DRAFT | DECEMBER 2025DRAFT | DECEMBER 2025
Appendices
4 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix A:
Resolution of
Approval
A
(To be inserted post-adoption)
6 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix B:
Demographics &
Trends Report
B
1 CHAPTER ONE – DEMOGRAPHIC & RECREATION TRENDS ANALYSIS
1.1 INTRODUCTION
A key component of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan (“Plan”) is a Demographic & Recreation Trends Analysis. This provides the City of Santa Clara’s Parks and Recreation Department (“City”) insight into the general makeup of the population served and identifies market trends in recreation. It also helps quantify the market in and around the City and understand the types of parks, facilities, and programs / services that are most appropriate to satisfy the needs of residents.
This analysis is two -fold – it aims to answer the who and the what. First, it assesses the demographic characteristics and population projections of City residents to understand who they serve. Secondly, recreational trends are examined on a national, regional, and local level to understand what the population served wants to do. Findings from this analysis establish a fundamental understanding that provides a basis for prioritizing the community need for parks, trails, facilities, and recreation programs.
1.2 DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS
The Demographic Analysis describes the population within the city . This assessment is reflective of the City’s total population and its key characteristics such as age segments, race, ethnicity, and income levels. It is important to note that future projections are based on historical patterns and unforeseen circumstances during or after the time of the analysis could have a significant bearing on the validity of the projected figures.
1.3 METHODOLOGY
Demographic data used for the analysis was obtained from U.S. Census Bureau and from Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI), the largest research and development organization dedicated to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and specializi ng in population projections and market trends.
All data was acquired in September 2023 and reflects actual numbers as reported in the 2010 and 2020 Census. ESRI then estimates the current population (202 3) as well as a 5-year projection (2028). PROS utilized straight line linear regression to forecast demographic characteristics for 203 3 and 2038.
2 CITY POPULACE
POPULATION
The City’s population has experienced some growth in the last 13 years, increasing 9.46% from 2010 to 2023, or on average 0.95%. This is in-line with the national annual growth rate of 0.81% (from 2010-2023).
Like the population, the total number of households also experienced a n increase, (8.82% over the 13 years.
Currently, the population is estimated at 133,597 individuals living within 49,381 households. Projecting ahead, the total population growth is expected to continue to grow . By 2038, the City ’s population is projected at 154,569 residents ( 1.33% annual growth) living within 57,072 households ( 1.37% annual growth).
116,610 127,647 133,597 141,877 147,630 154,569
0.95%
2.33%
1.24%
0.81% 0.94%
-0.50%
0.50%
1.50%
2.50%
3.50%
4.50%
5.50%
6.50%
0 20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
160,000
180,000
2010
Census
2020
Census
2023
Estimate
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
2038
Projection
POPULATION
Total Population Population Annual Growth Rate
43,196
47,004 49,381 52,493 54,521 57,072
0.88%
2.53%
1.26%
0.77% 0.94%
-0.50%
0.50%
1.50%
2.50%
3.50%
4.50%
5.50%
0 10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
2010
Census
2020
Census
2023
Estimate
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
2038
Projection
HOUSEHOLDS
Number of Households Households Annual Growth Rate
3 AGE SEGMENT
Evaluating the City’s age segmentation, the population has become slightly older in the last 13 years. In 2010, the 55+ population made up 19% of the population, whereas today it makes up 24% of Santa Clara’s populace, an increase of 5%. The 2023 population has a median age of 34.3 years old which i s slightly younger than the U.S. median age of 38.5 years. Over the last 1 3 years, the City has continued to have a balanced age segmentation. This trend is projected to continue over the next 15 years as the 55+ age segment is expected to represent 27% of the total population (a slight increase of 3% over 2023) while other major age segments will remain relatively unchanged. 21% 21% 20% 21% 20%
30% 26% 27% 25% 25%
29% 28% 28% 28% 28%
14% 18% 18% 19% 20%
5% 6% 7% 7% 7%
2010
Census
2023
Estimate
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
2038
Projection
POPULATION BY AGE SEGMENTS
0-17 18-34 35-54 55-74 75+
4 RACE AND ETHNICITY DEFINITIONS
The minimum categories for data on race and ethnicity for Federal statistics, program administrative reporting, and civil rights compliance reporting are defined below. The Census 2020 data on race is directly comparable with data from the 20 10 Census . The latest (Census 20 20) definitions and nomenclature are used within this analysis.
• American Indian – This includes a person having origins in any of the original peoples of North and South America (including Central America), and who maintains tribal affiliation or community attachment.
• Asian – This includes a person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent including, for example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine Islands, Thailand, and Vietnam. • Black Alone – This includes a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa. • Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander – This includes a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands. • White Alone – This includes a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa.
• Hispanic or Latino – This is an ethnic distinction, a subset of a race as defined by the Federal Government; this includes a person of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, South, or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin, regardless of race.
Please Note: The Census Bureau defines Race as a person’s self -identification with one or more of the following social groups: White, Black, or African American, Asian, American Indian, and Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, some other race, or a combination of these, while Ethnicity is defined as whether a person is of Hispanic / Latino origin or not. For this reason, the Hispanic / Latino ethnicity is viewed separate from race throughout this demographic analysis.
5 RACE
Assessing race, the City’s current population has diversified significantly over the last 1 3 years as the White Alone population has decreased by 16%. Asian Alone has become the largest racial segmentation in the City, the Asian Alone population represents 49% . The predictions for 2038 expect the population to become more diverse, with the Asian Alone population becoming the racial majority in the community at 58% while the White Alone population will continue to decrease and represent only 16% of the population.
ETHNICITY
The City’s population was also assessed
based on Hispanic/Latino ethnicity, which
by the Census Bureau definition is viewed
independently from race. It is important to
note that individuals who are
Hispanic/Latino in ethnicity can also
identify with any racial categories
identified above.
People of Hispanic/Latino origin has
remained unchanged over the last 13 years
and currently represents approximately 18%
of the City’s population, which is just below
the national average (19% Hispanic/Latino).
The Hispanic/ Latino population is expected to remain relatively unchanged at 18% of the City ’s total population by 2038.
18% 18% 19% 18% 18%
82% 82% 81% 82% 82%
2020
Census
2023
Estimate
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
2038
Projection
HISPANIC POPULATION
Hispanic / Latino Origin (any race) All Others
45%
31% 29% 26% 20% 16%
3%
2% 2% 2%
2%
2%
38%
47% 49% 51% 55% 58%
8%
9% 9% 10% 10% 10%
5% 10% 10% 10% 12% 13%
2010
Census
2020
Census
2023
Estimate
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
2038
Projection
RACE
Two or More Races
Some Other Race
Native Hawaiian & Other Pacific
Islander Alone
Asian Alone
American Indian & Alaska Native
Alone
Black or African American Alone
White Alone
6 HOUSEHOLD INCOME
As seen below, the City’s per capita income ($71,968) and median household income ($157,118) are both higher than the U.S. averages as well as the averages of the State of California . The per capita income is that earned by an individual while the median household income is based on the total income of everyone over the age of 16 living under the same roof. Though these above average income characteristics indicate that the average household may have more disposable income, residents are still likely to be price conscious and have a need to understand the value that correlates with quality-of-life indicators.
$71,968
$45,201 $35,672
$157,118
$89,455
$65,712
Santa Clara California U.S.A.
COMPARATIVE INCOME
Per Capita Income Median Household Income
7 SANTA CLARA DEMOGRAPHIC IMPLICATIONS
The following implications are derived from the analyses provided above. Each implication is organized by the outlined demographic information sections.
POPULATION
The population is steadily increasing and is projected to experience a population increase of 19.6% over the next 15 years. This is NOT in-line with the national average over the same time. With a growing population, park and recreation services will need to strategically invest, develop, and maintain parks and recreation facilities in relation to current and future residential growth.
AGE SEGMENTATION
Santa Clara currently has a balanced age segmentation with the largest group being 35-54 (28%). Over the next 15 years, the city is projected to remain balanced as the 55+ segment will make up only 27% of the population (1% lower than 34-54 age segmentation) in 2038.
RACE AND ETHNICITY
A diversifying community will likely focus the City on providing traditional and emerging programming and service offerings.
HOUSEHOLDS AND INCOME
With median and per capita household income averages above that of MSA and national averages, it would be important for the City to prioritize providing offerings that are first class with exceptional customer service while seeking opportunities to create revenue generation.
8 1.4 NATIONAL R ECREATION TRENDS ANALYSIS
The Trends Analysis provides an understanding of national, regional, and local recreational trends as well as recreational interest by age segments. Trends data used for this analysis was obtained from Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA), National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI). All trend data is based on current and/or historical participation rates, statistically valid survey results, or NRPA Park Metrics.
NATIONAL TRENDS IN RECREATION
METHODOLOGY
The Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA ) Sports, Fitness & Leisure Activities Topline Participation Report 2023 was utilized in evaluating the following trends:
• National Recreation Participatory Trends
• Core vs. Casual Participation Trends
The study is based on findings from surveys conducted in 2023 by the Sports Marketing Surveys USA (SMS), resulting in a total of 18,000 online interviews. Surveys were administered to all genders, ages, income levels, regions, and ethnicities to allow for statistical accuracy of the national population. A sample size of 18,000 completed interviews is considered by SFIA to result in a high degree of statistical accuracy. A sport with a participation rate of five percent has a confidence interval of plus or minus 0.32 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level . Using a weighting technique, survey results are applied to the total U.S. population figure of 305,439,858 people (ages six and older).
The purpose of the report is to establish levels of activity and identify key participatory trends in recreation across the U.S. This study looked at 120 different sports/activities and subdivided them into various categories including: sports, fitness, outdoor activities, aquatics, etc.
9 OVERALL PARTICIPATION
Approximately 236.9 million people ages six and over reported being active in 2023, which is a 1.9% increase from 2021 and the greatest number of active Americans in the last 6 years. This is an indicator that Americans are continuing to make physical activity more of a priority in their lives. Outdoor activities continue to thrive, recreation facilities reopened. fitness at home maintains popularity, and team sports are slowly reaching pre- pandemic participation levels. The chart below depicts participati on levels for active and inactive (those who engage in no physical activity) Americans over the past 6 years.
CO
RE VS. CASUAL PARTICIPATION
In addition to overall participation rates, SFIA further categorizes active participants as either core or casual participants based on frequency of participation. Core participants have higher participatory frequency than casual participants. The thresholds that define casual versus core participation may vary based on the nature of each individual activity. For instance, core participants engage in most fitness activities more than fifty times per year, while for sports, the threshold for core participation is typically 13 times per year.
In each activity, core participants are more committed and tend to be less likely to switch to other activities or become inactive (engage in no physical activity) than causal participants. This may also explain why activities with more core participants tend to experience less pattern shifts in participation rates than those with larger groups of casual participants. Increasing for the fifth straight year, 158.1 million people were considered CORE participants in 2023. 216.9 218.5 221.7 229.7 232.6 236.9
81.4 82.1 81.2 74.3 72.2 68.6
0.0 50.0
100.0
150.0
200.0
250.0
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
(MILLIONS)
ACTIVITY AND INACTIVITY TREND
Total Actives Total Inactives
143.6 147.5 149.7 154.3 156.7 158.1
0.0 50.0
100.0
150.0
200.0
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
(MILLIONS)
TOTAL CORE ACTIVES
10 PARTICIPATION BY GENERATION
The following chart shows 2023 participation rates by generation. Fitness sports continue to be the go - to means of exercise for Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials. Over half of the Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z generation participated in one type of outdoor activity. Team sports were heavily dominated by generation Gen Z and nearly a third of Gen X also participated in individual sports such as golf, trail running, triathlons, and bowling.
HI
GHLIGHTS
Team sports are continuing to recover due to shutdowns during the pandemic. Team sports participation rate increased to 23.2% which is near 2019 participation levels. Pickleball continues to be the fastest growing sport in America by doubling its partici pation in 2023 . Following the popularity of pickleball, every racquet sport also increased in total participation in 2023.
Americans continued to practice yoga, attend Pilates training, and workout with kettlebells. Many started indoor climbing, while others took to the hiking trail. The waterways traffic had an increase of stand-up paddlers, kayaks, and jet skis. Gymnastics, swimming on a team, court volleyball, and fast-pitch softball benefited from the participation boom created from the Olympics.
Water sports had the largest gain in participation rates. Activities such as jet skiing, scuba diving, and boardsailing/windsurfing all contributed to the 7% increase. Outdoor sports continued to grow with 5 5% percent of the U.S. population participating. This rate remains higher than pre- pandemic levels with a 51% participation rate in 2019. The largest contributor to this gain was trail running, having a 45% increase over the last five years.
66.2%
22.9%
43.3%
8.0%
4.6%
8.8%
3.7%
66.7%
31.9%
52.9%
13.1%
14.4%
13.4%
9.0%
69.2%
43.4%
61.6%
21.2%
31.3%
18.8%
15.8%
55.5%
45.4%
61.0%
23.4%
54.8%
17.4%
20.4%
FITNESS
SPORTS
INDIVIDUAL
SPORTS
OUTDOOR
SPORTS
RACQUET
SPORTS
TEAM
SPORTS
WATER
SPORTS
WINTER
SPORTS
PARTICIPATION BY GENERATION
Boomers
(1945-1964)
Gen X
(1965-1979)
Millennials
(1980-1999)
Gen Z
(2000+)
11 NATIONAL TRENDS IN GENERAL SPORTS
PARTICIPATION LEVELS
The top sports most heavily participated in the United States were basketball (28.1 million), golf (25.6 million), and tennis (23.6 million) which have participation figures well more than the other activities within the general sports category. Baseball (15.5 million), and outdoor soccer (13.0 million) round out the top five.
The popularity of basketball, golf, and tennis can be attributed to the ability to compete with small number of participants, this coupled with an ability to be played outdoors and/or properly distanced helps explain their popularity during the COVID -19 pandemic. Basketball’s overall success can also be attributed to the limited amount of equipment needed to participate and the limited space requirements necessary, which make basketball the only traditional sport that can be played at most American dwellings as a drive-way pickup game. Golf continues to benefit from its wide age segment appeal and is considered a life-long sport. In addition, target type game venues or golf entertainment venues have increased drastically (86.2%) as a 5 -year trend, using golf entertainment (e.g., Top Golf) as a new alternative to breathe life back into the game of golf.
FIVE -YEAR TREND
Since 2017, pickleball (185.7%), golf - entertainment venues (86.2%), and tennis (33.4%) have shown the largest increase in participation. Similarly, basketball ( 20.3%) and outdoor soccer ( 9.2%) have also experienced significant growth. Based on the five- year trend from 2017 -2023, the sports that are most rapidly declining in participation include ultimate frisbee (-31.5%), rugby (-28.1%), and roller hockey ( -
25.4%).
ONE-YEAR TREND
The most recent year shares some similarities with the five-year trends; with pickleball (85.7%) and golf - entertainment venues (25.7%) experiencing some of the greatest increases in participation this past year. Other top one-year increases include racquetball (8.0%), badminton (7.1%), and gymnastics.
Sports that have seen moderate 1-year increases, but 5-year decreases are racquetball (8.0%), gymnastics (7.1%), and court volleyball (4.2%). This could be a result of coming out of the COVID -19 pandemic and team program participation on the rise. Like their 5-year trend, rugby (-5.8%), roller hockey (-4.0%), and ultimate frisbee (-2.2%) have seen decreases in participation over the last year.
12 2017 2021 2022 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Basketball 23,401 27,135 28,149 20.3% 3.7%
Golf (9 or 18-Hole Course) 23,829 25,111 25,566 7.3% 1.8% Tennis 17,683 22,617 23,595 33.4% 4.3%
Golf (Entertainment Venue) 8,345 12,362 15,540 86.2% 25.7% Baseball 15,642 15,587 15,478 -1.0% -0.7%
Soccer (Outdoor) 11,924 12,556 13, 018 9.2% 3.7%
Pickleball 3,132 4,819 8,949 185.7% 85.7%
Football (Flag) 6,551 6,889 7,104 8.4% 3.1%
Badminton 6,430 6,061 6,490 0.9% 7.1%
Volleyball (Court) 6,317 5,849 6,092 -3.6% 4.2%
Softball (Slow Pitch) 7,283 6,008 6,036 -17.1% 0.5%
Soccer (Indoor) 5,399 5,408 5,495 1.8% 1.6%
Boxing for Fitness 5,157 5,237 5,472 6.1% 4.5%
Football (Tackle) 5,224 5,228 5,436 4.1% 4.0%
Football (Touch) 5,629 4,884 4,843 -14.0% -0.8%
Gymnastics 4,805 4,268 4,569 -4.9% 7.1%
Volleyball (Sand/Beach) 4,947 4,184 4,128 -16.6% -1.3%
Track and Field 4,161 3,587 3,690 -11.3% 2.9%
Racquetball 3,526 3,260 3,521 -0.1% 8.0%
Cheerleading 3,816 3,465 3,507 -8.1% 1.2%
Ice Hockey 2,544 2,306 2,278 -10.5% -1.2%
Softball (Fast Pitch) 2,309 2,088 2,146 -7.1% 2.8%
Ultimate Frisbee 3,126 2,190 2,142 -31.5% -2.2%
Wrestling 1,896 1,937 2,036 7.4% 5.1%
Lacrosse 2,171 1,892 1,875 -13.6% -0.9%
Roller Hockey 1,834 1,425 1,368 -25.4% -4.0%
Squash 1,492 1,185 1,228 -17.7% 3.6%
Rugby 1,621 1,238 1,166 -28.1% -5.8%
National Participatory Trends - General Sports
Activity % Change
Legend:
Moderate Increase
(0% to 25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Participation Levels
13 NATIONAL TRENDS IN GENERAL FITNESS
PARTICIPATION LEVELS
Overall, national participatory trends in fitness have experienced growth in recent years. Many of these activities have become popular due to an increased interest among Americans to improve their health and enhance quality of life by engaging in an active lifestyle. The most popular general fitness activities in 2023 also were those that could be done at home or in a virtual class environment. The activities with the most participation was walking for fitness (114.8 million), treadmill (53.6 million), free weights (53.1 million), running/jogging (47.8 million), and yoga (33.6 million).
FI
VE-YEAR TREND
Over the last five years (2017-2023), the activities growing at the highest rate were trail running (44.9%), yoga (23.0%), Pilates training (14.0%) and dance, step & choreographed exercise. Over the same period, the activities that have undergone the biggest decline in participation include group stationary cycling (-33.4%), cross-training style workout (-32.1%) and non-traditional/off road triathlons (-28.1%).
ONE-YEAR TREND
In the last year, fitness activities with the largest gains in participation were group- related activities, cardio kickboxing (8.5%), Pilates training (5.8%), and group stationary cycling (5.5%). This 1- year trend is another indicator that participants feel safe returning to group-related activities. Trail running (5.9%) also saw a moderate increase indicating trail connectivity to continue to be important for communities to provide. In the same span, fitness activities that had the largest decline in participation were cross - training style workout (-5.3%), bodyweight exercise (-2.6%) and running/jogging (-2.4%).
14 2017 2021 2022 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Walking for Fitness 110,805 115,814 114,759 3.6% -0.9%
Treadmill 52,966 53,627 53,589 1.2% -0.1%
Free Weights (Dumbbells/Hand Weights) 52,217 52,636 53,140 1.8% 1.0% Running/Jogging 50,770 48,977 47,816 -5.8% -2.4%
Yoga 27,354 34,347 33,636 23.0% -2.1%
Stationary Cycling (Recumbent/Upright) 36,035 32,453 32,102 -10.9% -1.1% Weight/Resistant Machines 36,291 30,577 30,010 -17.3% -1.9% Free Weights (Barbells) 27,444 28,243 28,678 4.5% 1.5%
Elliptical Motion/Cross-Trainer 32,283 27,618 27,051 -16.2% -2.1% Dance, Step, & Choreographed Exercise 22,616 24,752 25,163 11.3% 1.7% Bodyweight Exercise 24,454 22,629 22,034 -9.9% -2.6%
High Impact/Intensity Training 21,476 21,973 21,821 1.6% -0.7% Trail Running 9,149 12,520 13,253 44.9% 5.9%
Rowing Machine 11,707 11,586 11,893 1.6% 2.6%
Stair Climbing Machine 14,948 11,786 11,677 -21.9% -0.9% Pilates Training 9,047 9,745 10,311 14.0% 5.8%
Cross-Training Style Workout 13,622 9,764 9,248 -32.1% -5.3% Martial Arts 5,838 6,186 6,355 8.9% 2.7%
Stationary Cycling (Group) 9,409 5,939 6,268 -33.4% 5.5% Cardio Kickboxing 6,693 5,099 5,531 -17.4% 8.5%
Boxing for Fitness 5,157 5,237 5,472 6.1% 4.5%
Boot Camp Style Cross-Training 6,651 5,169 5,192 -21.9% 0.4% Barre 3,436 3,659 3,803 10.7% 3.9%
Tai Chi 3,787 3,393 3,394 -10.4% 0.0%
Triathlon (Traditional/Road) 2,162 1,748 1,780 -17.7% 1.8% Triathlon (Non-Traditional/Off Road) 1,878 1,304 1,350 -28.1% 3.5% National Participatory Trends - General Fitness
Activity % Change
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over Moderate Increase
(0% to 25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)Legend:
Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Participation Levels
15 1.2.5 NATIONAL TRENDS IN OUTDOOR /ADVENTURE RECREATION
PARTICIPATION LEVELS
Results from the SFIA report demonstrate rapid growth in participation regarding outdoor/ adventure recreation activities. Much like general fitness activities, these activities encourage an active lifestyle, can be performed individually, and are not as limited by time constraints. In 2023, the most popular activities, in terms of total participants include day hiking (59.5 million), road bicycling (43.6 million), freshwater fishing (41.8 million), camping (37.4 million), and wildlife viewing (20.6 million).
FIVE -YEAR TREND
From 2017-2023, sport/bouldering (174.8%), camping (42.5%), skateboarding (41.3%), day hiking (32.7%), birdwatching (28.6%) has undergone large increases in participation. The five -year trend also shows activities such as indoor climbing ( -51.4%), adventure racing (- 32.2%) to be the only activities with double-digit decreases in participation.
ONE-YEAR TREND
The one-year trend shows most activities growing in participation from the previous year. The most rapid growth being in sport/boulder climbing ( 151.1%), BMX bicycling (8.3%), birdwatching (6.8%), and in-line roller skating (4.7%). Over the last year , the only activities that underwent decreases in participation were indoor climbing ( -56.9%), adventure racing (- 6.1%), and overnight backpacking ( -0.9%). Core vs.
Casual trends in Outdoor recreation
16 2017 2021 2022 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Hiking (Day) 44,900 58,697 59,578 32. 7% 1.5%
Bicycling (Road) 38,866 42,775 43,554 12.1% 1.8%
Fishing (Freshwater) 38,346 40,853 41,821 9.1% 2.4%
Camping 26,262 35,985 37,431 42.5% 4.0%
Wildlife Viewing (>1/4 mile of Vehicle/Home) 20,351 20,452 20,615 1.3% 0.8% Camping (Recreational Vehicle) 16,159 16,371 16,840 4.2% 2.9% Birdwatching (>1/4 mile of Vehicle/Home) 12,296 14,815 15,818 28.6% 6.8% Fishing (Saltwater) 13,062 13,790 14,344 9.8% 4.0%
Backpacking Overnight 10,975 10,306 10,217 -6.9% -0.9%
Skateboarding 6,382 8,747 9,019 41.3% 3.1%
Bicycling (Mountain) 8,609 8,693 8,916 3.6% 2.6%
Fishing (Fly) 6,791 7,458 7,631 12.4% 2.3%
Archery 7,769 7,342 7,428 -4.4% 1.2%
Climbing (Sport/Boulder) 2,103 2,301 5,778 174.8% 151.1% Roller Skating, In-Line 5,268 4,940 5,173 -1.8% 4.7%
Bicycling (BMX) 3,413 3,861 4,181 22.5% 8.3%
Climbing (Indoor) 5,045 5,684 2,452 -51.4% -56.9%
Climbing (Traditional/Ice/Mountaineering) 2,527 2,374 2,452 -3.0% 3.3% Adventure Racing 2,529 1,826 1,714 -32.2% -6.1%
National Participatory Trends - Outdoor / Adventure Recreation Activity Participation Levels % Change
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over Legend:
Moderate Increase
(0% to 25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
17 1.2.6 NATIONAL TRENDS IN AQUATIC S
PARTICIPATION LEVELS
Swimming is deemed a lifetime activity, which is why it continues to have such strong participation. In 2023, fitness swimming remained the overall leader in participation ( 26.3 million) amongst aquatic activities.
FIVE -YEAR T REND
Assessing the five -year trend, fitness swimming ( -3.2%) and swimming on a team ( -3.4%) experienced moderate decreases due to the accessibility of facilities during COVID-19. While aquatic exercise (2.1%) saw a slight increase in participation during this same time.
ONE-YEAR T REND
In 2023, all aquatic activities saw moderate increases in participation which can be asserted to facilities and programs returning to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. Swimming on a team (2.8%), aquatic exercise (2.7%) and fitness swimming (2.5%) saw moderate increases in participation.
2017 2021 2022 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Swimming (Fitness) 27,135 25,620 26,272 -3.2% 2.5%
Aquatic Exercise 10,459 10,400 10,676 2.1% 2.7%
Swimming on a Team 3,007 2,824 2,904 -3.4% 2.8%
National Participatory Trends - Aquatics
Activity Participation Levels % Change
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over Legend:
Moderate Increase
(0% to 25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
18 1.2.7 NATIONAL TRENDS IN WATER SPORTS / ACTIVITIES
PARTICIPATION LEVEL
The most popular water sports / activities based on total participants in 2023 were recreational kayaking (13.6 million), canoeing (9.5 million), and snorkeling (7.4 million). It should be noted that water activity participation tends to vary based on regional, seasonal, and environmental factors. A region with more water access and a warmer climate is more likely to have a higher participation rate in water activities than a region that has a long winter season or limited water access. Therefore, when assessing trends in water sports and activities, it is important to understand that fluctuations may be the result of environmental barriers which can influence water activity participation.
FI
VE-YEAR TREND
Over the last five years, surfing (37.8%), recreational kayaking (28.7%), stand-up paddling (13.6%) and white-water kayaking (9.0%) were the fastest growing water activit ies. From 2017- 2023, activities declining in participation were water skiing ( -14.9%), snorkeling (- 12.0%), boardsailing/windsurfing (-
11.6%), and sea/touring kayaking (10.6%).
ONE-YEAR TREND
In 2023, water skiing ( -0.6%) was the only water activity to see a decrease in participation. Activities which experienced the largest increases in participation in the most recent year include jet skiing (7.6%), scuba diving (7.4%), boardsailing/windsurfing (7.2%), and surfing (6.6%).
