CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026 - 2030 PROS MASTER PLAN 1 Engagement Report
Supplement A
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 2 What’s Inside
Engagement Stats
Engagement Overall Key Themes
Staff, Department Heads & City Council Planning Sessions Community Focus Groups
Survey Summary
Pop Up Engagements
Open House
p. 3
p. 4
p. 5
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p. 27
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Supplement A – Engagement Report
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 3 Your parks,
your voices.
500+
1392
89 Total Engagement
Touchpoints
Total Comments
Received
Community Open
House Attendees
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 4 Engagement Overall Key Themes
Connection
The Merced community believe parks
and recreation should provide
community connection through the
provision of services and public spaces.
Safety in parks
Amenities
Respondents believe that addressing the
safety in public spaces – especially the
negative effects from the unhoused
populations – should be a top priority.
The community desires new and
improved amenities including
splashpads, playgrounds, picnic areas,
trail connections, and fitness areas.
Most visited parks: Applegate Park and
Zoo, Rahilly Park, and McNamara Park
Most utilized programs: special events,
swim lessons, and youth baseball
There’s a need for the City to secure
additional/alternative funding sources
to improve the Department’s overall
level of service.
Maintenance in parks
Most utilized services Additional funding
From fixing broken park amenities to
more frequent restroom and trash bin
cleanings, the community desires a
higher level of maintenance standards.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 5 SWOT Analysis Staff, Department Heads & City Council
STRENGTHS
Staff
Department staff are seen as positive, efficient,
collaborative with other City departments, and
dedicated to serving the Merced community.
Community Connection
The department is well-supported as they serve the
community through providing services such as
events, parks, and public gathering spaces.
WEAKNESSES
Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
The general maintenance level and preventative
safety measures in parks and public spaces is
believed to be a key weakness of the department.
Staff
There were a few key issues raised such as practices
and personnel allocation, organizational structure,
and inefficient administrative processes.
OPPORTUNITIES
Partnerships
Improved relationships and/or partnerships with
organizations such as UC-Merced, local schools, and
businesses could improve department operations.
Parks and Park Amenities
The department can improve park amenities
through increased trail accessibility, utilization of
spaces, and addressing deferred maintenance.
THREATS
Planning
There is a lack of clear direction/expectations for
the department that is causing a barrier to day-to-
day operations and long-term decision making.
Financial Considerations
The department’s current level of funding and
funding sources limits the potential impact it can
make on the community.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 6 SWOT Analysis Staff, Department Heads & City Council
1. What are the organization’s strengths? What should be celebrated? Primary Themes
o Staff
The most mentioned organizational strength was staff. Responses mentioned that the Department has positive and hard-working individuals that they are efficient, work well with other City staff, and are dedicated to the community. o Community Connection
Another primary strength was overall community connection. The department is supported by residents and helps provide a sense of community such as providing events and gathering spaces. Secondary Themes
o Work Distribution
The workload distribution (contracted, Public Works support) is seen as an overall strength. o Planning
The current planning work of both the department and City-wide is providing positive momentum and energy.
2. What could be improved?
Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
The most mentioned organizational area for improvement was the maintenance and safety at department parks, facilities, and services.
Specific concerns include lack of preventative safety measures (e.g., lighting and surveillance) and the maintenance of park restrooms. o Staff
Staff related issues were voiced such as organizational growth, contracted employees, reorganization of the Parks Division, and improved administrative processes.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 7 SWOT Analysis Staff, Department Heads & City Council
Secondary Themes
o Programs and Services
One secondary theme were issues related to department programs and services. Specific concerns included start times of programs and the lack of services for all community members (such as 40+ families). o Interdepartmental Relations
There were a couple of comments calling for improved working relationships between the Parks and Recreation Department and the Planning Division.
o Financial Considerations
Another secondary theme was a call for increased funding to support department operations.
