school field
trips, and exercise classes. (P23)
7. Identify three trail segments
that can be made ADA compliant
which offer the following visitor
experiences: travel along a
ridgeline, travel along a canyon
floor, and panoramic views. (P19)
Table 8-8: Balanced Recreation Open Space Recommendations DRAFT | FINAL February 2024
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NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
EASY MEDIUM HARD
1. Widen existing fuel breaks
and treated wildland-urbaninterface areas. (P47)
1. Remove invasive Acacia trees
which pose a significant threat of
casting embers during fire. (P38)
1. Inventory City open space
lands to assess fuel loads
and forest structure related
to fire. Identify access issues
and City and community or
regional fire concerns. (P38)
2. Trim trees and mow or remove
invasive species ladder fuels
along trails to maintain tree health
and minimize crown fire. (P38)
2. Create “islands” of vegetation
by thinning in steepest areas and
fuel breaks to break up crown
fires and reduce potential erosion
and preserve habitat. (P43)
2. Conduct a field-based evaluation
of fuel conditions in SJC and
WDL for possible further fuel
reduction treatments. (P38)
3. Continue fuel reduction
treatments in previously
treated areas in WDL. (P38)
3. Remove invasive species
from areas recently cleared
for fuel reduction. (P38)
3. Coordinate with fire agencies
and neighboring communities
to identify locations where
additional fire suppression
infrastructure is desirable and
practical (e.g. hydrants, water
tanks, helicopter zones, safety
zones, fuel breaks, consistent
with the incident command
system. Work cooperatively with
these groups to install needed
infrastructure. (P39/P51)
4. Develop annual fuel reduction
treatment plan. (P39)
5. Encourage neighboring
property owners to maintain
adequate fire clearance around
existing development. Consult
with regulatory agencies to
encourage that construction of
new development maintains fire
agency recommended setbacks
for fire clearance between
new development and City
forest and woodland. (P51)
6. Actively seek additional funding
sources to support wildfire
hazard mitigation. (P38/P39)
7. Develop emergency
response plan for extreme
weather, landslides, and
resulting trail impacts. (P49)
Table 8-9: Natural Hazard Reduction Open Space Recommendations CHAPTER 8 | DRAFT Recommendations
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HOW WE GET THERE
CHAPTER 9
Implementation
Implementing the PROS Plan will require multiple
funding sources over many years. As such, prioritizing
actions to meet the most pressing needs will be
necessary to successfully improve the PROS system in
an equitable and efficient manner. Recommendations
presented in the previous chapter have been prioritized to guide future decisions for the sequencing of
improvement projects. This chapter also discusses the
methods used for prioritization, funding mechanisms,
and partnership opportunities.
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OVERVIEW
The PROS Plan is intended to be a living document
to guide implementation over the next 15 years. As
circumstances, opportunities, resources, trends,
and demands evolve over the plan’s horizon, criteria
to prioritize implementation should be re-evaluated
periodically, ideally every five years.
As opportunities arise, improvements will likely shift in relative importance and time frames for implementation
will need to be adjusted accordingly. The criteria in
this chapter will guide the decision-making process
and determine which projects make the best use of
available resources. The Action Plan compiles the next
steps for implementation, broken down into short term,
long term, or ongoing time frames.
The cost to implement the PROS Plan exceeds the
City’s financial resources. A variety of funding sources, such as the City’s General Fund, department revenue,
Development Impact Fees, assessments and bonds,
grants, and partnerships are required to implement the
improvements. Probable cost estimates for the Parkspecific Recommendations were generated based on 2022 construction and implementation costs and are
found in the Appendix. As the projects move closer to
implementation, probable costs included in this PROS
Plan will require adjustment for inflation.
CURRENT PROJECTS
Several City projects were underway during the planning process that further PROS Goals and Strategies.
• Twin Pines Park Belmont Creek Restoration
• Twin Pines Park Water Detention Basin
• Sports Complex Conference Center Roof
Replacement (completed December 2021)
• Hallmark Park Tennis Court Resurfacing
(completed Spring 2022)
• Belmont Village Streetscape Design
Guidelines (completed November 2022)
• Alexander Park Tennis and Basketball Court
Resurfacing (completed Summer 2022)
• Ralston Avenue Corridor Improvement Project
Segment 3 (completed September 2023)
PRIORITIZATION
As funding to further develop PROS sites is limited
and competitive, a prioritization approach is provided
to guide the City in the gradual implementation
of the PROS Plan. The prioritization of PROS
Recommendations (referred to as "projects" in this
section) is critical to ensuring that the City provides recreational opportunities that are accessible to all.
PRIORITIZATION CRITERIA
The following general criteria factored into the
prioritization analysis:
• Advances diversity, equity, and inclusion:
Projects that address inequities in services, improve
PROS sites in underserved neighborhoods,
increase access, or advance diversity, equity,
and inclusion initiatives are a priority.
• Aligns with other projects: Some proposals
align with or can be leveraged with other
projects, either being undertaken by the City or
other public agency. Projects or initiatives with
multiple benefits, or those that advance the goals,
projects, and directions of other City or County
plans, often have more funding opportunities.
• Funding availability: Projects or initiatives for
which the City has identified funding sources should
be moved to active status as capacity allows,
considering if the costs are one-time or recurring.
• Reduces operating costs or generates
revenue: Projects or initiatives that can create
additional revenue, improve maintenance
or operations efficiencies, and conserve
water or reduce water usage costs should
be given high priority to move forward.
• Quick win: Some projects can be quickly
implemented, demonstrating results to the
community and meeting immediate needs. Quick
wins maintain public engagement while longer term
and more complicated projects are underway.
• Time-limited opportunity: Opportunities that
arise may come with a time constraint. Timelimited opportunities that advance the City’s goals should be leveraged with urgency.
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PARK-SPECIFIC PRIORITIZATION
Park-specific Recommendations were prioritized by
holistically evaluating all improvements proposed
across the PROS system. The Prioritization Matrix
allocates points to each proposed project based on the
degree to which it meets the criteria. The Prioritization Matrix is a guide to implementation, not an absolute
directive for the sequencing of site development. When
funding sources become available, the City should
pursue all opportunities for implementation of the most impactful and competitive projects.
PARK-SPECIFIC CRITERIA
The Recommendations were assigned point values for
each of the four criteria, which represent the proposed project's ability to:
• Further PROS Plan goals
• Respond to community priorities
• Resolve an existing deficiency
• Address an existing condition
The sum of all values across each criteria informs the
ranking, with higher values equating to higher priority.
Table 9-1 summarizes the criteria and their associated
possible point values.
GOALS
A point is assigned for each PROS Goal that a project
furthers. All projects further at least one, with the
average project furthering four.
COMMUNITY PRIORITY
A project was also assigned points based on community
input received throughout the PROS planning process.
Projects were categorized as high, medium, and not
applicable—the high category, worth 5 points, was
awarded if all or mostly all input was in support of the project type. For example, walking paths were heavily
favored in the online survey; therefore, proposals for
walking paths at any PROS site were awarded 5 points.
The medium category, worth 3 points, contains projects
that received a majority of supportive feedback, but
opposition was noted. The "not applicable" category
awards 0 points and includes projects with limited
mention during the engagement process, approximately
equal amounts of support and opposition, or it is related to operations and maintenance.
PRIORITIZATION CRITERIA
CRITERIA MEASURE POINTS
Goals
Project furthers one or
more PROS Goal.
• Each Goal (1 pt)
0 - 12
Community
Priority
Project supported by
community input. Point
assigned based on quantity
of positive support.
• Not applicable (0 pts)
• Medium (3 pts)
• High (5 pts)
0 - 5
Resolve
Deficiency
Project address an existing
deficiency identified
in PROS Plan.
• Demographic group (3 pts)
• Underserved area of
Belmont (7 pts)
• Anticipated Areas of
Increased Residential
Density (3 pts)
• New use (3 pts)
• Availability of amenity/
use (3 pts)
• Resolve access issues (3 pts)
3 - 22
Existing
Condition
Project replaces or upgrades
an existing amenity/site.
• New or not applicable (0 pts)
• Good (0 pts)
• Fair (1 pt)
• Poor (2 pts)
• Critical or unsafe (5 pts)
0 - 5
Maximum points possible 44
Table 9-1: Prioritization Criteria
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SITE PRIORITIZATION
As a means to focus the City's efforts, the value of
points assigned to projects at an individual site were
averaged to highlight locations with the highest potential to positively impact the community. The average points
were calculated by dividing the total points by the
number of projects at each location.
The prioritization rankings are shown in Tables
9-2 through 9-5, which include existing parks
(Neighborhood Parks and Community Parks),
Undeveloped Parks, Schools (JUA), and New Park
Opportunity Sites, respectively. Table 9-6 provides
the combined prioritization rankings for all sites. Open Spaces were not included in this analysis.
PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
EXISTING PARKS *
SITE
AVG
POINTS
SITE
RANK
Alexander Park 14.5 1
O'Donnell Park 12.2 2
Belameda Park 11.5 3
Twin Pines Park 11.4 4
Barrett Community Center 10.9
5 McDougal Park 10.9
Cipriani Park 10.4
Hallmark Park 10.4 6
Wakefield Park 10.4
Hastings Tot Lot Park 10.2 7
Patricia Wharton Park 10.0 8
College View Park 9.9 9
Belmont Sports Complex 9.4 10
Davey Glen Park 8.0 11
Semeria Park 7.8 12
* Includes both Neighborhood Parks and Community Parks.
Note: Several parks are tied for the same rank. The tied parks are listed in alphabetical order.
Table 9-2: Existing Park Prioritization Rankings
RESOLVE DEFICIENCY
Points were assigned depending on if a project
addresses an existing deficiency. A project geared
toward a specific, underserved demographic group
(i.e. teens) was assigned 3 points. A project proposed
in an area with low park access is assigned 7 points.
A project in an area expected to densify (increase in
residential units) was assigned 3 points. A project that proposes a new use for site, or a use not currently
offered in the PROS system, is assigned 3 points. A
recommendation to increase the quantity of an amenity
beyond the identified Ideal Amenity Quantity to meet
the Ideal Amenity Ratio, based on benchmarking
and population projections, is assigned 3 points. A
recommendation to increase or solve access issues to
a PROS site or amenities within the site, such as paths, bicycle repair, and sidewalks, is assigned 3 points.
EXISTING CONDITION
Replacement or upgrade projects are assigned points
based on the existing condition of the amenity. Items
identified as critical or unsafe are assigned 5 points.
Items identified in poor condition are assigned 2 points.
Items identified in fair condition are assigned 1 point.
Items in good condition or recommendations for an
entirely new amenity received 0 points.
Points for all criteria were summed, revealing four
top ranking projects as the highest priority for
implementation.
• Replacing an existing playground at Alexander
Park with an All-Abilities playground
• Upgrading the Barrett Community Center
with Inclusive+All-Abilities Play
• Adding a skate park to the Ralston Avenue
and Old County Road opportunity site
• Implementing the Belmont Community
Center Conceptual Design Report (2020)
Prioritization allows the City to focus efforts rather
than dictate an exact sequencing of projects. Not
all projects have the same level of complexity or
community engagement, nor do they have the same
requirements related to coordination and funding. The
full Prioritization Matrix is included in the Appendix.
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PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
SCHOOLS (JUA) *
SITE
AVG
POINTS
SITE
RANK
Central Elementary School 10.0 1
Fox Elementary School 9.0
Nesbit School 9.0 2
Ralston Middle School 9.0
* Includes only existing JUAs.
Note: Several parks are tied for the same rank. The tied parks are listed in alphabetical order.
Note: These sites are owned by BRSSD. Implementation of the recommendations would require consensus agreement and costsharing with the district.
Table 9-4: School (JUA) Prioritization Rankings
PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY SITES
SITE (UNDEVELOPED PARK)
AVG
POINTS
SITE
RANK
Ralston Ave + Old County Road * 21.9 1
Oak Knoll Drive 18.8 2
Alameda de las Pulgas 17.4 3
* Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options.
Table 9-5: New Park Opportunity Site Prioritization Rankings
OVERALL PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
SITE *
AVG
POINTS
SITE
RANK
Ralston Ave + Old County Road * 21.9 1
Oak Knoll Drive 18.8 2
Ralston Ranch Park 18.0 3
Alameda de las Pulgas 17.4 4
Alexander Park 14.5 5
O'Donnell Park 12.2 6
Hidden Canyon Park 12.0 7
Belameda Park 11.5 8
Twin Pines Park 11.4 9
Barrett Community Center 10.9
10 McDougal Park 10.9
Cipriani Park 10.4
Hallmark Park 10.4 11
Wakefield Park 10.4
Hastings Tot Lot Park 10.2 12
Central Elementary School 10.0
13 Patricia Wharton Park 10.0
College View Park 9.9 14
Belmont Sports Complex 9.4 15
Fox Elementary School 9.0
Nesbit School 9.0 16
Ralston Middle School 9.0
Davey Glen Park 8.0 17
Semeria Park 7.8 18
* Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options.
Note: Open Spaces are not included in rankings.
Note: Several parks are tied for the same rank. The tied parks are listed in alphabetical order.
Table 9-6: Overall Prioritization Rankings
PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
UNDEVELOPED PARKS
SITE
AVG
POINTS
SITE
RANK
Ralston Ranch Park 18.0 1
Hidden Canyon Park 12.0 2
Note: Implementation of the recommendations for these sites would require further study and community outreach.