19 2017 2021 2022 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Kayaking (Recreational) 10,533 13,351 13,561 28.7% 1.6% Canoeing 9,220 9,199 9,521 3.3% 3.5%
Snorkeling 8,384 7,316 7,376 -12.0% 0.8%
Jet Skiing 5,418 5, 062 5,445 0.5% 7.6%
Stand-Up Paddling 3,325 3,739 3,777 13.6% 1.0%
Surfing 2,680 3,463 3,692 37.8% 6.6%
Sailing 3,974 3,463 3,632 -8.6% 4.9%
Rafting 3,479 3,383 3,595 3.3% 6.3%
Water Skiing 3,572 3,058 3,040 -14.9% -0.6%
Wakeboarding 3,005 2,674 2,754 -8.4% 3.0%
Kayaking (White Water) 2,500 2,587 2,726 9.0% 5.4%
Scuba Diving 2,874 2,476 2,658 -7.5% 7.4%
Kayaking (Sea/Touring) 2,955 2,587 2,642 -10.6% 2.1%
Boardsailing/Windsurfing 1,573 1,297 1,391 -11.6% 7.2%
National Participatory Trends - Water Sports / Activities Activity % Change
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over Legend:
Moderate Increase
(0% to 25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Participation Levels
20 1.5 NON -PARTICIPANT INTEREST BY AGE SEGMENT
In addition to participation rates by generation, SFIA also tracks non- participant interest. These are activities that the U.S. population currently does not participate in due to physical or monetary barriers, but is interested in participating in. Below are the top five activities that each age segment would be most likely to partake in if they were readily available.
Overall, the activities most age segments are interested in inc luding Camping, Bicycling, Fishing, and Swimming for Fitness. All of which are deemed as low-impact activities, making them obtainable for any age segment to enjoy.
Fishing
Camping
Soccer
Martial Arts
Basketball
6-12 Year-Olds
Fishing
Camping
Working out w/ Weights
Volleyball
Running/Jogging
13-17 Year-Olds
Camping
Fishing
Martial Arts
Volleyball
Kayaking
18-24 Year-Olds
Camping
Fitness Swimming
Bicycling
Fishing
Kayaking
25-34 Year-Olds
Fitness Swimming
Camping
Bicycling
Fishing
Hiking
35-44 Year-Olds
Bicycling
Fishing
Camping
Fitness Swimming
Hiking
45-54 Year-Olds
Bicycling
Fishing
Fitness Swimming
Camping
Hiking
55-64 Year-Olds
Fishing
Fitness Swimming
Bicycling
Birdwatching/Wildlife
viewing
Working out using
machines
65+ Year-Olds
21 1.6 RECREATION TRENDS F OR TH E S ENIOR P OPULATION ( 55+) Today, Santa Clara is very diverse with greater and contrasting needs and desires. The Parks and Recreation Department has evolved to ensure that all members of the community are able to benefit from their vast holdings of open space, recreation facilities and service offerings. One area of growing interest is serving the expanding population of older adults.
As mentioned previously, 27% of the population in Santa Clara will be 55+ by 2038.
The findings in a research report produced by NRPA affirms that parks and recreation is a vital service provider to older adults, and yet there remains significant opportunity to do much more. Some of the key findings in the report indicate that more than nine in 10 park and recreation agencies report that they offer facilities, activities and programming that cater to older adults. These activities vary greatly, including providing older adults with chances to socialize with others, ways to stay healthy and active, and opportunities to serve others in their communities. Following is a list of activities that are among those most often geared to older adults:
• E
xercise classes
• Field trips, tours, vacations
• Arts and crafts classes
• Opportunities to volunteer
• Special events and festivals targeted at older adults. • Group walks
• Paid job opportunities to lead exercise classes, work in recreation centers or at parks.
As noted above, the list of activities varies greatly from active to passive and everywhere in -between.
Where Santa Clara can make a real, lasting difference is in providing evidence- based chronic disease prevention and/or management programs that keep older adults healthy and active for years to come.
The trend to accomplish this is for the Department to offer these types of programs for older adults in Santa Clara, including those focused on enhanced fitness, diabetes management, living with arthritis and improving balance.
The wide breadth of service offerings for older adults should reflect the broad population served. This includes The Woodlands following a wide definition of “older adults” when designing and marketing offerings — in many cases starting with adults as young as 55 years old.
Furthermore, Santa Clara may be unique in ensuring that the needs of underserved older adults are met.
The Department can be a critical, lifesaving resource for lower and/or fixed income segments of the older adult population. This can possibly include transportation to and from a ctivities and facilities and low-cost or free fitness programs.
Santa Clara could consider developing programming for older adults with key partners. To best serve this population, partnerships can include, but not limited to:
• Area agencies on aging
• Retirement communities
• Senior meals providers
22 • Hospitals and doctors’ offices
• Local health departments
• Health insurance companies
• Community-based organizations (e.g., faith-based)
But even with these partners , Santa Clara will have hurdles that must be overcome before providing more services to older adults. The most common challenges are the result of inadequate resources, including facility space shortages, insufficient funding, and inadequate staffing. Presumably, these resource constraints will become even more acute as the older adult population grows and the demand for these services increases.
1.7 LOCAL TRENDS – GENERAL SPORTS MARKET POTENTIAL
ESRI's 2023 Sports and Leisure Market Potential Data measures the likely demand for recreation activities as well as expected consumer attitudes towards these activities by City of Santa Clara residents. The MPI shows the likelihood that a resident of the City of Santa Clara will participate in certain activities when compared to the US National average. The City is compared to the national average in three (3) categories – general sports, fitness, and outdoor recreation. PLEASE NOTE: The participation by Santa Clara residents in these activities is not restricted geographically to the City of Santa Clara. For example, a Santa Clara resident may participate in an activity offered by the City of Sandy Springs .
Overall, Santa Clara demonstrates below to above average market potential index numbers. Looking at the three categories (general sports, fitness, and outdoor activity), Santa Clara’s MPI percentages sh ow that Santa Clara has strong participation rates when it comes to fitness activities; general sports and outdoor recreation activities are range from above to below the national averages, depending upon the activity.
Activities with MPI numbers greater than the national average are significant because they demonstrate that there is a greater potential that Santa Clara residents will actively participate in offerings if these activities were provided by the city or surrounding communities. Activities with MPI numbers lower than the national average are also significant because they demonstrate that there is either a lower potential that Santa Clara residents will participate in these activities or the opportunity to participate in these activities is not available to them.
This data should be interfaced with other key findings derived during the master planning process to determine an appropriate level of service for park acreage and amenities for the City of Santa Clara.
Other key factors that determine level of service include, but are not limited to demographic projections, resident need as determined by the community engagement process, current level of service ( existing park and amenity inventory), and access to existing parks and amenities. 23 2023 GENERAL SPORTS MARKET POTENTIAL INDEX
2023 GENERAL FITNESS MARKET POTENTIAL INDEX
98 110
82 84
140
113
123
106
0 20
40 60
80 100
120
140
160
Baseball Basketball Football Golf Soccer Softball Tennis Volleyball
GENERAL SPORTS MPI
Santa Clara National Average (100)
126 132 132
90 105
119 126
138
0 20
40 60
80 100
120
140
160
Aerobics Jogging/
Running
Pilates Swimming Walking for
Exercise
Weight
Lifting
Yoga Zumba
FITNESS MPI
Santa Clara National Average (100)
24 2023 OUTDOOR RECREATION MARKET POTENTIAL INDEX
1.8 RECREATION TRENDS SUMMARY
It is critically important for Santa Clara Parks and Recreation to understand the local and national participation trends in recreation activities. In doing so, the Department can gain general insight into the lifecycle stage of recreation programs and activities (emerging, stable, and declining) and thereby anticipate potential changes in need and demand for the programs and activities that it provides to the residents of Santa Clara. Here are some major takeaways for local and national recreation trends:
• Fitness walking remained the most popular activity OVERALL nationally and this activity will likely continue to grow in popularity in Santa Clara.
• All listed aquatic activities have experienced strong participation nationally though swimming is below the national average in Santa Clara
.
• B
asketball is the most participated in sport nationally while soccer is the most participated in sport locally.
• Ta
ckle football has gained participants nationally over the last five years, but MPI numbers are well below the national average.
• Fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball saw slight increases in participation nationally and locally over the last year.
o PLEASE NOTE: Individual MPI numbers are not available for fast -pitch and slow -pitch s
oftball.
• O
utdoor recreational activities are on the rise nationally and many of these activities are popular lo
cally, including bicycling, hiking, and rock climbing.
• Based on national measurements, income level has a positive impact on activity rate. Higher income households tend to have higher activity rates.
84 105
124
115
77 56
96 122
109
126
0 20
40 60
80 100
120
140
Archery Backpacking Bicycling
(mountain)
Bicycling
(road)
Canoeing/
Kayaking
Fishing
(fresh water)
Fishing
(salt water)
Hiking Horseback
Riding
Rock
Climbing
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY MPI
Santa Clara National Average (100)
8 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix C:
Parks
Assessment
C
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Condition Score Summary
Parks Overall Score Summary
Agnew Park 4 Drainage issues. Lack of planting, especially on the edges and on slopes.
Agnews Historic Park 3 Not well connected with surroundings; feels closed off. Does not read as a public park.
Bill Wilson, Jr. Park 3 Does not connect well to Central Park, adjacent.
Bowers Park 3
There are opportunity areas for added
amenities and features--potentially the open
space by the wading pool and north
entrance/sign.
Bracher Park 3 Needs better screening from highway.
Central Park 4 Lack of connection with Bill Wilson, Jr. Park.
Would benefit from wayfinding signage.
City Plaza Park 4 Path and walking loop are not complete.
Civic Center Park 3
Needs better screening from street. Needs
lifecycle replacement of seating. Does not
connect to adjacent Geof Goodfellow Park.
Creekside Park 3 Does not connect well to Meadow Park,
adjacent.
Earl R Carmichael Park 3
Walking loop is not formalized. Potentially
needs lifecycle replacements of play structure
and surfacing.
Everett Alvarez Jr. Park 3
Need lifecycle replacements of play
structures and surfaces, and additional
seating.
Everett N. "Eddie" Souza Park 4 Needs better screening from street. Potential to highlight trail connection.
Fairway Glen Park 3
Not well connected to adjacent school. Needs
lifecycle replacements of picnic tables and
benches.
Fremont Park 4 Exercise equipment needs lifecycle
replacement.
Fuller Street Park 4 Lack of vegetation and dispersed
planting/beautification areas.
Geof Goodfellow
Sesquicentennial Park 3 Does not have comfort amenities. Does not connect to adjacent Civic Center Park.
Henry Schmidt Park 3 Needs better screening from street. Loop path could be improved.
Homeridge Park 3 Pavement needs replacement. A lot of empty space that has opportunity for better use.
Jenny Strand Park 3
Walking loop is not formalized. Needs
lifecycle replacement of play structure.
Bathrooms closed on visit.
Larry J Marsalli Park 3
Needs better screening from highway and
additional entrance points. Needs lifecycle
replacement of amenities.
Lick Mill Park 3
Needs lifecycle replacements of play
structures and picnic areas. Not well
connected to adjacent Ulistac Open Space.
Live Oak Park 4 Drainage issues on field. Lack of walking loop.
LSAP- Park A 4
These parks lack clarity and character. Names
are confusing and not distinct. LSAP- Park B 4
LSAP- Park C 4
LSAP- Park D 4
LSAP- Park E 4
LSAP- Park F 4
LSAP- Park G 3
LSAP- Park H 4
Machado Park 3 Path/walking loop is not completed.
Mary Gomez Park 3
Need lifecycle replacements of playground
and picnic areas. Need more screening from
street. Need to consider pool plan
considering the closing of the IFC.
Maywood Park 3
Walking loop is not complete. Play structure
and pavement needs lifecycle replacement.
Community room is an opportunity area.
Meadow Park 4 Does not connect well to Creekside Park,
adjacent.
Memorial Cross Park 2
Montague Park 4
Not well connected to adjacent swim center.
Lots of grass areas that could be used for
additional functions.
Parkway Park 3
Need more shrubs and plantings. Parcourse
needs lifecycle replacement, or could be
replaced by other underrepresented
recreation.
Rotary Park 3 Needs lifecycle replacements of play
structure. Limited plantings.
Steve Carli Park 3 Play structures and seating needs lifecycle replacements.
Thamien Park 4
Trail connection is somewhat obscured.
Drainage issues. Needs lifecycle
replacements.
Thomas Barrett Park 4 Play structures and seating needs lifecycle replacements.
Ulistac Natural Area 3
Entrance is not easily and obviously
connected with pedestrian crossings. Would
benefit from road calming measures. Not
well connected to adjacent Lick Mill Park.
Lack of comfort amenities.
Vincent Fiorillo & Family Park 4
War Memorial Playground 4 Not well connected to the surrounding field.
Needs lifecycle replacements.
Warburton Park and Pool 3 Play structures and seating needs lifecycle replacements.
Westwood Oaks Park 3
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Score Categories
•
•
•
•
Scoring Instructions
•
•
•
•
Access + Connectivity
Condition
Functionality
Safety + Comfort
structures, etc. (n/a if
no such adjacent uses)
10 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix D:
Programming
Assessment
D
1 PROGRAM AND SERVICES ASSESSMENT
OVERVIEW OF PRIORITIES AND CORE PROGRAM AREAS
The Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department has a professional staff that annually delivers a comprehensive parks and recreation program to Santa Clara residents. Department staff are responsible for the management and implementation of a diverse array of recreation programs, special community - wide events, and the operation of multiple facilities. Employees are engaged year -round in planning, implementing, conducting, and evaluating programs and events. All functions within the Department combine to provide hundreds of offerings in the ar eas of youth camps, aquatics, sports, health, fitness, literacy, senior services, and special events. But in addition to the provision of services provided directly by the Department, partnerships with other organizations are utilized throughout the servic e area.
Through formal and informal cooperative relationships, various nonprofit agencies and other community partners assist with delivering select programs and indoor space to provide access for programs.
CORE PROGRAM APPROACH
The vision of the Department is to be a premier parks and recreation systems in the region providing all residents access to high -quality programs and experiences. Part of realizing this vision involves identifying Core Program Areas to create a sense of f ocus around activities and outcomes of greatest importance to the community as informed by current and future needs. However, public recreation is challenged by the premise of being all things to all people, especially in a diverse community such as Santa Clara. The philosophy of the Core Program Area assists staff, policy makers, and the public to focus on what is most important. Program areas are considered as Core if they meet many of the following categories:
• The program area has been provided for a long period of time (over 4-5 years) and/or is expected by the community.
• The program area consumes a relatively large portion (5% or more) of the agency’s overall budget.
• The program area is offered 3-4 seasons per year.
• The program area has wide demographic appeal.
• There is a tiered level of skill development available within the programs area’s offerings. • There is full-time staff responsible for the program area. • There are facilities designed specifically to support the program area. • The agency controls a significant percentage (20% or more) of the local market.
2 SANTA CLARA RECREATION CORE PROGRAM AREAS
The Department currently offers programs in eight (8) Core Program Areas. These core program areas are listed below:
ENSURING THE RIGHT CORE PROGRAM MIX
The Core Program Areas provided by Santa Clara currently appear to meet some of the community’s major needs as identified in the survey results, but the program mix must be evaluated on a regular basis to ensure that the offerings within each Core Program Area – and the Core Program Areas themselves – align with changing leisure trends, demographics, and needs of residents. NRPA recommends that six determinants be used to inform what programs and services are provided by the Department. According to NRPA, those determinants are:
• Conceptual foundations of play, recreation, and leisure – Programs and services should encourage and promote a degree of freedom, choice, and voluntary engagement in their structure and design. Programs should reflect positive themes aimed at improving quality of life for both individuals and the overall community.
• Organizational philosophy, mission, and vision – Programs and services should support the City’s and the Department’s vision statements, values, goals, and objectives. These center on promoting personal health, community well -being, social equality, environmental awareness, and economic vitality.
Core Program/Service Area Brief Description
Aquatics Offer year round lap swim and from time to time, aqua fit programs. Seasonally offer Recreation Swim and Swim Lessons. Swim Lesson include group and privates for children and adults.
Athletics Recurring group recreational and/or instructional sports leagues, programs and activities operated, taught, or managed by the department through contract or staff or volunteers throughout a season Enrichment
Group or individual recreational and/or instructional classes, support groups, activities, special interest programs, STEM programs, arts and crafts, etc. for all ages operated, taught, or managed by the department through contract or staff
Older Adults Provide facilities, programs, and services that meet the needs of older adults (50+) living in the City of Santa Clara at different stages and levels of life.
Performing Arts
In keeping with the vision of founder Roberta Jones, and our 45-year history, Roberta Jones Junior Theatre provides youth in Santa Clara with high-quality recreational experiences in Theatre Arts. All children are welcome to participate on stage and backstage in our productions. Our program fosters a strong sense of place and community for participants and the general public. Youths are given opportunities for self expression in a fun, safe environment where they improve self esteem, confidence and social skills while learning the value of personal responsibility from adult role models.
Rentals/Reservations
Rental of facilities, parks, and other amenities for exclusive use of full or partial facility on a one-time basis by the general public Waiver and discounting of fees for specific types of uses/users such as other government users and community civic meetings addressed in the facility use policy.
Special Events (City) Themed activities and events that may or may not require registration that include, food events, entertainment, holiday-themed, cultural celebrations and other special interests.
Special Event Permitting
Events planned and implemented by outside organizations that may be co-sponsored at various levels by the City. These events are of the magnitude that require City permits of some type as they are reliant on City public spaces to be the host venue. City sponsorship typically includes fee discounts, fee waivers, in- kind services.
3 • Constituent interests and desired needs – Departments should actively seek to understand the recreational needs and interests of their constituency. This not only ensures an effective (and ethical) use of taxpayer dollars, but also helps to make sure that programs perform well and are valued by residents.
• Creation of a constituent -centered culture – Programs and services reflect a Departmental culture where constituents’ needs are the prime factor in creating and providing programs. This should be reflected not only in program design, but in terms of staff behaviors, architecture, furniture, technology, dress, forms of address, decision -making style, planning processes, and forms of communication.
• Experiences desirable for clientele – Programs and services should be designed to provide the experiences desirable to meet the needs of the participants/clients in a community and identified target markets. This involves not only identifying and understanding the diversity of needs in a community, but also applying recreation programming expertise and skills to design, implement, and evaluate a variety of desirable experiences for residents to meet those needs. • Community opportunities – When planning programs and services, a department should consider the network of opportunities afforded by other organizations such as nonprofits, schools, other public agencies, and the private sector. Departments should also recognize where gaps in service provision occur and consider how unmet needs can be addressed.
AGE SEGMENT ANALYSIS
The table below depicts each program along with the age segments they serve. Recognizing that many programs serve multiple age segments, Primary and secondary markets were identified.
AGE SEGMENT ANALYSIS – CURRENT SEGMENTS SERVED
Findings from the analysis show that the Department provides a strong balance of programs across all age segments. All segments are targeted as a primary market for a ll eight core programs.
This balance should be maintained moving forward, and the Department should update this Age Segment Analysis every year to note changes or to refine age segment categories. Given the growing population trend for residents ages 55 and over and the growing d emand for services in this age bracket, it is also recommended that the Department further segment this group into 65 -74 and 75+. These two sub - Core Program Area Preschool
(5 and Under)
Elementary
(6-12)
Teens
(13-17) Adult (18-34)
Adult
(35- 54)
Senior
(55-64)
Senior
(65+)
Aquatics P P S P P P P
Athletics P P P S S S S
Enrichment P P P P P P P
Older Adults P P P
Performing Arts P P P P
Rentals/Reservations P P P P P P P
Special Events (City) P P P P P P P
Special Event Permitting P P P P P P
TOTAL 6 7 6 6 6 6 6
AGES SERVED
Primary Market (P) or Secondary Market (S)
4 segments will have increasingly unique needs and expectations for programs and services in coming years, and program planning will be needed to provide differing requirements.
Age Segment Analyses should ideally be done for every program offered by the Department. Program coordinators/managers should include this information when creating or updating program plans for individual programs. An Age Segment Analysis can also be inco rporated into Mini Business Plans for comprehensive program planning.
LIFECYCLE ANALYSIS
A lifecycle analysis involves reviewing every program identified by City of Santa Clara staff to determine the stage of growth or decline for each as a way of informing strategic decisions about the overall recreation program portfolio. The various stages of program lifecycles are as follows:
• Introduction - New program; modest participation.
• Take-Off - Rapid participation growth.
• Growth - Moderate, but consistent participation growth. • Mature - Slow participation growth.
• Saturated - Minimal to no participation growth; extreme competition. • Decline - Declining participation.
This analysis is not based on strict quantitative data, but rather is based on the staff’s knowledge of their program areas. The table below shows the percentage distribution of the various lifecycle categories of the Department’s eight core program/service areas.
RECREATION PROGRAM LIFECYCLE ANALYSIS - CURRENT DISTRIBUTION AND
RECOMMENDATIONS
Overall, the lifecycle analysis results indicate an unbalanced distribution of all programs across the lifecycle. A combined total of 87.5% (7 of 8) of the core program areas fall into the Introduction, Take- off, and Growth stages. It is recommended that this be 50-60% of the overall program portfolio to provide Percentage Number Actual
Distribution
Best Practice
Distribution
Introduction 0% 0
Take-Off 38% 3
Growth 50% 4
Mature 13% 1 12.5% 40%
Saturated 0% 0
Decline 0% 0
Total 100% 8
Core Programs: Lifecycle Stage
87.5% 50-60%
0.0% 0-10%
5 new programs to align with trends and help meet the evolving needs of the community. This is likely due to the reintroduction of recreation programming following the Covid -19 pandemic.
In addition to the need to always introduce new programming to meet community needs, it is also important to have a stable core segment of programs that are in the Mature stage. Currently, the Department only has 12.5% (1 of 8) of their core program areas in this category. It is recommended that this be approximately 40% to provide stability to the overall program portfolio, but without dominating the portfolio with programs that are advancing to the later stages of the lifecycle. Programs in the Mature stage should be tracked for signs they are entering the Saturation or Decline stages. There should be an ongoing process to evaluate program participation and trends to ensure that program offerings continue to meet the community’s needs.
Currently there are zero (0) core program areas that are saturated or declining. It is recommended to keep as few programs as possible in these two stages, but it is understood that programs eventually evolve into saturation and decline. If programs never reach these stages, it is an indication that staff may be “over-tweaking” their offerings and abbreviating the natural evolution of programs. This prevents programs from reaching their maximum participation, efficiency, and effectiveness. For Departments challenged by doing the most they can with limited resources, this has the potential to be an area of concern.
As programs enter the Decline stage, they must be closely reviewed and evaluated for repositioning or elimination. When this occurs, it is recommended to modify these programs to begin a new lifecycle with the introductory stage or to add new programs based upon community needs and trends.
Staff should complete a lifecycle review on an annual basis and ensure that the percentage distribution closely aligns with desired performance.
PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
A key component of the program assessment is the evaluation of program and service participation. The City of Santa Clara interfaced 2022-2024 program/service participant information via a GIS mapping tool to evaluate the locations of the community where program participants live. 2022-2024 Overall User Participation
The participation map is to be interpreted as the lighter blue areas indicating no to low participation from those geographical areas while the redder and yellow colors represent higher participation.
The mapping of the participation data shows:
• Significant geographical distribution.
• The Central Expressway (east -west) and the San Tomas Expressway (north -south) on the map helps to contextualize the data geographically.
• There is clear geographical division of participation, with most participation coming from residents that live in the central and southern areas of Santa Clara while most of the participation from the northern areas of the community comes from the resident ial neighborhoods clustered near Lick Mill Boulevard.
6 7
STATISTICALLY VALID SURVEY RESULTS
ETC Institute administered a needs assessment survey for Santa Clara during the winter of 2024-25. The survey was administered as part of the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The survey results aid the City of Santa Clara in taking a resident -driven approach to making decisions that will enrich and positively affect the lives of residents.
The major program and service findings of the survey are summarized on the following pages.
Program Participation and Quality Ratings
• Program Participation
Thirty-nine percent ( 39%) of households participated in Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department programs over the past 12 months which is above the national benchmark of 36%.
by % of respondents
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
Have you/your household participated in any recreation programs offered in your community during the past year?
39%
61%
36%
64%
Yes
No
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 52
8 • Program Quality:
Of households that participated in programs, 18% rated the quality of programs as “excellent” and 56% rated the quality of programs as “good”. The combined excellent/good rating of 74% is below the national benchmark combined rating of 85%.
Please rate the overall condition of all the recreation programs and events you/your households have visited over the past year.
56%
24%
36%
49%
12%
2%
Poor
3%
by % of respondents (excluding "not provided”)
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
18%
Excellent
Good
Fair
0% 20% 40% 60%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 53
9 Barriers to Participating in Programs
Thirty-one percent (31%) of households did not participate in Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department programs over the past 12 months due to inconvenient program time offerings, which is nearly twice the national benchmark of 16%. Other top barriers include I don’t know what is offered (25%) and Too busy/not interested (22%).
by % of respondents (multiple selections could be made) Santa Clara (2024) National Average
If your household has not participated in any recreation programs in your community during the past year, please check all of the reasons that prevent you from participating.
31%
25%
22%
18%
18%
14%
11%
9%
6%
6%
2%
16%
38%
18%
9%
12%
9%
25%
19%
7%
14%
18%
9%
2%
4%
Program times are not convenient
I don't know what is offered
Too busy/not interested
Program not offered
Fees are too high/lack of financial assistance
Classes are full
Use programs of other agencies
Lack of quality programs
Registration is difficult
Too far from home
Lack of quality instructors
Lack of transportation
Language/cultural/agebarriers
0% 20% 40%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 54
10 Overall Satisfaction
Of households that participated in programs, 14% are very satisfied with the overall value of the programs, activities and events offered by the department and another 37% are satisfied. The combined very satisfied/satisfied score of 51% is below the national benchmark combined score of 62%.
Please rate your overall level of satisfaction with the value your household receives from the parks and recreation programs, activities, and events offered in your community.
37%
13%
25%
37%
31%
34%
Dissatisfied
2%
5%
Very Dissatisfied
1%
by % of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
14%
Very Satisfied
Satisfied
Neutral
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey 0% 20% 40%
ETC Institute (2024) 55
11 Priority Investment Ratings
The purpose of the Program Priority Investment Ratings is to provide a prioritized list of recreation program needs for the community served by the Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department.
The results of the priority ratings for Recreation Programs are shown in the chart below and are to be interpreted as follows:
• High Priority – seek opportunities to expand or add programming immediately. • Medium Priority – continue to offer at current service levels while monitoring the need to expand based on population growth.
• Low Priority – do not add if not currently offering. If currently offering, continue to do so at current service levels while utilizing a target market approach (age specific, skill specific, location specific, etc.). Monitor for the need to increase programming due to population growth.