3. What opportunities exist?
Primary Themes
o Partnerships
One primary theme identified were partnerships and collaborations. Potential partnerships included the University of California Merced, local schools, implementing an “Adopt-a-Park” program, and with local businesses. o Parks and Park Amenities
Improving the department’s parks and park amenities was another key theme heard from participants. Ideas included addressing deferred maintenance and unfinished projects, improving use of green spaces, decreasing maintenance areas, and improving trail accessibility.
Secondary Themes
o Financial Considerations
An important but less mentioned theme that was identified was funding and measures for capital improvement projects.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 8 SWOT Analysis Staff, Department Heads & City Council
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Some respondents believe that improved safety in parks and public spaces is an area for the department to improve. o Operational Efficiencies
There were a couple of comments for general operational efficiencies specific to parks maintenance practices.
4. What gets in the way?
Primary Themes
o Planning
A key area identified were related to the direction and planning of the department. There seems to be a general lack of clear expectations, not enough foresight in decision making, and weighing of financial allocation of maintenance versus development. o Staff and Council
There were quite a few comments related to staff and Council issues ranging from the department’s organizational structure to the decision making (and responsiveness) of staff and Council. o Financial Considerations
The final primary theme was the lack of funding allocated to the department. Secondary Themes
o Administrative
A couple of secondary comments stated that general administrative practices and current department agreements are barriers. o Unhoused Population
A secondary theme was the issue of the unhoused population, specifically how they are brought to the City and aren’t provided a path forward.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 9 SWOT Analysis Staff, Department Heads & City Council
5. What’s happening to which the organization should pay attention to? Primary Themes
o Planning
The top theme that surfaced were planning-related comments. There is a strong call for department goals and priorities to be established. o Financial Considerations
Another primary theme for the department to address are financial considerations such as improving funding, developing strategies to best utilize current tax base, commitment to cost recovery efforts, and better serve low income residents. Secondary Themes
o Staffing
Addressing staffing deficits, and the tension that comes with that, was an area identified for the department to pay attention to.
6. Given what’s happening, what should be prioritized with attention and/or resources? Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
One of the top priorities identified was the ongoing maintenance in department parks and public spaces and improving the level of service to the community.
o Financial Considerations
An equally mentioned priority was addressing the department’s funding and resource allocation. Areas discussed included securing alternative funding opportunities, the inequity of the general fund’s allocation to the department, and maximizing the current budget. o Planning
Another key priority was improving department planning efforts from the Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces Master Plan to improving parks maintenance and capital improvement plans
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 10 SWOT Analysis Staff, Department Heads & City Council
Secondary Themes
o University of California Merced
A secondary theme was a call for the department to better support the local University and its students. o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Another secondary theme was in regard to the maintenance and safety of department parks. One impactful response stated that repeating cycle of vandalism and addressing it can be tough on staff morale.
7. Is there anything else as it relates to the department or master planning process you would like to share? Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Many of these comments were related to the department addressing safety in parks and public spaces through improved maintenance and preventative safety measures to improve the experience for residents. o Financial Considerations
There were a number of responses reinforcing the desire for increased funding and the financial sustainability of the department. o Planning
Another key theme was calling for staff to be keyed into various planning efforts for the longevity of the department. Specific examples included CR 42 and equitable responsibilities with developers.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 11 SWOT Analysis Staff & City Council - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 12 SWOT Analysis Staff & City Council - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 13 SWOT Analysis Department Heads - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 14 SWOT Analysis Department Heads - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 15 Focus Groups Community Representatives
1. When you hear “Merced Parks and Recreation” what immediately comes to mind?
2. Do you currently use any services offered by the department? If so what services? If not, why? Yes
o Youth and Adult Sports Programs & Services
o Parks (general)
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 16 Focus Groups Community Representatives
No
o Communication, Marketing & Outreach
The top reason why focus group members cited not using department services were related to this. Specific answers included not understanding offerings and the registration system, inconsistent communication by staff, and too heavy of reliance on digital efforts versus traditional marketing practices (e.g., flyers).