Table 9-3: Undeveloped Park Prioritization Rankings
While the Ralston Avenue and Old County Road
opportunity site received the highest overall
prioritization value, proposed projects at this location may be temporary due to potential residential
development requirements to meet the City's Regional
Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation. The
City is evaluating all development options for this site.
The increase in parkland acreage and the addition
of an amenity otherwise not available in the PROS
system (skate park) resolves existing deficiencies and
therefore led to the highest ranking. Semeria Park was
the lowest prioritized park site due to the fact that it was recently revitalized and the two proposed projects are
considered minor adjustments.
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Figure 9-1: FY2023 General Fund Budget
BUDGET MESSAG
GENERAL GOVERNMENT $7.0M
Includes human resources, including City
staff, appointed and elected officials and
financial operations.
CULTURE AND RECREATION $2.2M
Includes operation and maintenance of parks
and open space, and associated
programming.
54%
23%
8%
15%
* Includes Measure I
24%
51%
8%
17%
General Government Public Safety Culture and Recreation Highways and Streets
BUDGET M
Letter of Trans
General Fund
The General Fund is the primary funding source for the vast majority of core services. General Fun expenditures for FY 2023 total $23.9 million, up 5.3% from the adopted $22.7 million in FY 2022. T predominately reflects operations going back to the pre-pandemic levels in FY 2020, as well as ad positions in focus areas to meet the demands of our growing community and operations, as discus detail below. The budget for Measure I funds in FY 2023 includes $5.0 million in CIP projects towa and storm drain system improvements. Total General Fund expenditures, including Measure I, are into four categories as shown in the chart:
PUBLIC SAFETY $14.7M
Includes law enforcement administration,
crime control, traffic and community safety.
STREETS AND STORM DRAINAGE $
Includes street and storm drainage
improvement projects.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT $7.0M
Includes human resources, including City
staff, appointed and elected officials and
financial operations.
CULTURE AND RECREATION $2.
Includes operation and maintenance of
and open space, and associated
programming.
54%
23%
8%
15%
* Includes Measure I
24%
51%
8%
17%
General Government Public Safety Culture and Recreation Highways and Stre BUDG
and storm drain system improvements. Total General Fund expenditures, including Measure I, into four categories as shown in the chart:
PUBLIC SAFETY $14.7M
Includes law enforcement administration,
crime control, traffic and community safety.
STREETS AND STORM DRAINAG
Includes street and storm drain
improvement projects.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT $7.0M
Includes human resources, including City
staff, appointed and elected officials and
financial operations.
CULTURE AND RECREATION
Includes operation and maintenanc
and open space, and associ
programming.
54%
23%
8%
15%
* Includes Measure I
24%
51%
8%
17%
General Government Public Safety Culture and Recreation Highways and BUDGET MESSAGE 9
Letter of Transmittal
General Fund
The General Fund is the primary funding source for the vast majority of core services. General Fund expenditures for FY 2023 total $23.9 million, up 5.3% from the adopted $22.7 million in FY 2022. This predominately reflects operations going back to the pre-pandemic levels in FY 2020, as well as adding positions in focus areas to meet the demands of our growing community and operations, as discussed in more detail below. The budget for Measure I funds in FY 2023 includes $5.0 million in CIP projects towards roadway and storm drain system improvements. Total General Fund expenditures, including Measure I, are broken down into four categories as shown in the chart:
PUBLIC SAFETY $14.7M
Includes law enforcement administration,
crime control, traffic and community safety.
STREETS AND STORM DRAINAGE $5.0M
Includes street and storm drainage
improvement projects.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT $7.0M
Includes human resources, including City
staff, appointed and elected officials and
financial operations.
CULTURE AND RECREATION $2.2M
Includes operation and maintenance of parks
and open space, and associated
programming.
54%
23%
8%
15%
* Includes Measure I
24%
51%
8%
17%
General Government Public Safety Culture and Recreation Highways and Streets BUDGET MESSAGE 9
detail below. The budget for Measure I funds in FY 2023 includes $5.0 million in CIP projects towards roadway and storm drain system improvements. Total General Fund expenditures, including Measure I, are broken down into four categories as shown in the chart:
PUBLIC SAFETY $14.7M
Includes law enforcement administration,
crime control, traffic and community safety.
STREETS AND STORM DRAINAGE $5.0M
Includes street and storm drainage
improvement projects.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT $7.0M
Includes human resources, including City
staff, appointed and elected officials and
financial operations.
CULTURE AND RECREATION $2.2M
Includes operation and maintenance of parks
and open space, and associated
programming.
54%
23%
8%
15%
* Includes Measure I
24%
51%
8%
17%
General Government Public Safety Culture and Recreation Highways and Streets
FUNDING STRATEGIES
In order to fulfill the PROS Goals, the City will require a portfolio of funding strategies for capital improvements, maintenance, and operations. A variety of funding
strategies are outlined below; this list is not exhaustive, and at every opportunity, the City should explore
funding alternatives to continue to provide a first-rate PROS system.
GENERAL FUND
Sources of revenue include the City’s General Fund
budget comprised of tax revenues, service charges,
franchises, and other sources. The fiscal year (FY)
2022 budget includes dedicated funding for the Goals,
Strategies, and Recommendations encompassed
in this PROS Plan, including funding for public art, a
city-wide tree assessment, and street improvements.
The FY2022 General Fund budget of $22.7 million
allocated $2 million towards culture and recreation (8
percent). The FY2023 budget, illustrated in Figure 9-1, also allocates approximately 8 percent towards culture
and recreation ($2.2 million).
The Capital Improvement Projects program (CIP) is
funded largely by the General Fund. The FY2022 CIP
budget is $22.9 million; it allocated 2 percent towards recreational facilities and 1 percent towards parks and open spaces. The FY2023 CIP budget is $19.3 million;
it allocates 4 percent towards recreational facilities and 2 percent towards parks and open spaces.
PARKS + RECREATION DEPT REVENUE
Additional funding comes from rental fees for Parks and Recreation amenities, such as the reservable picnic
areas, as well as program fees for recreation services, user fees, donations, and aid from other government
agencies. These fees typically offset the cost of
operation and maintenance of the services provided.
DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES
The City’s requirements for parkland dedication and
in-lieu fees were adopted by City Council ordinance
and resolution in September 2020. The Quimby Act
permits the City to require the dedication of land or
impose a requirement of the payment of fees in lieu, or a combination of both, for park or recreation purposes
as a condition of the approval of a tentative parcel map.
Belmont Municipal Code Chapter 17 Article IV includes
information on the parkland dedication requirements
and in-lieu fees. At the time of the PROS Plan adoption, the City required 3.44 acres of parkland per 1,000
residents (Section 17-104(a)).
Development Impact Fees are also assessed by the
City under the Mitigation Fee Act to provide one-time
impact fees imposed upon development projects, for
the purpose of mitigating the impacts they have on
the need for certain capital improvements (such as
transportation infrastructure, park land and facilities, police and fire facilities, and affordable housing). The City’s Municipal Code Chapter 17 Article III outlines the Development Impact Fees. The City’s Nexus Study to
assess and set the Park Development Impact Fee was
adopted by City Council resolution in September 2020.
ASSESSMENTS AND BONDS
An assessment or bond measure could address
demonstrated funding needs for capital improvements,
upgrades, and new park elements. Supplemental
property assessments can be special assessment
districts, such as Community Facilities Districts or
Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts. The
creation of an assessment district permits a public
agency to assess housing units or land parcels.
The assessment revenues can be used for parkland
acquisition, development, and/or maintenance. The
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agency can choose to use the revenue generated
on a pay-as-you-go basis or can sell bonds in order
to receive a lump sum amount. The bonds are then
paid back from the annual revenue generated from the
assessment. Establishment of an assessment district
requires a vote of property owners—the majority
of returned votes must be in favor of establishing or
revising the district.
A General Obligation Bond is a voter-approved bond
with the assessment placed on real property for a
specified period of time (typically 15 to 20 years). A
General Obligation Bond requires a two-thirds voter
majority to pass. The funds generated can only be
used for capital improvements, not maintenance.
A Revenue Bond is used to fund revenue-generating
facilities, such as the Barrett Community Center.
Revenue produced by the facility is used to pay back
the bond. If revenue alone is not sufficient to pay back the bond, the City will have to support repayment of the bond by other means.
GRANTS
The California Department of Parks and Recreation
offers grant funding on both a competitive and noncompetitive basis. There are multiple competitive grant programs for which projects in this PROS Plan would
be considered eligible, for example, the Recreation
Trails Program and the Habitat Conservation Fund. The
Recreation Trails Program provides funds annually for
recreational trails and trail-related projects. The Habitat Conservation Fund supports nature interpretation
programs to bring urban residents into park and wildlife areas, protection of various plant and animal species,
and the acquisition and preservation of wildlife corridors and trails.
California voters passed Proposition 68 in 2018.
Also known as the Parks, Environment, and Water
Bond Act, it authorized $4 billion in general obligation bonds for State and local parks, environmental
protection projects, water infrastructure projects,
and flood protection projects. Funding is available
through two non-competitive programs—the Per
Capita Program and the Recreational Infrastructure
Revenue Enhancement Program (RIRE). The Per
Capita Program grants funds to local governments
for park rehabilitation, creation, and improvement on
a per capita basis. Grant recipients are encouraged
to utilize awards to rehabilitate existing infrastructure and to address deficiencies in neighborhoods lacking
access to the outdoors. The RIRE Program funds
projects aimed at improving or enhancing local or
regional park infrastructure for the purposes of revenue enhancement.
OTHER FUNDING
In recent years, corporate philanthropy, individual
giving, and foundation funding has increased
significantly. According to the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), this type of funding for City
-owned parks increased from $499 million in 2018 to
$596 million in 2019. This funding opportunity is difficult to forecast and best suited for local organizations.
Additional funding sources are available from the
federal and State government, non-profit and private
organizations, professional associations, and citizen
donations. Federal and State funding is available for
parks, open space, transportation, and wildfire fuel
mitigation projects. Non-profit and private organizations, such as charities, local employers, and universities, are potential sources of funding for PROS improvements.
Professional associations, such as the NRPA and the
California Park and Recreation Society, offer unique
resources and opportunities the City should pursue
as projects align. Citizen donations, already a source
of funding utilized by the City for the PROS system,
remains a viable avenue for funding.
The PROS Plan provides a general foundation for
seeking partnerships, sponsorships, donations, and
grants to help fund park improvements and expand
recreational opportunities for the Belmont community.
As unique and alternative opportunities arise outside of those identified in this plan, the City should pursue new funding avenues where applicable and feasible.
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Play 4 All Park (Opened 2022 in Vacaville, CA)
PARTNERSHIPS
Partnerships between City departments, school
districts, parks and recreation foundations, local
volunteer groups, and service organizations will be
instrumental in the realization of the PROS Plan.
CITY DEPARTMENTS
The successful implementation of the PROS Plan will
require the efforts of multiple City departments. As the Community Development Department oversees the
implementation of the Belmont Village Specific Plan
and other planning applications, they are instrumental
in the implementation effort. As both the Community
Development and Public Works Departments
undertake improvements to the City's roadways and
streetscapes, they have the opportunity to address
connectivity gaps between PROS sites. Proposed
public art and placemaking projects will interface with the Parks and Recreation Department. Public safety
input from the Fire Department will be essential. Other public agencies in Belmont will continue to be important partners in the PROS implementation effort.
SCHOOL DISTRICTS
The City has an ongoing partnership with the Belmont
-Redwood Shores School District (BRSSD) to increase
public access to recreation spaces. The joint-use
agreements (JUA) for four school sites (Central, Fox,
Nesbit, and Ralston Middle) were renewed for 10
years in 2019. The City should continue to partner with BRSSD for public access to the fields at these sites, as well as continue to pursue new JUAs where possible.
Partnerships with additional schools in Belmont should
be continually evaluated.
PARKS FOUNDATIONS
Non-profit park and recreation foundations are a viable partnership avenue. Foundations are independent
organizations that provide volunteer and financial
support for recreation, educational programs, and
environmental projects. For example, the Belmont Park
Boosters have provided funds for park, recreation, and
community improvements since 1973. Throughout
the PROS planning process, Belmont residents have
been active participants. Existing volunteer interest
and community engagement may generate additional
partnerships to strengthen support for the PROS Plan.
VOLUNTEER GROUPS
Volunteer groups engage, empower, and organize
interested residents that are able to donate their time to improve the City's PROS system. Most typically
integrated with the Parks and Recreation Department
as stewards, volunteer organizations enable the
greater community to contribute to the upkeep and
improvements of the PROS system. Community
service opportunities, such as park clean-up days,
allow residents of all ages to become active participants in creating outdoor community space. Partnering with
local volunteers for PROS projects can strengthen ties
within the community as we Build our Backyard.
SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS
Local chapters of service organizations, such as
Kiwanis and Rotary, are dedicated to giving back to their communities and often fundraise for local improvement
projects. For example, the City of Vacaville's Rotary
Club was instrumental in the creation of the new allinclusive Play 4 All Park. Partnerships with local chapters of service organizations represent meaningful
and collaborative opportunities to achieve a shared
vision for the future of Belmont's PROS system.