Please Note: Adding special events will not only require dedicated staffing for the Parks and Recreation Department, but consideration also must be given to additional city resources required to support special events such as public safety and transportat ion management.
MS0
12 OTHER KEY FINDINGS
• Cost Recovery Policy: The Parks and Department’s Cost Recovery Policy was adopted by City Council in April 2022. The policy is rooted in best management practices that align program benefit with the level of cost recovery.
o Programs with the highest level of community benefit will have the lowest level of cost recovery.
o Programs that have the greatest level of individual or group benefit will target the highest level of cost recovery.
• Program Evaluation: Assessment and evaluation tools to measure the success of programs and services are not currently in place and success is primarily determined by program participation rates and enrollment.
• Customer Satisfaction and Retention: The Department currently does not track customer satisfaction or retention percentages.
• Staffing: Staffing levels should be evaluated as current levels are not sufficient to expand recreation program offerings.
• Public Input: The Department does not utilize survey tools to continually gather feedback on needs and unmet needs for programming.
• Marketing: The Department utilizes several marketing strategies to inform City residents of the offerings of the community; however, it lacks a formalized Marketing Plan which can be utilized to create target marketing strategies.
• Volunteers: The Department has a strong volunteer program. • Partnerships: The Department utilizes several partner providers to deliver programs to Santa Clara residents but lacks a formal partnership policy.
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS
• Program Evaluation Tools: Pre- and post-program tools should be developed and utilized to evaluate the quality and success of the programs more fully. Sample EXCEL tools have been provided as a stand-alone document.
• Time Offerings of Programs: Survey residents to determine the best time offerings by core program area and adjust time offerings based on the results. • Increasing Quality and Value: Survey current program participants to determine the reasons as to why the quality ratings and value scores are below that of national benchmarks and take action to increase the ratings/scores.
• Participation Data Analysis: Through ongoing participation data analysis, create strategies to expand participation from all geographical areas in programs and services offered by the department.
13 • Expand programs and services in the areas of greatest demand: Ongoing analysis of the participation trends of programming and services in Santa Clara is significant when delivering high quality programs and services. By doing so, staff will be able to focus their efforts on the programs and services of the greatest need and reduce or eliminate programs and services where interest is declining. Specific efforts should be made to increase programming in the areas of greatest UNMET need as identified in the statistically valid survey. • Marketing: Develop a formal marketing program that aligns with how residents would most like to receive information.
• Partnerships: Executing a formal partnership policy is standard operating procedure for best practice park and recreation agencies. It is highly recommended that Santa Clara develops a formal partnership policy and utilizes this policy as the foundation for updating existing partnership agreements. This will ensure the most effective and efficient use of taxpayer dollars that are supporting the partnerships. A sample partnership policy has been provided as a stand- alone document.
12 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix E:
Facilities
Assessment
E
CITY OF SANTA CLARA
PARKS FACILITY MASTER PLAN
June 25 2025
DRAFT FACILITIES
AGENDA
2 1) Facilities Overview
Summary Existing + Planned Facilities
2) Community Needs and Priorities
National Standards
Community Priorities
Space Use Matrix
Comparable Communities
3) System Strategies + Improvement Options
SF Facility Recommendation & Map
Existing Facilities
Planned + Future Facilities
Proposed Program at Future Facilities
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Montague Swim Center
Mission City Center for Performing Arts
International Swim Center
Mary Gomez Pool
Warburton Pool
Youth Soccer Park
Reed & Grant Sports Park
Community Recreation Center*
Santa Clara Senior Center*
Youth + Teen Center*
Future Library / Community Center in North Santa Clara *Facilities in bold are included in the assessments completed for the Parks Facility Master Plan.
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Youth
Soccer
Park
Reed & Grant
Sports Park
SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION FACILITIES OVERVIEW
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
1 2
3 4
6 5
RECREATION FACILITIES ( EXISTING + PLANNED)
Indoor Rec
Facility
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
7 1. Community Rec Center 2. Senior Center DEDICATED USE
3. Teen Center DEDICATED USE 4. Youth Activity Center (YAC)
7. Future North Facility
5. Youth Soccer Park 6. Reed & Grant Sports Park
Future Rec
Facility
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Address: 969 Kiely Boulevard
Year Built: 1962
Square footage: 29,630
4* BCI Calculated Value
GOOD* BCI Condition Rating
BUILDING SUMMARY
Replacement value: $31,500,000*
Current needs: $1,027,000*
FACILITY CONDITION INDEX
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER FACILITY SUMMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
SIZE
• Diablo and Adobe
rooms are both
undersized
FUNCTIONALITY
/ FLEXIBILITY
• Courtyard lacks
connection to the
Auditorium
• Lobby can be re-
envisioned to act
as a Community
Living Room
• Diablo room floor
has water damage
OPERATIONS
• Preschool lacks
privacy
• Create comfortable
drop-in waiting,
and informal use
opportunities in
lobby
SYSTEMS
• Complete deferred
maintenance
options
• Facility mechanical
systems need
update
• Electrical system
needs update
• Replace
fluorescent lighting
with LEDs
TECHNOLOGY
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Address: 1303 Fremont Street
Year Built: 1973 original building,
2007 renovation
Square footage: 45,000 (2 stories)
2*BCI Calculated Value
G
OOD*BCI Condition Rating
BUILDING SUMMARY
Replacement value: $ 32,550,000*
Current needs: $504,000*
FACILITY CONDITION INDEX
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER FACILITY SUMMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
SIZE
TECHNOLOGY
FUNCTIONALITY
/ FLEXIBILITY
OPERATIONS
SYSTEMS
• Facility is full
service senior
center that offers
full compliment of
programs including
fitness and
aquatics
• Dedicated
use limits
availability of
flexible, multi-use
multi-gen spaces
• Finishes, flooring,
cabinetry, lighting
need upgrading
(specific examples
include tile in the
locker rooms,
ceiling tiles, wall
coverings, plastic
laminate casework)
• Skylights needs to
be replaced
• Address deferred
maintenance items
• Aquatics needs
separate system
from rest of facility
for dehumidifying
and HVAC
• Upgrade to be able
to function as a
warming / cooling
center
• Technology
updates
throughout
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Address: 2446 Cabrillo Ave
Year Built: 2003
Square footage: 7,535
FACILITY CONDITION INDEX
1* BCI Calculated Value
GOOD* BCI Condition Rating
BUILDING SUMMARY
Replacement value: $9,300,000*
Current needs: $191,000*
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating
TEEN CENTER FACILITY SUMMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
SIZE
TECHNOLOGY
FUNCTIONALITY
/ FLEXIBILITY
OPERATIONS
SYSTEMS
• SF seems adequate
• Add storage and
acoustic separation
in program room
• Update dividers in
program rooms
• Entry sequence is
inefficient and is
challenging to
survey
• Update finishes,
and FFE for better
operations
• Reconfigure
entrance and front
desk layout for
more visibility /
access
• Complete deferred
maintenance
options
• Update security
and security
technology
TEEN CENTER ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Address: 2446 Cabrillo Ave
Year Built: 1990
Square footage: 19,800 (1 story)
Facility owned and operated by Santa Clara
School District.
Not assessed as part of Recreation
Facilities Master Plan - because of the
Santa Clara Unified School District’s
ownership, limited availability/access
for City's use for programming.
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating
FACILITY CONDITION INDEX
3* BCI Calculated Value
GOOD* BCI Condition Rating
BUILDING SUMMARY
Replacement value: $21,000,000*
Current needs: $453,000*
YOUTH ACTIVITY CENTER – Limited Availability FACILITY SUMMARY AGENDA
12 1) Facilities Overview
Summary Existing + Planned Facilities
2) Community Needs and Priorities
National Standards
Community Priorities
Space Use Matrix
Comparable Communities
3) System Strategies + Improvement Options
SF Facility Recommendation & Map
Existing Facilities
Planned + Future Facilities
Proposed Program at Future Facilities
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
PLANNING STANDARDS
NATIONWIDE
1 Recreation Center/ Gym
per 32,091 Residents*
PACIFIC SOUTHWEST
1 Recreation Center/Gym
per 49,990 Residents*
Not including childcare, CBO, senior centers space
~0.75-2 SF/Resident
for Indoor Community Facilities
*Based on NRPA’s 2025 Agency Performance Review – Indoor Park Facilities
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
25 28
32 43
45 47
49 58
58 60
71 73
74 75
79 85
94 97
97 104
113
156
184
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Lawn Bowling
Skate Parks
Specialty Bike Parks
Splash Pads
Environmental Education Center
Diamond Sports Fields
Tennis Courts
Golf Course
Universally Accessible Play Areas
Rectangular Sports Fields
Off-Leash Dog Park
Community Gardens
Outdoor Amphitheater / Performing Arts
Pickleball Courts
Indoor Basketball / Volleyball Courts
Outdoor Exercise / Fitness Equipment
Outdoor Multi-Use Courts
Indoor Walking / Jogging Track
Community Center
Picnic Areas & Shelters
Open Space & Conservation Areas
Swimming Pool
Multi-Use Trails
Top Priorities for Investment for Facilities/Amenities Based on Priority Investment Rating
CITY OF SANTA CLARA PARKS AND RECREATION NEEDS ASSE SSMENT Indoor Facility Priorities:
INDOOR WALKING
/ JOGGING TRACK
COMMUNITY
CENTER
INDOOR
BASKETBALL/VOLLEYBALL
COURTS
PERFORMING
ARTS
City of Santa Clara, California 2024 Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey Findings Report, ETC Institute
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
28 32
46 50
50 51
56 57
60 68
77 83
84 85
87 88
97 105
116
157
158
179
200
0 50 100 150 200 250
E-Gaming / E-Sports
Lawn Bowling Activities / Leagues
Out of School Sports Camps
Gymnastics / Tumbling Programs
Programs for People with Special Needs
Programs for at Risk Youth / Crime Prevention
Preschool / Early Childhood Programs
Tennis Lessons & Leagues
Out of School Day Camps
Sports Leagues
STEAM / Tech Classes
Recreation / Competitive Swim Team
Environmental / Nature Camps & Programs
After-School Youth Programs
Pickleball Lessons & Leagues
Visual Arts / Crafts / Performing Arts
Performing Arts Programs
Cultural Enrichment Programs
Swim Lessons
Community Special Events
Water Fitness Programs / Lap Swimming
Outdoor Recreation
Fitness & Wellness Programs
Top Priorities for Investment for Programs / Activities Based on Priority Investment Rating
CITY OF SANTA CLARA PARKS AND RECREATION NEEDS ASSE SSMENT Indoor Program Priorities:
FITNESS &
WELLNESS CENTER
CULTURAL ENRICHMENT
PROGRAMS
VISUAL ARTS /
CRAFTS
PERFORMING
ARTS PROGRAMS
AFTER-SCHOOL
YOUTH PROGRAMS
City of Santa Clara, California 2024 Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey Findings Report, ETC Institute
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
SPACE USE/ACTIVITY MATRIX
USAGE RATES
% Occupied Approx. SizeRoom
67%950 SFAdobe Room
3 0%800 SFArts & Crafts Room
85%800 SFCeramics Lab
30%600 SFDiablo Room
70%5000 SFAuditorium
59%1700 SFMission Room
67%600 SFMusic Room
85%1900 SFEl Camino Room
Programming spaces in the Community
Recreation Center are programmed @
85% of availability during peak use
hours (3-8pm), with many of the
program rooms being fully utilized
during those hours.
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
SPACE USE/ACTIVITY MATRIX
USAGE RATES
% Occupied Approx. Size Room
59% 715 SF Ceramics
89% 890 Classroom
19% 320 Conference Room
48% Dance Theater
11% 4800 SF Fitness Room
30% Free Speech Area
33% 5000 SF Pool
33% 400 Lapidary
22% 3000 SF Multi-Purpose Room
41% 1635 SF Multi-Purpose /
Aerobics
33% 2500 SF SC Warm Water Pool
19% 700 SF Woodshop
Typical Older Adult Use
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER
CLOSES AT 3PM M/W/F
CLOSES AT 7PM T/TH
Programming spaces in the Senior Center are programmed @ 20% of availability during peak use hours for general recreation uses (3-8pm), with many of the program rooms being unused during those hours.
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
2. Reed & Grant Sports Park
1. Community Rec Center 4. Senior Center 3. Youth Soccer Park Santa Clara Recreation Facilities
NOTES: NEW EXPANS. RENO. 2017 FCA
RATING SF BUILDING
Deferred maintenance, operational, and functional improvements needed. 4 / Good 29,630 1. Community/Recreation Center 1 *Project opened Oct. 28, 2020 – after the 2017 FCA. N/A* 3,800 2. Reed & Grant Sports Park Large multipurpose room and small conference room – used sporadically for meetings. 3 / Good 7,000 3. Youth Soccer Park 1 85,430 (**This includes Senior Center SF below , with the recommendation to expand programming to include multi-generational) Total SF
INDOOR RECREATION FACILITIES OVERVIEW
SPECIAL USE
Deferred maintenance, operational, and functional improvements needed. 1 / Good 7,535 1. Teen Center Deferred maintenance, operational, and functional improvements needed.
Recommendation is to expand programming to include multigenerational programs 2 / Good 45,000** 2. Senior Center 1 1 See previous slides 16-18 for SF breakdown of each room in these facilities.
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
COMPARABLE COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Planned Facilities
Special Purpose
Facilities
(Youth/Senior/Early Childhood
Recreation/Childcare)/ Sports
Center (SF)
General Purpose
Facilities
(Community/Recreation Centers)
(SF)
Total SF /
2035
Projected
Population
Total SF /
2020
Current
Population
Current
Total SF of
Indoor
Facilities
2035
Population
2020
Population
1CITY
21,620 645,000 | 7,000 29,630 | 3,800 0.55 0.67 85,430 154,825 2127,647 Santa Clara
10,872 | 28,229 | 19,912 24,982 | 23,000 | 6,900 0.58 0.68 106,995 184,300 3155,805 Sunnyvale 25,000 | 8,775 | 12,000 | 28,800 27,000 1.12 1.23 101,575 90,600 482,376 Mountain View
*The city is currently in the process of
developing an FMP to 1)
address
aging, undersized facilities and 2) plan
for new facility (facilities) to meet the
unmet community need.
14,100 | 4,800 | 3,700 24,500 7 | 15,600 | 2,000 0.53 *0.62* 64,700* 121,500 5104,490 San Mateo 30,300 7,000 | 40,000 | 26,000 |
4,800 | 3,700 0.81 1.07 111,800 136,900 5104,901
Daly City
Notes :
All indoor facilities noted here are City-owned
1 Source: Population: Census, April 2020
2 Based on City of Santa Clara 2010-2035 General Plan 3 Source: LAFCO of Santa Clara County
4 Source: ABAG Population Projections
5 Source: ABAG 2009
6 Proposed SF for recreation space in North Santa Clara library and recreation center
7 Total SF includes Seasonal Aquatic Center
List includes comparable nearby communities that are classified as Class III** cities per the NRPA in their National Gold Medal Awards program. **Class III = population 75,001 to 150,000
THE CURRENT SQUARE FEET / POPULATION IS BELOW THE NATIONAL STANDARD AND WELL BELOW COMPARABLE COMMUNITIES.
AGENDA
21 1) Facilities Overview
Summary Existing + Planned Facilities
2) Community Needs and Priorities
National Standards + Benchmark Cities
Community Priorities
Space Use Matrix
3) System Strategies + Improvement Options
SF Facility Recommendation & Map
Existing Facilities
- Renovation, Improvements, Expansion
Community Recreation Center
Senior Center
Teen Center
Planned + Future Facilities
Proposed Program at Future Facilities
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
PLANNING STANDARDS RECOMMENDATION
NATIONWIDE
1 Recreation Center/ Gym
per 30,709 Residents*
PACIFIC SOUTHWEST
1 Recreation Center/Gym
per 49,990 Residents*
Not including childcare, CBO, senior centers space
~0.75-2 SF/Resident
for Indoor Community Facilities
*Based on NRPA’s 2021 Agency Performance Review – Indoor Park Facilities Recommendation for Santa
Clara: ~1 SF/Resident.
Facilities to include all major
program spaces.
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
1.0 sf/cap = 69,570 SF of additional Indoor Facility space for 2035 projected Citywide Need
STRATEGY TO MEET COMMUNITY / RECREATION SPACE ADDITIONAL NEED NOTES LOCATION PLANNED SQ. FT. FACILITY
Add community hall, enclose courtyard, and
expand program spaces
CRC 5-10,000 SF 1. Expansion of CRC
Co-located with new library, multi-purpose
community/recreation center
North of Highway 101 21,620 SF of Recreation
Space
2. New North Santa Clara Library & Rec Center
Recreation Center with multi-court gymnasium
with athletic, health and wellness focus
TBD 40,000 - 60,000 SF 3. New Recreation Facility With Multicourt Gym TOTAL 66,620 - 86,620
SANTA CLARA CURRENT CONDITIONS
SF/Cap 2035 (if no increased Indoor
Facilities SF)
Santa Clara Population 2035
(Projected)
SF/Cap 2020 Current Total SF of Indoor
Facilities
Santa Clara Population
2020
0.55 154,825 0.67 85,430 SF 127,647
COMMUNITY / RECREATION SPACE: PROJECTED NEEDS 2035
SANTA CLARA RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommended SF/Cap 2035 Santa Clara Population 2035
(Projected)
Recommended Total SF of
Indoor Facilities
1.0 154,825 155,000 SF (rounded)
155,000 SF - 85,430 SF = 69,570 SF projected need
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
2. Reed & Grant Sports Park
Santa Clara Recreation Facilities
NOTES: NEW EXPANS. RENO NEW SF EXIST. SF EXISTING
Deferred maintenance, operational, and functional improvements needed. 40,000 29,630 1. Community/Recreation Center 3,800 3,800 2. Reed & Grant Sports Park
*Consider possible expansion of facility. 7,000* 7,000 3. Youth Soccer Park Deferred maintenance, operational, and functional improvements needed.
Recommendation is to expand programming to include multigenerational programs. 45,000 45,000 4. Senior Center* 85,430 95,800 Total SF
FUTURE / PROPOSED
*Planned recreation SF from 2021 study. The full proposed building is 47,000 SF. 21,620* 1. Proposed North Santa Clara Library & Rec Center
40,000 -
60,000 SF 2. Proposed Recreation Facility
157,420 - 177,420 Total Planned SF
SPECIAL USE
Deferred maintenance, operational, and functional improvements needed. 7,535 7,535 1. Teen Center
1. Community Rec Center 4. Senior Center 3. Youth Soccer Park COMMUNITY / RECREATION FACILITIES: RECOMMENDATION
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
13,542
15,504
23,354
15,822
16,269
15,578
12,635
SANTA CLARA RECREATION FACILITIES RECOMMENDATIONS
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Mission City Center for Performing Arts
Montague Swim Center
International Swim Center
Mary Gomez Pool
Warburton Pool
Montague Swim Center Montague Swim Center
Mission City Center
for Performing Arts
Mission City Center
for Performing Arts
International Swim Center International Swim Center
Mary Gomez Pool Mary Gomez Pool
Warburton Pool Warburton Pool
Community
Recreation Center
Community
Recreation Center
Youth + Teen Center Youth + Teen Center
Santa Clara
Senior Center
Santa Clara
Senior Center
Community Recreation Center (Renovated + Expanded)
Santa Clara Senior Center (Renovated + Increased
Programming)
Youth + Teen Center (Renovated)
Youth Soccer Park (Possible Expansion TBD)
Reed & Grant Sports Park
Youth Soccer Park Youth Soccer Park
Reed & Grant Sports Park Reed & Grant Sports Park
2A. Future
Recreation Facility
2A. Future
Recreation Facility
2B. Future
Recreation Facility
2B. Future
Recreation Facility
Future Library / Recreation
Center in North Santa Clara
Future Library / Recreation
Center in North Santa Clara
Proposed – 1. Future Library / Recreation Center in North SC Proposed – 2. Future Recreation Facility at either
o A. Station Area Specific Plan, or
o B. Mission College
Legend
Existing Recreation Facility included in City Facility SF Proposed Future Facilities
Aquatics (NOT included in City Facility SF)
Performing Arts (NOT included in City Facility SF)
23,354
Population per Neighborhood
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
13,542
15,504
23,354
15,822
16,269
15,578
12,635
PROPOSED FUTURE FACILITIES
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Legend
Existing Recreation Facility included in City Facility SF Proposed Future Facilities
A
quatics (NOT included in City Facility SF)
Performing Arts (NOT included in City Facility SF)
23,354
Population per Neighborhood
2A. Future
Recreation Facility
2A. Future
Recreation Facility
1. Future Library / Recreation
Center in North Santa Clara
1. Future Library / Recreation
Center in North Santa Clara
P roposed – 1. Future Library / Recreation Center in
North Santa Clara
Proposed – 2. Future Recreation Facility at either
o A. Station Area Specific Plan, or
o B. Mission College
2B. Future Facility at
Mission College
2B. Future Facility at
Mission College
1 1 2A 2A 2B 2B
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Address: 969 Kiely Boulevard
Year Built: 1962
Square footage: 29,630
BUILDING IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Functional + Operational Improvements:
• Renovate interior finishes, furniture, and lighting and update mechanical and electrical systems
• Enclose or protect courtyard to provide more program space • Create “community living room” space in lobby
• Expand the building footprint where possible
Deferred Maintenance Items needed w/in 10 years*:
• Priority 1 (Year 1): Exterior doors + grilles, horizontal openings, overhead exterior enclosures, interior doors, domestic water distribution, fixed furnishings, pedestrian plazas, playgrounds • Priority 2 (Year 2): Exterior walls + windows, wall finishes, flooring, site development
• Priority 3 (Year 3): Roofing, heating + cooling systems, HVAC, electrical, parking lot, landscaping
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER FACILITY OVERVIEW
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
o Enclose/cover
for additional
program space
o Reconfigure to
relate better to
adjacent
spaces
o Expand to be 900 SF
o Reconfigure or expand
o Repair water damage
o Revise flooring for program flexibility
o Backstage restrooms
and floors need to be
rebuilt
o Complete deferred
maintenance items
o Renovate lobby to incorporate
“community living room” concept
LARGE PROGRAM ROOM
o Add fencing for privacy
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER ANALYSIS
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER PRELIMINARY SITE OPPORTUNITIES
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
COMMUNITY HALL
COMMUNITY
LIVING ROOM
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Renovate and expand facility to
meet current best practices for 21 st
century recreation/community
center design
- Update finishes, lighting, A/V,
furniture, and address deferred
maintenance items
- Expand facility to include a new
multi-purpose community hall
to support multi purpose
programming, community
events and celebrations, and
facility rentals
- Enclose the existing courtyard
to support additional
programming needs, and to
create a warm and inviting
people space for people to
connect.
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating BUILDING IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Functional + Operational Improvements:
• Re-envision layout and re-program rooms for efficiency, flexibility, and multi-generational programming for expanded capacity?
• Update finishes, furniture, and lighting
• Upgrade HVAC system to be able to function as a warming / cooling center and create separate system for the aquatics
Deferred Maintenance Items needed w/in 10 years*:
• Priority 1 (Year 1): Domestic water distribution
• Priority 2 (Year 2): Lighting
• Priority 3 (Year 3): Exterior doors + grilles, inte rior partitions, sanitary drainage, fixed furnishings
• Priority 4 (Year 4): Roof construction, AV Communic ation • Priority 5 (Year 5): Horizontal openings, interior doors, wall and ceiling finishes
Address: 1303 Fremont Street
Year Built: 1973 original building, 2007 renovation
Square footage: 45,000 (2 stories)
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER FACILITY OVERVIEW
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
o Replace HVAC/ dehumidifier in aquatics room
o Need separate system from rest of facility for
dehumidifying and HVAC
o General upgrades recommended throughout:
finishes, flooring, etc.
o Finishes, flooring, cabinetry, technology, lighting,
space layout upgrades throughout
o Multipurpose room is out of
date and needs upgraded
technology, finishes, FFE
o Senior Center functions as a warming and cooling center and needs updates to reflect that use
o Facility has a backup generator
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER FACILITY ANALYSIS
FIRST FLOOR
SECOND FLOOR
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Renovate facility to meet current
best practices for 21 st century senior
center design
- Update finishes, lighting, A/V,
furniture, and address deferred
maintenance items
- Update facility to properly
function as a warming / cooling
center
- Replace HVAC / dehumidifier in
aquatics room
Expand programming offerings to be
more accessible to all generations
- Retain dedicated senior spaces
to support major senior
programming that is provided
on a daily basis
- Add special hours for seniors vs.
other populations for shared
use spaces for swim classes,
pool use, and other use of
multipurpose spaces
Convert special-use rooms to be
multi-purpose rooms to provide
more spaces for diverse
programming & increase use
SANTA CLARA SENIOR CENTER FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
Address: 2446 Cabrillo Ave
Year Built: 2003
Square footage: 7,535
* Based on Kitchell Report 2017 Facility Condition Assessment, expect increased costs and possible changes to the listed condition rating BUILDING IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Functional + Operational Improvements:
• Add acoustic separation and new dividers in programming spaces • Re-envision layout for efficiency and flexibility
• Update finishes, furniture, and lighting
• Update security technology
Deferred Maintenance Items needed w/in 10 years*:
• Priority 1 (Year 1): Domestic water distribution
• Priority 2 (Year 2): Exterior doors + grilles, cool ing systems • Priority 3 (Year 3): Domestic water distribution
• Priority 4 (Year 4): Interior partitions, lighting
• Priority 5 (Year 5): Roof appurtenances, flooring
YOUTH & TEEN CENTER FACILITY OVERVIEW
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
o No storage
o Complete deferred
maintenance items
o Update finishes
throughout the facility
o Typical registration for
after school program: 400
o Typical daily participation:
80-110
o Restrooms not visible
and hard to survey
o Lack of acoustic
separation
between
activities: pool
table / noisier
activities
interspersed with
quieter activities
o High volume
results in poor
acoustics
o No visual connection between
indoor and outdoor space
o Makes surveillance challenging
o Front desk: entry sequence is dysfunctional
o Staff reception desk: can’t see who is coming and
going (makeshift desk in foyer to provide surveillance
and check-in opportunities) o Poor quality dividers
between classroom
and arts room
YOUTH & TEEN CENTER FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Renovate facility to meet
current best practices for 21 st
century teen center design
- Update finishes, lighting,
A/V, furniture, and
address deferred
maintenance items
- Add acoustic separation
between activities in the
multipurpose room
- Reconfigure entrance and
front desk layout for more
visibility access
- Add visual connections
between indoor and
outdoor spaces
- New dividers in the
computer room,
classroom, and arts room
- Consider reorganizing the
layout of the spaces for
increased
YOUTH & TEEN CENTER FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS
AGENDA
38 1) Facilities Overview
Summary Existing + Planned Facilities
2) Community Needs and Priorities
National Standards + Benchmark Cities
Community Priorities
Space Use Matrix
3) System Strategies + Improvement Options
SF Facility Recommendation & Map
Existing Facilities
P lanned + Future Facilities
- N ew North Santa Clara Plan Community/Recreation Center collocated with Library
- New Recreation Facility w/ Gymnasium in Station Area
- Partnership with Mission College
P roposed Program at Future Facilities
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
GSF
Proposed Future North Santa Clara
Library & Recreation CenterGSF
Proposed Future
Recreation Center
25,380Library & Community CenterGymnasium (3)
6 ,110SeniorFitness / Dance Studio
7,520Gym / FitnessFitness / Cardio
6,110Active RecreationLobby / Reception
1,880Common EntryStaff Offices
47,000 40,000-60,000Total
EXAMPLE IMAGE FOR REFERENCE EXAMPLE IMAGE FOR REFERENCE RECOMMENDATION FOR 2 NEW RECREATION FACILITIES
ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT
LOBBY/
RECEPTION
STAFF OFFICES:
800 SF
LIBRARY &
COMMUNITY
CENTER: 25380 SF
SENIOR: 6110 SF
ACTIVE
RECREATION:
6110 SF
GYM / FITNESS:
7520 SF
LOBBY/
RECEPTION:
1880 SF
Proposed Future Recreation Center
40,000-60,000 SF
Proposed Future North Santa Clara
Library & Recreation Center – 47,000 SF
GYMNASIUMS
(3)
SMALL: 8K SF
MEDIUM: 10K SF
LARGE: 12K SF
CARDIO /
WEIGHTS: 400 SF
GROUP
EXERCISE:
1000 SF
DANCE STUDIO:
800 SF
NEW RECREATION CENTERS EXAMPLE PROGRAMS
THANK YOU
14 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix F:
Maintenance
Assessment
F
GENERAL PARKS MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT AND ANALYSIS
PARKS MAINTENANCE OVERVIEW
The City of Santa Clara's Parks & Recreation Department is responsible for managing and maintaining the city's extensive park system, recreation facilities, pools, and cemeteries. Their mission is to support a vibrant and active quality of life for all community members through excellent facilities, services, programs, and events.