3. What do you believe will be the most important community wide issues the greater Merced area and region will face in the next 3- 5 years?
Primary Themes
o Unhoused Population
The top identified community wide issue was the unhoused population. o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
The other primary theme was the general maintenance and safety in parks and public spaces. Specific issues included issues relating to the unhoused population, public drug and alcohol use, and lack of preventative safety measures. Secondary Themes
o Accessibility
Some focus group members cited accessibility issues and the desire for more equitable distribution of department services. o Parks & Park Amenities
Another secondary theme was a lack of park amenities such as shade structures, playgrounds, seating, and sports amenities.
4. In what ways do you believe the department can influence and/or impact these issues?
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 17 Focus Groups Community Representatives
Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
The most mentioned primary theme that the department can influence was improving its maintenance and preventative safety measures in parks and public spaces. From more frequent trash and bathroom clean ups to adding cameras, lighting, and increased police presence in parks to improve safety, the department has a lot of ways to impact this issue. o Parks & Park Amenities
There were a variety of responses for park amenities that were suggested that included shade structures, water fountains, seating, and sports amenities
Secondary Themes
o Programs & Services
One of the secondary themes identified was enhanced services specifically targeting Merced’s youth. o Partnerships
Another secondary theme was through community partnerships.
5. In your opinion, how should the department invest resources (including taxpayer dollars) in order to have the greatest impact on the greater community?
Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Improving maintenance and preventative safety measures in parks and public spaces was by far the most mentioned way for the department to have the greatest impact on the greater community. The most commented on ideas included increased staff presence, security measures (e.g., lighting and cameras), and timely maintenance practices to park amenities.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 18 Focus Groups Community Representatives
Secondary Themes
o Parks & Park Amenities
Some respondents called for park amenities such as splash pads, shade structures, seating, and sports amenities. o Programs & Services
There were a couple of responses requesting greater department investment in affordable programs and services for kids.
6. Are there any barriers (if any) you believe prevent people from participating in services offered by the department? Primary Themes
o Communication, Marketing & Outreach
The top barrier to participation was due to the department’s current communication, marketing and outreach practices. Many cited a general lack of knowledge of provided services and a desire for consistent channels of communication. o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Another primary deterrent of participation was safety and security concerns. Secondary Themes
o Parks & Park Amenities
The lack of desired park amenities was a secondary barrier identified by focus group members.
7. What opportunities exist for the department to partner with other community organizations? o Utilization of Parks
The only repeated opportunity for partnerships was working with community organizations to host collaborative events in Merced’s parks and public spaces.
o Spanish-Speaking Outreach
While not a suggestion for community organizations, some responses indicated a desire for increased Spanish usage in department communications to ensure inclusivity.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 19 Focus Groups Community Representatives
8. Is there anything else as it relates to the department or master planning process you would like to share? Primary Themes
o Communication, Marketing & Outreach
There were a few additional comments regarding the need for improved communication with the community to improve participation and involvement.
o Programs & Services
There was a call for a wider variety of programs and services for the older population and more affordable offerings for families. o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
The importance for improved safety and maintenance in parks was reiterated in these comments.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 20 Focus Groups Adults - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 21 Focus Groups Community - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 22 Focus Groups Older Adults - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 23 Focus Groups Youth - Mural Board
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 24 Focus Groups Spanish Speakers – Translated Summary
1. When you hear “Merced Parks and Recreation” what immediately comes to mind? Satisfaction: A majority of respondents expressed positive sentiments toward the quality and accessibility of parks, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clean, safe, and well-equipped facilities. Top-of-Mind Concerns: Overall, key perceptions centered on safety, maintenance, and the presence (or absence) of specific amenities.