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ACTION PLAN
The Action Plan provides an outline of important
targets to guide decision-makers in the implementation
of the PROS Plan. It incorporates the System-wide
Recommendations and synthesizes the Park-specific
Recommendations into manageable, high-level
groupings. The Action Plan further organizes these into three time frames:
• Short Term
• Long Term
• Ongoing
It is informed by the partnership opportunities and
priorities presented earlier in this chapter. This is a tool intended to highlight projects that resolve deficiencies or repair unsafe conditions, so that they are implemented
sooner than other less impactful improvements.
Tables 9-7 and 9-8 present the Action Plan. This
version is a snapshot of priorities as of the time of the PROS Plan adoption. The Action Plan is a tool that is
intended to be updated as circumstances, resources,
opportunities, and community needs change. It is
recommended to revisit this exercise approximately
every five years. Priorities specific to Belmont's open spaces are discussed in the following section.
Views from Belmont
Rainbow Over the Belmont Sports Complex
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Table 9-7: PROS Action Plan
ACTION PLAN
ACTION
POTENTIAL
PARTNERS
SHORT
TERM
LONG
TERM
ONGOING
Continue to engage with the community on current
and future PROS site planning efforts X
Continue to identify opportunities for off-leash dog activity X Continue to maintain the high-quality landscape at PROS sites X Continue to promote and create awareness of the
PROS sites, programs, and activities through the City
website, social media, participation with City events,
and other advertising and communication methods
X
Continue to support implementation of
the City's ADA Transition Plan Public Works X
Create and maintain a list of open space maintenance and improvement projects for volunteer organizations to steward Community
organizations X
Implement Pop-up Park Installations
Community
Development,
community
organizations
X
Look for ways to establish alternative forms of
revenue for programs that may include sponsorships,
partnerships, and/or an expanded volunteer program
X
Monitor development activities in the Belmont
Village Specific Plan area for opportunities to
increase PROS offerings as the area densifies
Public Works,
Community
Development
X
Monitor opportunities for new PROS sites X
Pilot new recreation programs, formats, and events. Continue to balance active and passive recreation opportunities
Community
organizations X
Provide recreation events that encourage use
of the pedestrian and bike networks
Community
organizations X
Publish bike and walking route information online and in the District’s public materials such as the recreation program guide X Pursue a partnership with the university campus
(Notre Dame de Namur University/Stanford University)
as an opportunity to increase public access to
natural space and recreation amenities
University X
Pursue partnerships with school sites that do
not currently have a JUA with the City School Districts X Reduce energy and water use with efficient
landscape, fixtures, systems, and materials X
Re-evaluate recommendations to update the prioritization matrix as situations and conditions change X
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ACTION PLAN
ACTION
POTENTIAL
PARTNERS
SHORT
TERM
LONG
TERM
ONGOING
Explore project funding options for implementation
of existing park master plans for Barrett
Community Center and Twin Pines Park
X
Secure project funding for high-priority Park-specific
Recommendations and Open Space Recommendations
Public Works,
School Districts,
Community
Organizations
X
Seek out partners to offer new and diverse recreation
programs and opportunities at PROS sites
Community
Organizations X
Work with existing JUA partners for proposed improvements that increase times available for public use of facilities School Districts X Work with Public Works to improve bike and pedestrian
network connections in street right-of-way to PROS sites Public Works X Develop park design plans for the identified Opportunity Sites: Ralston Avenue + Old County Road, Oak
Knoll Drive, and Alameda de las Pulgas
X
Develop an Interconnect Toolkit
Public Works,
Community
Organizations
X
Evaluate community interest and potential for
expanding the parks and recreation Booster
foundation to further partner and support PROS
Community
Organizations X
Prioritize Inclusive+All-Abilities Play in the PROS
system (Alexander Park, Barrett Community
Center, and Community Parks)
X
Provide secure bike parking at parks, with racks located near entrances and social gathering spaces. Add self-service bike repair stations at PROS sites along bike facilities X
Research, evaluate, and implement
programs to activate PROS sites X
Undertake a Usage Study of PROS sites X
Continue to evaluate Ideal Amenity Quantities as Belmont's population changes over the 15-year horizon of the PROS Plan X Develop a PROS Activation Plan X
Develop park redesign plans for Alexander Park, Cipriani Park, Hallmark Park, Hasting Tot Lot Park, and McDougal Park X Develop park design plans for undeveloped parks
Hidden Canyon Park and Ralston Ranch Park X
Implement existing park master plans for Twin
Pines Park and Barrett Community Center X
Table 9-8: PROS Action Plan (Continued)
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Volunteers Working to Improve PROS Sites
Open Space Trail Visitor
OPEN SPACE PRIORITIES
OVERVIEW
Recommendations presented in the previous chapter
provide guidance to the City for decisions related
to the preservation, management, and operation
of Belmont's open spaces. They were informed by
the findings from the Environmental Assessment,
Recreation Use Assessment, community input, best
management practices used throughout the Bay
Area, and professional judgment. Given the unique
considerations of open spaces compared to urban
parkland, these PROS sites were analyzed using a
framework that adjusts for the presence of sensitive
biological resources and unique recreational uses.
The Open Space Management Plan (OSMP), found
in the Appendix, includes a full discussion on the
analysis techniques, scientific findings, and proposed
improvements related Belmont's open spaces.
The easy, medium, and hard ratings for each
Recommendation presented in the previous
chapter provide information about the level of
effort and investment needed to enact the change.
Recommendations could be deemed as be priorities
regardless of their rating as easy, medium, or hard, as some projects indicated as "hard" may be more urgent
than others.
PRIORITY TIERS
Recommendations were prioritized to highlight those
that are most urgent. Recommendations were separated
into two tiers where Tier 1 contains actions that are
the highest priority due to laws protecting species and habitats, regional wildfire safety, or important visitor experiences—these projects should be addressed
urgently. Tier 2 contains projects aimed at diversity and equity goals as well as visitor experience. Actions in
this category are important to address but less urgent
than those in Tier 1.
Table 9-9 summarizes priorities for the conservation
and restoration of Belmont's open spaces.
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TIER 1
HABITAT PROTECTION, WILDFIRE SAFETY, + VISITOR EXPERIENCE
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Stream Crossing
Improvements
WRA identified multiple stream crossings requiring improvements and prioritized the top seven crossings most in need of improvements.
Seasonal / Weather
Dependent Restrictions
on Maintenance Activities
Ensure that the City’s routine trail maintenance actions avoid nesting bird season to the extent possible, and avoid working in wet weather conditions (emergencies excepted) to the extent feasible.
BALANCED RECREATION USE
Monitor Use and
Survey Visitors
During E-Bike Pilot
Take an approach similar to what Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to develop a policy for e-bike use. The district studied use levels and visitor responses for a year before making policy recommendations to their Planning and Natural Resource Committee.
ADA-Compliant Trails
Identify three trail segments that offer distinctive recreation experiences and ensure those segments comply with the California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines. One segment will offer the experience to travel along a ridgeline, another segment will offer an experience to travel along a canyon floor, and a third segment will offer opportunities for panoramic views.
NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
Fuels Reduction Plan
The fuels reduction plan would prioritize fuel break areas to be treated as shown in the OSMP, and would highlight additional areas that would benefit from fuels reduction.
TIER 2
EQUITY-BASED PROGRAMS + VISITOR EXPERIENCE
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Volunteer Restoration
Programs
These programs which have been informally carried out
would be codified and respond to the interests and actions of environmentally focused community members.
BALANCED RECREATION USE
Nature-Based
Recreation Programs
Respond to the community’s interest in environmental education with focused programs that, among other things, may reinforce support for protecting the two open space areas and create “citizen scientists.” Trail Calming Features
Implement trail calming features in targeted locations to respond to community comments about feeling some sections of trails are unsafe due to blind turns, steep slopes, narrow trails, or a combination of all three.
NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
N/A N/A
Table 9-9: Open Space Priorities
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD Executive Summary
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ii PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY DRAFT
PURPOSE
The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan
(PROS Plan) is a strategic, forward-looking document.
It studies the existing park system, outdoor recreation facilities and programming, and open spaces to identify a decision-making framework and recommendations to
plan, maintain, develop, rehabilitate, and connect the
City’s network of parks, recreation, and open space for the next 15 years.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
1. Provide equitable access to resources and
activities across the entire city
2. Promote inclusion to people of all backgrounds,
regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation,
socioeconomic position, or physical/cognitive
ability
3. Make all users feel welcome and safe
4. Offer services and activities across a range of
interests, abilities, and ages
5. Reflect our commitment to environmental
resilience and sustainability
6. Respect the beauty and importance of our natural
resources
7. Advance community health and well-being
8. Foster a sense of community and encourage
social interaction
9. Provide well-maintained and actively managed
facilities
10. Adapt to changing conditions and needs
11. Utilize a transparent community process to
inform decisions
VISION
The Belmont community recognizes the essential
role that a well-designed PROS system plays in both
individual and community health. The community
engagement process revealed that Belmont residents
are proud of their parks and open spaces and the
recreation opportunities they provide. Be it a baseball game at Belmont Sports Complex, a basketball game
at O’Donnell Park, climbing the playground at Semeria
Park, attending an outdoor movie at Twin Pines Park,
or exploring Waterdog Lake, Belmont’s PROS system
is intrinsically linked to the community’s identity and social cohesion.
The National Recreation and Park Association
found that in 2019, parks and recreation agencies
generated $218 billion in economic activity nationwide, with California benefiting from $23 billion of the
total. Statewide, parks and recreation agencies are
significant employers. Park operations and capital
spending positively influence the local economy, and
Belmont is no exception.
The PROS Plan complements the goals and
strategies of key planning documents such as the
2035 General Plan. Thoughtful management of the
PROS system carries the responsibility of addressing
climate resiliency and furthering active transportation strategies, as outlined in the City’s Climate Action
Plan and Comprehensive Pedestrian and Bicycle
Plan. Together, the City’s planning documents identify
innovative solutions and look proudly towards the
future of Belmont.
Learn more about the Purpose, Vision, and Guiding
Principles in Chapter 1.
VISION
RE-IMAGINE THE BELMONT PARKS,
RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE (PROS)
SYSTEM TO CREATE THE CITY’S BACKYARD
THAT FOSTERS INCLUSIVE, EXPERIENTIAL,
AND NURTURING PUBLIC SPACES
BY SETTING THE FRAMEWORK FOR
DECISION MAKERS IN THE PLANNING,
MAINTENANCE, DEVELOPMENT, AND/
OR REHABILITATION, IMPLEMENTABLE
OVER A 15 YEAR HORIZON.
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CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD iii
Semeria Park
Alexander Park
Twin Pines Park
BELMONT’S PROS SYSTEM
The City of Belmont offers 409 acres of parks and
open space—almost 14 percent of the city’s land
area. Belmont’s parks, recreation, and open space
system (PROS system) consists of 17 parks (of which
15 are developed), two open space areas, and four
schools under a joint-use agreement with the BelmontRedwood Shores School District. The parks and school sites are distributed across the city, while the open
spaces are located only in the western hills.
The parks range in size, from less than 1 acre to
over 20 acres, and vary in intensity of use. While not
directly correlated, smaller parks tend to provide fewer amenities and therefore generate less use intensity.
The PROS Plan uses a set of criteria known as Park
Typologies to organize the sites and establish a
baseline service level that Belmont parks must meet.
Learn more about the Context and Existing
Conditions that served as the foundation for this
PROS Plan in Chapters 2 and 3.
409 acres of PARKLAND
78%
OPEN SPACE
22%
PARKS
25%
50%
25%
91.5 acres
Schools (JUA)
Community Parks
Neighborhood +
Undeveloped Parks
Source: Parks and Recreation Department
Figure ES-1: Parkland Distribution
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iv PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY DRAFT
PARK, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE SITES
1 Alexander Park 9 Fox Elementary School 17 Ralston Middle School 2 Barrett Community Center 10 Hallmark Park 18 Ralston Ranch Park 3 Belameda Park 11 Hasting Tot Lot Park 19 San Juan Canyon 4 Belmont Sports Complex 12 Hidden Canyon Park 20 Semeria Park 5 Central Elementary School 13 McDougal Park 21 Twin Pines Park 6 Cipriani Park 14 Nesbit School 22 Wakefield Park
7 College View Park 15 O’Donnell Park 23 Waterdog Lake
8 Davey Glen Park 16 Patricia Wharton Park
1 18
5 3
7 2
10 13
9 12
16 20
23 11
15 19
14 17
21 22
6 4
8 Figure ES-2: Belmont Parkland Distribution
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464
EMAILS + COMMENTS
1,600+
(JANUARY 2021
TO FEBRUARY 2024)
FOCUS GROUPS 11 MEETINGS
75+ PEOPLE
ONLINE SURVEY 2,800+
RESPONSES
ADVISORY COMMITTEE 5
MEETINGS
PARKS + RECREATION
COMMISSION
20+
MEETINGS
CITY COUNCIL 5
PRESENTATIONS
POP-UP + OPEN HOUSE
EVENTS
5 EVENTS
Executive Summary
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD v
COMMUNITY INPUT
Community outreach was an integral component of the
development of the PROS Plan. Beginning in Spring
2021, community engagement opportunities were held
in a hybrid manner, utilizing virtual platforms and inperson events to hear from the Belmont community.