The department's maintenance responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks to ensure the safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of public spaces. Key areas of focus include:
• Grounds Maintenance: Regular upkeep of lawns, gardens, and open spaces to provide clean and inviting areas for public use.
• Facility Maintenance: Ensuring that recreation centers, pools, and other public facilities are in good working order and meet the community's needs.
• Playground and Equipment Upkeep: Routine inspections and maintenance of playgrounds and recreational equipment to ensure safety and compliance with current standards. • Irrigation System: Managing and maintaining water systems to support the health of park landscapes.
• Tree and Plant Care: Preserving the health and appearance of trees and plants within parks and along public boulevards.
• Mission City Memorial Park, the city's only public cemetery: Providing burial services and ongoing upkeep of the grounds, including landscaping, irrigation, and monument care. This maintenance ensures a respectful and peaceful environment for visitors. • Trail Maintenance: Maintaining trails to provide safe and enjoyable pathways for walking, jogging, and biking.
• Graffiti Removal: Promptly addressing vandalism to maintain the cleanliness and appearance of public spaces.
• Storm Drain Management: Keeping storm drains clear of debris, such as leaves, to prevent flooding and protect local creeks from pollution.
These efforts are coordinated in collaboration with the Public Works Department, which oversees the design, construction, and maintenance of public infrastructure, including streets, sidewalks, curbs, storm drains, street trees, medians, and traffic signs/markings.
Through these comprehensive maintenance activities, the City of Santa Clara ensures that its parks and recreational facilities remain safe, functional, and enjoyable for all residents and visitors.
MAINTENANCE MODES
Regular maintenance requires unit -based quantification for most major resource requirements and provides methods for projecting future resource needs. The City’s maintenance efforts as detailed are expansive and address diverse aspects of maintaining high -quality parks, amenities, and infrastructure to preserve the integrity of public assets and their meaningful use. The prevailing objectives of a standards-based park maintenance program are presented below but not in order of importance:
• Maintain and improve the sites, grounds, facilities, and structures of the City’s parks system to provide optimal and enjoyable use.
• Provide landscaping and general maintenance for a multitude of City amenities, including but not limited to, landscaped beds and turf, urban open spaces, urban forests, and selected park buildings and structures.
• Be responsive to maintenance needs of the City’s open -space tracts. Particular attention must be paid to access points, trail repair, erosion control, and trash removal. • Protect and preserve the value of City assets so that long -term maintenance costs are minimal due to extending the service life of those assets.
Many of the objectives assigned to the Park’s maintenance teams go beyond the traditional responsibilities of park maintenance employees.
It is recommended that all park maintenance agencies adopt a system of park and ground maintenance levels wherein functions are organized into a tiered structure with three different levels of service. These levels are referred to as maintenance modes, and each has a unique standard that dictates routine maintenance tasks and their frequency. The appropriate maintenance mode is assigned to each park or site, which creates a framework for organizing and scheduling tasks and responsibilities at each location.
A description of each of the maintenance modes utilized by the City of Santa Clara is provided below:
MAINTENANCE MODE/LEVEL A
Maintenance Mode/Level A (Mode/Level A) applies to parks or sites that require the highest maintenance standard in the system. These parks or sites are often revenue producing facilities, such as the athletic fields, where the quality and level of maintena nce has a direct impact on the park facility’s ability to maximize revenue generation.
MAINTENANCE MODE/LEVEL B
Maintenance Mode/Level B (Mode/Level B) applies to parks or sites that require a moderate level of effort and maintenance standards in the system. These include developed and undeveloped parks with amenities that are heavily used such as trails, community and pocket parks, and special -use facilities found in the City’s parks system.
MAINTENANCE MODE/LEVEL C
Maintenance Mode/Level C (Mode/Level C) applies to parks or sites that require a nominal level of effort and maintenance standards in the system. These include undeveloped parks with minimal amenities.
PARKS MAINTENANCE DESIRED OUTCOMES
It's important to establish the outcomes of parks maintenance work for several key reasons:
• Clarity and Direction: Clearly defined outcomes provide staff with a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the goals they need to achieve. This helps in aligning their efforts with the overall objectives of the park maintenance program.
• Accountability: When outcomes are established, it becomes easier to hold staff accountable for their work. They know what is expected of them and can be evaluated based on these criteria. • Efficiency and Productivity: Defined outcomes help in prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively. Staff can focus on what needs to be done first and allocate resources, accordingly, leading to increased productivity.
• Motivation and Engagement: Knowing the desired outcomes can boost morale and motivation.
When staff understands the impact of their work on the community and the environment, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their tasks. • Quality Control: Establishing outcomes ensures that the maintenance work meets certain standards and quality benchmarks. This helps in maintaining the park's appearance, safety, and functionality.
• Training and Development: Clear outcomes can highlight areas where staff may need additional training or support. This allows supervisors to provide targeted training programs to enhance their skills and performance.
As a part of this study, the Consulting team and city staff have established the following outcomes for the maintenance of the Santa Clara parks system.
TURF ATHLETIC FIELDS
Sub-category A B C
Color 85% of lawn is uniformly green, with less than 15% bare or brown.
75% of lawn is uniformly green, with less than 25%
bare or brown.
65% of lawn is uniformly green, with less than 35%
bare or brown.
Cleanliness No large (greater than 1 inch by 1 inch) pieces of trash or debris is visible within 30 feet.
No large (greater than 3 inches by 3 inches) pieces of
trash or debris is visible within 30 feet.
No large (greater than 6 inches by 6 inches) pieces of
trash or debris is visible within 30 feet.
Height/Mowed Lawn is uniform in height, 1-2 inches height, No areas of excess grass length
Lawn is uniform in height, 2-3 inches height, No areas
of excess grass length Lawn is uniform in height, 3-5 inches height Drainage/Flooding No standing water 1 hour after irrigation or 1 day after rain
No standing water 2 hours after irrigation or 2 days
after rain
No standing water 6 hours after irrigation or 4 days
after rain
Fencing
Fence, kickboards, and backstops are free of chips
(larger than 2x2 inches), and not rotten, broken,
cracked. Are fastened securely.
Fence, kickboards, and backstops are free of chips
(larger than 4x4 inches), and not rotten, broken,
cracked. Mostly fastened securely.
Fence, kickboards, and backstops are free of chips
(larger than 6x6 inches), with some rotten, broken,
cracked. Not fastened securely.
Functionality Fields Turf is maintained to correct standards per sport.
Turf is maintained to broad standards for multiple
sports, broadleaf and grassy weeds present over
10%
Turf is maintained to provide minimum safety
standards, broadleaf and grassy weeds present over
30%
Infields
Infield smooth, free of large holes or mounds (not
including pitcher’s mound), edged lips, foul lines clear and delineated, warning track clear (where
appl
icable) and free of weeds.
Infield smooth, free of large holes or mounds (not
including pitcher’s mound), lips 1" or less, foul lines clear and delineated, warning track (where
appl
icable) with 10% weeds.
Infield hard with some holes or mounds (not including
pitcher’s mound), non-edged lips, foul lines absent,
warning track (where applicable) with more than 10%
of
weeds.
Bleachers 90% seating is present and free of sharp edges of protrusions.
80% seating is present and free of sharp edges of
protrusions.
70% seating is present and free of sharp edges of
protrusions.
Graffiti All areas (including backstop, kickboards, backstops) are free of graffiti.
All areas (including backstop, kickboards, backstops)
are free of graffiti larger than 6" in length and 2" in height
All areas (including backstop, kickboards, backstops)
are free of graffiti larger than one foot in length and six inches in height
Lighting 100% of lighting should be operational 90% of lighting should be operational 75% of lighting should be operational Turf Athletic Fields
Maintenance Outcomes
NON- ATHLETIC FIELD TURF AREAS
OUTDOOR ATHLETIC COURTS
PARK AMENITIES/FURNISHINGS
Sub-category A B C
Color 85% of lawn is uniformly green, with less than 15% bare or brown.
75% of lawn is uniformly green, with less than 25%
bare or brown.
65% of lawn is uniformly green, with less than 35%
bare or brown.
Cleanliness No large (greater than 2 inches by 2 inches) pieces of trash or debris is visible within 30 feet.
No large (greater than 4 inches by 4 inches) pieces of
trash or debris is visible within 30 feet.
No large (greater than 6 inches by 6 inches) pieces of
trash or debris is visible within 30 feet.
Drainage/Flooding No standing water 2 hours after irrigation or 2 days after rain
No standing water 3 hours after irrigation or 3 days
after rain
No standing water 6 hours after irrigation or 4 days
after rain
Height/Mowed Lawn is uniform in height, 3- 5 inches height, No areas of excess grass length
Lawn is uniform in height, 3- 6 inches height, No
areas of excess grass length Lawn is uniform in height, 3- 7 inches height.
Fencing Fences are not rotten, broken, cracked, and are fastened securely.
Fences are not rotten or broken. Some boards are
cracked and are mostly fastened securely.
Fences may be rotten, broken and/or cracked, and
are not fastened securely.
Trees Tree canopy is free of dead limbs, and damage. Tree canopy is free of dead limbs. May have damage to trunk or crown.
Tree canopy may have dead twigs and limbs, some
damage to trunk or crown.
Hardscape Trails and pathways are clearly defined, are even and are free of cracks
Trails and pathways are clearly defined, are mostly
even and have some cracks
Trails and pathways are not clearly defined, are un-
even with cracks
Edging 90% of edges clearly defined around trails, concrete paths, and between sections
80% of edges clearly defined around trails, concrete
paths, and between sections
60% of edges clearly defined around trails, concrete
paths, and between sections
Lighting 95% of lighting should be operational 75% of lighting should be operational 65% of lighting should be operational Non-Athletic Field Park Areas
Maintenance Outcomes
Sub-category A B C
Cleanliness Court is free of large trash (greater than 2x2x2) and debris within the court
Court is free of large trash (greater than 3x3x3) and
debris within the court
Court is free of large trash (greater than 6x6x6) and
debris within the court
Painting/Striping 95% of the courts are painted with clear lines that are not worn through
80% of the courts are painted with clear lines that are not worn through
60% of the courts are painted with clear lines that are not worn through
Surface Quality
Surface is free of cracks (No vertical separation
greater than 1/4 inch (width of a pen) and free of tree r
oot intrusions – a.k.a. a uniform flat surface.
Surface has some cracks (No vertical separation
greater than 1/4 inch (width of a pen) and free of tree r
oot intrusions. Some surface degradation.
Surface has cracks greater than 1/2". Much of the
surface is degraded.
Functionality of
Structures
95 % of sports related equipment is present and
operational.
90 % of sports related equipment is present and
operational.
80 % of sports related equipment is present and
operational.
Tennis/Pickleball Tennis/pickleball nets are present and free of holes, pulled tight, with posts are securely anchored
Tennis/pickleball nets are present and free of holes,
mostly tight, with posts securely anchored
Tennis/pickleball nets are present, but with some
holes. Posts and tensioners may be malfunctioning.
Basketball
All basketball backboards are anchored securely and
are vertical, straight and painted. Basketball nets are ac
ceptable.
All basketball backboards are anchored securely and
are vertical and straight. Basketball nets may be
t
attered.
All basketball backboards are anchored securely and
are vertical and straight. Missing basketball nets are
ac
ceptable.
Fence/Tennis wind-
flaps
All fencing is free of holes, and secured to fencing.
Tennis Windscreens shall have flaps or windows with
r
einforced edges.
Windscreens may have some holes, mostly secured
to fencing.
Windscreens are tattered with holes, loosely secured
to fencing. Windscreens have tattered edges.
Graffiti Courts, backboards, and all other sports related equipment is free of graffiti.
Courts, backboards, and all other sports related
equipment is free of graffiti one foot in length and 3
i
nches in height
Courts, backboards, and all other sports related
equipment is free of graffiti one foot in length and 6
i
nches in height
Painting 95% of amenities are painted with no rust or rot. 80% of amenities are painted with no rust or rot. 60% of amenities are painted with no rust or rot.
Drainage/flooding No standing water 1 day after rain N o standing water 2 days after rain No standing water 3 days after rain Lighting 95% of all lighting is operational and working. 75% of all lighting is operational and working. 65% of all lighting is operational and working.
Outdoor Athletic Courts
Maintenance Outcomes
Sub-category A B C
Cleanliness
Benches, grills, and picnic shelters are free of large
debris, rust, food, and/or mildew Grills are clean with no grease and ash build-up
Benches, grills, and picnic shelters are free of large
debris, rust, food, and/or mildew Grills are clean with less than 2 inches of grease and ash build-up
Benches, grills, and picnic shelters have some debris,
rust, food, and/or mildew. Grills are infrequently
cleaned. Less than 3 inches of grease and ash build-
up
Structural integrity and
functionality
99% of amenities are operational and structurally
sound. Benches are anchored and do not have
protrusions/large splinters, excess rust, or rot.
Drinking fountains are operational and clean.
90% of amenities are operational and structurally
sound. Benches are anchored and do not have
protrusions/large splinters, excess rust, or rot.
Drinking fountains are operational.
80% of amenities are operational and structurally
sound. Benches are anchored but have splinters,
rust, or rot. Drinking fountains may not be
operational.
Painting 90% of amenities are painted with no rust or rot. 90% of amenities are painted with no rust or rot. 90% of amenities are painted with no rust or rot.
Graffiti Bench, picnic tables, grills and other amenities are free of graffiti.
Bench, picnic tables, grills and other amenities are
free of graffiti 6" in length and 2" high
Bench, picnic tables, grills and other amenities are
free of graffiti one foot in length and 6 inches in
height
Park Signage Park signage is readable, clear, painted, free of large chips, secured and free of rot or rust.
Park signage is readable, clear, painted, may be
chipped and peeling. Secured and free of rot or rust.
Park signage is faded, illegible, pealing. Secured
and free of rot or rust.
Waste and Recycling
Receptacles
90% of all receptacles are clean and 100% are free
of graffiti. Immediate areas surrounding 90% of all
waste receptacles are free of litter and debris. 99%
of receptacles are not overflowing. Waste
receptacles are painted with no large cracks or
damage
90% of all receptacles are clean and 90% free of
graffiti. Immediate areas surrounding 90% of all
waste receptacles are free of litter and debris. 90%
of receptacles are not overflowing.
80% of all receptacles are clean and 80% are free of
graffiti. Immediate areas surrounding 80% of all
waste receptacles are free of litter and debris. 90%
of receptacles are not overflowing. Trash receptacles
are free of graffiti one foot 6 x 12 inches.
Park Amenities/Furnishings
Maintenance Outcomes
PLAYGROUNDS
R
ESTROOMS
Sub-category A B C
Cleanliness
Children Play Area is free of large debris larger than
2x2x2, and hazards such as animal feces, sharp
protrusions, etc.
Children Play Area is free of large debris larger than
3x3x3, and hazards such as animal feces, sharp
protrusions, etc. Some weeds p;resent.
Children Play Area is free of large debris larger than
4x4x4, and hazards such as animal feces, sharp
protrusions, etc. Weeds present.
Functionality of
equipment
99% of playground equipment is present and free
from excessive wear, deterioration, and any potential
hazards, broken equipment. Any broken equipment
will be clearly marked with tape, swings are not
ripped or damaged.
90% of playground equipment is present and free
from excessive wear, deterioration, and any potential
hazards, broken equipment. Any broken equipment
will be clearly marked with tape, swings are not
ripped or damaged.
70% of playground equipment is present and free
from excessive wear, deterioration, and any potential
hazards, broken equipment. Any broken equipment
will be clearly marked with tape, swings are not
ripped or damaged.
Integrity of equipment
99% of play structures are free of cracks larger than
1/2 inch (width of a pen), nets, rot, loose bolts,
missing end caps, and other. No hazardous sharp
edges, protrusions, or other things
90% of play structures are free of cracks larger than
1/2 inch (width of a pen), nets, rot, loose bolts,
missing end caps, and other. No hazardous sharp
edges, protrusions, or other things
85% of play structures are free of cracks larger than
1/2 inch (width of a pen), nets, rot, loose bolts,
missing end caps, and other. No hazardous sharp
edges, protrusions, or other things
Signage Signs are painted, without peeling or chipped paint, free of rot and properly secured
Signs are painted, some peeling or chipped paint,
free of rot and properly secured
Signs are painted, with some peeling or chipped
paint, some deterioration, properly secured
Surface quality 100% of the surface is free of holes, flakes, buckling, or weeds. No areas showing black weed barrier.
95% of the surface is free of holes, flakes, buckling,
or weeds. No areas showing black weed barrier.
90% of the surface is free of holes, flakes, buckling,
or weeds. Some areas showing black weed barrier.
Fencing Fence free of holes, protrusions, sharp edges, and is securely fastened
Fence free of holes, protrusions, sharp edges, and is
mostly fastened
Fence free of holes, protrusions, sharp edges. Some
loose elements.
Graffiti All of children play structures are free of graffiti. All of children play structures are free of large graffiti (greater than 6 inches by 3 inches) or any obscenities
All of children play structures are free of large graffiti (greater than 6 inches by 3 inches) or any obscenities
Painting 99% of play structures are painted. 90% of play structures are painted with no areas larger than 6 inches by 6 inches
70% of play structures are painted with no areas
larger than 6 inches by 6 inches
Drainage No pooling of water on rubber surface with
depression or signs of standing water.
No pooling of waters, rubber surface with depression
or signs of standing water.
Some pooling of water on rubber surface with
depression and signs of standing water.
Playgrounds
Maintenance Outcomes
Sub-category A B C
Cleanliness
Bathroom ceilings, walls, partitions, toilets, urinals, sinks, mirrors, and floors are sanitary and free of dirt, debri
s, and cobwebs
Bathroom ceilings, walls, partitions, toilets, urinals, sinks, mirrors, and floors are sanitary. Restroom
may
have some dirt, debris, and cobwebs
NA
Functionality/Integrity of
structures
All toilets, urinals, partitions, hand dryers, Soap
dispensers, faucets, floor and sink drains, and mirrors are oper
ational, have proper drainage (where
applicable) and are free of leaks (where applicable)
All toilets, urinals, partitions, hand dryers, Soap
dispensers, faucets, floor and sink drains are
operat
ional, have proper drainage (where applicable)
Fixtures may have minor leaks.
NA
Lighting All light fixtures are operational and have no cracks Al l light fixtures are operational but may have cracks NA Graffiti Restrooms are free of graffiti. Restrooms are free of graffiti greater than foot in length and 6 inches in height NA
Odor Bathrooms are free of offensive odors Bat hrooms may have offensive odors NA Signage Door signage is visible, and in clean working
conditions Door signage is visible. May have graffiti. NA Supply Inventory Toilet paper, paper towels, and seat cover dispensers shall be stocked *where applicable)
Toilet paper replenished as needed. No paper
towels. No seat cover dispensers. NA
Waste receptacle Are not overflowing and present May be full or overflowing but present. NA Drainage Drains are free of debris, and no standing water Dr ains may have some debris. No standing water NA Restrooms
Maintenance Outcomes
PARK MAINTENANCE – STATISTICALLY VALID SURVEY RESULTS
ETC Institute administered a needs assessment survey for Santa Clara during the winter of 2024 -25. The survey was administered as part of the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The survey results aid the City of Santa Clara in taking a resident -driven approach to making decisions that will enrich and positively affect the lives of residents.
The parks maintenance findings of the survey are summarized on the following pages.
Park Visitation and Quality
• Park Visitation
Ninety-two percent (92%) of households visited Santa Clara parks and facilities over the past 12 months which is above the national benchmark of 81%.
by % of respondents
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
Have you/your household visited any parks or recreation facilities/amenities in your community during the past year?
92%
81%
9%
19%
Yes
No
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 50
• Condition
Of households that visited parks and facilities , 9% rated the condition of parks as “excellent” and 55% rated the quality as “good”. The combined excellent/good rating of 64% is below the national benchmark combined rating of 82%.
Please rate the overall condition of all the parks and recreation facilities/amenities you/your households have visited over the past year.
55%
28%
7%
35%
47%
15%
Poor
3%
by % of respondents (excluding "not provided”)
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
9%
Excellent
Good
Fair
0% 20% 40% 60%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 51
Maintenance Satisfaction and Importance
• Maintenance Satisfaction
Approximately half of the maintenance activities performed by the Parks Maintenance division receive a combined very satisfied/satisfied rating of 50% or greater. Areas of the greatest improvement are
o Graffiti removal/vandalism repair
o Athletic field/court maintenance
o Dog Park Maintenance
o Restroom Maintenance
Q16. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara parks and recreation system. by percentage of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
16% 35% 36% 11%
13% 37% 29% 17%
14% 34% 35% 14%
10% 36% 33% 16%
12% 34% 36% 12%
14% 31% 33% 13%
13% 31% 29% 22%
12% 28% 35% 16%
11% 26% 39% 15%
7% 29% 33% 22%
6%21% 39% 25% 9%
21% 39% 23% 13% 5%
17% 40% 26% 13% 5%
17% 40% 27% 10%
15% 41% 25% 12%
17% 38% 33% 10%
16% 36% 27% 14%
6%
6%
4%
6%
2%
4%
3%
5%
7%
9%
4%
9%
9%
9%
23%9% 23% 28% 17%
20% 40% 60%
Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied
Mowing
Playground safety & maintenance
Landscape care (flower beds)
Pavilion/picnicarea maintenance
Path/trail (paved) maintenance
Urban forest/tree maintenance
Trash/litter/waste pickup
Natural area/conservation area management
Trail (non-paved) maintenance
Community/recreation/seniorcenter maintenance
Graffiti removal/vandalismrepair
Athletic outdoor court maintenance
Athletic field maintenance
Waterways/rivers/streams
Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care
Specialized facility maintenance
Restroom maintenance
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance
0% 80% 100%
Very Dissatisfied
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 36
• Importance:
The top five most important maintenance activities as expressed by Santa Clara residents are as follows
o Path/trail (paved) maintenance – 56% combined very satisfied/satisfied rating o Restroom maintenance - 36% combined very satisfied/satisfied rating o Trash/litter/waste pickup - 52% combined very satisfied/satisfied rating o Graffiti removal/vandalism repair - 46% combined very satisfied/satisfied rating o Playground safety & maintenance - 60% combined very satisfied/satisfied rating
Q17. Which of the four maintenance activities are most important to you/your household?
by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 2%
34%
29%
27%
27%
21%
17%
14%
13%
13%
13%
13%
13%
12%
12%
12%
11%
8%
Path/trail (paved) maintenance
Restroom maintenance
Trash/litter/waste pickup
Graffiti removal/vandalismrepair
Playground safety & maintenance
Community/recreation/seniorcenter maintenance
Natural area/conservation area management
Pavilion/picnicarea maintenance
Trail (non-paved) maintenance
Athletic field maintenance
Waterways/rivers/streams
Urban forest/tree maintenance
Athletic outdoor court maintenance
Landscape care (flower beds)
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance
Mowing
Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care
Specialized facility maintenance
0% 20% 40%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024) 37
GENERAL OPERATION KEY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Findings: Through the review of data and workshops with staff, the PROS Consulting team determined that the Parks Division does try to operate within the maintenance modes identified above. Parks maintenance also generally follows a written set of routine park and grounds maintenance standards.
However, a formalized, documented, detailed maintenance management plan does not exist. A formalized maintenance management plan includes not only maintenance modes and standards for each park but also tracks the performance of the work against a set of defined outcomes as well as the costs expended to achieve each outcome. A maintenance management plan is typically memorialized within an asset-based work order management system.
Recommendation: Develop a comprehensive maintenance management plan with defined outcomes and maintenance standards for each park in the system utilizing this study as a resource for doing so.
Recommendation: Align work plans to not only increase levels of satisfaction but also with how the levels of importance the community places on the various maintenance activities performed by the division.
GIS-BASED ASSET MANAGEMENT WORK ORDER SYSTEM
Findings: Parks maintenance in the City of Santa Clara does not currently utilize a GIS -based asset management work order system. This inhibits the city’s ability to easily document maintenance work (including time and resources required to perform the work) and manage asset replacement schedules.
Recommendation: Implement a GIS- based asset management work order system to track lifecycle maintenance requirements that are tied to weekly and monthly work orders. This will help the staff to stay ahead of preventative maintenance and limit breakdowns. Further, utilizing the system will provide staff with the necessary “actual cost” data for work being performed. The typical components of a work order management system are as follows:
• Schedule Work Activities
o Detailed framework for asset management by incorporating GIS into the asset repository.
Allows for grouping of assets by location, type, age, or other key parameters. These groupings can then be used to create maintenance activities such as preventive work , reactive work, tests, or inspections.
• Mapping Tools
o ArcGIS maps are an integral part of the work management process. This allows for the creation of map visualizations of database queries including open work orders, service requests, or work orders of a specific type and assignment. These tools empower both management and staff to interact with asset data.