2. Do you currently use any services offered by the department? If so what services? If not, why? Yes
o McNamara Park
o Soccer fields (general)
o Baseball fields (general)
No
o Cleanliness (general)
3. What do you believe will be the most important community wide issues the greater Merced area and region will face in the next 3-5 years? Homelessness: A prevalent concern across nearly all groups was the presence of homeless individuals in parks, with associated issues of public disruption.
Drug Use: Relatedly, drug use and associated issues (e.g., public intoxication) were cited as significant problems. Lack of Safety/Security: Many respondents felt parks lacked adequate security measures, contributing to feelings of unease. Maintenance/Cleanliness: Issues such as trash, unhygienic bathrooms, and general disrepair were frequently mentioned as detracting from park enjoyment.
Lack of Amenities: Some identified a need for additional amenities such as shade, seating, sports facilities, and playgrounds. Accessibility: Accessibility issues (geographic and programmatic) were identified, pointing to a need for more equitable distribution of resources.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 25 Focus Groups Spanish Speakers – Translated Summary
Partnerships: Collaboration with community organizations to leverage resources and expertise. Address Homelessness: Providing resources or facilities to connect homeless individuals with support services.
4. In what ways do you believe the department can influence and/or impact these issues? Increased Security/Police Presence: Many suggested increased police patrols and/or security personnel to deter crime and ensure a safe environment.
Maintenance/Cleanliness: Suggestions included cleaning, repairing, and renovating facilities, especially bathrooms. Facility Improvements: Recommendations included adding shade, seating, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Programming: Expanded community programming and youth engagement to foster community cohesion. Partnerships: Collaboration with community organizations to leverage resources and expertise. Address Homelessness: Providing resources or facilities to connect homeless individuals with support services.
5. In your opinion, how should the department invest resources (including taxpayer dollars) in order to have the greatest impact on the greater community?
Security: Allocate funds to enhance park security, including increased patrols and lighting. Maintenance: Dedicate resources to improving cleanliness and upkeep of existing facilities, especially bathrooms and play areas. Amenities: Prioritize funding for new and improved amenities, such as shade structures, seating, and sports equipment. Programming: Support community and youth programs to enhance park usage and community involvement.
6. Are there any barriers (if any) you believe prevent people from participating in services offered by the department? Safety/Security Concerns: This was a prominent deterrent, especially regarding concerns about homeless individuals and drug use. Cleanliness: Concerns about the cleanliness and upkeep of parks detracted from the willingness to visit. Lack of Amenities: Lack of desired amenities limited the appeal for some residents.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 26 Focus Groups Spanish Speakers – Translated Summary
7. What opportunities exist for the department to partner with other community organizations? Community Organizations: Partnering with local organizations was seen as beneficial for leveraging resources and expertise. Spanish-Speaking Outreach: Several respondents emphasized the importance of communicating with Spanish-speaking residents in their native language to ensure inclusivity.
8. Is there anything else as it relates to the department or master planning process you would like to share? Youth Sports Complex: Concerns about safety and the need for better facilities (fields, bathrooms), and ensuring a clean environment. Desire for more organized events and activities for families.
McNamara Park: This location was associated with safety concerns (homelessness, alcohol), maintenance issues, and lack of amenities.
Suggestions included better security, improved bathroom facilities, and shade. Downtown Focus Group: Issues related to safety, drug use, and homelessness in parks. The need for increased police presence and community involvement.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 27 Survey Summary
1. What should parks and recreation do for your community? Primary Themes
o Community Connection
The most common theme that respondents believe parks and recreation should do for their community was to provide community connection through programs/services and parks, facilities, trails, and open space. Answers ranged from putting on events and programs for the whole community to providing public spaces for the community to gather. o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Another primary theme from respondents was a call for safe and well-maintained public spaces, parks, and facilities. Specific responses included cleaner and more accessible public restrooms, providing additional resources for the Department to increase their level of service, more security measures to promote safe experiences, and improved maintenance of playground equipment and areas. o Youth Programs & Spaces
One of the most frequently mentioned themes was to better serve the community’s youth population through structured programs and services and areas. Specific responses included the addition of a youth center/areas and after school programs to help keep the youth engaged and choosing positive options.
o Accessibility & Inclusion
Another common theme was requests for accessible, adaptive, and inclusive spaces for those with special needs and disabilities. Specific responses included sensor-friendly and gated playgrounds for those with autism, general improved wheelchair access, and more safety signage in parks and facilities.