OUTREACH METHODS
Approximately 5,000 comments and responses were
collected across all outreach methods. Participants
were asked to share their preferences, priorities, and
desired improvements for the PROS system. This
process offered a wide range of outreach materials and
input opportunities to maximize project awareness and
community participation, including the development of
an Advisory Committee, an online survey, in-person
and virtual focus groups, pop-up and open house
events, neighborhood meetings, a comprehensive
social media campaign, and presentations at City
Council and Parks and Recreation Commission public
meetings.
COMMUNITY THEMES
The following community themes emerged as a result
of the engagement process:
• Amenities For Social + Physical Activity
• More Seating Opportunities
• Physical Connections
• Amenities For Diverse Interests
• Accessible For All Abilities
• Create More With Less
• Connecting With Nature
• Available For Many Uses + Users
• Natural Resources
• Honor Belmont’s Unique Landscapes
Learn more about the Community Input that directed
the creation of this PROS Plan in Chapter 4.
"
PROS Plan Banner at Barrett Community Center
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vi PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY DRAFT
THE CITY AS YOUR BACKYARD
PROS Goal 1 Connect Belmont and unify PROS
sites by encouraging a robust pedestrian, bicycle, and
public transit network.
PROS Goal 2 Foster a healthy community through
spaces, amenities, programs, and public art that
promote and encourage physical activity, social
interaction, and Belmont’s culture.
PROS Goal 3 Meet evolving community needs by
establishing new uses, improved spaces, and a variety
of recreation amenities.
OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR ALL
PROS Goal 4 Improve community health through
diverse, equitable, and inclusive spaces and amenities
with accessible routes.
PROS Goal 5 Ensure future success through
adaptability, flexibility, and support for many uses and users.
PROS Goal 6 Actualize PROS Plan by developing
strong partnerships across private, public, and
community groups.
CELEBRATE THE OUTDOORS
PROS Goal 7 Develop and implement an Open
Space Management Plan (OSMP).
PROS Goal 8 Highlight local ecosystems through
educational opportunities across parks and open
spaces.
PROS Goal 9 Enrich outdoor recreation through
trail improvements, volunteer collaborations, and
wayfinding features.
ENVIRONMENTAL + FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
PROS Goal 10 Nurture and strengthen natural
resources through efficient and innovative landscape
design.
PROS Goal 11 Diversify funding sources to ensure
high-quality, actively-managed, and well-maintained
PROS assets.
PROS Goal 12 Prioritize sustainable, resilient, and
responsible management and maintenance practices.
THE CITY AS
YOUR BACKYARD
OUTDOOR
RECREATION
FOR ALL
CELEBRATE THE
OUTDOORS
ENVIRONMENTAL
+ FINANCIAL
SUSTAINABILITY
BIG IDEAS + GOALS
Through community outreach, four BIG IDEAS
emerged to define Belmont’s vision for the future of the PROS system.
These four Big Ideas were used as the framework to
present the Goals of the PROS Plan. They are also
influenced by the General Plan's Park, Recreation, and
Open Space Element and Conservation Element.
Learn more about the Goals for the PROS Plan in
Chapter 6.
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CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD vii
FRAMEWORK
PROS PLAN
The organizational flowchart shown in Figure ES-3
summarizes the structure of the plan's framework. The
Purpose and Vision established the Guiding Principles,
which were used to plan the Community Input process.
Community Themes emerged from the collected
feedback and were further synthesized into Big Ideas
and Goals. The PROS Plan used this framework to
craft the Strategies and Recommendations that aim to
provide guidance over a 15-year horizon.
OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Goal 7 calls for the development of an Open Space
Management Plan (OSMP). Developed in tandem
with the PROS Plan, this study reviews Belmont's two
open spaces utilizing an approach that adjusts for the
unique components, considerations, and uses of these
valuable outdoor community spaces.
As an attachment to the PROS Plan, the OSMP presents
its Objectives, Policies, and Recommendations specific
to the open spaces. The findings of the OSMP are
presented throughout this document where appropriate
as they complement the PROS Plan.
Learn more about the Planning Process for the
PROS Plan in Chapter 1.
SYSTEM-WIDE
PARK-SPECIFIC
OPPORTUNITIES
OPEN SPACE
PURPOSE + VISION
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
COMMUNITY THEMES
BIG IDEAS + GOALS
STRATEGIES
RECOMMENDATIONS
PART 1. WHERE WE ARE
PART 2. WHERE WE WANT TO BE
PART 3. HOW WE GET THERE
LET’S BUILD
OUR BACKYARD
BELMONT, CALIFORNIA
PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
Figure ES-3: PROS Framework
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Davey Glen Park
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
TIER 1
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
TIER 2 *
COMMUNITY
PARK
Character Nature and Neighborhood
Social Space
Nature, Group
Gathering, and Play
Nature, Community Gathering,
Recreation, and Play
Uses +
Users
Passive
Individuals to Small Groups
Passive + Active
Individuals to Medium Groups
Passive + Active
Individual to Large Groups
Standard
Baseline
Amenities
1.Natural Environment
2.Seating
3.Identifiable Amenity
1.Natural Environment
2.Seating
3.Play Amenity
4.Picnic Opportunity
5.Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
6.Recreation Amenity
1.Natural Environment
2.Seating
3.Play Amenity
4.Picnic Opportunity
5.Multi-Purpose Flexible Space
6.Recreation Amenity
7.Off-Street Parking
8.Permanent Restroom
9.Multi-Use Athletic Field
or Community Facility
Size No Size Requirements
Typically less than 1 acre
No Size Requirements
Over 2 acres should
provide off-street parking
No Size Requirements
Transport
Modes
Walking
Biking
Walking
Biking
Some Driving
Walking
Biking
Driving
Access
Radius
¼ mile ½ mile Entire City
Previous
Planning
Mini Park Neighborhood Park Community Park
Special Facility
Table ES-1: Park Typologies
* Both Undeveloped Park sites are attributed as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2.
Note: School (JUA) and Open Space Park Typologies do not have attributes such as Standard Baseline Amenities.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
PARK TYPOLOGIES
Parks were assigned a category, or Park Typology, that
defines general expectations and character, establishes minimum amenities, and anticipates common methods
of travel to the site. This also defines the Access
Radius, or the distance used to delineate areas around
a site that are easily reachable by the surrounding
community. This approach identifies neighborhoods
with low access to PROS sites and can demonstrate
high-impact opportunities to expand the PROS system.
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CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD ix
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 1)
A Neighborhood Park Tier 1 is a small pocket of natural green space that supports local gatherings, promotes
unplanned social interactions, and provides a peaceful
place to talk or play. A Neighborhood Park Tier 1 has
the lowest use intensity, meaning the few amenities
at the site are expected to be used by only a handful
of people at a single time. This Park Typology has an
Access Radius of one quarter (¼) mile.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK (TIER 2)
A Neighborhood Park Tier 2 provides a local connection
to nature, supports social gatherings of small groups,
and offers recreation and play activities. A Tier 2 Park is more intense in amenities and uses than a Tier 1
Park, but it still oriented toward a single visitor or
smaller groups of less than 20 people. As such, there
are at least two play and recreation amenities designed for use by multiple diverse visitors at a single time,
as well as picnic amenities that support small group
gatherings. These sites have an Access Radius of one
half (½) mile.
COMMUNITY PARK
Community Parks are notable parks that act as
community event venues, offering spaces and
amenities for large group gatherings that can support
dozens of users and multiple recreation programs
simultaneously. Community Parks have high use
intensities and generate the most visitors. For the
purposes of this PROS Plan, this Park Typology has an
Access Radius that spans the entire city.
UNDEVELOPED PARK
Undeveloped Parks are sites owned by the City that
have limited or no amenities. Sites with this designation are slated for development into amenitized outdoor
public spaces. For the purposes of the PROS Plan, the
two Undeveloped Parks are planned as Neighborhood
Parks Tier 2. This designation is used to evaluate
park access within the Park Typologies framework by
utilizing the same characteristics.
SCHOOL (JOINT USE AGREEMENT)
The City entered into a joint-use agreement with the
Belmont-Redwood Shores School District for the
public right to use recreational spaces in exchange for a maintenance commitment by the City. These sites
have an Access Radius of one half (½) mile.
OPEN SPACE
Open Spaces are minimally improved or undeveloped
natural areas open to the public for recreational
activities. The OSMP, included in the Appendix,
reviewed the two Open Space sites. Trailheads are
depicted on Figure ES-4. For the purposes of this
PROS Plan, this Park Typology has an Access Radius
that spans the entire city.
Open Space
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x PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
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Figure ES-4: Park Access Radius by Neighborhood
CHULA
VISTA
CENTRAL
COUNTRY
CLUB
CIPRIANI
CARLMONT
WESTERN
HILLS
HALLMARK
HOMEVIEW
SUNNYSLOPE
STERLING
DOWNS
HARBOR
INDUSTRIAL
EAST
BELMONT
SKYMONT
PLATEAU
Neighborhood Park ¼ mile (Tier 1) or
½ mile (Tier 2)
Community Park Entire City
Undeveloped Park * ½ mile
School (JUA) ½ mile
Open Space/Trailhead Entire City
* Both Undeveloped Park sites are attributed as Neighborhood Parks Tier 2.
ACCESS + CONNECTIONS
Figure ES-4 highlights portions of the city where PROS
sites are less accessible, as determined by the site's
Park Typology and Access Radius. Overall, Belmont
provides a high level of access to parks. Almost 90
percent of the population lives within a 10-minute (or
½-mile) walk of a PROS site. The national average for
the percent of population that lives within a 10-minute walk of a park is 55 percent, based on data compiled
by the Trust for Public Land. Belmont well surpasses
this average.
Given the limited availability of land to establish new parks, enhancing connections to and between existing
PROS sites is paramount. The 2016 Comprehensive
Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan gives parks high priority
for pedestrian and bicycle facility improvements. Safe
and enjoyable multi-modal connections between parks
are critical because they reduce transit-related injuries, improve circulation, and increase accessibility.
The City’s improvements to Ralston Avenue as part
of the Safe Routes to School program illustrate
the ongoing effort to reduce conflict and increase
connections between parks and recreation amenities
for non-motorized transport.
AMENITY INVENTORY
An Amenity Inventory was conducted to document
the quantity and quality of existing amenities within
the PROS system. This study enables a comparison
between a park's amenity offerings in relation to the
minimum amenities it should be providing as defined
by its Park Typology.
Learn more about the Existing Conditions and
Needs Assessment that served as the foundation
of this PROS Plan in Chapters 3 and 5.
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CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD xi
Belmont Sports Complex
RECOMMENDATIONS
The PROS Plan presents a comprehensive set of
Recommendations that are derived from the analyses
and considerations that guided this study. The
Recommendations directly respond to the Strategies
presented in the plan, focusing on the equitable
distribution of amenities throughout the community.
Recommendations are broken down into two
primary categories: System-wide and Park-specific.
System-wide Recommendations are informed by a
holistic review of Belmont's unique PROS system
and best management practices applicable to the
City. Park-specific Recommendations are informed
by individual site assessments and inventories.
The Recommendations also include potential sites
for new parks or joint-use agreements, as well as
proposed improvements for Belmont's open spaces.
Recommendations were driven by the community
engagement process, which served as a key component
of the PROS Plan.
SYSTEM-WIDE
System-wide Recommendations are pathways to carry
out the established Goals and Strategies across the
entire PROS system. These include:
• Activation Plan
• Inclusive+All-Abilities Play
• Interconnect Toolkit
• Pop-up Park Installations
• Social Gathering Space
• Usage Study
PARK-SPECIFIC
Each park in the City was evaluated for access,
proximity, and available space to host new or enhanced
amenities. A Recommendation Spectrum was used
to contextualize the Park-specific Recommendations
presented in the PROS Plan in terms of the magnitude
of change. This tool organizes potential improvements
into six categories based on the degree of intensity,
spanning from the creation of a new park to the
implementation of a minor improvement or existing
master plan.
Volunteers Working to Improve PROS Sites
STRATEGIES
This plan presents a suite of Strategies, applicable to the PROS system as a whole, to provide guidance to
the City for future improvements to Belmont's outdoor
amenities.
The Strategies build upon the PROS Goals, represent
the opportunities and constraints within the PROS
system, and serve as the guiding inspiration for future improvements as available resources and conditions
evolve over time. The Strategies also include
Objectives and Policies that are specific to Belmont's
open spaces.
Learn more about the Strategies in Chapter 7.
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xii PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
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Recreational Use on Open Space Trails
OPPORTUNITIES
NEW PARK OPPORTUNITY SITES
The PROS Plan identifies three potential sites for new
parks in Belmont. As an almost completely built-out
city, there are limited opportunities for new park sites.
These sites are on land currently owned by a public
entity and should be considered as opportunities to
provide additional park acreage to Belmont residents.
The new park opportunity sites are listed below by their priority ranking:
• Ralston Avenue + Old County Road
• Oak Knoll Drive
• Alameda de las Pulgas
POTENTIAL AGREEMENTS
The City may consider a joint-use agreement with
the local schools and other organizations to facilitate or enhance public access. These are listed below, in
order of their level of education:
• Carlmont High School
• Crystal Springs Middle School
• Notre Dame High School
• Notre Dame de Namur University/Stanford University
OPEN SPACE
Recommendations for Belmont's open spaces aim to
improve the condition of existing trails, manage existing and future recreational uses, and protect environmental resources found in San Juan Canyon and Waterdog
Lake Open Spaces.