• Data Mobility
o A variety of tools to help maintenance staff access and update valuable information while in the field.
• Asset Management
o Track work performed on any asset at any given time throughout its lifecycle. Users can easily search for active work orders and view them dynamically on the GIS map. Track overdue work orders and monitor work associated with a specific task, contractor, o r project.
• Track Unproductive Time
o A key component of creating an efficient parks maintenance operation is to minimize unproductive time, such as travel time between parks. Travel time on average should not exceed the maximum threshold of 2.2 hours for every 8-hour day.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY OF PARKS MAINTENANCE BY PARK TYPE Findings:
• General Fund Parks : The day to day maintenance city “general -funded” parks and athletic complexes is solely the responsibility of the City of Santa Clara. • Community Facility District (CFD) Parks:
o The City of Santa Clara is responsible for irrigation maintenance, general parks maintenance, and playground maintenance in LMD Parks.
o The City of Santa Clara contracts with a third party service provider for the turf maintenance, landscape maintenance (shrubs, bushes, plants, etc.), and weed abatement at all city -owned parks within the LMDS. The City of Santa Clara does supplement as needed the work performed by the third party service provider on as needed basis.
Recommendation: A functional, efficient and effective irrigation system is critical for the health of turf, plants and shrubs in Northern California, especially given the region's climate and water availability. • Seasonal Watering Needs: Northern California experiences extended dry periods, particularly in the summer. During these times, an irrigation system ensures that green infrastructure receive the necessary water to survive and thrive.
• Native Plants: Many native plants and grasses have adapted to the local climate and can survive with minimal irrigation. However, even these plants benefit from supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells or drought conditions.
• New Plantings: Newly installed turf and planted shrubs and trees require consistent moisture to establish their root systems. An irrigation system helps maintain the right moisture levels, especially during the critical first few months after planting. • Efficient Water Use: Modern irrigation systems can be programmed to deliver water efficiently, reducing waste and ensuring that plants get the right amount of water at the right time.
Given the critical relationship between the irrigation systems and the quality and health of turf, shrubs and plants, it is recommended that the city shift the responsibility of maintaining the irrigation system to the third party service provider.
VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT
Finding: The Department does not lack the necessary equipment to perform tasks.
Recommendation: Continue to invest in new equipment as the park system grows while continually reinvesting in existing vehicles and equipment to ensure consistent delivery of parks maintenance.
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT PROGRAMS
Finding: The City of Santa Clara does not currently have formalized community volunteer programs to help support general park maintenance and upkeep.
Recommendation: Maintenance operations are typically budgeted within a Parks and Recreation Division that does not have direct revenue sources that can offset expenditures. There are opportunities, however, to reduce expenditure through the following strategies. • Adopt-a-Trail Programs: These programs are like the popular “adopt-a-mile” highway programs most states utilize. Adopt- a-trail programs can also take the form of cash contributions in the range of $12,000 to $16,000 per mile to cover operational costs. • Adopt-a-Park Programs: These are small-grant programs that fund new construction and provide maintenance support. Adopt-A-Park programs can also take the form of cash contributions in the range of $1,000 to $5,000 per acre to cover operational costs. • Operational Partnerships: Partnerships are operational funding sources formed from two separate agencies, such as two government entities, a non -profit and a public agency, or a private business and a public agency. Two partners jointly share risk, operational costs, responsibilities, and asset management based on the strengths of each partner.
PARK CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT STAFFING
Finding: The City of Santa Clara does not currently have staffing capacity dedicated to the management and oversight of construction projects occurring withing parks.
Recommendation: Capacity will be needed ( two to three construction project managers ) to oversee construction projects tied to the $106MM allocation of the Measure I Bond approved by voters in November 2024 for park projects. This capacity will also be needed to oversee and manage smaller ongoing lifecycle replacement projects completed by the Parks Maintenance construction crew.
PARK MAINTENANCE STAFFING
Finding: The Department struggles with the hiring and retention of full-time staff, which greatly impacts the quality and continuity of park maintenance. As of November 2024, the division had vacancies for 16 full-time positions (or 32% of full- time staffing capacity). The following section provide further analysis on the staffing capacity of the Parks Maintenance Division.
PARKS MAINTENANCE STAFFING AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
PARKS MAINTENANCE DIVISION ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
CEMETERY DIVISION
Parks Foreperson (TB
Future Position
CMW (142) D. McDowellGM 2 (167) I. LeatiotaGM2 (159) J. Placencia GM3 (152) J. Ramires-AmadorGM1 (178) - VACANTGM3 (153) E. Rosa GM3 (150) F. ReyesGM 1 (179) J. BillingslyGM2 (158) FROZEN FY 2022 GM3 (151) VACANTGM1 (1503) S. Hernandez
GM1 (174) C. Juarez-Sanchez
GM2 (162) FROZEN FY 2022Shop StewardGM1 (176) J. MartinezCrafts Worker (143) J. Souza GM2 (168) VACANTGM1 (180) K. FitzpatrickGM3 (149) G. Picard GM1 (181) A. KhouryGM2 (163) VACANT
GM1 (182) D. CorreaGM3 (147) M. Zendejas
GM1 (186) A. GardeaGM3 (146) H. Pantel
GM2 (1870) VACANT
GM1 (187) VACANT
GM2 (164) VACANT
GM2 (165) VACANT
GM2 (161) VACANT
GM1 (189) R. Anaya
GM2 (188) C. Flexen
GM1 (183) FROZEN FY 2022
CW I (200)- M. ReyesGM1 (173) VACANTGM2 (166) M. Osuna
CW III (197)- VACANTGM1 (172) C. MonteiroGM2 (1625) J. Rasul GM II (1420)- J. RamirezGM3 (148) B. BradburyGM2 (169) VACANTConstruction & Repair 26 AcresGM 3(153) E. RosaGM2 (157) L. Aligo
Cemetery CrewGM 1 (184) - VACANTGM1 (185) J. Billingsley R. CastroA. AuerbachG. Wieler
Parks Foreperson (139)Parks Foreperson (138)Parks Foreperson (138) Grounds & BuildingsGrounds, Buildings & PoolsConstruction & RepairGrounds & FieldsMow Crew L. Fuentes (vacant)D. Abernethy
Parks Manager (133)Parks Manager (132)
Z. GarayF. Banks
CemeteryParks
OS II (199)OS II (1511)
Cemetery Manager (196)
D. Seale VACANT (L. Fuentes)
PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS DIVISION Parks & Recreation Commission Deputy Director of Parks & Rec. (130)
PARKS MAINTENANCE STAFFING ANALYSES
For the following analyses, please note that 1, 760 annual work hours = 1 full -time employee (FTE) equivalent.
PARKS MAINTENANCE STAFFING LEVELS
The Parks Maintenance Division is comprised of approximately 50 full-time equivalents (FTES) dedicated to maintaining the parks and recreation system.
BEST PRACTICE STAFFING LEVELS PARKS, POOLS AND FACILITIES
The current staffing capacity, when fully staffed, is sufficient to meet the maintenance needs of the current parks and recreation system.
MAINTENANCE FUNCTION
ANNUAL BEST PRACTICE
STAFFING LEVEL
(FTES)
ANNUAL BEST PRACTICE
STAFFING LEVEL
(LABOR HOURS)
Open Space Maintenance 1.3 2,346.67
Cemetery 2.6 4,576.00
Developed Parks Maintenance 24.1 42,460.00
Athletic Fields 8.7 15,253.33
Pool Maintenance Services 2.5 4,400.00
Recreation Center Custodial Services 6.8 11,963.89
Recreation Center Maintenance Services 4.1 7,178.34
TOTALS 36.73 88,178.23
CURRENT TOTAL ANNUAL LABOR HOURS
TOTAL ANNUAL LABOR HOURS NEEDED
TOTAL ANNUAL LABOR HOUR GAP
ANNUAL FTES NEEDED
88,000.00
88,178.23
0.10 Parks and Recreation Maintenance Staffing Summary
178.23
ANNUAL PARK OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE FUNDING
Based on analysis conducted by the project team as summarized in the table below, the proposed annual operational funding for park s, pools and facilities maintenance is approximately $12.8 Million which is
in-line with the recommended funding level as detailed below.
Park / Facility
Classification Unit Direct Costs Indirect Costs Total Costs Inventory Unit Cost Developed Parks Acres $4,053,000 $1,737,000 $5,790,000 193.00 $30,000 Cemetery Acres $364,000 $156,000 $520,000 26.00 $20,000 Open Space Acres $140,000 $60,000 $200,000 40.00 $5,000 Athletic Fields Fields $273,000 $117,000 $390,000 13.00 $30,000 Swimming Pools Number $262,500 $112,500 $375,000 5.00 $75,000 Recreation Centers Square Feet $3,568,775 $1,529,475 $5,098,250 101,965.00 $50 TOTALS $8,661,275 $3,711,975 $12,373,250
Average Maintenance Cost Calculations
16 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix G:
Community
Engagement
Summary
G
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
CONTENTS
01 PARKS + REC COMMISSION
02 POP UPS + ONLINE SURVEY 1
03 FOCUS GROUPS
04 STATISTICALLY -VALID SURVEY
05 KEY FINDINGS + GUIDING THEMES
06 WORKSHOP + ONLINE SURVEY 2
PROJECT OVERVIEW + TIMELINE
01 PARKS + RECREATION
COMMSSION
PARKS + RECREATION
COMMISSION
AUGUST 12, 2024
SUSTAINABLE PARKS VISION: Focus on maintenance
and funding to ensure quality parks and recreation.
EFFECTIVE MASTER PLAN: Establish clear priorities
and a course of action for park and program
improvements.
FUNDING STRATEGIES: Explore partnerships, grants,
and corporate contributions.
RECREATION EMPHASIS: Increase offerings to meet
community needs locally.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Broaden input through
diverse, accessible outreach methods.
02 POP-UPS + ONLINE
SURVEY 1
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
POP-UPS + ONLINE SURVEY OVERVIEW
Concert in the Park
• Aug. 16, 2024
• ~60 people engaged
Art & Wine Festival
• Sept. 14, 2024
• ~216 people engaged
Northside Library +
Pruneridge Shopping
Center
• Sept. 28, 2024
• ~77 people engaged
700+
PEOPLE ENGAGED!
Parade of Champions
• Oct. 5, 2024
• ~48 people engaged
Online Pop-up Survey
• Sept. 9 – Oct. 28, 2024
• 300 responses
(including 10 in
Spanish/Mandarin)
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
POP UP BOARDS
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
WHICH PARK IS
YOUR FAVORITE?
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
WHICH PARK
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
THE MOST?
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
WHAT WOULD
YOU LIKE TO SEE
MORE OF IN
SANTA CLARA
PARKS?
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
OPEN-ENDED RESPONSES
EVENTS, PROGRAMS, AND INCLUSIVITY
Strong demand for parks to be
community gathering places, with more
affordable and inclusive programs for all
ages, especially youth and seniors.
GREEN SPACES AND ENVIRONMENTAL
SUSTAINABILITY
Emphasis on expanding shaded green
spaces, using native plants, and
maintaining parks as resilient and eco-
friendly havens.
SAFETY , MAINTENANCE, AND
CONNECTIVITY
Focus on clean, well-maintained, and
safe parks, along with better connectivity
through walking/biking paths and
accessible infrastructure
03 FOCUS GROUPS
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
Groups
• Sports and Athletics (3 participants)
• Santa Clara Activities League
• Santa Clara Westside Little League
• Swim team
• Community Connectors (4)
• Historical Landmarks Commission
• Discover Santa Clara
• Mission College
• Parks and Rec department
• Senior Advocates (4)
• Santa Clara Senior Advisory Commission
• Senior Center members
FOCUS GROUPS
SEPTEMBER 26, 2024
• Planning and Development (5)
• Water and Sewer Utilities
• Parks and Recreation Department
• Economic Development Director
• Edgecore Digital Infrastructure
• Hunter Properties
• Specialized Users (11)
• Youth and Teen Center
• Senior Advisory Commission
• Santa Clara Lawn Bowling Club
• Women’s League
• Ulitstac Natural Area
• Recreation Center Performing Arts programs
Key Takeaways
FACILITY & MAINTENANCE NEEDS: There is strong
demand for improved and expanded recreational
facilities, better maintenance of parks, and the
addition of amenities like pickleball courts, indoor
gyms, and multiuse sports fields.
ACCESS, INCLUSION & CONNECTIVITY: Expanding
inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities,
improving trail connections, and ensuring parks and
programs accommodate diverse age groups and
interests.
FUNDING & STAFFING CHALLENGES: Addressing
insufficient funding and understaffing is essential to
maintaining facilities, improving programming, and
ensuring parks and recreation services meet
community needs.
FOCUS GROUP TAKEAWAYS
Key Takeaways
INSUFFICIENT FUNDING: Funding is a significant
barrier to maintaining and improving facilities.
FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS: There is a demand for
additional multiuse sports fields to accommodate
various sports (soccer, softball, flag football games
and practices), especially as community sports
programs grow.
AQUATIC PROGRAM CHALLENGES: Aquatic programs
are struggling due to limited availability of pools and outdated facilities, highlighting the need for
modernized infrastructure and dedicated spaces for
community and competitive swimming.
#1 SPORTS + ATHLETICS
Key Takeaways
COMMUNITY & USE OF PARKS: Enhance park facilities and
event offering to engage different demographics, such as young and older adults.
FUNDING & MAINTENANCE CHALLENGES: A need for
additional revenue streams to address deferred
maintenance and infrastructure needs, as well as a plan to ensure parks remain safe and enjoyable.
EMPHASIZING LOCAL IDENTITY & HISTORY: Highlight Santa
Clara’s unique history and character through public art and community events.
#2 COMMUNITY
CONNECTORS
Central Park
Santa Clara, CA
Key Takeaways
COMMUNITY & INCLUSIVITY: Community spaces such as
the senior center foster social connections among diverse groups.
PARKS & RECREATION NEEDS: Parks should serve a wider
range of activities, including pickleball and bocce, and need public restrooms.
TRAIL CONNECTIONS: There is a need for improved trail
connections between parks.
DEVELOPMENT & FUNDING CHALLENGES: Concerns about
development pressures and the provision of adequate park space. The funding for parks and recreation is seen as a challenge.
#3 SENIOR ADVOCATES
Santa Clara Senior Center
Santa Clara, CA
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
Key Takeaways
INTEGRATION OF PARKS IN URBAN DEVELOPMENT: Need
for better planning tools to ensure that new developments incorporate adequate park spaces that are functional and accessible.
ADAPTATION TO CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS: Park
development standards should be reevaluated to ensure
they are realistic and beneficial for the community as the city’s demographics shift.
INNOVATIVE LAND USE OPPORTUNITIES: There are
potential opportunities to repurpose vacant office spaces for recreational uses, like indoor sports and community centers, which could help address recreational needs while also leveraging available resources.
#4 PLANNING +
DEVELOPMENT
Creekside Park
Santa Clara, CA
Key Takeaways
RECREATION FACILITY NEEDS: Demand for
more/improved recreational facilities, including
dedicated pickleball and volleyball courts, indoor gym, and a restored ISC.
MAINTENANCE: Need for better maintenance of
existing parks and recreation facilities.
ACCESS & INCLUSIVITY: Desire for more inclusive and
accessible recreational opportunities for various age
groups and interests, including more events for adults
and outdoor activities for seniors.
STAFFING & MANAGEMENT ISSUES: Concern regarding
understaffing in parks and recreation, leading to
inadequate services and programming.
#5 SPECIALIZED USERS
Warburton Park
Santa Clara, CA
04 STATISTICALLY VALID
SURVEY
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
STATISTICALLY VALID SURVEY
A survey was sent to a random sample of residents in early November 2024 to gain a clear understanding of residents’ parks and recreation needs and priorities. A total of 342 households completed the survey, translating to a statistically-valid sample.
TOP PRIORITIES
FOR FACILITIES/
AMENITIES
Multi-use trails and
swimming pool scored
both high levels of unmet
need and level of
importance.
Open space &
conservation areas scored
lower on levels of unmet
need, but high on
importance.
TOP PRIORITIES
FOR PROGRAMS/
ACTIVITIES
All 5 program/activities
deemed High Priority were
in the top five on both the
unmet needs ranking and
importance ranking.
Fitness & wellness programs
scored the highest level of
unmet need and level of
importance with a “perfect”
score of 200—the maximum
unmet need and
importance.
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
We did not ask about exactly the
same items in the survey and the
pop-ups, but there is overlap in the
feedback from both.
STATISTICALLY-VALID SURVEY
1. Multi-use Trails
2. Swimming Pool
3. Open Space and Conservation Areas
4. Picnic Areas and Shelters
5. Indoor Walking/Jogging Track
6. Community Center
7. Outdoor Multi-use Courts
8. Outdoor Exercise/Fitness Equipment
9. Indoor Basketball/Volleyball Courts
10. Pickleball Courts
11. Outdoor Amphitheater/Outdoor Performing Arts Venue
12. Community Gardens
13. Off-leash Dog Park
14. Rectangular Sports Fields
15. Golf Course
16. Universally Accessible Play Areas
17. Tennis Courts
18. Diamond Sports Fields
19. Environmental Education Center
20. Splash Pads
21. Specialty Bike Parks
22. Skate Parks
23. Lawn Bowling
POP-UPS
1. Trees and Shade
2. Aquatic Facilities
3. A Connected Trail System
4. Play Areas
5. Splash Pads
6. Habitat Restoration
7. Multi-purpose Lawn
8. Youth Activities
9. Community Events
10. Sport Courts
11. Gym/Recreation Center
12. Dog Parks
13. Performance Areas/Theaters
14. Outdoor Exercise Areas
15. Seating
16. Park Safety & Comfort
17. Senior Activities
18. Picnic & Barbecue Areas
19. Community Gardens
20. Sport Fields
21. Bike Facilities
22. Accessibility for All
23. Nature/Outdoor Education
24. Yoga and Meditation Areas
SURVEY & POP-UP
COMPARISON:
AMENITIES
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
STATISTICALLY-VALID SURVEY
1. Fitness and Wellness Programs
2. Outdoor Recreation
3. Water Fitness Programs/Lap Swimming
4. Community Special Events
5. Swim Lessons
6. Cultural Enrichment Programs
7. Performing Arts Programs
8. Visual Arts/Crafts/Performing Arts Programs
9. Pickleball Lessons and Leagues
10. After School Programs for Youth of All Ages
11. Outdoor Environmental/Nature Camps and Programs
12. Recreation/Competitive Swim Team
13. STEAM/Tech Classes
14. Sports Leagues
15. Out of School Day Camps
16. Tennis Lesson and Leagues
17. Preschool Programs/Early Childhood Education
18. Programs for At Risk Youth/Crime Prevention
19. Gymnastics/Tumbling Programs
20. Programs for People with Special Needs
21. Out of School Sports Camps
22. Lawn Bowling Activities/Leagues
23. eGaming/eSports
POP-UPS
1. Trees and Shade
2. Aquatic Facilities
3. A Connected Trail System
4. Play Areas
5. Splash Pads
6. Habitat Restoration
7. Multi-purpose Lawn
8. Youth Activities
9. Community Events
10. Sport Courts
11. Gym/Recreation Center
12. Dog Parks
13. Performance Areas/Theaters
14. Outdoor Exercise Areas
15. Seating
16. Park Safety & Comfort
17. Senior Activities
18. Picnic & Barbecue Areas
19. Community Gardens
20. Sport Fields
21. Bike Facilities
22. Accessibility for All
23. Nature/Outdoor Education
24. Yoga and Meditation Areas
SURVEY & POP-UP
COMPARISON:
PROGRAMS
We did not ask about exactly the
same items in the survey and the
pop-ups, but there is overlap in the
feedback from both.
05 KEY FINDINGS &
GUIDING THEMES
GUIDING THEMES
A connected trail system is a key priority for community members—in both the pop ups and survey.
Aquatic facilities and water fitness/swimming
lessons and programs are high priority for
community members. Limited and outdated
facilities are causing a strain on aquatic
programming and community swimming.
New and expanded community events would be
welcomed in the community and could highlight Santa
Clara’s park spaces and unique character.
Funding for parks, programming, and maintenance is a
big issue. It is difficult to maintain parks and facilities to the desired standard, and provide adequate staffing, with the current funding.
TRAILS
FUNDING & MAINTENANCE AQUATICS
COMMUNITY EVENTS
GUIDING THEMES
Prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility for all
ages and abilities was stated as a key priority.
Comfort amenities in parks are important. More and
better-maintained restrooms, trees and shade, and
picnic areas and seating are desired by the community
and improve accessibility.
There is demand for new and additional sports facilities, like pickleball, volleyball, and bocce courts. Multiuse fields are also needed. Soccer, softball, baseball, and flag football requires practice and game space, especially as community sports programs continue to grow.
Green spaces, native plants, and resiliency are
important to the community. Parks and open spaces
can provide recreation opportunities and well as
conservation opportunities.
COMFORT AMENITIES
OPEN SPACE & CONSERVATION AREASSPACES & ACTIVITIES FOR ALL
SPORTS FACILITIES
GUIDING THEMES
An indoor track, a community center, and indoor
basketball and volleyball courts all ranked relatively high on the survey. An indoor gymnasium facility could
address this demand.
The community ranked fitness & wellness programs as
the most important program/activity, as well as
reporting that there it is the program/activity with the highest level of unmet need in the survey. This is a clear priority for the community.
INDOOR RECREATION FACILITIESFITNESS & WELLNESS PROGRAMS
06 WORKSHOP
WORKSHOP
• June 26, 2025
• ~20 people in attendance
• Small groups discussion and open house formats
• No specific feedback received about aquatics or future parks Key Takeaways – Overall
• Restroom upgrades, pickleball courts, Senior Center improvements and extended hours, sports fields and courts, walking trails, and comfort amenities were the most frequently mentioned topics in all workshop responses
• There is openness to interagency collaboration, especially with schools, to expand community use and programming
RICHARDSON BAY LINEAL PARK
TIBURON, CA
SMALL GROUP ACTIVITY
Idea Exchange – Pairs
• Divide into pairs/trios and take turns answering the
four provided prompts
• As each person shares, the other group member(s)
will record their response on the provided cards.
Table Discussion – Small groups
• Discuss the answers written on the cards and work
together to identify common ideas and themes.
• Once you’re done, bring all the cards up to the open
house boards and place them on the corresponding
poster.
OPEN HOUSE
In the open house gallery, boards highlighted key ideas for Santa Clara’s future and invited attendees to leave
feedback.
• Goals – Big-picture priorities to guide improvements
• Park Improvements – Common upgrades needed at
existing parks
• Future Parks – Planned parks, gaps in access, and ideas for new parks
• Outdoor Amenities – What outdoor features are most
needed
• Indoor Recreation – Upgrades and potential new
centers/gyms
• Aquatics – Vision for better aquatic facilities and a new center
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Key Takeaways
• Central Park was, by far, reported as the most used
• Henry Schmidt Park, Steve Carli Park, and Live Oak
Park were also mentioned multiple times
• The Senior Center was the only indoor facility that
workshop participants reported using
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Key Takeaways
• Lawn bowling, trails, tennis courts, and pickleball courts were reported as the most frequented outdoor recreation facilities • Workshop participants reported that the following changes would attract them to engage in recreation programs more often:
• Longer hours
• Easier reservation system
• Better promotion of programs
• More walking trails
• Multigenerational programs (e.g. music in the park, all-family games, arts and crafts fair)
• Improved/increased senior programs (e.g. field trips) • More accessible and plentiful parking
• Specific amenities (pickleball and mahjong were noted)
PLAN GOALS
Place a dot next to the goals you think are most important.
PARK IMPROVEMENTS
Key Takeaways
• More restrooms
• Repair pavement on walking trails
• Additional amenities needed, specifically
diamond fields and pickleball courts
• More plantings and gardens
• Additional lighting in parks
• Improve parking accessibility
PARK IMPROVEMENTS
Place a dot next to the three proposed improvements you think are most important.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Key Takeaways
• Need more diamond fields
• Pickleball courts are desired
• Strong support for the ISC to reopen
• Passive recreation features, like game
tables and relaxation spaces, are desired
• Update and/or relocated the BMX track
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Place a dot next to the amenities you would like to see more of.
INDOOR RECREATION
Key Takeaways
• Update systems (mechanical, electrical, etc.)
• A sports complex or indoor gymnasium is desired, and
could be rented out to generate revenue
• Desire for community rooms and space for parties,
meetings, etc.
• Indoor pickleball courts are desired
07 ONLINE SURVEY 2
DEMOGRAPHICS
What is your zip code? What age group are you in?
803
RESPONSES!
PROPOSED GOALS
Which goals are most important to you? Arrange the goals to indicate their importance level, from highest to lowest.
Respondents ranked the goals in the following order:
1. Create walking paths and trails to support robust connectivity to parks.
2. Provide resources and implement strategies to address maintenance needs and aging infrastructure.
3. Provide functional parkland and recreational amenities that are inclusive, safe, and accessible for all ages/abilities.
4. Prioritize green spaces, including sustainable practices and resources to protect the environment and natural habitats.
5. Design and implement recreation programs that contribute to the well-being and quality of life within the community.
6. Develop aquatics facilities to support community demand for recreational and competitive programs.
7. Develop indoor recreation facilities that meet current and future community recreation needs.
8. Offer and expand community events that highlight Santa Clara’s unique character and culture.
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Consider the proposed improvements and arrange them by importance, from highest to lowest.
Respondents ranked the improvements in the following order:
1. Repurpose underused areas for recreational amenities.
2. Enhance and modernize restrooms.
3. Provide additional seating, trash receptacles, and shade.
4. Install complete walking loops in parks.
5. Connect paths and trails to parks.
6. Plant additional or more diverse vegetation, trees, and plants.
7. Upgrade vehicular and bicycle parking.
8. Provide screening from major streets or noise-producing uses.
9. Install informational, educational, and wayfinding signage.
PRIORITY PARK IMPROVEMENTS
What outdoor recreation amenities would you like to see added in Santa Clara? • Sports Facilities (~428)
• Requests include basketball courts, tennis and pickleball courts, and open grass fields. • Playgrounds and Kid-Friendly Spaces (~397)
• Multiple mentions of modernized, inclusive, or nature-based playgrounds. • Trails and Walking Paths (~191)
• Many participants asked for walking paths, loop trails, trail connections, or places to walk safely.
• Water Features (~165)
• A consistent theme includes splash pads, water play areas, or interactive fountains, especially for children.
• Picnic & Gathering Areas (~161)
• Residents want picnic tables, shaded seating, and BBQ areas. • Nature and Quiet Spaces (~134)
• A few comments focus on nature preserves, quiet gardens, or butterfly/pollinator zones. • Dog Parks (~86)
• Several residents want more dog parks or expanded off-leash areas.