Secondary Themes
o Sports Programs & Facilities
Responses included more youth and adult sports programs, pickleball courts, and baseball/softball fields. o Water Features
Responses included a call for more splash pads, water parks, and drinking fountains.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 28 Survey Summary
o Environmental Considerations
Responses included general environmentally friendly practices, preservation of green space, and to increase planting of trees and native plants.
o Financial Considerations
Responses included affordability, funding for capital improvement. o Unhoused Population
Responses included addressing the public safety issues that come with the unhoused population in parks and public spaces, and establishing partnerships to serve the unhoused population.
2. What problems in the community can parks and recreation help with? Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
The most common theme that respondents believe is a problem that parks and recreation can help with was that public spaces, parks, and facilities could see improvements to safety, maintenance, and cleanliness. Specific responses included increased cleanliness of restrooms, fixing broken park amenities, trail maintenance, and improved trash and graffiti clean-up. o Unhoused Population
Related to the most common primary theme, there are concerns around the community’s unhoused population and the public safety issues that they present. Specific responses included the negative effects of public drug and alcohol use, trash, negative interactions, and decreased use of parks and public spaces due to perceived lack of public safety. o Youth Programs & Spaces
Related to the most common primary theme, there are concerns around the community’s unhoused population and the public safety issues that they present. Specific responses included the negative effects of public drug and alcohol use, trash, negative interactions, and decreased use of parks and public spaces due to perceived lack of public safety.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 29 Survey Summary
o Mental Health
Another common theme was that parks and recreation can help reduce mental and emotional health issues (e.g., loneliness, isolation, depression, anxiety) of community members by providing programs, services, and public spaces. Secondary Themes
o Accessibility & Inclusion
Responses included providing adaptive and inclusive playground equipment to better serve those with special needs and disabilities. o Environmental Considerations
Responses included improved planting strategies, increased shaded areas, and environmentally sustainable park planning. o Communication, Marketing & Outreach
Responses included improved communication efforts with the public to increase awareness of offerings and parks.
3. Which City of Merced recreation programs have you or a family member participated in? Select all that apply.
Recreation Program # of
respondents Recreation Program # of
respondents
Community Special Events 72 Martial Arts 11
Swimming Lessons 27 Senior Activities 8
Youth Baseball 25 Open Gym Pickleball 7
Youth Basketball 24 Stargazing Nights 7
Health and Wellness 23 Senior Health and Wellness 5
Adult Basketball 22 Youth Tennis 5
Adult Softball 19 Youth Hockey 4
Dance Classes 16 Open Gym Badminton 3
Youth Football 13 Senior Dance 3
Summer Camps 12 Youth Pickleball 2
Other 12 Hunting at WWTP 1
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 30 Survey Summary
Notable “Other” responses included specific City of Merced Community Events and park amenities (i.e. Disc Golf course), and external provider programs and services (wrestling and McSwain Union Elementary School District youth soccer).