Explore the Recommendations for improvements
to the PROS system in Chapter 8.
Magnitude
EXISTING
MASTER PLAN
MINOR
IMPROVEMENT
UPGRADED OR
NEW AMENITY
PARK
REDESIGN
UNDEVELOPED
PARKS
NEW PARK
OPPORTUNITY
Existing Condition
Master plans
recently
adopted
Created with
extensive
community input
Parks recently
developed or
in very good
condition
Current park
functioning well
Rethink
accessibility
and park layout
No change
in use
Existing park is
undeveloped
Add parkland
To fill gaps in
park access
City-owned
property
Recommendation
Implement
existing
Master Plan
Minor
improvements
identified
to maintain
high quality
Upgrade
existing
amenity or
new amenity to
meet identified
needs or gaps
Undertake park
design plan
Develop and
amenitize site
Create,
develop, and
amenitize site
Figure ES-5: Recommendations Spectrum
Note: The Recommendation Spectrum is used to frame Park-specific Recommendations for the Community Park, Neighborhood Park, and Undeveloped Park Typologies. It is not applied to School (JUA) or Open Space Typologies.
INCREASING MAGNITUDE OF RECOMMENDATIONS
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CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD xiii
IMPLEMENTATION
PRIORITIZATION
Implementation of the PROS Plan will require
multiple funding sources over many years. As such,
a prioritization approach is crucial to meet the most
pressing needs in the Belmont community in an effective and equitable manner. System-wide, Park-specific,
and Open Space Recommendations are uniquely
prioritized based on the feasibility of implementation
and their ability to satisfy the PROS Goals. As
circumstances, opportunities, resources, and demands
evolve, criteria to prioritize implementation should be re-evaluated periodically, ideally every five years. The following factors were considered while developing the
prioritization approach, listed alphabetically:
• Advances diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Aligns with other projects
• Funding availability
• Reduces operating costs or generates revenue
• "Quick win"
• Time-limited opportunity
PARK-SPECIFIC PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
As funding to further develop PROS sites is limited
and competitive, a Prioritization Matrix was developed
to guide the implementation of Park-specific
Recommendations as funds become available. Parkspecific Recommendations were assigned point values for each of the four criteria, informed by the factors
listed above. The point criteria categories, listed below, reflect the ability of the proposed project to:
• Further PROS Plan goals
• Respond to community priorities
• Resolve an existing deficiency
• Address an existing condition
For each PROS site, the total points were summed,
averaged, and ranked to highlight which PROS sites
have the highest potential to positively impact the
community as a result of the proposed site-specific
improvements. This prioritization approach intends to
focus the City's efforts when determining which PROS
sites to improve first but is not an absolute directive for the sequencing of development.
ACTION PLAN
The Action Plan provides an implementation pathway
for the realization of the PROS Plan by organizing
next steps into three time frames: short term, long
term, and ongoing. This tool is informed by partnership opportunities and overall priorities, and is intended to highlight projects that resolve deficiencies or repair
unsafe conditions so that they are implemented sooner
than other less impactful improvements.
OVERALL PRIORITIZATION RANKINGS
SITE *
AVG
POINTS
SITE
RANK
Ralston Ave + Old County Road * 21.9 1
Oak Knoll Drive 18.8 2
Ralston Ranch Park 18.0 3
Alameda de las Pulgas 17.4 4
Alexander Park 14.5 5
O'Donnell Park 12.2 6
Hidden Canyon Park 12.0 7
Belameda Park 11.5 8
Twin Pines Park 11.4 9
Barrett Community Center 10.9
10 McDougal Park 10.9
Cipriani Park 10.4
Hallmark Park 10.4 11
Wakefield Park 10.4
Hastings Tot Lot Park 10.2 12
Central Elementary School 10.0
13 Patricia Wharton Park 10.0
College View Park 9.9 14
Belmont Sports Complex 9.4 15
Fox Elementary School 9.0
Nesbit School 9.0 16
Ralston Middle School 9.0
Davey Glen Park 8.0 17
Semeria Park 7.8 18
* Recommendations for this site may be temporary. The City is evaluating all development options.
Note: Open Spaces are not included in rankings.
Note: Several parks are tied for the same rank. The tied parks are listed in alphabetical order.
Table ES-2: Overall Prioritization Rankings
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OPEN SPACE PRIORITIES
There are seven priorities for open space improvements.
These actions were selected in consideration of their
implementation feasibility as well as their urgency in
relation to conservation laws, wildfire safety, and visitor experience. The open space priorities are listed below:
• Stream crossing improvements
• Seasonal and weather dependent
restrictions on maintenance activities
• Monitor use and survey visitors during e-bike pilot
• ADA-compliant trails
• Fuels reduction plan
• Volunteer restoration programs
• Nature-based recreation programs
• Trail calming features
FUNDING STRATEGIES
The PROS Plan identifies several sources of funding to
implement the proposed improvements. These sources
include the City's General Fund, revenue from the
Parks and Recreation Department, Park Development
Impact Fees, assessments, and bonds. This document
also discusses alternative funding sources such as
competitive grant programs, corporate and non-profit
philanthropy, and universities that support Belmont's
PROS system. The City will utilize a portfolio of funding strategies for capital improvements, maintenance, and
operations.
Twin Pines Park
PARTNERSHIPS
Partnerships between City departments, school
districts, parks and recreation foundations, local
volunteer groups, and service organizations will be
instrumental in the realization of the PROS Plan.
Learn more about Implementation of the PROS
Plan in Chapter 9.
Volunteers Working to Improve PROS Sites
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PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE
MASTER PLAN
APPENDICES
LET’S BUILD
OUR BACKYARD
BELMONT, CALIFORNIA
PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN
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PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
Appendices
2 APPENDIX A ADVISORY COMMITTEE.......................................................................................................................3 APPENDIX B DEFINITIONS.............................................................................................................................................7 APPENDIX C PARK INVENTORY ................................................................................................................................ 13 APPENDIX D NRPA BENCHMARKS .......................................................................................................................... 21 APPENDIX E AMENITY PROJECTIONS ................................................................................................................... 25 APPENDIX F OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN.............................................................................................. 29 APPENDIX G PRIORITIZATION MATRIX...............................................................................................................165 APPENDIX H PROBABLE COSTS..............................................................................................................................211 APPENDIX I COMMUNITY OUTREACH ..............................................................................................................245 Online Survey Results
Focus Group Presentations
Advisory Committee Presentations
Commission + Council Presentations
Park-specific Recommendation Comments
Emails to [email protected]
Emails to Parks and Recreation Commission
Website Comment Form Submissions
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CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES 3 Advisory Committee
APPENDIX A
477
APPENDIX A
4 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
RUI BAO
BRSSD Chief Business Officer
LYNN BELL
My husband and I moved to the Belmont Heights
neighborhood in 2003 when our sons were ages
one and three. We were thrilled to be adjacent to the
Waterdog open space where we had mountain biked
since the mid-1990s. Over the years Waterdog has
offered us a safe and convenient space to bike, hike,
jog, walk the dog, push the stroller, and look for critters.
Our youngest son’s opportunity to hone his bike skills
so close to home has lead him to pursue professional
cycling, albeit on the road versus the trails. While we have played in Belmont’s parks, participated in various recreation programs and competed on the athletic
fields, it is Waterdog we love the most due to its myriad options for exercise, recreation and enjoyment of the
outdoors.
DAVID BRAUNSTEIN
David has lived in Belmont for 26 years. He first
volunteered to serve on the Library Task Force that
ultimately brought the city a state of the art library and library services. He later served on the Belmont City
Council from 2007-2015, twice serving as mayor.
While on city council, he visited and learned about all of the parks in the city. He served on two city committees that are relevant to his service to the PROS Committee
- 1) the 2x2x2 Educational Committee (made up of the
Belmont Redwood Shores School District, the City of
Redwood City, and the City of Belmont, as well as 2) a
joint committee with Notre Dame de Namur University.
Both committees addressed a variety of institutional/
district issues as well as field use. During this time, David supported new traffic configurations to support
bikers, walkers, and joggers; the turfing project at
the Belmont Sports Complex; and purchasing land
to convert to open space. Prior to joining the PROS
Committee, David served on the Barrett Community
Task Force to help recommend a new Community
Center.
Professionally, David has taught social studies at
Carlmont High School for the last 19 years. During that time he coached and assisted the freshman football
team for two years.
David and his wife Patricia have three children and
he and his family have used many of the Park and
Recreation Services and the open space that Belmont
has to offer. Between them, David and Patricia have
coached multiple seasons of soccer, baseball, and
softball at most sporting venues in Belmont, including
the Barrett Community Center, Ralston Middle School,
Fox, Sandpiper, McDougal, and the Belmont Sports
Complex. His daughter currently plays baseball at
multiple fields in Belmont and dances at the Barrett
Community Center. David supported his sons while
they competed in track and field at Carlmont. His entire family enjoy the Waterdog trails and actively enjoy a
wealth of Belmont’s Park and Recreation programs.
NELSON CORTEWAY
• Age 46
• Lived in Belmont Heights for 18 years
• Former Youth Sports Coach
• Married to Kelly (Local Principal)
• 20YO Daughter and 16YO son
• Avid Water Dog Trail User
• Police Captain
DAN DEGUARA
BRSSD Superintendent
ULLA FOEHR
I’ve lived in the Central neighborhood of Belmont
for 18 years with my husband and 3 daughters who
are now ages 18, 16 and 14, the younger two are in
Belmont public schools. I’m a Parks and Recreation
commissioner, former soccer and volleyball coach,
public school art educator, walker, hiker, swimmer and
dog-owner.
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Advisory Committee
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 5
KAREN HAAS-FOLETTA
30 year resident of Belmont in the Cipriani
Neighborhood. I am the Executive Director of Footsteps
Child Care with 4 locations in Belmont serving infants
through middle school.
SANAA KAPUR
Youth Commissioner on the Parks & Recreation
Commission for 2 years
Youth Advisory Committee liaison
ELI LATIMERLO
My work centers on cultivating relationships between
the Social Sector and Industry that solve today’s
challenges and shape tomorrow’s outcomes. My
professional experience is diverse - reflecting acumen
gained while holding leadership positions in the
nonprofit, corporate, academic, and global business
development sectors. As a Development professional
I have identified and negotiated relationships between
corporations, foundations, and the social sector that
strengthen their value propositions, while effectively
measuring and evaluating impact.
I have lead initiatives in many social enterprises,
including Rape Trauma Services, North Peninsula
Family Alternatives, LifeMoves (a homeless services
agency), LMS Productions (a theatrical nonprofit
and production company), the Dorothy Stang Center
for Social Justice and Community Engagement,
Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and (at
present) Santa Clara University where I serve as Sr.
Director of Development at Miller Center for Social
Entrepreneurship.
I am an NLP Practitioner, a Certified Career Coach,
and I hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology
and a Bachelor’s in Communications (Photojournalism
and Advertising Design).
My passions include photography, cycling, tennis, and
traveling with my family.
AUSTIN LEE
42 years old and a Belmont resident for 9 years.
We have two children ages 9 and 7 who both attend
Fox Elementary right near our Plateau Skymont
neighborhood. Most of our activities center around
visits to parks and open spaces with our friends and
neighbors. I’ve been a Park and Rec Commissioner for
one year and have also volunteered as an AYSO and
Little League coach.
CRAIG MICHAELS
Has served on the Belmont Parks and Recreation
Commission since 2013, including the Twin Pines
Master Plan and Off-Leash at Barrett Pilot Committees.
He is also on the board of the Belmont Boosters,
Emerald Lake Country Club, and Playworks. He’s a
graduate of the University of Virginia and Northwestern University and works in technology marketing. Craig
has lived in Belmont since 2011 with his wife, two kids, a “water dog” named Molly, and Bella the cat.
CAROLINE PYRZ
I have lived in the Homeview neighborhood for
approximately six years. I have two young children who
enjoy playing sports and visiting local playgrounds. I
currently serve as the chair of the City of Belmont’s
Planning Commission.
SERGIO RADDAVERO
• Lived in Belmont since 1998 near Cipriani school
• 11 Year old daughter in the 5th
grade at Cipriani school
• 16 year old daughter in the 10th
grade at Carlmont High School
• 19 year old son at Chico State, graduated
Carlmont High School 2020
• Wife is a school teacher in Millbrae CA
• A member of the AYSO Belmont Region 108 board
• USSF Soccer referee, College Soccer Referee and
High Soccer Referee for D2 schools and high school
like Notre Dame de Namur University and Carlmont
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APPENDIX A
6 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
ABBY SANDERS
2021 Carlmont graduate, will be attending UC Davis in
the Fall Youth Commissioner on the Parks & Recreation
Commission for 2 years Youth Advisory Committee
member for 5 years
SCOTT SISEMORE
I’m Scott Sisemore. My wife and I have lived in the
Sterling Downs neighborhood since 2006. One of our
biggest influences in moving to Belmont was the open
space at Waterdog and Hidden Canyon. We like to walk
our dog, hike, trail run, bird watch and mountain bike
along the trails. We have two sons. One at Carlmont
and the other in middle school. The older boy now rides mountain bikes at Waterdog with the local high school
team, the Beasts. I spent 7 years managing little league baseball teams for BRSLL.
I own and operate one of Belmont’s only wineries,
Waxwing Wine Cellars, in the Harbor Business Center
at the corner of Harbor and Industrial in Belmont.