PRIORITY PARK IMPROVEMENTS
What indoor recreation facilities would you like to see added in Santa Clara? • Indoor Sports Facilities (~80)
• Indoor courts for activities such as:
• Sports leagues
• After-school programs
• Summer camps
• Enrichment classes
• Aquatics Facilities (~60)
• Indoor swimming pools for:
• Lap swimming
• Water aerobics
• Family swim
• Swim lessons
• Fitness and Wellness Spaces (~45)
• Spaces for fitness, group exercise, and mental wellness:
• Gyms or fitness studios
• Yoga/meditation rooms
• Weight training and cardio rooms
• Youth and Teen Spaces (~30)
• Dedicated indoor spaces for children and teens:
• Recreation centers
• Teen lounges
• Game rooms (ping pong, foosball, etc.)
• Multipurpose and Community Rooms (~25)
• Flexible indoor spaces for:
• Classes and events
• Meetings and rentals
• Cultural programs
• Inclusive and Accessible Amenities (~15)
• ADA-accessible
• Senior-friendly
• Culturally inclusive
PRIORITY PARK IMPROVEMENTS
What recreation programs would you and/or your household like to see improved or added? • Aquatics Programs (~55)
• Very high demand for expanded swimming
opportunities:
• More swim lessons (for kids, adults, and all skill
levels)
• Lap swimming
• Open swim time
• Family-oriented swim activities
• Youth Enrichment & Sports Programs (~40)
• Desire for a broader range of activities for kids and teens:
• Team sports (soccer, basketball, etc.)
• STEM, arts, music, and dance
• After-school or weekend enrichment programs
• Adult and Senior Recreation (~35)
• Residents want more adult-specific offerings,
especially for seniors:
• Social gatherings, clubs, and games
• Health and wellness education
• Low-impact physical activity
• Fitness & Wellness Programs (~30)
• Requests for programs that promote active lifestyles:
• Group fitness (Zumba, aerobics, yoga)
• Adult fitness or personal training
• Outdoor fitness opportunities
• Expanded Program Access (~20)
• Feedback suggests that current offerings are:
• Too limited in capacity
• Not at convenient times
• Difficult to register for
• Inclusive and Multigenerational Programming (~15)
• Several respondents mentioned the need for:
• All-ages events and activities
• Family-based recreation
• Multilingual or culturally relevant programming
MOST POPULAR PARKS, FACILITIES & AMENITIES
ONLINE SURVEY 2 vs. WORKSHOP RESPONSES
Online Survey 2
• Central Park, Henry Schmidt Park, and Mary
Gomez Park & Pool are the most used parks
• The Community Recreation Center is the most
used indoor facility, followed by the Senior
Center and then the Youth and Teen Center
• Trails & walking paths, playgrounds, and
Swimming pools are the most used recreation
amenities
Workshop
• Central Park, Henry Schmidt Park, Steve Carli
Park, and Live Oak Park are the most used parks
• The Senior Center is the only facility reported
• Lawn bowling, trails, tennis courts, and
pickleball courts are the most used recreation
amenities
**Multi-use trails, swimming pools, and open space & conservations areas were the top three priority amenities/facilities reported in the statistically-valid survey. 18 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Appendix H:
Statistically-
Valid Survey
Findings
H
City of Santa Clara, California
2024 Parks and Recreation
Needs Assessment Survey
Findings Report
Submitted to the City of Santa Clara, California by:
E
TC Institute
725 W. Frontier Lane,
Olathe, KS 66061
Jan
uary 2025
Contents
Section 1: Executive Summary ............................................. 1 Section 2: Charts and Graphs ............................................... 9 Section 3: Benchmarks ....................................................... 48 Section 4: Priority Investment Ratings (PIR) ....................... 57 Section 5: I-S Analysis ......................................................... 65 Section 6: Tabular Data ...................................................... 69 Section 7: Survey Instrument ........................................... 118
1 Executive Summary
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
1 Santa Clara, California
Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey
Executive Summary
Overview
ETC Institute administered a parks and recreation needs assessment survey for the City of Santa Clara, California during the winter of 2024 -2025. Th e purpose of the survey was to help determine parks and recreation priorities for the community.
Methodology
ETC Institute mailed a survey packet to a random sample of households throughout the City of Santa Clara. Each survey packet contained a cover letter, a copy of the survey, and a postage - pai
d return envelope. Residents who received the survey were given the option of returning the survey by mail or completing it online.
Afte
r the surveys were mailed, ETC Institute followed up with residents to encourage participation. To prevent people who were not residents of Santa Clara from participating, everyone who completed the survey online was required to enter their home address prior to submitting the ir survey. ETC Institute then matched the addresses entered online with the addresses originally selected for the random sample. If the address from a survey completed online did not match one of the addresses selected for the sample, the online survey was not included in the final database for this report.
A
total of 342 households completed the survey . The overall results for the sample of 3 42 residents have a precision of at least +/-5.3% a
t the 95% level of confidence.
Thi
s report contains the following:
• Executive Summary with major findings (Section 1)
• Charts showing the overall results of the survey (Section 2) • Benchmarks (Section 3)
• Priority Investment Ratings (PIR) (Section 4)
• Importance-Satisfaction Analysis (Section 5)
• Tabular data showing the overall results for all questions on the survey (Section 6) • A copy of the cover letter and survey instrument (Section 7) The major findings of the survey are summarized in the following pages.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
2 Facilities/Programs Use
Facilities Use: Ninety-two percent (92%) of respondents indicated that they have visited a facility in the past year. 15% visit the parks/facilities more than 5 times a week, 33% visit the parks/facilities 2-4 times a week, 17% visit once a week, 19% visit 1-3 times a month, and 16% visit less than once a month. 9% rated the physical condition excellent, 55% rated the physical condition good, 28% rated fair, and 7% rated poor. The common reasons that respondents were using the facilities were: walk for exercise (78%), play on a playground (31%), and participate in a program/attend an event league (29%).
P
rograms Use: Thirty-nine percent (39%) of respondents indicated that they have participated in a program/activity in the past year. 18% rated the programs/activities excellent, 56% rated the programs/activities good, 24% rated fair, and 2% rated poor . The barriers that have prevented them from participating in programs/activities more often are: program times are not convenient (31%), old & outdated facilities (25%), and I don’t know what is offered (25%).
Ou
tside Organizations
Respondents selected the organizations they use for programs/activities in the past year . The commonly used organizations were: City of Santa Clara (67%), neighboring cities (41%), and Santa Clara County (34%) . The reasons why respondents may have used other organizations for recreation programs/activities were: program times are more convenient (29%), offers programs that I am interested in (29%), and newer facilities (21%).
Co
mmunication
The most used resources that respondents used most to keep up with the parks and recreation services are: city activity guide (69%), city website (51%), and banners at parks or city fa cilities (42%). Based on the sum of top three choices, the commonly used resources were: city activity guide (49%), city website (37%), and email/eBlasts from city (35%).
B
enefits, Importance, and Improvements to Parks and Recreation Agreement: Respondents rated their level of agreement with the statements about some potential benefits of the City’s parks and recreation services. The most agreed statements were:
makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live ( 80%), preserves open space & protect s the environment (79%), and improves my (my hous ehold’s) physical health & fitness (78%). Based on the sum of top 4 choices, the statements/benefits most important to households are:
improves my (my hous ehold’s) mental health & reduces stress (48%), improves my (my household’s) physical health & fitness (45%), and makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live (42%).
Funding for Improvements/Additions: Based on the sum of top 4 choices, the ac tions (listed in the survey) that respondents are most willing to fund are: general repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities (42%), develop new trail & bike lane connections (30%), and improve existing aquatic facilities (28%).
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
3 Additional Finding
Satisfaction: 14% were very satisfied with the overall value re ceived from parks and recr eation services, 37% were satisfied with the overall value re ceived from parks and recreation services, 31% were neutral, 13% were dissatisfied, and 5% were very dissatisfied.
Single/Multi-Day Event Concepts: Based on the sum of top three choic es, the single/multi-day event concepts that respondents are most interested in participating are: food events ( 64%), entertainment (45%), and holiday celebrations (33%).
Recreation Facilities/Amenities Needs and Priorities
Facility Needs: Respondents were asked to identify if their household had a need for 23 recreation facilities and amenities and to rate how well their needs for each were currently being met. Based on this analysis, ETC Institute was able to estimate the number of households in the community that had the greatest “unmet” need for various facilities.
The three facilities with the highest percentage of households that have an unmet need:
1. Multi-use trails
2. Open space & conservation areas
3. Picnic areas & shelters
Facility Importance: In addition to assessing the needs for each facility, ETC Institute also assessed the importance that residents placed on each item. Based on the sum of respondents’ top four choices, these were the four facilities that ranked most important to residents:
1. Multi-use trails
2. Swimming pool
3. Open space & conservation areas
4. Picnic areas & shelters
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
4 Priorities for Facility Investments: The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by ETC Institute to provide organizations with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be placed on recreation and parks investments. The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) equally weighs (1) the importance that residents place on facilities and (2) how many residents have unmet needs for the facilities. [Details regarding the methodology for this analysis are provided in Section 4 of this report.]
Based the Priority Investment Rating (PIR), the following facilities were rated as high priorities for investment:
• Multi-use trails (PIR=184)
• Swimming pool (PIR=156)
• Open space & conservation areas (PIR=113)
The chart on the next page shows the Priority Investment Rating for each of the 23 facilities assessed in the survey.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
5 Recreation Programs/Activities Needs and Priorities
Programs Needs : Respondents were asked to identify if their household had a need for 23 recreation programs and to rate how well their needs for each were currently being met. Based on this analysis, ETC Institute was able to estimate the number of households in the community that had the greatest “unmet” need for various facilities.
The three programs with the highest percentage of households that have an unmet need:
1. Fitness & wellness programs
2. Community special events
3. Outdoor recreation
Prog
ram Importance: In addition to assessing the needs for each program, ETC Institute also assessed the importance that residents placed on each item. Based on the sum of respondents’ top four choices, these were the four facilities that ranked most important to residents:
1. Fitness & wellness programs
2. Outdoor recreation
3. Water fitness programs/lap swimming
4. Community special events
Priorities for Program Investments: The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by ETC Institute to provide organizations with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be placed on recreation and parks investments. The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) equally weighs (1) the importance that residents place on facilities and (2) how many residents have unmet needs for the programs. [Details regarding the methodology for this analysis are provided in Section 4 of this report.]
Based the Priority Investment Rating (PIR), the following programs were rated as high priorities for investment:
• Fitness & wellness programs (PIR=200)
• Outdoor recreation (PIR=179)
• Water fitness programs/lap swimming (PIR=158)
• Community special events (PIR=157)
• Swim lessons (PIR=116)
The c
hart below shows the Priority Investment Rating for each of the 23 programs assessed in the survey.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
6 City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
7 Investment Priorities
Recommen
ded Priorities. In order to help the Cit y identify investment priorities, ETC Institute conducted an Importance -Satis
faction (I -S) an
alysis. This analysis examined the importance
residents placed on each maintenance item and the level of satisfaction with each maintenance item. By identifying the items of high importance and low satisfaction, the analysis identified which item will have the most impact on overall satisfaction with the maintenance items in the future. If the City wants to improve its overall satisfaction rating, the City should prioritize investments in the items with the highest Importance Satisfaction (I-S)
ratings. Details regarding the methodology for
the analysis are provided in Section 5 of this report.
Ove
rall Priorities for the Maintenance by Major Category. This analysis reviewed the importance of and satisfaction with the maintenance. Based on the results of this analysis, the items that are recommended as the top priorities in order to raise the parks overall satisfaction rating are listed below:
• Restroom maintenance (I-S=0.1858)
• Path/trail (paved) maintenance (I-S=0.1495)
• Graffiti removal/vandalism repair (I-S=0.1439)
• Trash/litter/waste pickup (I-S=0.1274)
The
table below shows the Importance-Sa
tisfaction rating for the eighteen major categories of the maintenance that were rated.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
8 2 Charts and Graphs
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
9 Q1. Including yourself, how many people in your household are...
Under age 5
6%Ages 5-9
5%Ages 10-14
5%
Ages 15-19
6%
Ages 20-24
5%
Ages 25-34
14%
Ages 35-44
16%
Ages 45-54
14%
Ages 55-64
14%
Ages 65-74
10%
Ages 75-84
5%
Ages 85+
1%
by percentage of persons in household
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
10 Q2. Have you/your household visited any park s or recreation facilities offered by the City of Santa Clara during the past year?
Yes
92%
No
8%
by percentage of respondents
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
11 Q2a. How often do you visit Santa Clara parks and/or recreation facilities? 15%
2-4 times a week
33%
Once a week
17%
1-3 times a month
19%
Less than once a month
16%
by percentage of respondents who respon ded “YES” to Q2 (excluding "don’t know”) More than 5 times
a week
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
12 Q2b. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of all the parks and recreation facilities you have visited?
Excellent
9%
Good
55%
Fair
28%
Poor
7%
by percentage of respondents who respo nded “YES” to Q2 (excluding "not provided”) City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
13 Q2c. Please check all the following reasons that you/your household currently use the parks and recreation facilities.
by percentage of respondents who responded “Y ES” to Q2 (multiple selections could be made) 78%
31%
29%
29%
29%
28%
26%
24%
23%
18%
13%
13%
11%
Walk for exercise
Play on a playground
Participate in a program/attend an event/league
Picnicking/family-friend gathering
Walk dog(s)
Hang out
Play non-league/program sports
Ride a bike
Run/jog
Go swimming/use a splash pad
Watch birds/wildlife
People watch
Read a book
0% 40% 80%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
14 Q3. Has your household participated in any recreation programs/activities during the past year?
Yes
39%
No
61%
by percentage of respondents
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
15 Q3a. How would you rate the overall quality of the City of the recreation programs and/or activities in which your household has participated? Excellent
18%
Good
56%
Fair
24%
Poor
2%
by percentage of respondents who respo nded “YES” to Q3 (excluding "not provided”) City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
16 Q4. From the following list, please check all the organizations that you/your household have used for recreation programs/activities during the past year. by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made) 67%
41%
34%
24%
20%
19%
13%
8%
7%
City of Santa Clara
Neighboring cities
Santa Clara County
Public/private schools
Places of worship
Private clubs
Private & non-profit youth sports
Private summer camps
Homeowners association
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
17 Q4a. If you/your household have used other organizations for recreation programs/activities, please check all the following reasons as to why you do so. by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made) 29%
29%
21%
7%
7%
7%
Program times are more convenient
Offers programs that I am interested in
Newer facilities
Quality of instructors
Value of program matches the fee paid
Closer to my home
0% 20% 40%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
18 Q5. Please check all the following reasons that prevent you/your household from participating in the City of Santa Clara recreation programs/activities more often. by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made) 31%
25%
25%
22%
18%
18%
14%
11%
9%
6%
6%
5%
4%
2%
2%
2%
2%
Program times are not convenient
Old & outdated facilities
I don't know what is offered
Too busy/not interested
Program not offered
Fees are too high
Classes are full
Use programs offered by other agencies
Lack of quality programs
Registration is difficult
Too far from my home
Poor customer service by staff
Lack of quality instructors
Lack of right program equipment
Lack of transportation
Lack of trust in government
Language/cultural barriers
0% 20% 40%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
19 Q6. Households that have a need for various facilities/amenities. by percentage of respondents who indicated need
77%
72%
68%
62%
55%
52%
51%
49%
48%
45%
44%
39%
37%
36%
35%
35%
31%
29%
27%
24%
22%
20%
20%
Multi-use trails
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Swimming pool
Outdoor multi-use courts
Community center
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Community gardens
Universally accessible play areas
Indoor walking/jogging track
Rectangular sports fields
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Tennis courts
Off-leash dog park
Pickleball courts
Diamond sports fields
Environmental education center
Golf course
Splash pads
Skate parks
Lawn bowling
Specialty bike parks
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
20 Q6b. Estimated number of households who have a need for facilities/amenities. by number of households based on an estimated 48,601 households in the City of Santa Clara 37,617
34,993
33,000
30,084
26,585
25,273
24,738
23,717
23,134
21,627
21,433
18,906
17,837
17,448
17,205
16,865
14,921
14,191
13,074
11,518
10,595
9,817
9,672
Multi-use trails
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Swimming pool
Outdoor multi-use courts
Community center
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Community gardens
Universally accessible play areas
Indoor walking/jogging track
Rectangular sports fields
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Tennis courts
Off-leash dog park
Pickleball courts
Diamond sports fields
Environmental education center
Golf course
Splash pads
Skate parks
Lawn bowling
Specialty bike parks
0 20,000 40,000 60,000
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
21 Q6c. How well needs are being met for various facilties/amenities. by percentage of respondents (excluding "no need")
19%
24%
21%
22%
23%
20%
18%
16%
23%
16%
22%
12%
13%
13%
14%
11%
10%
12%
10%
7%
7%
7%
8%
41%
34%
33%
32%
30%
28%
29%
29%
22%
28%
22%
28%
27%
26%
23%
25%
22%
17%
16%
17%
16%
15%
13%
28%
31%
35%
25%
28%
33%
35%
33%
31%
28%
28%
34%
28%
32%
33%
27%
36%
20%
23%
27%
30%
36%
28%
13%
12%
11%
22%
19%
19%
18%
22%
25%
28%
29%
26%
32%
29%
29%
37%
31%
51%
52%
49%
47%
42%
51%
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Universally accessible play areas
Community gardens
Community center
Multi-use trails
Tennis courts
Diamond sports fields
Off-leash dog park
Skate parks
Lawn bowling
Rectangular sports fields
Specialty bike parks
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Outdoor multi-use courts
Environmental education center
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Golf course
Indoor walking/jogging track
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Swimming pool
Splash pads
Pickleball courts
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Fully Met Mostly Met Partly Met Not Met
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
22 Q6d. Estimated number of households in Santa Clara whose facility/amenity needs are only “partly met" or “not met”.
by number of households with need based on an esti mated 48,601 households in the City of Santa Clara 23,135
19,448
16,642
16,624
15,903
14,468
14,067
13,926
13,592
13,323
11,929
11,362
10,781
9,970
9,532
9,243
9,230
9,083
8,962
8,237
5,934
5,832
5,547
Swimming pool
Multi-use trails
Outdoor multi-use courts
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Indoor walking/jogging track
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Pickleball courts
Community center
Rectangular sports fields
Community gardens
Universally accessible play areas
Off-leash dog park
Golf course
Tennis courts
Environmental education center
Splash pads
Diamond sports fields
Skate parks
Specialty bike parks
Lawn bowling
0 10,000 20,000 30,000
Not Met Partly Met
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
23 Q7. Which four facilities/amenities are most important to your household? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 51%
32%
30%
27%
25%
20%
16%
15%
13%
13%
12%
11%
10%
9%
9%
7%
6%
5%
4%
4%
3%
2%
1%
Multi-use trails
Swimming pool
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Community center
Community gardens
Off-leash dog park
Indoor walking/jogging track
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Outdoor multi-use courts
Universally accessible play areas
Golf course
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Pickleball courts
Rectangular sports fields
Diamond sports fields
Tennis courts
Specialty bike parks
Environmental education center
Splash pads
Skate parks
Lawn bowling
0% 20% 40% 60%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
24 Q8. Households that have a need for various programs/activities. by percentage of respondents who indicated need
60%
56%
51%
46%
45%
39%
38%
37%
34%
33%
31%
30%
29%
25%
25%
21%
21%
21%
21%
20%
20%
17%
13%
Fitness & wellness programs
Community special events
Outdoor recreation
Cultural enrichment programs
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Swim lessons
Performing arts programs
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
Pickleball lessons & leagues
Recreation/competitive swim team
Tennis lessons & leagues
After school programs for youth of all ages
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Out of school day camps
Out of school sports camps
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Programs for people with special needs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
eGaming/eSports
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
25 Q8b. Estimated number of households wh o have a need for programs/activities. by number of households based on an estimated 48,601 households in the City of Santa Clara 29,015
27,362
24,592
22,113
22,016
18,760
18,614
18,177
16,330
16,038
15,212
14,532
13,997
12,296
11,907
10,401
10,206
10,206
10,109
9,817
9,477
8,068
6,367
Fitness & wellness programs
Community special events
Outdoor recreation
Cultural enrichment programs
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Swim lessons
Performing arts programs
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
Pickleball lessons & leagues
Recreation/competitive swim team
Tennis lessons & leagues
After school programs for youth of all ages
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Out of school day camps
Out of school sports camps
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Programs for people with special needs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
eGaming/eSports
0 20,000 40,000
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
26 Q8c. How well needs are being met for various programs/activities. by percentage of respondents (excluding "no need”)
17%
14%
13%
14%
12%
12%
9%
11%
9%
8%
11%
11%
12%
10%
11%
11%
9%
10%
7%
6%
7%
9%
6%
32%
26%
22%
22%
23%
23%
25%
21%
22%
23%
20%
19%
18%
19%
18%
15%
17%
15%
17%
16%
11%
9%
12%
32%
39%
30%
26%
28%
28%
38%
37%
41%
35%
39%
31%
32%
37%
22%
36%
27%
34%
30%
34%
21%
34%
30%
20%
21%
34%
38%
36%
38%
28%
31%
28%
34%
30%
39%
39%
34%
49%
38%
47%
41%
45%
45%
61%
48%
52%
Community special events
Cultural enrichment programs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Sports leagues
Tennis lessons & leagues
Fitness & wellness programs
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Performing arts programs
STEAM/tech classes
After school programs for youth of all ages
Out of school sports camps
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
eGaming/eSports
Out of school day camps
Outdoor recreation
Swim lessons
Programs for people with special needs
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Recreation/competitive swim team
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Pickleball lessons & leagues
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Fully Met Mostly Met Partly Met Not Met
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
27 Q8d. Estimated number of households in Santa Clara whose program/activity needs are only “partly met" or “not met”.
by number of households with need based on an esti mated 48,601 households in the City of Santa Clara 19,179
18,198
18,032
14,037
13,942
13,334
12,794
12,488
11,974
11,496
11,449
11,067
9,796
8,228
8,054
7,976
7,511
7,392
7,093
6,698
6,085
5,663
4,526
Fitness & wellness programs
Outdoor recreation
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Community special events
Swim lessons
Cultural enrichment programs
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Performing arts programs
Pickleball lessons & leagues
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
Recreation/competitive swim team
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
After school programs for youth of all ages
Tennis lessons & leagues
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Out of school day camps
Programs for people with special needs
Out of school sports camps
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
eGaming/eSports
0 10,000 20,000
Not Met Partly Met
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
28 Q9. Which four programs/activities are most important to your household? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 1%
32%
30%
26%
22%
16%
15%
14%
12%
10%
10%
9%
8%
8%
8%
8%
7%
6%
6%
6%
5%
5%
1%
Fitness & wellness programs
Outdoor recreation
Community special events
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Swim lessons
After school programs for youth of all ages
Cultural enrichment programs
Performing arts programs
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
Pickleball lessons & leagues
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Recreation/competitive swim team
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
Out of school day camps
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Tennis lessons & leagues
Out of school sports camps
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Programs for people with special needs
eGaming/eSports
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
0% 20% 40%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
29 Q10. From the list below, which three of the single or multi-day event concepts would you/your household be most interested in participating? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top three choices 64%
45%
33%
31%
19%
15%
13%
11%
10%
9%
6%
Food events
Entertainment
Holiday celebrations
Cultural celebrations
Competitions
Health & wellness events
Sports tournaments
Educational workshops for seniors & youth
Environmental event
Employment/job fairs
Summer Camp Information Fair
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
30 Q11. If you or someone in your household is over 50 years old, please indicate how well your/their needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below that promote active aging.
by percentage of respondents (excluding "no need”)
13%
13%
16%
6%
13%
15%
8%
6%
3%
6%
7%
9%
8%
9%
7%
10%
8%
24%
21%
18%
24%
16%
14%
20%
20%
23%
19%
18%
16%
17%
15%
17%
11%
13%
30%
40%
39%
35%
35%
35%
43%
25%
23%
42%
43%
27%
39%
32%
38%
35%
38%
34%
27%
28%
34%
36%
37%
29%
49%
52%
33%
32%
48%
37%
44%
38%
44%
43%
Special events at the senior center
Lunch/meal programs
Weekly programs
Arts & crafts programs & activities
Special interest classes
Transportation programs/services
Financial services program
Legal assistance programs
Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs
Healthy living programs & screenings
Music classes & programs
Support groups
Volunteer opportunities programs
Dance lessons & programs
Computer classes & programs
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist
Housing programs
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Fully Met Mostly Met Partly Met Not Met
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
31 Q12. Which four programs/services are most important to your household? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 5%
15%
14%
13%
12%
10%
8%
7%
7%
7%
6%
6%
6%
5%
4%
4%
2%
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist
Arts & crafts programs & activities
Special interest classes
Healthy living programs & screenings
Special events at the senior center
Volunteer opportunities programs
Computer classes & programs
Weekly programs
Transportation programs/services
Financial services program
Lunch/meal programs
Dance lessons & programs
Housing programs
Music classes & programs
Legal assistance programs
Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs
Support groups
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
32 Q13. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statements about some potential benefits of the City of Santa Clara's parks and recreation services. by percentage of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
41%
37%
38%
36%
33%
29%
30%
29%
28%
26%
26%
21%
39%
43%
40%
41%
39%
42%
40%
40%
38%
40%
37%
32%
16%
15%
17%
19%
21%
20%
21%
25%
25%
29%
27%
36%
4%
5%
3%
3%
6%
7%
7%
6%
8%
6%
8%
10%
0%
1%
2%
1%
1%
3%
2%
0%
1%
2%
1%
Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live
Preserves open space & protects the environment
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups
Increases my (my household's) property value
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community
Helps to attract new residents
Provides jobs/professional development for youth
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree Improves my (my household's) physical health &
fitness
Improves my (my household's) mental health &
reduces stress
Provides positive social interactions for me (my
household/family)
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep
kids out of trouble
Positively impacts economic/business
development/tourism
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
33 Q14. Which four of the benefits are mo st important to you/your household? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 48%
45%
42%
36%
25%
22%
22%
21%
9%
9%
8%
8%
Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live
Preserves open space & protects the environment
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community
Helps to attract new residents
Provides jobs/professional development for youth
0% 20% 40% 60%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
Improves my (my household's) mental health &
reduces stress
Improves my (my household's) physical health &
fitness
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep
kids out of trouble
Increases my (my household's) property value
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups
Provides positive social interactions for me (my
household/family)
Positively impacts economic/business
development/tourism
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
34 Q15. Please rate your level of satisfaction with the overall value that your household receives from Santa Clara parks, trails, recreation facilities, pools, programs, or services.