4. Which parks or trails in the City of Merced do you visit? Select all that apply.
Park # of
respondents Park # of
respondents
Applegate Park 73 Stephen Gray Park 7
Merced Applegate Zoo 62 Dwight Amey Park 6
Rahilly Park 58 Other 5
McNamara Park 54 Hansen Park 4
Joe Herb Park 38 Benjamin Banneker Memorial Park 3
Fahrens Park 37 Frank Gasper Park 3
Bernasconi Park 31 Brooks Park 2
Youth Sports Complex 25 Carol Gabriault Park 2
Merced Dog Park 24 Childs & B Street Park 2
Black Rascal Creek Bike Way Park 22 Dennis Chavez Park 2 Bob Carpenter Park 22 Diego Rivera Park 2
Fahrens Park Old & Bike Path 22 Flanagan Park 2
Burbank Park 18 Frederick Douglass Park 2
Davenport Park 17 Gilbert Macias Park 2
Elmer Murchie Park 17 Santa Fe Strip Park 2
Ada Givens Park 12 William Lloyd Garrison Park 2
Merced Senior Community Center 11 Charles Richard Drew Park 1 Neighborhood Park 11 Harriet Tubman Park 1
Rudolph Joseph Merino Park 11 Little Angels Park 1
Stephen Loveland Park 8 MacReady Park 1
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 31 Survey Summary
Notable “Other” responses included City of Merced’s Bear Creek Bicycle Path, Merced County parks (i.e., Lake Yosemite), and other municipalities parks (i.e., City of Planada).
5. Why do you choose these parks?
Primary Themes
o Proximity
The most mentioned reason that respondents visit certain City of Merced parks was proximity to where they live and that they are easily accessible to get to.
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Another primary theme from respondents was that these parks are clean and safe. Specific responses included that they felt safe, are visibly well maintained, and have no/less unhoused populations present. o Amenities
The amenities present in parks was a highly cited reason for visiting certain parks. Specific responses included age-appropriate playgrounds, accessible restrooms, gardens and natural areas, sports fields and courts, the Applegate Zoo, and shaded areas. o Programs and Services
The last primary theme was that there were scheduled programs and services at those parks. Specific responses included youth sports games and practices, and community events.
Secondary Themes
o Familiarity
Responses included the general familiarity and having grown up at certain parks. o Social Considerations
Responses included extended family and social gatherings occurring at certain parks.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 32 Survey Summary
6. What parks or trails in the City of Merced do you tend to avoid? Select all that apply.
Park # of
respondents Park # of
respondents
McNamara Park 22 Davenport Park 5
Applegate Park 20 Santa Fe Strip Park 5
Joe Herb Park 16 Charles Richard Drew Park 4
Fahrens Park 15 Dennis Chavez Park 4
Fahrens Park Old & Bike Path 15 Diego Rivera Park 4
Black Rascal Creek Bike Way Park 13 Harriet Tubman Park 4 Burbank Park 12 Merced Applegate Zoo 4
Merced Dog Park 12 Rudolph Joseph Merino Park 4
Stephen Loveland Park 9 The Love Veasley Family Park 4
Stephen Gray Park 8 William Lloyd Garrison Park 4
Ada Givens Park 7 Dwight Amey Park 3
Bernasconi Park 7 Elmer Murchie Park 3
Bob Carpenter Park 7 Frank Gasper Park 3
Carol Gabriault Park 7 Frederick Douglass Park 3
Childs & B Street Park 7 Gilbert Macias Park 3
Rahilly Park 7 Little Angels Park 3
Benjamin Banneker Memorial Park 6 Hansen Park 2
Flanagan Park 6 MacReady Park 2
Youth Sports Complex 6 Neighborhood Park 2
Other 6 Merced Senior Community Center 1
Brooks Park 5
“Other” responses included cited reasons for avoiding parks.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 33 Survey Summary
7. What kinds of improvements to these parks would encourage you to visit them? Primary Themes
o Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
Again, the cleanliness, maintenance, and safety of parks is of the utmost concern among respondents. Specific responses cite the unclean and closed restrooms, desire for increased police and law enforcement, general improved maintenance and upkeep of parks, trails, and facilities.
o Unhoused Population
Related to the most common primary theme, addressing the community’s unhoused population and the public safety issues that they present would encourage respondents to visit the parks they tend to avoid. Specific responses included public drug and alcohol use, encampments near playgrounds and trails, and calls to action for broader community housing solutions. o Amenities
Improvements to park amenities was another primary theme identified by respondents. Specific responses included the City of Merced provide additional natural and structured shaded areas, lighting, picnic tables, sports fields and courts, gardens, playgrounds, and a pump track.