BOB STAHL
Resident of Belmont Heights since 1985, avid hiker of
Brooks, Rambler & Chaparral trails 5-7 days weekly,
loves long bike rides to Portola Valley, Bay Trail, etc., semi retired but still consulting in the beverage industry.
DEAN WILSON
• 39 year resident in McDougal neighborhood
• Active adult/ grandparent
• Previously involved in youth sports
• Active user of Belmont parks and open spaces
SUSAN WRIGHT
I’m a former Parks & Recreation Commissioner who
has lived in the Central neighborhood for 18 years. I
have a son who goes to Ralston Middle School. I work
in the sustainability field.
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CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES 7 Definitions
APPENDIX B
481
APPENDIX B
8 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
COMMUNITY FACILITY
FURNISHING
A community facility is a community center, recreation
center, aquatics center, senior center, conference
center, or any other similar space, programmed with
recreation classes or offerings, or maintained by the
Parks and Recreation Department.
GATHERING SPACE
FURNISHING
A gathering space is an area designed to facilitate
social interaction. It should provide user comforts
(seats and shade) to encourage users to linger. A
unique focal element or ability to watch other park
activities (children playing in playground, a pickleball match, dog park, etc.) should be incorporated into the
design of gathering space.
IDENTIFIABLE AMENITY
FURNISHING
An identifiable amenity is any amenity either defined in this chapter, or an amenity that is easily definable as a single play or recreation amenity.
MULTI-PURPOSE FLEXIBLE SPACE
LANDSCAPE
A multi-purpose flexible is a flat turf area for free play. It is not sized to accommodate formal sports games and
is not considered a multi-use athletic field.
MULTI-USE ATHLETIC FIELD
FURNISHING
See Benchmarked Amenities for definition.
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
LANDSCAPE
A natural environment is any area with a natural
landscape not designed or developed or any area that
has been designed and developed to provide public
access to planted spaces with trees, shrubs, and/or
ground cover.
PARKING, OFF-STREET
ACCESSIBILITY
Off-street parking is a paved or compacted earth flat
area located near the entrance of a park. The parking
lot must include ADA-accessible stall(s) and an
accessible path to the park and from the street rightof-way. The number of stalls provided depends on the size, use intensity, and available space of each park.
PICNIC OPPORTUNITY
FURNISHING
A picnic opportunity area contains picnic table(s) for
public use without the need for reservation. When
feasible, locate the picnic table(s) near other park
elements, such as a playground or game court, and
in the shade. Picnic areas should contain at least one
ADA-accessible table.
PLAY AMENITY
FURNISHING
A play amenity is any park amenity or furnishing
deliberately intended to facilitate play. Examples
include a playground, tennis court, basketball court, or water play element. An amenity can be both a Play and
Recreation Amenity.
RECREATION AMENITY
FURNISHING
A recreation amenity is any amenity or feature that
promotes activity and/or exercise. Examples include a
walking path, pump track, basketball or tennis court.
An amenity can be both a Play and Recreation.
RESTROOM, PERMANENT
FURNISHING
A permanent restroom is, at minimum, a single ADAaccessible restroom structure with toilet and sink connected to utilities. The restroom should include a
light and locking door for patrons. Permanent restrooms must be accessible by a paved path, and are typically
located near the parking lot. In most instances, a water fountain should be installed on an external wall of the restroom structure. The facility can be locked outside
park hours, and must have a scheduled cleaning to
maintain sanitary conditions and for restocking.
RESTROOM, PORTABLE
FURNISHING
A portable restroom is a single, self-contained toilet
placed at a strategic location within a park when
there is need for a toilet but a permanent restroom is
not feasible at the site. A cleaning and maintenance
schedule is required to empty and maintain a sanitary
toilet. Should be ADA-accessible where possible.
SEATING
FURNISHING
Seating typically means benches, or any other park
furnishing deliberately intended as a seating space.
STANDARD BASELINE AMENITIES
DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX B DRAFT
482
Definitions
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 9
BASKETBALL COURT
FURNISHING
A basketball court should be located where surveillance is convenient and where noise does not impact
adjacent users.
MULTI-USE ATHLETIC FIELD
FURNISHING
A multi-use athletic field is a well-maintained turf field with dimensions large enough to accommodate many
types of activities, such as soccer, lacrosse, football, rugby, baseball, and softball. Field markings are
overlaid to maximize the sports use opportunities to be play on the same turf area. Field surface can either
be natural or synthetic turf. Synthetic fields increase field use by 50% due to reduced down time required to
account for weather and wear.
PLAY ELEMENT
FURNISHING
A play element is a single play item, such as swings,
a teeter-totter, a slide, or monkey bars, with wood fibar chips or safety surfacing on the ground surrounding.
PLAYGROUND
FURNISHING
A playground is a grouping of play elements designed
for children with safety surfacing. All playgrounds
should provide inclusive access. Each playground
should have a unique theme that reflects the park
character. Seating opportunities should be placed
nearby and oriented for visual supervision by parents/
guardians.
PLAYGROUND, ALL-ABILITIES
ACCESSIBILITY
An all-abilities playground is an inclusive playground
structure(s) and surrounding area universally designed
as a sensory-rich environment for users of all-abilities.
All-abilities play elements engage physical, cognitive, communicative, social/emotional, and sensory needs
to promote development and interaction. Seating
opportunities should be placed nearby and aligned for
visual supervision by parents.
RESERVABLE PICNIC AREA, SMALL
FURNISHING
A small reservable picnic area is a grouping of picnic
tables able to accommodate groups less than 75
people, with shade and a BBQ. Parks with a reservable
picnic areas should have a permanent restroom and
access to adequate parking.
RESERVABLE PICNIC AREA, LARGE
FURNISHING
A large reservable picnic area is a grouping of picnic
tables able to accommodate groups over 75 people with
a shade structure and a BBQ. Parks with a reservable
picnic areas should have a permanent restroom and
access to adequate parking.
TENNIS COURT
FURNISHING
A tennis court should be fenced and striped to
accommodate tennis play, or both pickleball and tennis.
Adjacent seating should be provided for spectators
and those waiting to play.
BENCHMARKED AMENITIES
DRAFT | Final February 2024
DRAFT Definitions
483
APPENDIX B
10 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
COMMUNITY GARDEN
FURNISHING
A community garden is a fenced area with rentable
garden plots for Belmont residents. There must be
a minimum of 2 plots available for residents to rent.
Access to water must be provided for gardening.
Storage shed(s) for garden tools are preferred. The
guidelines for the Belmont Community Garden apply.
DOG PARK
FURNISHING
A dog parklet is an informal fenced space for all-sized dogs to be off leash. The area should include shaded
seating area for dog-owners to survey their pet(s), a
dog waste station, and a trash receptacle. The fenced
area can be dirt. Dog parklets are intended for local,
neighborhood use.
DOG PARKLET
FURNISHING
A dog park includes two separate fenced spaces for
small and large dogs to be off leash. The area should
include shaded seating for dog-owners to survey their
pet(s), a dog waste station, a trash receptacle, and a
water fountain equipped for people and dog use with
a double-gated entrance to the area. The fenced area
can either be decomposed granite, natural or synthetic
turf, and should be designed to create a minimum
dimension to facilitate running and throwing. May
include agility elements for dog play.
LOOP PATH
FURNISHING
A loop path is a wide, multi-use path that loops through a park. The path can be paved (concrete) or compacted
gravel (decomposed granite), and minimum width of
five feet for two people to pass side by side. The looped path should provide connection between the park
entrance(s) or parking lot, playground, picnic area, or other points of interest. Planting should occur in areas of interest/entry/exit to designate and formalize the
path. Seating should be provided at intervals along the path.
PUMP TRACK (BIKE PARK)
FURNISHING
A pump track is designed for riders to use their
momentum to gather speed and reduce the need for
pedaling through the course. Pump tracks should be a
series of rollers and berms, typically made of packed
soil, wood, or concrete designed for beginner to
intermediate riders without high jumps. Prefabricated
and modular pump track systems are available. Pump
tracks can be designed as a loop track or allow for free form riding, much like a skate park.
SKATE PARK
FURNISHING
A skate park is a concrete area which contains a mix
of terrain styles and trick elements, can also be of
modular design, and prefabricated of other materials
for installation. A skate park should be designed for
beginner and intermediate abilities. A skate park should be fenced within a park. Restroom access preferred.
WATER PLAY, POOL
FURNISHING
A pool is proposed as a key component of the Barrett
Community Center Master Plan. Belmont currently
rents pool space at Carlmont High School during the
summer.
WATER PLAY, SPRAY ELEMENT
FURNISHING
A spray element is a single water play feature that is
activated to begin spraying water and automatically
turns off after a set amount of time. Examples include
a misting stick or ground spray water jet.
WATER PLAY, SPRAY PARK
FURNISHING
A spray park is a destination grouping of water play
spray elements and/or water playground. Shade is
recommended and there should be a permanent
restroom in the park. Seating with shade should be
available with sightlines for parents to watch children.
PRIORITY AMENITIES
DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX B DRAFT
484
Definitions
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 11
FITNESS EQUIPMENT COURSE OR CLUSTER
FURNISHING
A course of cluster of fitness equipment is more than
one permanent work-out apparatus focused on a
single exercise movement. The equipment can be
places along a path to create a course, or grouped
together to create a cluster. Examples include pull up
or push up bars, sit up bench, chest press, leg press,
or cardio walker. Equipment must not require an
electrical connection, should be low maintenance, and
only include mechanical moving elements if desired by
the community.
HANDBALL / WALLBALL COURT
FURNISHING
A handball or wallball court is a vertical wall, with a paved playing area the same width as the wall. When
multiple courts run along a single wall, a shorter
perpendicular wall separates each court. Ball walls are typically co-located in parks that have tennis courts.
HORSESHOE PIT / BOCCE BALL COURT
FURNISHING
A horseshoe pit and/or bocce ball court is a dualpurpose court sized to allow either a game of horseshoes or bocce ball.
SECONDARY AMENITIES
OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
FURNISHING
An outdoor classroom is a space designed for
educational programs, with seating (permanent or
movable) oriented towards a single space for a teacher/ leader. An outdoor classroom should be co-located
on a site already allied with organized education or
recreation programs. An outdoor classroom requires
shade, access to restrooms, and must provide water
nearby.
PERFORMANCE SPACE
FURNISHING
A performance area is a space dedicated to
performance. The stage area should be paved, provide
power, be enclosed with a shade canopy, and may or
may not be raised. The seating space is an informal
area facing the stage that can have permanent seating
or provide free-form use for picnic blankets and
camping chairs.
TEEN OUTDOOR SPACE
FURNISHING
A teen outdoor space is an activity or gathering space
designed for teens.
DRAFT | Final February 2024
DRAFT Definitions
485
APPENDIX B
12 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Natural resource management generally consists of
protecting, restoring, enhancing, and monitoring native vegetation and wildlife, and monitoring and protecting
the quality of geological and hydrological conditions.
REDUNDANT TRAILS
Redundant trails are those trails that connect the
same locations as an existing recognized trail. In
some cases, these redundant trails are located within
the same trail alignment as the city recognized trail,
appearing as social or braided trails.
RESTORATION
The process of returning land that has been degraded
and disturbed into functional habitat.
RIPARIAN
Riparian areas are defined as the vegetative and
wildlife areas adjacent to perennial and intermittent
streams and other freshwater bodies, such as lakes,
ponds, and reservoirs.
SENSITIVE RESOURCE AREAS
Sensitive resource areas include habitats or natural
communities that are either unique, of relatively limited distribution in the region, or of particularly high value for wildlife; however, these habitats may or may not
necessarily contain special-status species. Sensitive
natural communities are usually identified in regional
or local plans, policies, or regulations, or by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service or California Department of
Fish and Wildlife.
WILDFIRE HAZARD MITIGATION
Action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk
to people and their property from hazards such as
proximity of flammable vegetation, dead or dying tree
limbs, or pollution or contamination in close proximity to homes or public facilities.
WILDLIFE CORRIDOR
The structural and functional link between patches of
habitat used by migrating animals in fulfillment of their life cycle.
ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT
Adaptive management is a decision process that
promotes flexible decision making that can be
adjusted in the face of uncertainties as outcomes from
management actions and other events become better
understood.
BEST PRACTICE MANAGEMENT
The preferred manner in which an activity is to be performed in order to be protective of both human health and the environment.
DISTURBANCE (ECOLOGICAL)
The disruption of an ecosystem’s structure and function, generally with effects that last for time periods longer than a single seasonal growing cycle for vegetation.
FUEL REDUCTION
The removal of combustible vegetation to reduce the
amount of flammable material to prevent or reduce the
spread of wildfire.
HABITAT
The combination of living and non-living factors which
contains suitable living conditions for a species within the range of that species.
HABITAT NETWORK
The configuration of patches of habitat allowing species dispersal through a landscape.
INVASIVE SPECIES
Animal or plant species that take over sufficiently large areas to reduce biodiversity.
MONITORING
Periodically collect data/information to track changes
over time.
NATIVE
Those elements of the natural world occurring within an ecosystem prior to disturbance from an outside event.
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Natural resource management generally consists of
protecting, restoring, enhancing, and monitoring native vegetation and wildlife, and monitoring and protecting
the quality of geological and hydrological conditions.
NON-NATIVE
Species which moved into, or were introduced into,
pre-serve environments as a direct or indirect result of human activities.