Very satisfied
14%
Satisfied
37%
Neutral
31% Dissatisfied
13%
Very dissatisfied
5%
by percentage of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
35 Q16. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara parks and recreation system. by percentage of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
21%
21%
17%
17%
15%
17%
16%
16%
13%
14%
10%
12%
14%
13%
12%
11%
7%
9%
39%
39%
40%
40%
41%
38%
36%
35%
37%
34%
36%
34%
31%
31%
28%
26%
29%
23%
25%
23%
26%
27%
25%
33%
27%
36%
29%
35%
33%
36%
33%
29%
35%
39%
33%
28%
9%
13%
13%
10%
12%
10%
14%
11%
17%
14%
16%
12%
13%
22%
16%
15%
22%
17%
6%
5%
5%
6%
6%
4%
6%
2%
4%
3%
5%
7%
9%
4%
9%
9%
9%
23%
Mowing
Playground safety & maintenance
Landscape care (flower beds)
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance
Path/trail (paved) maintenance
Urban forest/tree maintenance
Trash/litter/waste pickup
Natural area/conservation area management
Trail (non-paved) maintenance
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair
Athletic outdoor court maintenance
Athletic field maintenance
Waterways/rivers/streams
Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care
Specialized facility maintenance
Restroom maintenance
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
36 Q17. Which of the four maintenance acti vities are most important to you/your household?
by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 2%
34%
29%
27%
27%
21%
17%
14%
13%
13%
13%
13%
13%
12%
12%
12%
11%
8%
Path/trail (paved) maintenance
Restroom maintenance
Trash/litter/waste pickup
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair
Playground safety & maintenance
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance
Natural area/conservation area management
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance
Trail (non-paved) maintenance
Athletic field maintenance
Waterways/rivers/streams
Urban forest/tree maintenance
Athletic outdoor court maintenance
Landscape care (flower beds)
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance
Mowing
Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care
Specialized facility maintenance
0% 20% 40%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
37 Q18 (1-9). Improvements to Existing Facilit ies: The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action.
by percentage of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
55%
48%
53%
46%
44%
41%
35%
34%
27%
34%
33%
26%
33%
32%
32%
33%
33%
22%
11%
16%
13%
17%
21%
19%
27%
25%
25%
0%
2%
5%
2%
2%
8%
4%
6%
14%
0%
3%
2%
2%
1%
2%
3%
12%
Improve existing aquatic facilities
Improve restroom facilities in existing parks
Improve playgrounds in existing parks
Renovate recreation/senior centers
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very Supportive Somewhat Supportive Neutral Not Supportive Not At All Supportive General repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks
Add Wi-Fi/other technology impr ovements to existing parks City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
38 Q18 (10-15). Developing New Facilities: The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action.
by percentage of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
45%
44%
37%
35%
21%
19%
29%
28%
31%
33%
24%
26%
20%
17%
22%
25%
29%
31%
5%
7%
5%
5%
15%
11%
1%
4%
5%
2%
12%
12%
Develop new parks
Develop new trail & bike lane connections
Develop new sports facilities
Develop/improve community-wide event venues
Develop new off-leash dog parks
Develop new splashpads
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very Supportive Somewhat Supportive Neutral Not Supportive Not At All Supportive City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
39 Q19. Which four actions would you be most willing to fund? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 42%
30%
28%
27%
25%
22%
21%
20%
16%
13%
11%
10%
9%
9%
4%
Develop new trail & bike lane connections
Improve existing aquatic facilities
Improve restroom facilities in existing parks
Develop new parks
Improve playgrounds in existing parks
Develop new sports facilities
Renovate recreation/senior centers
Develop/improve community-wide event venues
Develop new off-leash dog parks
Develop new splashpads
0% 20% 40% 60%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice
General repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks
Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
40 Q20. From the following list, please check all of the ways you learn about the City’s parks, recreation facilities, and programs, events, activities and services. by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made) 69%
51%
42%
38%
33%
30%
23%
19%
19%
12%
11%
9%
7%
3%
City activity guide
City website
Banners at parks or City facilities
Friends & neighbors
Email/eBlasts from City
City weekly newsletter
Materials at parks or recreation facilities
Promotions at special events
Facebook
Flyers
Instagram
Newspaper
Conversations with recreation staff
X/Twitter
0% 40% 80%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
41 Q21. Which three methods of communication would you most prefer the City use to communicate with you about recreation programs/activities? by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top three choices 49%
37%
35%
30%
22%
15%
13%
11%
7%
6%
6%
6%
2%
2%
City activity guide
City website
Email/eBlasts from City
City weekly newsletter
Banners at parks or City facilities
Facebook
Instagram
Materials at parks or recreation facilities
Promotions at special events
Friends & neighbors
Newspaper
Flyers
X/Twitter
Conversations with recreation staff
0% 20% 40% 60%
Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
42 Q22. How many years have you lived in the City of Santa Clara? 6-10 years
13%
11-20 years
18%
0-5 years
24%
21-30 years
15%
31+ years
29%
by percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”) City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
43 Q23. Are you/your family of Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ancestry? Yes
17%
No
83%
by percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”) City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
44 Q24. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made) 47%
31%
2%
1%
1%
5%
Asian or Asian Indian
White
Black or African American
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
American Indian or Alaska Native
Other
0% 20% 40% 60%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
45 Q25. Your gender:
Male
49%
Female
50%
Non-binary
1%
by percentage of respondents (excluding "prefer not to answer”) City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
46 Q26. Your age:
35-44
20%
45-54
20%
18-34
20%
55-64
20%
65+
20%
by percentage of respondents
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
47 3 Benchmarks
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
48 City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
49 by % of respondents
Have you/your household visited any parks or recreation facilities/amenities in your community during the past year?
92%
9%
81%
19%
Yes
No
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
50 by % of respondents (excluding "not provided”)
Please rate the overall condition of all the parks and recreation facilities/amenities you/your households have visited over the past year.
9%
55%
28%
7%
35%
47%
15%
3%
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
0% 20% 40% 60%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
51 by % of respondents
Have you/your household participated in any recreation programs offered in your community during the past year?
39%
61%
36%
64%
Yes
No
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
52 by % of respondents (excluding "not provided”)
Please rate the overall condition of all the recreation programs and events you/your households have visited over the past year.
18%
56%
24%
2%
36%
49%
12%
3%
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
0% 20% 40% 60%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
53 by % of respondents (multiple selections could be made) If your household has not participated in any recreation programs in your community during the past year, please check all of the reasons that prevent you from participating.
31%
25%
22%
18%
18%
14%
11%
9%
6%
6%
4%
2%
2%
16%
38%
18%
9%
12%
9%
25%
19%
7%
14%
18%
9%
4%
Program times are not convenient
I don't know what is offered
Too busy/not interested
Program not offered
Fees are too high/lack of financial assistance
Classes are full
Use programs of other agencies
Lack of quality programs
Registration is difficult
Too far from home
Lack of quality instructors
Lack of transportation
Language/cultural/age barriers
0% 20% 40%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
54 by % of respondents (excluding "don’t know”)
Please rate your overall level of satisfaction with the value your household receives from the parks and recreation programs, activities, and events offered in your community.
14%
37%
31%
13%
5%
25%
37%
34%
2%
1%
Very Satisfied
Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
Very Dissatisfied
0% 20% 40%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
55 by % of respondents (multiple selections could be made) Please check all the ways you currently use to learn about parks and recreation programs, activities, and events in your community.
69%
51%
42%
38%
33%
23%
19%
12%
9%
7%
15%
26%
32%
40%
30%
18%
14%
31%
25%
25%
Activities Guide
Website
Banners at parks or facilities
Friends and neighbors
Emails from the department
Promotions at special events
Flyers
Newspaper and/or community publication
Conversations with recreation staff
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Santa Clara (2024) National Average
Handout materials at parks or recreation facilities
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
56 4 Priority Investment Ratings
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
57 Overview
The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by ETC Institute to provide governments with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be placed on parks and recreation investments. The Priority Investment Rating was developed by ETC Institute to identify the facilities/programs residents think should receive the highest priority for investment. The Priority Investment Rating reflects the importance residents place on items (sum of top 4 choices) and the unmet needs (needs that are only being met 50% or less) for each facility/program relative to the facility/program that rated the highest overall. Since decisions related to future investments should consider both the level of unmet need and the importance of facilities/programs, the PIR weights each of these components equally.
The PIR reflects the sum of the Unmet Needs Rating and the Importance Rating as shown in the equation below:
PIR = UNR + IR
For example, suppose the Unmet Needs Rating for playgrounds is 26.5 (out of 100) and the Importance Rating for playgrounds is 52 (out of 100), the Priority Investment Rating for playgrounds would be 78.5 (out of 200).
How to Analyze the Charts:
• High Priority Areas are those with a PIR of at least 110. A rating of 110 or above generally indicates there is a relatively high level of unmet need and residents generally think it is important to fund improvements in these areas. Improvements in this area are likely to have a positive impact on the greatest number of households. • Medium Priority Areas are those with a PIR of 70-109. A rating in this range generally indicates there is a medium to high level of unmet need or a significant percentage of residents generally think it is important to fund improvements in these areas.
• Low Priority Areas are those with a PIR below 49. A rating in this range generally indicates there is a relatively low level of unmet need and residents do not think it is important to fund improvements in these areas. Improvements may be warranted if the needs of very specialized populations are being targeted.
The following pages show the Unmet Needs Rating, Importance Rating, and Priority Investment Rating for facilities and programs.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
58 Unmet Needs Rating for Facilities/Amenities
the rating for the item with the most unmet need=100
the rating of all other items reflects the relative amount of unmet need for each it em compared to the item with the most unme t need 100.0
84.1 71.9
71.9 68.7
62.5 60.8
60.2 58.7
57.6 51.6
49.1 46.6
43.1 41.2
40.0 39.9
39.3 38.7
35.6 25.6
25.2 24.0
Swimming pool
Multi-use trails
Outdoor multi-use courts
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Indoor walking/jogging track
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Pickleball courts
Community center
Rectangular sports fields
Community gardens
Universally accessible play areas
Off-leash dog park
Golf course
Tennis courts
Environmental education center
Splash pads
Diamond sports fields
Skate parks
Specialty bike parks
Lawn bowling
0.0 40.0 80.0 120.0
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
59 Importance Rating for Facilities/Amenitites
the rating for the item rated as the most important=100 the rating of all other items reflects th e relative level of importance for each item compared to the item rated as the most i mportant 100.0
55.7 52.1
45.6 44.3
29.3 28.6
26.2 22.1
20.2 18.4
17.8 15.2
13.2 11.5
11.5 10.8
8.9 7.2
5.2 3.9
2.6 1.3
Multi-use trails
Swimming pool
Open space & conservation areas
Community center
Picnic areas & shelters
Off-leash dog park
Indoor walking/jogging track
Community gardens
Outdoor multi-use courts
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Golf course
Pickleball courts
Universally accessible play areas
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Diamond sports fields
Rectangular sports fields
Tennis courts
Specialty bike parks
Environmental education center
Splash pads
Skate parks
Lawn bowling
0.0 40.0 80.0 120.0
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
60 184
156
113
104
97 97
94 85
79 75
74 73
71 60
58 58
49 47
45 43
32 28
25 Multi-use trails
Swimming pool
Open space & conservation areas
Picnic areas & shelters
Indoor walking/jogging track
Community center
Outdoor multi-use courts
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Pickleball courts
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue
Community gardens
Off-leash dog park
Rectangular sports fields
Golf course
Universally accessible play areas
Tennis courts
Diamond sports fields
Environmental education center
Splash pads
Specialty bike parks
Skate parks
Lawn bowling
0 50 100 150 200
Top Priorities for Investment for Facilities/Amenities Based on Priority Investment Rating
Medium Priority
(70-109)
Lower Priority (69
or less)
High Priority
(110+)
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
61 Unmet Needs Rating for Programs/Activities
the rating for the item with the most unmet need=100
the rating of all other items reflects the relative amount of unmet need for each it em compared to the item with the most unme t need 100.0
94.9 94.0
73.2 72.7
69.5 66.7
65.1 62.4
59.9 59.7
57.7 51.1
42.9 42.0
41.6 39.2
38.5 37.0
34.9 31.7
29.5 23.6
Fitness & wellness programs
Outdoor recreation
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Community special events
Swim lessons
Cultural enrichment programs
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Performing arts programs
Pickleball lessons & leagues
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
Recreation/competitive swim team
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
After school programs for youth of all ages
Tennis lessons & leagues
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Out of school day camps
Programs for people with special needs
Out of school sports camps
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
eGaming/eSports
0.0 40.0 80.0 120.0
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
62 Importance Rating for Programs/Activities
the rating for the item rated as the most important=100 the rating of all other items reflects th e relative level of importance for each item compared to the item rated as the most important 100.0
83.6 83.6
64.1 43.6
41.8 35.5
31.4 24.4
24.4 24.4
23.3 21.6
21.3 19.5
17.1 15.3
14.6 11.1
9.4 9.4
4.2 2.1
Fitness & wellness programs
Outdoor recreation
Community special events
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Swim lessons
After school programs for youth of all ages
Cultural enrichment programs
Performing arts programs
Pickleball lessons & leagues
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Recreation/competitive swim team
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Out of school day camps
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Tennis lessons & leagues
Programs for people with special needs
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Out of school sports camps
eGaming/eSports
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
0.0 40.0 80.0 120.0
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
63 200
179
158
157
116
105
97 88
87 85
84 83
77 68
60 57
56 51
50 50
46 32
28 Fitness & wellness programs
Outdoor recreation
Water fitness programs/lap swimming
Community special events
Swim lessons
Cultural enrichment programs
Performing arts programs
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs
Pickleball lessons & leagues
After school programs for youth of all ages
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
Recreation/competitive swim team
STEAM/tech classes
Sports leagues
Out of school day camps
Tennis lessons & leagues
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
Programs for people with special needs
Out of school sports camps
Lawn bowling activities/leagues
eGaming/eSports
0 50 100 150 200
Top Priorities for Investment for Programs/Activities Based on Priority Investment Rating
Medium Priority
(70-109)
Lower Priority (69
or less)
High
Priority
(110+)
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
64 5
I-S Analysis
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
65 Overview
Today, officials have limited resources which need to be targeted to the maintenance items that are of the most benefit to their residents. Two of the most important criteria for decision making are (1) to target resources toward the maintenance items with the highest importance to; and (2) to target resources toward those maintenance items where residents are the least satisfied. The Importance - Satisfaction (IS) rating is a unique tool that allows public officials to better understand both highly important decision-making criteria for each of the maintenance items that are assessed on the survey.
This version of the Importance -Satisfaction rating is based on the maintenance items and utilizes the concept that public agencies will maximize overall resident satisfaction by emphasizing areas where the level of satisfaction is relatively low, and the perceived importance of the item is relatively high.
Methodology
The rating is calculated by summing the percentage of responses for the maintenance items selected as the first, second, and third most important maintenance item for the City to emphasize. The sum is then multiplied by 1 minus the percentage of respondents who indicated they were positively satisfied with the City’s performance in the related area (the sum of the ratings of 4 and 5 on a 5-point scale excluding “Don’t Know” responses). “Don’t Know” responses are excluded from the calculation to ensure the satisfaction ratings among the maintenance activities are comparable. [IS=Importance x (1-Satisfaction)].
Respondents were asked to identify the maintenance item they think should receive the most emphasis from the City. Thirty-four percent (34%) of respondents selected Path/trail (paved) maintenance as one of the most important maintenance item for the City to emphasize. With regard to satisfaction, 56 % of respondents surveyed rated the City’s overall performance in Path/trail (paved) maintenance, as a “4” or “5” on a 5-point scale (where “5” means “Very Satisfied”) excluding “Don’t Know” responses. The I -S rating for Number of Path/trail (paved) maintenance was calculated by multiplying the sum of the most important percentages by 1 minus the sum of the satisfaction percentages. In this example 34% was multiplied by 56% (1-0.5630). This calculation yielded an I-S rating of 0.1495 which ranked second out of eighteen maintenance categories.
The maximum rating is 1.00 and would be achieved when 100% of the respondents select an item as one of their top three choices to emphasize over the next two years and 0% indicate they are positively satisfied with the delivery of the maintenance items.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
66 Importance-Satisfaction Analysis
The lowest rating is 0.00 and could be achieved under either of the following two situations:
• If 100% of the respondents were positively satisfied with the delivery of the maintenance items • If none (0%) of the respondents selected a maintenance items as one for the three most important areas for the City to emphasize over the next two years.
Interpreting the Ratings
Ratings that are greater than or equal to 0.20 identify areas that should receive significantly more emphasis over the next two years. Ratings from 0.10 to 0.20 identify service areas that should receive increased emphasis. Ratings less than 0.10 should continue to receive the current level of emphasis. • Definitely Increase Emphasis (IS>=0.20)
• Increase Current Emphasis (0.10<=IS<0.20)
• Maintain Current Emphasis (IS<0.10)
The results for Santa Clara, CA are provided on the following pages.
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
67 Importance-Satisfaction Analysis
2024 Importance-Satisfaction Rating
Santa Clara, California
Maintenance
Category of Service
Most
Important %
Most
Important
Rank
Satisfaction
%
Satisfaction
Rank
Importance-
Satisfaction
Rating
I-S Rating
Rank
High Priority (IS .10-.20)
Restroom maintenance 29% 2 36% 17 0.1858 1
Path/trail (paved) maintenance 34% 1 56% 5 0.1495 2
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 27% 4 46% 11 0.1439 3 Trash/litter/waste pickup 27% 3 52% 7 0.1274 4
Medium Priority (IS <.10)
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 17% 6 48% 10 0.0868 5 Playground safety & maintenance 21% 5 60% 2 0.0850 6
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance 12% 15 32% 18 0.0805 7 Athletic field maintenance 13% 10 45% 13 0.0724 8
Waterways/rivers/streams 13% 11 44% 14 0.0719 9
Natural area/conservation area management 14% 7 51% 8 0.0695 10 Trail (non-paved) maintenance 13% 9 51% 9 0.0663 11
Athletic outdoor court maintenance 12% 13 45% 12 0.0655 12 Urban forest/tree maintenance 13% 12 54% 6 0.0583 13
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance 13% 8 57% 4 0.0580 14
Landscape care (flower beds) 12% 14 57% 3 0.0513 15
Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care 8% 17 40% 15 0.0501 16 Mowing 11% 16 60% 1 0.0442 17
Specialized facility maintenance 2% 18 38% 16 0.0131 18 Note: The I-S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1-'Satisfaction' %) Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first, second, and third most important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identify the items they thought should be the City's top priorities.
Satisfaction %: The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.' Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scale of 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied. © 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
68 6
Tabular Data
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
69 Q1. Including yourself, how many people in your household are...
Mean Sum
number 2.8 955
Under age 5 0.2 53
Ages 5-9 0.1 46
Ages 10-14 0.1 44
Ages 15-19 0.2 59
Ages 20-24 0.1 47
Ages 25-34 0.4 134
Ages 35-44 0.4 152
Ages 45-54 0.4 135
Ages 55-64 0.4 133
Ages 65-74 0.3 94
Ages 75-84 0.1 45
Ages 85+ 0.0 13
Q2. Have you or any members of your household visited any parks or recreation facilities offered by the City of Santa Clara during the past 12 months?
Q2. Have your household members visited any City
parks or recreation facilities during past 12 months N umber Percent Yes 313 91.5 %
No 29 8.5 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q2a. How often do you visit Santa Clara parks and/or recreation facilities?
Q2a. How often do you visit Santa Clara parks and/or
recreation facilities N umber Percent
More than 5 times a week 46 14.7 %
2- 4 times a week 101 32.3 %
Once a week 54 17.3 %
1- 3 times a month 60 19.2 %
Less than once a month 49 15.7 %
Don't know 3 1.0 %
Total 313 100.0 %
WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q2a. How often do you visit Santa Clara parks and/or recreation facilities? (without "don't know")
Q2a. How often do you visit Santa Clara parks and/or
recreation facilities N umber Percent
More than 5 times a week 46 14.8 %
2- 4 times a week 101 32.6 %
Once a week 54 17.4 %
1- 3 times a month 60 19.4 %
Less than once a month 49 15. 8 %
Total 310 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
70 Q2b. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the City of Santa Clara parks and recreation facilities you have visited?
Q2b. How would you rate overall physical condition of
all City parks & recreation facilities you have visited N umber Percent Excellent 29 9.3 %
Good 169 54.0 %
Fair 87 27.8 %
Poor 22 7.0 %
Not provided 6 1.9 %
Total 313 100.0 %
WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED
Q2b. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the City of Santa Clara parks and recreation facilities you have visited? (without "not provided")
Q2b. How would you rate overall physical condition of
all City parks & recreation facilities you have visited N umber Percent Excellent 29 9.4 %
Good 169 55.0 %
Fair 87 28.3 %
Poor 22 7.2 %
Total 307 100.0 %
Q2c. Please CHECK ALL the following reasons that you and members of your household currently use Santa Clara parks and recreation facilities.
Q2c. Reasons your household members currently use
Santa Clara parks & recreation facilities N umber Percent Participate in a program/attend an event/league 92 29.4 % Walk for exercise 245 78.3 %
Walk dog(s) 90 28.8 %
Play on a playground 96 30.7 %
Picnicking/family-friend gathering 92 29.4 %
People watch 41 13.1 %
Read a book 35 11.2 %
Hang out 86 27.5 %
Ride a bike 75 24.0 %
Run/jog 71 22.7 %
Go swimming/use a splash pad 57 18.2 %
Watch birds/wildlife 42 13.4 %
Play non-league/program sports (basketball, tennis, pickleball, soccer, lawn bowling) 80 25.6 %
Other 16 5. 1 %
Total 1118
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
71 Q2c-14. Other:
Q2c-14. Other Number Percent
Pickleball 2 12.5 %
Workout 2 12.5 %
Gym 1 6.3 %
Relax 1 6.3 %
Play with grandkids 1 6.3 %
Use gym at senior center 1 6.3 %
Sometimes just driving by and admiring our city parks 1 6.3 % Attend Arts and Wine Festival 1 6.3 %
Walk kid 1 6.3 %
Grandkids 1 6.3 %
Doing fun stuff 1 6.3 %
Play catch with my son 1 6.3 %
Roller skate 1 6.3 %
BBQ in picnic areas 1 6.3 %
Total 16 100.0 %
Q3. Has your household participated in any recreation programs or activities offered by the City of Santa Clara during the past 12 months?
Q3. Has your household participated in any City
recreation programs or activities during past 12 months N umber Percent Yes 134 39.2 %
No 208 60.8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q3a. How would you rate the overall quality of the City of Santa Clara recreation programs and/or activities in which your household has participated?
Q3a. How would you rate overall quality of City
recreation programs and/or activities in which your
household has participated N umber Percent
Excellent 24 17.9 %
Good 73 54.5 %
Fair 31 23.1 %
Poor 3 2.2 %
Not provided 3 2.2 %
Total 134 100.0 %
WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED
Q3a. How would you rate the overall quality of the City of Santa Clara recreation programs and/or activities in which your household has participated? (without "not provided")
Q3a. How would you rate overall quality of City
recreation programs and/or activities in which your
household has participated N umber Percent
Excellent 24 18.3 %
Good 73 55.7 %
Fair 31 23.7 %
Poor 3 2. 3 %
Total 131 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
72 Q4. From the following list, please CHECK ALL the organizations that you or members of your household have used for recreation programs and activities during the past 12 months.
Q4. Organizations your household members have used
for recreation programs & activities during past 12 months N umber Percent City of Santa Clara 228 66.7 %
Santa Clara County 117 34.2 %
Neighboring cities 141 41.2 %
Public/private schools 82 24.0 %
Places of worship (e.g., synagogues, churches) 69 20.2 % Private & non-profit youth sports 44 12.9 %
Private summer camps 27 7.9 %
Private clubs (tennis, health, swim, fitness) 65 19.0 %
Homeowners association 25 7.3 %
Other 14 4. 1 %
Total 812
Q4-10. Other:
Q4-10. Other Number Percent
Senior center 2 15.4 %
Library 1 7.7 %
Events in parks 1 7.7 %
Open space authority 1 7.7 %
Mountain view swimming pool 1 7.7 %
Adult Ed at Unified FUHSD, YMCA 1 7.7 %
RPEA picnic 1 7.7 %
Private dance studio 1 7.7 %
Pacific Hockey Association, Sharks Ice 1 7.7 %
SENIOR CENTER 1 7.7 %
Cemetary 1 7.7 %
Shar r's Ice 1 7.7 %
Total 13 100.0 %
Q4a. If you or members of your household have used other organizations for recreation programs and activities, please CHECK ALL the following reasons as to why you do so.
Q4a. Reasons why your household has used other
organizations for recreation programs & activities N umber Percent Quality of instructors 1 7.1 %
Newer facilities 3 21.4 %
Value of program matches the fee paid 1 7.1 %
Program times are more convenient 4 28.6 %
Offers programs that I am interested in 4 28.6 %
Closer to my home 1 7.1 %
Other 3 21.4 %
Total 17
Q4a-7. Other:
Q4a-7. Other Number Percent
Good swimming pool 1 33.3 %
Santa Clara no longer has public golf facilities 1 33.3 % No ice hockey in city parks 1 33.3 %
Total 3 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
73 Q5. Please CHECK ALL the following reasons that prevent you and members of your household from participating in the City of Santa Clara recreation programs or activities more often.
Q5. Reasons that prevent your household from
participating in City recreation programs or activities more often N umber Percent
Lack of quality instructors 13 3.8 %
Old & outdated facilities 84 24.6 %
Use programs offered by other agencies 37 10.8 %
I don't know what is offered 84 24.6 %
Lack of quality programs 32 9.4 %
Fees are too high 60 17.5 %
Too far from my home 20 5.8 %
Program times are not convenient 107 31.3 %
Classes are full 48 14.0 %
Program not offered 63 18.4 %
Registration is difficult 22 6.4 %
Poor customer service by staff 17 5.0 %
Lack of transportation 5 1.5 %
Lack of right program equipment 8 2.3 %
Too busy/not interested 75 21.9 %
Lack of trust in government 5 1.5 %
Language/cultural barriers 5 1.5 %
Other 20 5. 8 %
Total 705
Q5-18. Other
• courts are not in good condition, not available
• For use of field, priority is not given to Santa Clara residents, pool are all closing, organizations from other cities are taking resident spots. Restrictions at skate park are to rigorous. Take a page out of Sunnyvale park and rec and open things up to residents
• health issues
• Hours of operation
• Ill health and fear of Covid.
• Interested, but too busy
• Lack of cycling infrastructure, if it is too difficult to walk or bike to, better to stay safe at home • Lazy
• No facility for special/disabled.
• no good swimming pool
• no indoor lap swimming pool
• Not enough offerings
• post covid inertia, health
• prioritized other activity
• sanitation issues
• SPOUSE TOO DISABLED
• too few fitness classes for adults after work hours
• TRAVELING
• We are satisfied with walking daily for exercise. Do not go out at night anymore. • work full time, age
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
74 Q6. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the facilities/amenities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all.