Secondary Themes
o Transportation
Responses included improved public transportation options to parks. o Accessibility & Inclusion
Responses included providing adaptive and inclusive playground equipment to better serve those with special needs and disabilities. o Water Features
Responses included a call for more splash pads, water fountains, and other water features to combat the heat. o Partnerships
Responses included “Adopt-a-Park”, volunteer maintenance events, and partnerships with local schools and nonprofit organizations.
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 34 Pop Up Engagements
1. What New Park Amenities would you like to see at Parks in Merced? Rank Amenities Total
Votes
Pop-Up 1
(Adult COED Softball
at John Herb Park)
Pop-Up 2
(Merced Senior
Community Center)
Pop-Up 3
(Movies in the Park
at the Merced
Theater)
Pop-Up 4
(Ride with the Mayor
at Applegate Park)
Pop-Up 5
(Lao New Year on
Main Street)
1 Splashpads 51 2 5 22 3 19
2 Playground 42 2 3 22 2 13
3 (tie) Group Picnic Areas 28 3 5 10 0 10
3 (tie) Walking Trails/Interpretive Trails 28 6 2 10 2 8 5 (tie) Outdoor Fitness Areas/Trails 26 3 4 7 3 9
5 (tie) Volleyball Courts 26 6 1 8 3 8
7 Community Garden 25 3 4 7 2 9
8 Amphitheater 23 4 2 7 2 8
9 All-Wheels Pump Track 21 5 1 9 2 4
10 Basketball Courts 20 3 2 4 1 10
11 Multi-purpose Fields 18 9 0 6 1 2
12 Pickleball Courts 16 7 1 4 1 3
13 Dog Parks/Dog Runs 13 2 1 4 0 6
14 Park Games (Ping-pong, Bocce Ball) 13 0 2 4 2 5
15 Tennis Courts 12 5 1 4 0 2
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 35 Pop Up Engagements
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 36 Pop Up Engagements
Written Comments
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 37 Pop Up Engagements
Written Comments
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 38 Open House
1. Goals, Objectives, and Priorities Comments
Maintenance
o Enhance the existing amenities in aging community parks with modern amenities • Shade
• Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
• Playgrounds
• Trails & Connectivity
o Establish guidelines and standards to maintain existing recreation facilities • Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
o Establish a trail maintenance program to encourage use • Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
• Overall connectivity in Merced
Park Infrastructure
o Explore the equitable distribution of future park opportunities to strengthen community character • Investment in South Merced
• Trails & Connectivity
o Establish new indoor recreation facilities that meet the demands of the community • Public Wi-Fi
• Indoor sports courts
o Enhance internal and external communication about division activities, events, and services • Social media
• Multi-lingual efforts
• In-person outreach
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 39 Open House
Connectivity
o Provide complete streets that include walkable and bike-friendly networks throughout the city for safe and equitable access to parks
• Separation of bike and pedestrian use
• North-South connectivity
• Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
o Update plans and policies to meet the needs of current city of Merced residents and to align with future growth rates • General improvements
o Encourage open communication and coordination among city departments and pertinent regional, state, federal agencies • Public transit
Park Infrastructure
o Enhance current and future parks with sustainable design that encourages safety and creates accessibility for users of all ages and abilities
• Trails & Connectivity
o Identify park functions and redesigns that address the complex issue of homelessness and its impact on park use • Unhoused population
o Create safe and accessible outdoor spaces to promote public health and wellness • No cell towers
• Cleanliness, Maintenance & Safety
• Shade
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 40 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 41 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 42 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 43 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 44 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 45 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 46 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 47 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 48 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 49 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 50 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 51 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 52 Open House
CITY OF MERCED, CA | Play on PurposeSupplement A: Engagement Report | 2026–2035 PROS MASTER PLAN 53 Open House