OPEN SPACE
DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX B DRAFT
486
13 APPENDIX C
Park Inventory
CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
APPENDIX C
Park Inventory
487
APPENDIX C
14 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES PARKLAND PER 1,000 RESIDENTS
COMPARING PROS PLAN AND GENERAL PLAN NEIGHBORHOOD COMMUNITY UNDEVELOPED
PARKSSCHOOLSOPEN SPACEPARKS, SCHOOLS,
& OPEN SPACE
PROS PLAN
Size (Acres) 17.3 44.7 6.1 68.1 23.4 317.5 409
Parkland per 1,000 residents
(2021 population) 0.7 1.7 0.2 2.6 0.9 12.0 15.5
Population Assumptions: PROS Plan population: 26,470 (2021 from CA DOF) DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX C DRAFT
488
Park Inventory
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 15
* Census Tract 6089 extends beyond Belmont’s city boundaries and includes non-inhabited land in unincorporated San Mateo County.
CHULA
VISTA
CENTRAL
COUNTRY
CLUB
CIPRIANI
CARLMONT
WESTERN
HILLS
HALLMARK
HOMEVIEW
SUNNYSLOPE
STERLING
DOWNS
HARBOR
INDUSTRIAL
EAST
BELMONT
SKYMONT
PLATEAU
1 18
5 3
7 2
10 13
9 12
16 20
23 11
15 19
14 17
21 22
6 4
8 Neighborhood Park
1 Alexander Park
6 Cipriani Park
7 College View Park
8 Davey Glen Park
10 Hallmark Park
11 Hasting Tot Lot Park
15 O’Donnell Park
16 Patricia Wharton Park
20 Semeria Park
22 Wakefield Park
Community Park
2 Barrett Community Center
3 Belameda Park
4 Belmont Sports Complex
13 McDougal Park
21 Twin Pines Park
Undeveloped Park
12 Hidden Canyon Park
18 Ralston Ranch Park
School (JUA)
5 Central Elementary School
9 Fox Elementary School
14 Nesbit School
17 Ralston Middle School
Open Space Trailhead
19 San Juan Canyon
23 Waterdog Lake
Neighborhood Boundary
Census Tract Boundary
Census Tract
6088
Census Tract
6089*
Census Tract
6087
Census Tract
6086
Census Tract
6090
Parkland Distribution in Belmont Neighborhoods, including Census Tracts DRAFT | Final February 2024
DRAFT Park Inventory
489
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490
Park Inventory
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 17
PARKLAND PER BELMONT NEIGHBORHOODS
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SITE
NEIGHBORHOODCOMMUNITYUNDEVELOPEDALL PARKSSCHOOLSOPEN SPACEPARKS, SCHOOLS, & OPEN SPACE
CARLMONT Belameda 3.0 3.0 3.0
CENTRAL
College View 0.1
1.3 4.7 Davey Glen 1.1
Patricia Wharton 0.1
Central School 3.4
CHULA VISTA McDougal 4.5 4.5 4.5
CIPRIANI Cipriani 6.0
7.3 7.3
Semeria 1.3
COUNTRY CLUB Barrett Community Center 5.1 5.1 5.1
EAST BELMONT Belmont Sports Complex 11.0 11.0 11.0
HALLMARK
Hallmark 5.2
Wakefield 1.0 6.2 12.3
Fox School 6.1
HOMEVIEW O’Donnell 0.9 0.9 0.9
PLATEAU San Juan Canyon 0.0 35.0 35.0
SKYMONT Ralston Ranch 1.3 1.3 1.3
STERLING DOWNS
Alexander 1.3
1.3 7.8
Nesbit School 6.5
SUNNYSLOPE Twin Pines 21.1 21.1 21.1
WESTERN HILLS
Hastings Tot Lot 0.3
5.1 295.0
Ralston Middle School 7.4
Hidden Canyon 4.8
Waterdog Lake 282.5
Source: City of Belmont Parks and Recreation Department and 2035 General Plan DRAFT | Final February 2024
DRAFT Park Inventory
491
APPENDIX C
18 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES PARKLAND PER 1,000 RESIDENTS IN BELMONT NEIGHBORHOODS
CENSUS TRACT NEIGHBORHOOD
NEIGHBORHOODCOMMUNITYUNDEVELOPEDALL PARKSSCHOOLSOPEN SPACEPARKS, SCHOOLS, & OPEN SPACE
6086
(4,614 RESIDENTS)
East Belmont 11.0 11.0 11.0
Homeview 0.9 0.9 0.9
Sterling Downs 1.3 1.3 6.5 7.8
Parkland (Acres) 2.2 11.0 0 13.2 6.5 0 19.4
Parkland per 1,000 residents 0.5 2.4 0 2.9 1.4 0 4.3
6087
(6,999 RESIDENTS)
Central 1.3 1.3 3.4 4.7
Country Club 5.1 5.1 5.1
Parkland (Acres) 1.3 5.1 0 6.4 3.4 0 9.8
Parkland per 1,000 residents 0.2 0.7 0 0.9 0.5 0 1.4
6088
(6,328 RESIDENTS)
Cipriani 7.3 7.3 7.3
Plateau 0 35.0 35.0
Skymont 1.3 1.3 1.3
Parkland (Acres) 7.3 0 1.3 8.6 0 35.0 43.6
Parkland per 1,000 residents 1.2 0 0.2 1.4 0 5.5 6.9
6089*
(6,948 RESIDENTS)
Carlmont 3.0 3.0 3.0
Hallmark 6.2 6.2 6.1 12.3
Western Hills 0.3 4.8 5.1 7.4 282.5 295.0
Parkland (Acres) 6.5 3.0 4.8 14.3 13.5 282.5 310.3
Parkland per 1,000 residents 0.9 0.4 0.7 2.1 2.0 41.0 45.0 6090
(2,470 RESIDENTS)
Chula Vista 4.5 4.5 4.5
Sunnyslope 21.1 21.1 21.1
Parkland (Acres) 0 25.6 0 25.6 0 0 25.6
Parkland per 1,000 residents 0 10.4 0 10.4 0 0 10.4
* Census Tract 6089 extends beyond Belmont’s city boundaries and includes non-inhabited land in unincorporated San Mateo County.
Source: Census Tract population counts from 2019 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX C DRAFT
492
Park Inventory
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 19
Facilities and Amenities Matrix.xlsx CurrentInventory
8/23/2021 1
Neighborhood Community Schools TOTAL
Park Names:
AlexanderCipriani
CollegeViewDaveyGlen
Hallmark
HastingsTotHiddenCanyon ***
O'Donnell
PatriciaWhartonRalstonRanch ***
SemeriaWakefieldBarrett CCBelameda
Belmont Sports Complex
McDougalTwin PinesCentralFoxNesbitRalstonNeighborhoodCommunitySchoolsTotal Size (Acres) 1.3 6 0.1 1.1 5.2 0.3 4.8 0.9 0.1 1.3 0.1 1 5.1 3 11 4.5 21.1 3.4 6.1 6.5 7.4 22.2 44.7 23.4 90.3 AMENITY, Standard Baseline Standard Baseline
Park Type N2 N2 N1 N2 N2 N1 N2 N1 N2 N1 C C C C C
Community Facility 1 1 1 1 0 4 0 4
Gathering Space 1 1 1 1 1 1 4 2 0 6
Multi-purpose Lawn 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 3 4 13
Parking Lot 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 5 4 11
Picnic Area 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 7 5 0 12
Restroom, Permanent 1 2 1 2 2 1 7 0 8
Restroom, Portable 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 4 1 7
AMENITY, Benchmarked Benchmarked
Multi-use Athletic Field, ALL 1 1 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 7 4 12
Basketball (Full) 1 2 3 1 6 0 1 12 13
Basketball (Half) 1 2 1 1 1 3 1 2 6
Tennis Court 2 2 4 0 0 4
Play Element 0 0 0 0
Playground 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 2 10 5 5 20
All-abilities Playground 0 0 0 0
Reservable Picnic Area, Small 1 1 1 1 0 2
Reservable Picnic Area, Large 2 0 2 0 2
AMENITY, Priority Priority
Community Garden 1 1 1 1 0 2
Dog Parklet 0 0 0 0
Dog Park 1 1 0 0 1
Pickleball Court 0 0 0 0
Pump Track (Bike Park) 0 0 0 0
Skate Park 0 0 0 0
Water Play, Pool 0 0 0 0
Water Play, Spray Park 0 0 0 0
AMENITY AMENITY
Disc Golf 0 0 0 0
Fitness Equipment Cluster 1 0 1 0 1
DRAFT | Final February 2024
DRAFT Park Inventory
493
APPENDIX C
20 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES Facilities and Amenities Matrix.xlsx CurrentInventory
8/23/2021 2
Neighborhood Community Schools TOTAL
Park Names:
AlexanderCipriani
CollegeViewDaveyGlen
Hallmark
HastingsTotHiddenCanyon ***
O'Donnell
PatriciaWhartonRalstonRanch ***
SemeriaWakefieldBarrett CCBelameda
Belmont Sports Complex
McDougalTwin PinesCentralFoxNesbitRalstonNeighborhoodCommunitySchoolsTotal Handball Court / Ball Wall 1 2 1 1 1 0 4 5
Horseshoe Pit / Bocce Ball 2 3 2 3 0 5
Jogging Track 1 1 0 1 1 2
Outdoor Classroom 0 0 0 0
Performance Stage Area 1 1 0 2 0 2
Teen Outdoor Space 1 0 1 0 1
Volleyball Court 0 0 0 0
* School Amenities not available for public use during school hours ** Synthetic Fields count as 1.5 a natural turf field due to more time available annually *** Undeveloped
DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX C DRAFT
494
21 APPENDIX D
NRPA Benchmarks
CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES NRPA Benchmarks
APPENDIX D
495
APPENDIX D
22 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES PARKLAND + AMENITY RATIOS
FOR JURISDICTIONS OF A SIMILAR SIZE
Amenity Residents
Basketball 1: 7,000
Community Garden 1: 25,480
Diamond Field (Baseball, Adult) 1: 20,522
Diamond Field (Baseball, Youth) 1: 5,099
Diamond Field (Softball, Adult) 1: 11,184
Diamond Field (Softball, Youth) 1: 9,891
Dog Park 1: 27,528
Ice rink (Outdoor) 1: 13,049
Multi-Use Synthetic Field 1: 22,041
Multi-Use Court (Basketball, Volleyball) 1: 18,850
Overlay Fields 1: 8,935
Playground 1: 2,961
Rectangular (Multi-use) 1: 7,400
Rectangular Field (Cricket) 1: 29,404
Rectangular Field (Field Hockey) 1: 15,007
Rectangular Field (Football) 1: 16,584
Rectangular Field (Lacrosse) 1: 13,333
Rectangular Field (Soccer, Adult) 1: 11,161
Rectangular Field (Soccer, Youth) 1: 5,833
Skate Park 1: 31,248
Swimming Pool (Outdoor) 1: 25,402
Tennis Court 1: 4,819
Tot Lot 1: 8,974
Source: 2021 NRPA Outdoor P&R Facilities, Population per Facility for Jurisdictions of 20,000 to 49,999 people
NRPA AMENITY RATIOS
The National Recreation and Parks Association
(NRPA) compiles park metrics from park and recreation
agencies across the nation annually. The intent of
publishing this data is to allow park and recreation
agencies to benchmark peer agencies in their mission
to serve their residents.
The following tables are the amenity ratios gathered
from over 1,000 park and recreation agencies for the
2021 NRPA Agency Performance Review.
AMENITY RATIOS FOR JURISDICTIONS OF A
SIMILAR SIZE
The NRPA has processed the gathered data to allow
jurisdictions to compare their amenity offerings to
jurisdictions serving a similar size population. The
population ranges are: less than 20,000, 20,000 to
49,999, 50,000 to 99,999, 100,000 to 250,000, and
more than 250,000. Belmont has a 2020 population
within the 20,000 to 49,999 range.
AMENITY RATIOS FOR THE PACIFIC
SOUTHWEST REGION
The NRPA has processed the gathered data to allow
jurisdictions to compare their amenity offerings to
jurisdictions in their region. The regions are: New
England, Mid-Atlantic, Southern, Great Lakes, Midwest,
Southwest, Pacific Northwest, and Pacific Southwest.
AMENITY RATIOS FOR CALIFORNIA
The NRPA has processed the gathered data to allow
jurisdictions to compare their amenity offerings to
jurisdictions in their state.
DRAFT | Final February 2024
APPENDIX D DRAFT
496
NRPA Benchmarks
CITY OF BELMONT | LET’S BUILD OUR BACKYARD 23
PARKLAND + AMENITY RATIOS
FOR CALIFORNIA
Amenity Residents
Basketball 1: 9,986
Community Garden 1: 67,159
Diamond Field (Baseball, Adult) 1: 38,983
Diamond Field (Baseball, Youth) 1: 14,740
Diamond Field (Softball, Adult) 1: 24,523
Diamond Field (Softball, Youth) 1: 18,074
Dog Park 1: 48,651
Ice rink (Outdoor) 1: 3,999,759
Multi-Use Synthetic Field 1: 103,256
Multi-Use Court (Basketball, Volleyball) 1: 40,014
Overlay Fields 1: 13,203
Playground 1: 5,713
Rectangular (Multi-use) 1: 15,987
Rectangular Field (Cricket) 1: 529,981
Rectangular Field (Field Hockey) 1: 4,126
Rectangular Field (Football) 1: 87,629
Rectangular Field (Lacrosse) 1: 4,763
Rectangular Field (Soccer, Adult) 1: 13,386
Rectangular Field (Soccer, Youth) 1: 16,295
Skate Park 1: 94,693
Swimming Pool (Outdoor) 1: 71,000
Tennis Court 1: 11,794
Tot Lot 1: 7,631
Source: 2021 NRPA Outdoor P&R Facilities, Population per Facility for California
PARKLAND + AMENITY RATIOS
FOR THE PACIFIC SOUTHWEST REGION
Amenity Residents
Basketball 1: 8,885
Community Garden 1: 67,579
Diamond Field (Baseball, Adult) 1: 30,077
Diamond Field (Baseball, Youth) 1: 13,443
Diamond Field (Softball, Adult) 1: 22,250
Diamond Field (Softball, Youth) 1: 16,948
Dog Park 1: 51,593
Ice rink (Outdoor) 1: 304,712
Multi-Use Synthetic Field 1: 51,992
Multi-Use Court (Basketball, Volleyball) 1: 27,072
Overlay Fields 1: 14,751
Playground 1: 5,242
Rectangular (Multi-use) 1: 10,738
Rectangular Field (Cricket) 1: 178,482
Rectangular Field (Field Hockey) 1: -
Rectangular Field (Football) 1: 73,636
Rectangular Field (Lacrosse) 1: 13,532
Rectangular Field (Soccer, Adult) 1: 21,032
Rectangular Field (Soccer, Youth) 1: 11,143
Skate Park 1: 83,563
Swimming Pool (Outdoor) 1: 66,924
Tennis Court 1: 7,964
Tot Lot 1: 11,017
Source: 2021 NRPA Outdoor P&R Facilities, Population per Facility for the Pacific Southwest Region
DRAFT | Final February 2024
DRAFT NRPA Benchmarks
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498
CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES 25
APPENDIX E
Amenity Projections
499
APPENDIX E
26 PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
IDEAL AMENITY QUANTITY
FUTURE 2035 POPULATION
INCORPORATING HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE
BENCHMARKED AMENITY 2022
2035
IDEAL
2035
+ ADD
All-Abilities Playground 1 1 0
Basketball Court (Full) 13 17 + 4
Basketball Court (Half) 6 8 + 2
Multi-Use Athletic Field 13 17 + 4
Play Element 3 4 + 1
Playground 20 23 + 3
Reservable Picnic
Area, Small 4 5 + 1
Reservable Picnic
Area, Large 3 4 + 1
Tennis Court 6 8 + 2
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 3 4 + 1
Dog Park 2 3 + 1
Dog Parklet 2 3 + 1
Pump Track (Bike Park) 1 1 0
Skate Park 1 1 0
Water Play, Pool 1 1 0
Water Play, Spray Element 1 1 0
Water Play, Spray Park 1 1 0
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 2 3 + 1
Handball / Wallball Court 4 5 + 1
Horseshoe Pit /
Bocce Ball Court 4 5 + 1
Outdoor Classroom 1 1 0
Performance Space 2 3 + 1
Teen Outdoor Space 3 4 + 1
Ideal Amenity Quantities for 2035 Population (Adjusted) The PROS Plan used the General Plan forecasted
population of 30,500 by the year 2035.
During the PROS Plan process, the City began an
update to the General Plan Housing Element. The
previous Housing Element covered the 8-year span
from 2015 to 2023. The upcoming Housing Element,
in progress at the time of the PROS Plan, will cover
2023 to 2031. The 2023-2031 Housing Element will
reflect increased population projections as a result
of the additional housing units needed to respond to
the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA)
allocation. Belmont was assigned a RHNA allocation
of 1,785 new housing units for the 2023-2031 housing
cycle.
During the 2023-2031 Housing Element update, the
population forecasts in the General Plan were evaluated and revised. At an average of 2.44 people per unit, the RHNA allocation of 1,785 new housing units equates
to a potential increased population of 4,463 residents
by 2031. To account for the increase in the forecasted
population, the Ideal Amenity Quantities for the Future 2035 population were revised. The benchmark and
amenity analysis tables included in this section consider this additional projected population increase.
2022: The assumed quantity of an amenity given that
the ideal service level for the 2022 population was met. 2035 IDEAL: The quantity of an amenity that would
meet the ideal service level for the 2035 population.*
2035 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added to
meet the ideal service level for the 2035 population.*
Note: The 2022 quantities were determined in 2021.
* Based on the General Plan, adjusted with the 2023-2031 Housing Element population projections.
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IDEAL AMENITY QUANTITIES
FUTURE 2022 AND 2035 POPULATIONS
INCORPORATING HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE
BENCHMARKED AMENITY EXISTS
2022
+ ADD
2035
+ ADD
All-Abilities Playground 0 + 1 0
Basketball Court (Full) 13 0 + 4
Basketball Court (Half) 6 0 + 2
Multi-Use Athletic Field 12 + 1 + 4
Play Element 0 + 3 + 1
Playground 20 0 + 3
Reservable Picnic
Area, Small 2 + 2 + 1
Reservable Picnic
Area, Large 2 + 1 + 1
Tennis Court 4 + 2 + 2
PRIORITY AMENITY
Community Garden 2 + 1 + 1
Dog Park 1 + 1 + 1
Dog Parklet 0 + 2 + 1
Pump Track (Bike Park) 0 + 1 0
Skate Park 0 + 1 0
Water Play, Pool 0 + 1 0
Water Play, Spray Element 0 + 1 0
Water Play, Spray Park 0 + 1 0
SECONDARY AMENITY
Fitness Equipment Cluster 1 + 1 + 1
Handball / Wallball Court 5 0 + 1
Horseshoe Pit /
Bocce Ball Court 5 0 + 1
Outdoor Classroom 0 + 1 0
Performance Space 2 0 + 1
Teen Outdoor Space 1 + 2 + 1
Overall Amenity Quantities to be Added (Adjusted)
EXISTS: The current quantity of an amenity.
2022 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added
to meet the ideal service level for the 2022 population. 2035 ADD: The quantity of an amenity to be added
to meet the ideal service level for the 2035 population* (assuming that none were constructed to meet the
ideal service level for 2022).
Note: The existing and 2022 quantities were determined in 2021. * Based on the General Plan and 2023-2031 Housing Element population projections.
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29 APPENDIX F
CITY OF BELMONT | PARKS | RECREATION | OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN APPENDICES
OPEN SPACE MGMT PLAN
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APPENDIX G
BELMONT OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN
CITY OF BELMONT, SAN MATEO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX F
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................1
1.1 Environmental Assessment Findings ............................................................................................ 1
1.2 Recreation Assessment Findings ................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Management Plan ......................................................................................................................... 2
1.3.1 Priority Recommendations .......................................................................................................... 3
2.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ..............................................................................................5
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Regulatory Background ................................................................................................................. 7
2.2.1 Special-Status Species ............................................................................................................. 7
2.2.2 Sensitive Biological Communities............................................................................................ 8
2.2.3 Waters of the United States .................................................................................................... 8
2.2.4 Waters of the State ............................................................................................................... 10
2.2.5 Streams, Lakes, and Riparian Habitat.................................................................................... 11
2.2.6 Other Sensitive Biological Communities ............................................................................... 11
2.2.7 Relevant City of Belmont Policies ......................................................................................... 11
2.3 Methods ...................................................................................................................................... 14
2.3.1 Sensitive Biological Communities.......................................................................................... 14
2.3.2 Special-status Species ........................................................................................................... 15
2.3.3 Habitat Quality ...................................................................................................................... 16
2.3.4 Trail Assessment .................................................................................................................... 16
2.4 Results ......................................................................................................................................... 18
2.4.1 Biological Communities and Vegetation Management ........................................................ 18
2.4.2 Special-Status Species ........................................................................................................... 23
2.4.3 Habitat Quality ...................................................................................................................... 30
2.4.4 Trail Environmental Conditions ............................................................................................. 31
2.4.5 Wildfire Hazard Analysis ....................................................................................................... 31
2.5 Conclusions and Considerations ................................................................................................. 36
2.5.1 Habitat and Species ............................................................................................................... 36
2.5.2 Wildfire Hazard Reduction .................................................................................................... 38
2.6 References .................................................................................................................................. 39
3.0 RECREATION USE ASSESSMENT AND BENCHMARKING ........................................................... 41
3.1 Purpose ....................................................................................................................................... 41 Open Space Management Plan
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3.2 Current Outdoor Recreational Participation ............................................................................... 41
3.3 Recreation Trends and Implications ........................................................................................... 42
3.3.1 Cycling and e-bikes ................................................................................................................ 42
3.3.2 Electric transportation devices ............................................................................................. 43
3.3.3 General trends ....................................................................................................................... 43
3.4 Assessing Recreation Use ............................................................................................................ 43
3.4.1 Visitation and Recreation Use ............................................................................................... 43
3.4.2 Trail Usage and Density ......................................................................................................... 46
3.4.3 Trail Condition Assessment ................................................................................................... 47
3.5 Conclusions and Considerations ................................................................................................. 50
3.5.1 Trail Condition and Maintenance .......................................................................................... 50
3.5.2 Trail Operations and Management ....................................................................................... 52
3.5.3 Trail Construction and Design ............................................................................................... 54
3.6 References .................................................................................................................................. 60
4.0 MANAGEMENT PLAN ............................................................................................................ 63
4.1 Plan Development Process ............................................................................................................... 63
4.2 Management Plan Framework ......................................................................................................... 63
4.2.1 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 65
4.2.2 Policies ....................................................................................................................................... 66
4.2.3 Recommendations ..................................................................................................................... 71
4.2.4 Priorities ..................................................................................................................................... 75
5.0 GLOSSARY ............................................................................................................................ 77
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1. Description of Ranks and Threat Codes ....................................................................................... 7 Table 2.2. Habitat Quality Categories ......................................................................................................... 16 Table 2.3. Trail Condition Categories .......................................................................................................... 17 Table 2.4. Biological Communities within the Study Area .......................................................................... 18 Table 2.5. Trail Erosion Instances ................................................................................................................ 31 Table 2.6. Fire Hazard Rating for Fuel Types Vegetation Type ................................................................... 32 Table 3.1. Summary of Visitor Survey and Count Methods ........................................................................ 44 Table 3.2. Miles of Trails in Belmont Open Spaces ..................................................................................... 46 Table 3.3. Instances of Erosion on Trails ..................................................................................................... 50 Table 4.1. Environmental Sustainability Objectives .................................................................................... 65 Table 4.2. Balanced Recreation Use Objectives .......................................................................................... 65 Table 4.3. Natural Hazard Mitigation Objectives ........................................................................................ 65 Table 4.4. Environmental Sustainability Policies ........................................................................................ 66 Table 4.5. Balanced Recreation Policies ..................................................................................................... 68
APPENDIX F
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Table 4.6. Natural Hazard Mitigation Policies ............................................................................................. 70 Table 4.7. Environmental Sustainability Actions ......................................................................................... 72 Table 4.8. Balanced Recreation Actions ...................................................................................................... 73 Table 4.9. Natural Hazard Mitigation Actions ............................................................................................. 74
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1. Study Area ................................................................................................................................... 6 Figure 2.2. San Juan Canyon Open Space Land Cover Types ...................................................................... 19 Figure 2.3. Waterdog Lake and Open Space Land Cover Types .................................................................. 20 Figure 2.4. Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas Near Hastings Drive.................................................................. 34 Figure 2.5. Wildfire Fuel Reduction Areas Near Hallmark Drive ................................................................. 35 Figure 3.1. San Juan Canyon Open Space Trail Assessment ....................................................................... 48 Figure 3.2. Waterdog Lake Open Space Trail Assessment .......................................................................... 49
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A – Species Observed During March 2022 Site Visits ............................................................. 78 Attachment B – Special Status Species for WDL and SJC Study Area ......................................................... 84 Attachment C – Example Trail Segment Recommendations .................................................................... 113 Attachment D – Example Signage Recommendations .............................................................................. 120
LIST OF PREPARERS
Leslie Lazarotti – Principal-in-Charge
John Baas – Project Manager
Robin Graham – Deputy Project Manager
Ivy Poisson – Plant Biologist
Brian Kearns – Associate Wildlife Biologist
Sundaran Gilespie – GIS Analyst
Ben Botkin – Technical Editor
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LIST OF ACRONYMS
BMP Best Management Practice
CCR California Code of Regulations
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CE Categorical Exemption
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CESA California Endangered Species Act
CFGC California Fish and Game Code
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
City City of Belmont, Parks and Recreation
CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database
CNPS California Native Plant Society
Corps United States Army Corps of Engineers
CRLF California Red-legged Frog
CRPR California Rare Plant Ranking
CWA Clean Water Act
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FE Federally Endangered
FESA Federal Endangered Species Act
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
OHWM Ordinary High Water Mark
OSMP Open Space Management Plan
PROS Parks Recreation and Open Space
Rank California Rare Plant Rank
RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board
SE State Endangered
SJC San Juan Canyon Open Space
SOC Species of Concern
SOD Sudden Oak Death
SSC Species of Special Concern
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
USGS United States Geological Survey
WBWG Western Bat Working Group
WDL Waterdog Lake Open Space
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