(N=342)
Fu lly met Mostly met Partly met Not met No need
Q6-1. Community center (multi-use space for
all ages) 11.7% 15.8% 14.6% 9.9% 48.0%
Q6-2. Community gardens 10.2% 15.2% 11.7% 10.5% 52.3%
Q6-3. Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball,
softball) 5.0% 8.8% 10.2% 6.7% 69.3%
Q6-4. Environmental education center 3.2% 7.3% 7.9% 10.8% 70.8%
Q6-5. Golf course 3.2% 4.7% 5.3% 13.7% 73.1%
Q6-6. Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
(indoor gyms) 2.6% 6.1% 9.9% 18.1% 63.2%
Q6-7. Indoor walking/jogging track 4.4% 7.0% 9.9% 22.8% 55.8%
Q6-8. Lawn bowling 4.4% 4.4% 5.6% 5.8% 79.8%
Q6-9. Multi-use trails (biking, walking,
jogging, hiking) 15.5% 21.9% 25.7% 14.3% 22.5%
Q6-10. Off-leash dog park 8.2% 7.6% 10.8% 8.8% 64.6%
Q6-11. Open space & conservation areas 13.5% 29.5% 19.9% 9.1% 28.1%
Q6-12. Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor
performing arts venue 6.4% 12.6% 15.8% 14.0% 51.2%
Q6-13. Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 5.3% 11.4% 18.4% 15.8% 49.1%
Q6-14. Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball,
badminton, pickleball, tennis) 7.9% 12.6% 18.1% 16.1% 45.3%
Q6-15. Pickleball courts (dedicated) 2.9% 4.4% 9.6% 17.8% 65.2%
Q6-16. Picnic areas & shelters 16.4% 22.8% 20.8% 7.9% 32.2%
Q6-17. Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football,
lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 4.7% 10.8% 13.2% 10.2% 61.1%
Q6-18. Skate parks 3.5% 6.1% 6.1% 6.1% 78.1%
Q6-19. Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump
track) 2.6% 5.3% 5.6% 6.4% 80.1%
Q6-20. Splash pads 1.8% 3.
5% 8.5% 9.9% 76.3%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
75 Q6. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the facilities/amenities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all.
Fully met Mostly met Partly met Not met No need
Q6-21. Swimming pool 4.4% 9.9% 18.4% 29.2% 38.0%
Q6-22. Tennis courts (dedicated) 6.4% 10.5% 12.6% 6.4% 64.0%
Q6-23. Universally accessible play areas 9.4% 14.6% 15.5% 5.0% 55.6%
Q6-24. Other 0.3% 0.6% 0.9% 1.2% 97.1%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
76 WITHOUT NO NEED
Q6. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the facilities/amenities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. (without "no need")
(N=342)
Fu lly met Mostly met Partly met Not met
Q6-1. Community center (multi-use space for
all ages) 22.5% 30.3% 28.1% 19.1%
Q6-2. Community gardens 21.5% 31.9% 24.5% 22.1%
Q6-3. Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball,
softball) 16.2% 28.6% 33.3% 21.9%
Q6-4. Environmental education center 11.0% 25.0% 27.0% 37.0%
Q6-5. Golf course 12.0% 17.4% 19.6% 51.1%
Q6-6. Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
(indoor gyms) 7.1% 16.7% 27.0% 49.2%
Q6-7. Indoor walking/jogging track 9.9% 15.9% 22.5% 51.7%
Q6-8. Lawn bowling 21.7% 21.7% 27.5% 29.0%
Q6-9. Multi-use trails (biking, walking,
jogging, hiking) 20.0% 28.3% 33.2% 18.5%
Q6-10. Off-leash dog park 23.1% 21.5% 30.6% 24.8%
Q6-11. Open space & conservation areas 18.7% 41.1% 27.6% 12.6%
Q6-12. Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor
performing arts venue 13.2% 25.7% 32.3% 28.7%
Q6-13. Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 10.3% 22.4% 36.2% 31.0%
Q6-14. Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball,
badminton, pickleball, tennis) 14.4% 23.0% 33.2% 29.4%
Q6-15. Pickleball courts (dedicated) 8.4% 12.6% 27.7% 51.3%
Q6-16. Picnic areas & shelters 24.1% 33.6% 30.6% 11.6%
Q6-17. Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football,
lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 12.0% 27.8% 33.8% 26.3%
Q6-18. Skate parks 16.0% 28.0% 28.0% 28.0%
Q6-19. Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump
track) 13.2% 26.5% 27.9% 32.4%
Q6-20. Splash pads 7.4% 14.8% 35.8% 42.0%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
77 WITHOUT NO NEED
Q6. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the facilities/amenities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. (without "no need")
Fully met Mostly met Partly met Not met
Q6-21. Swimming pool 7.1% 16.0% 29.7% 47.2%
Q6-22. Tennis courts (dedicated) 17.9% 29.3% 35.0% 17.9%
Q6-23. Universally accessible play areas 21.1% 32.9% 34.9% 11.2%
Q6-24. Other 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0%
Q6-24. Other:
Q6-24. Other Number Percent
Senior Center 2 20.0 %
Indoor badminton or outdoor badminton nets 1 10.0 %
Play structures 1 10.0 %
PARKS WITH KIDS PLAY AREAS 1 10.0 %
Indoor gym and pool at senior center 1 10.0 %
Playgrounds 1 10.0 %
Roller Hockey 1 10.0 %
18-hole golf course 1 10.0 %
NEED DOG PARK 1 10.0 %
Total 10 100.0 %
Q7. Which FOUR facilities/amenities from the list in Question 6 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q7. Top choice Number Percent
Community center (multi-use space for all ages) 35 10.2 % Community gardens 4 1.2 %
Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball) 9 2.6 % Environmental education center 2 0.6 %
Golf course 16 4.7 %
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts (indoor gyms) 8 2.3 % Indoor walking/jogging track 15 4.4 %
Multi-use trails (biking, walking, jogging, hiking) 61 17.8 % Off-leash dog park 17 5.0 %
Open space & conservation areas 23 6.7 %
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue 2 0.6 % Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 3 0.9 %
Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball, badminton, pickleball, tennis) 8 2.3 %
Pickleball courts (dedicated) 4 1.2 %
Picnic areas & shelters 21 6.1 %
Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 12 3.5 % Skate parks 2 0.6 %
Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump track) 4 1.2 %
Swimming pool 38 11.1 %
Tennis courts (dedicated) 7 2.0 %
Universally accessible play areas 14 4.1 %
None chosen 37 10. 8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
78 Q7. Which FOUR facilities/amenities from the list in Question 6 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q7. 2nd choice Number Percent
Community center (multi-use space for all ages) 16 4.7 % Community gardens 18 5.3 %
Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball) 3 0.9 % Environmental education center 4 1.2 %
Golf course 9 2.6 %
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts (indoor gyms) 13 3.8 % Indoor walking/jogging track 14 4.1 %
Multi-use trails (biking, walking, jogging, hiking) 61 17.8 % Off-leash dog park 13 3.8 %
Open space & conservation areas 32 9.4 %
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue 10 2.9 % Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 8 2.3 %
Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball, badminton, pickleball, tennis) 12 3.5 %
Pickleball courts (dedicated) 11 3.2 %
Picnic areas & shelters 28 8.2 %
Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 3 0.9 % Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump track) 3 0.9 %
Splash pads 2 0.6 %
Swimming pool 25 7.3 %
Tennis courts (dedicated) 3 0.9 %
Universally accessible play areas 3 0.9 %
None chosen 51 14. 9 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q7. Which FOUR facilities/amenities from the list in Question 6 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q7. 3rd choice Number Percent
Community center (multi-use space for all ages) 21 6.1 % Community gardens 19 5.6 %
Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball) 6 1.8 % Environmental education center 2 0.6 %
Golf course 4 1.2 %
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts (indoor gyms) 11 3.2 % Indoor walking/jogging track 16 4.7 %
Lawn bowling 2 0.6 %
Multi-use trails (biking, walking, jogging, hiking) 36 10.5 % Off-leash dog park 16 4.7 %
Open space & conservation areas 27 7.9 %
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue 6 1.8 % Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 10 2.9 %
Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball, badminton, pickleball, tennis) 15 4.4 %
Pickleball courts (dedicated) 13 3.8 %
Picnic areas & shelters 21 6.1 %
Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 2 0.6 % Skate parks 2 0.6 %
Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump track) 4 1.2 %
Splash pads 4 1.2 %
Swimming pool 25 7.3 %
Tennis courts (dedicated) 4 1.2 %
Universally accessible play areas 7 2.0 %
None chosen 69 20. 2 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
79 Q7. Which FOUR facilities/amenities from the list in Question 6 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q7. 4th choice Number Percent
Community center (multi-use space for all ages) 14 4.1 % Community gardens 26 7.6 %
Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball) 2 0.6 % Environmental education center 6 1.8 %
Golf course 8 2.3 %
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts (indoor gyms) 11 3.2 % Indoor walking/jogging track 7 2.0 %
Lawn bowling 2 0.6 %
Multi-use trails (biking, walking, jogging, hiking) 18 5.3 % Off-leash dog park 10 2.9 %
Open space & conservation areas 20 5.8 %
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue 13 3.8 % Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 13 3.8 %
Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball, badminton, pickleball, tennis) 8 2.3 %
Pickleball courts (dedicated) 1 0.3 %
Picnic areas & shelters 22 6.4 %
Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 8 2.3 % Skate parks 1 0.3 %
Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump track) 3 0.9 %
Splash pads 5 1.5 %
Swimming pool 20 5.8 %
Tennis courts (dedicated) 4 1.2 %
Universally accessible play areas 17 5.0 %
None chosen 1 03 30.1 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
80 SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES
Q7. Which FOUR facilities/amenities from the list in Question 6 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? (top 4)
Q7. Top choice Number Percent
Community center (multi-use space for all ages) 86 25.1 % Community gardens 67 19.6 %
Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball) 20 5.8 % Environmental education center 14 4.1 %
Golf course 37 10.8 %
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts (indoor gyms) 43 12.6 % Indoor walking/jogging track 52 15.2 %
Lawn bowling 4 1.2 %
Multi-use trails (biking, walking, jogging, hiking) 176 51.5 % Off-leash dog park 56 16.4 %
Open space & conservation areas 102 29.8 %
Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue 31 9.1 % Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 34 9.9 %
Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball, badminton, pickleball, tennis) 43 12.6 %
Pickleball courts (dedicated) 29 8.5 %
Picnic areas & shelters 92 26.9 %
Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 25 7.3 % Skate parks 5 1.5 %
Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump track) 14 4.1 %
Splash pads 11 3.2 %
Swimming pool 108 31.6 %
Tennis courts (dedicated) 18 5.3 %
Universally accessible play areas 41 12.0 %
None chosen 37 10. 8 %
Total 1145
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
81 Q8. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all.
(N=342)
Fu lly met Mostly met Partly met Not met No need
Q8-1. After school programs for youth of all
ages 2.6% 5.0% 9.6% 7.3% 75.4%
Q8-2. Community special events 9.6% 17.8% 17.8% 11.1% 43.6%
Q8-3. Cultural enrichment programs 6.1% 12.0% 17.8% 9.6% 54.4%
Q8-4. eGaming/eSports 1.5% 2.3% 2.9% 6.4% 86.8%
Q8-5. Fitness & wellness programs 5.3% 14.9% 22.8% 16.7% 40.4%
Q8-6. Gymnastics/tumbling programs 2.9% 4.7% 5.6% 8.2% 78.7%
Q8-7. Lawn bowling activities/leagues 2.0% 2.9% 5.3% 6.4% 83.3%
Q8-8. Out of school day camps 2.3% 3.2% 7.6% 7.9% 78.9%
Q8-9. Out of school sports camps 2.3% 4.1% 6.4% 8.2% 78.9%
Q8-10. Outdoor environmental/nature camps &
programs 3.5% 6.4% 12.3% 11.4% 66.4%
Q8-11. Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe,
kayak, archery, etc.) 4.4% 8.8% 13.7% 23.7% 49.4%
Q8-12. Performing arts programs (dance/
music) 3.5% 8.2% 15.2% 10.5% 62.6%
Q8-13. Pickleball lessons & leagues 1.8% 3.5% 9.1% 15.5% 70.2%
Q8-14. Preschool programs/early childhood
education 2.6% 4.4% 5.8% 6.7% 80.4%
Q8-15. Programs for at risk youth/crime
prevention 1.2% 3.2% 7.0% 9.4% 79.2%
Q8-16. Programs for people with special needs 1.5% 3.5% 6.1% 9.1% 79.8%
Q8-17. Recreation/competitive swim team 2.0% 3.2% 6.1% 17.5% 71.1%
Q8-18. Sports leagues 3.8% 7.3% 8.8% 11.4% 68.7%
Q8-19. STEAM (science, technology,
engineering, arts & mathematics)/tech classes 2.6% 7.6% 11.7% 11.1% 67.0%
Q8-20. Swim lessons 3.8% 5.8% 13.2% 15.5% 61.7%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
82 Q8. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all.
Fully met Mostly met Partly met Not met No need
Q8-21. Tennis lessons & leagues 2.9% 5.8% 7.0% 9.6% 74.6%
Q8-22. Visual arts/crafts/performing arts
programs 4.4% 7.9% 14.3% 12.0% 61.4%
Q8-23. Water fitness programs/lap swimming 4.1% 4.1% 15.5% 21.6% 54.7%
Q8-24. Other 0.3% 0.3% 0.0% 1.2% 98.2%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
83 WITHOUT NO NEED
Q8. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. (without "no need")
(N=342)
Fu lly met Mostly met Partly met Not met
Q8-1. After school programs for youth of all
ages 10.7% 20.2% 39.3% 29.8%
Q8-2. Community special events 17.1% 31.6% 31.6% 19.7%
Q8-3. Cultural enrichment programs 13.5% 26.3% 39.1% 21.2%
Q8-4. eGaming/eSports 11.1% 17.8% 22.2% 48.9%
Q8-5. Fitness & wellness programs 8.8% 25.0% 38.2% 27.9%
Q8-6. Gymnastics/tumbling programs 13.7% 21.9% 26.0% 38.4%
Q8-7. Lawn bowling activities/leagues 12.3% 17.5% 31.6% 38.6%
Q8-8. Out of school day camps 11.1% 15.3% 36.1% 37.5%
Q8-9. Out of school sports camps 11.1% 19.4% 30.6% 38.9%
Q8-10. Outdoor environmental/nature camps &
programs 10.4% 19.1% 36.5% 33.9%
Q8-11. Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe,
kayak, archery, etc.) 8.7% 17.3% 27.2% 46.8%
Q8-12. Performing arts programs (dance/
music) 9.4% 21.9% 40.6% 28.1%
Q8-13. Pickleball lessons & leagues 5.9% 11.8% 30.4% 52.0%
Q8-14. Preschool programs/early childhood
education 13.4% 22.4% 29.9% 34.3%
Q8-15. Programs for at risk youth/crime
prevention 5.6% 15.5% 33.8% 45.1%
Q8-16. Programs for people with special needs 7.2% 17.4% 30.4% 44.9%
Q8-17. Recreation/competitive swim team 7.1% 11.1% 21.2% 60.6%
Q8-18. Sports leagues 12.1% 23.4% 28.0% 36.4%
Q8-19. STEAM (science, technology,
engineering, arts & mathematics)/tech classes 8.0% 23.0% 35.4% 33.6%
Q8-20. Swim lessons 9.9% 15.3% 34.4% 40.5%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
84 WITHOUT NO NEED
Q8. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. (without "no need")
Fully met Mostly met Partly met Not met
Q8-21. Tennis lessons & leagues 11.5% 23.0% 27.6% 37.9%
Q8-22. Visual arts/crafts/performing arts
programs 11.4% 20.5% 37.1% 31.1%
Q8-23. Water fitness programs/lap swimming 9.0% 9.0% 34.2% 47.7%
Q8-24. Other 16.7% 16.7% 0.0% 66.7%
Q8-24. Other
• badminton
• basketball league
• basketball league
• Golf
• Parks for my grandkids to play at when they visit. We like the remodeled Westwood oaks and Homeridge playgrounds
• physical fitness area
Q9. Which FOUR programs/activities from the list in Question 8 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q9. Top choice Number Percent
After school programs for youth of all ages 23 6.7 %
Community special events 40 11.7 %
Cultural enrichment programs 11 3.2 %
Fitness & wellness programs 38 11.1 %
Gymnastics/tumbling programs 7 2.0 %
Lawn bowling activities/leagues 1 0.3 %
Out of school day camps 4 1.2 %
Out of school sports camps 3 0.9 %
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs 6 1.8 %
Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe, kayak, archery, etc.) 29 8.5 % Performing arts programs (dance/music) 9 2.6 %
Pickleball lessons & leagues 11 3.2 %
Preschool programs/early childhood education 13 3.8 %
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention 1 0.3 %
Recreation/competitive swim team 11 3.2 %
Sports leagues 1 0.3 %
STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics)/ tech classes 4 1.2 %
Swim lessons 13 3.8 %
Tennis lessons & leagues 6 1.8 %
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs 2 0.6 %
Water fitness programs/lap swimming 32 9.4 %
None chosen 77 22. 5 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
85 Q9. Which FOUR programs/activities from the list in Question 8 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q9. 2nd choice Number Percent
After school programs for youth of all ages 12 3.5 %
Community special events 23 6.7 %
Cultural enrichment programs 13 3.8 %
eGaming/eSports 4 1.2 %
Fitness & wellness programs 32 9.4 %
Gymnastics/tumbling programs 5 1.5 %
Lawn bowling activities/leagues 1 0.3 %
Out of school day camps 8 2.3 %
Out of school sports camps 4 1.2 %
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs 10 2.9 %
Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe, kayak, archery, etc.) 23 6.7 % Performing arts programs (dance/music) 10 2.9 %
Pickleball lessons & leagues 8 2.3 %
Preschool programs/early childhood education 7 2.0 %
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention 3 0.9 %
Programs for people with special needs 2 0.6 %
Recreation/competitive swim team 8 2.3 %
Sports leagues 8 2.3 %
STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics)/ tech classes 5 1.5 %
Swim lessons 20 5.8 %
Tennis lessons & leagues 6 1.8 %
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs 6 1.8 %
Water fitness programs/lap swimming 20 5.8 %
None chosen 1 04 30.4 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q9. Which FOUR programs/activities from the list in Question 8 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q9. 3rd choice Number Percent
After school programs for youth of all ages 6 1.8 %
Community special events 19 5.6 %
Cultural enrichment programs 11 3.2 %
Fitness & wellness programs 28 8.2 %
Gymnastics/tumbling programs 3 0.9 %
Out of school day camps 9 2.6 %
Out of school sports camps 2 0.6 %
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs 8 2.3 %
Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe, kayak, archery, etc.) 30 8.8 % Performing arts programs (dance/music) 12 3.5 %
Pickleball lessons & leagues 5 1.5 %
Preschool programs/early childhood education 4 1.2 %
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention 5 1.5 %
Programs for people with special needs 9 2.6 %
Recreation/competitive swim team 4 1.2 %
Sports leagues 8 2.3 %
STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics)/ tech classes 10 2.9 %
Swim lessons 10 2.9 %
Tennis lessons & leagues 2 0.6 %
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs 13 3.8 %
Water fitness programs/lap swimming 11 3.2 %
None chosen 1 33 38.9 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
86 Q9. Which FOUR programs/activities from the list in Question 8 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q9. 4th choice Number Percent
After school programs for youth of all ages 9 2.6 %
Community special events 6 1.8 %
Cultural enrichment programs 12 3.5 %
Fitness & wellness programs 10 2.9 %
Gymnastics/tumbling programs 7 2.0 %
Lawn bowling activities/leagues 1 0.3 %
Out of school day camps 3 0.9 %
Out of school sports camps 10 2.9 %
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs 11 3.2 %
Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe, kayak, archery, etc.) 22 6.4 % Performing arts programs (dance/music) 9 2.6 %
Pickleball lessons & leagues 9 2.6 %
Preschool programs/early childhood education 5 1.5 %
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention 7 2.0 %
Programs for people with special needs 5 1.5 %
Recreation/competitive swim team 5 1.5 %
Sports leagues 10 2.9 %
STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics)/ tech classes 8 2.3 %
Swim lessons 12 3.5 %
Tennis lessons & leagues 6 1.8 %
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs 7 2.0 %
Water fitness programs/lap swimming 11 3.2 %
None chosen 1 57 45.9 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
87 SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES
Q9. Which FOUR programs/activities from the list in Question 8 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? (top 4)
Q9. Top choice Number Percent
After school programs for youth of all ages 50 14.6 %
Community special events 88 25.7 %
Cultural enrichment programs 47 13.7 %
eGaming/eSports 4 1.2 %
Fitness & wellness programs 108 31.6 %
Gymnastics/tumbling programs 22 6.4 %
Lawn bowling activities/leagues 3 0.9 %
Out of school day camps 24 7.0 %
Out of school sports camps 19 5.6 %
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs 35 10.2 % Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe, kayak, archery, etc.) 104 30.4 % Performing arts programs (dance/music) 40 11.7 %
Pickleball lessons & leagues 33 9.6 %
Preschool programs/early childhood education 29 8.5 %
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention 16 4.7 %
Programs for people with special needs 16 4.7 %
Recreation/competitive swim team 28 8.2 %
Sports leagues 27 7.9 %
STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics)/ tech classes 27 7.9 %
Swim lessons 55 16.1 %
Tennis lessons & leagues 20 5.8 %
Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs 28 8.2 %
Water fitness programs/lap swimming 74 21.6 %
None chosen 77 22. 5 %
Total 974
Q10. Santa Clara Parks and Recreation is in the process of evaluating its event offerings. From the list below, which THREE of the single or multi-day event concepts would you and the members of your household be MOST INTERESTED in participating?
Q10. Top choice Number Percent
Cultural celebrations (ethnic music, traditions, performances) 47 13.7 % Competitions (triathlon, bike, 5K/10K runs, adventure/obstacle courses) 25 7.3 %
Employment/job fairs 12 3.5 %
Entertainment (music, movies, performers) 46 13.5 %
Environmental event (Water Matters Day, sustainability, recycling) 7 2.0 %
Food events (farmer's market, food tastings, beer/wine) 92 26.9 % Health & wellness events (nutrition counseling, preventative health education, mental health wellness, City resources) 9 2.6 % Holiday celebrations (Memorial, Veterans, 4th of July) 36 10.5 % Educational workshops for seniors & youth (Fraud Prevention, D.A.R.E., etc.) 10 2.9 %
Sports tournaments (baseball, basketball, football, dodgeball, pickleball, soccer) 16 4.7 %
Summer Camp Information Fair 6 1.8 %
None chosen 36 10. 5 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
88 Q10. Santa Clara Parks and Recreation is in the process of evaluating its event offerings. From the list below, which THREE of the single or multi-day event concepts would you and the members of your household be MOST INTERESTED in participating?
Q10. 2nd choice Number Percent
Cultural celebrations (ethnic music, traditions, performances) 32 9.4 % Competitions (triathlon, bike, 5K/10K runs, adventure/obstacle courses) 19 5.6 %
Employment/job fairs 13 3.8 %
Entertainment (music, movies, performers) 71 20.8 %
Environmental event (Water Matters Day, sustainability, recycling) 9 2.6 %
Food events (farmer's market, food tastings, beer/wine) 76 22.2 % Health & wellness events (nutrition counseling, preventative health education, mental health wellness, City resources) 18 5.3 % Holiday celebrations (Memorial, Veterans, 4th of July) 31 9.1 % Educational workshops for seniors & youth (Fraud Prevention, D.A.R.E., etc.) 7 2.0 %
Sports tournaments (baseball, basketball, football, dodgeball, pickleball, soccer) 15 4.4 %
Summer Camp Information Fair 4 1.2 %
None chosen 47 13. 7 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q10. Santa Clara Parks and Recreation is in the process of evaluating its event offerings. From the list below, which THREE of the single or multi-day event concepts would you and the members of your household be MOST INTERESTED in participating?
Q10. 3rd choice Number Percent
Cultural celebrations (ethnic music, traditions, performances) 28 8.2 % Competitions (triathlon, bike, 5K/10K runs, adventure/obstacle courses) 20 5.8 %
Employment/job fairs 6 1.8 %
Entertainment (music, movies, performers) 38 11.1 %
Environmental event (Water Matters Day, sustainability, recycling) 17 5.0 %
Food events (farmer's market, food tastings, beer/wine) 50 14.6 % Health & wellness events (nutrition counseling, preventative health education, mental health wellness, City resources) 25 7.3 % Holiday celebrations (Memorial, Veterans, 4th of July) 46 13.5 % Educational workshops for seniors & youth (Fraud Prevention, D.A.R.E., etc.) 19 5.6 %
Sports tournaments (baseball, basketball, football, dodgeball, pickleball, soccer) 13 3.8 %
Summer Camp Information Fair 9 2.6 %
None chosen 71 20. 8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
89 SUM OF TOP 3 CHOICES
Q10. Santa Clara Parks and Recreation is in the process of evaluating its event offerings. From the list below, which THREE of the single or multi-day event concepts would you and the members of your household be MOST INTERESTED in participating? (top 3)
Q10. Top choice Number Percent
Cultural celebrations (ethnic music, traditions, performances) 107 31.3 % Competitions (triathlon, bike, 5K/10K runs, adventure/obstacle courses) 64 18.7 %
Employment/job fairs 31 9.1 %
Entertainment (music, movies, performers) 155 45.3 %
Environmental event (Water Matters Day, sustainability, recycling) 33 9.6 %
Food events (farmer's market, food tastings, beer/wine) 218 63.7 % Health & wellness events (nutrition counseling, preventative health education, mental health wellness, City resources) 52 15.2 % Holiday celebrations (Memorial, Veterans, 4th of July) 113 33.0 % Educational workshops for seniors & youth (Fraud Prevention, D.A.R.E., etc.) 36 10.5 %
Sports tournaments (baseball, basketball, football, dodgeball, pickleball, soccer) 44 12.9 %
Summer Camp Information Fair 19 5.6 %
None chosen 36 10. 5 %
Total 908
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
90 Q11. If you or someone in your household is over 50 years old, please indicate how well your/their needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below that promote ACTIVE AGING on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all.
(N=342)
Fu lly met Mostly met Partly met Not met No need
Q11-1. Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 0.3% 2.0% 2.0% 4.7% 90.9%
Q11-2. Arts & crafts programs & activities 1.5% 5.6% 8.2% 7.9% 76.9%
Q11-3. Computer classes & programs 1.2% 2.9% 6.7% 6.7% 82.5%
Q11-4. Dance lessons & programs 1.5% 2.3% 5.0% 7.0% 84.2%
Q11-5. Day trips, tours, & excursions to
popular tourist attractions 2.3% 2.6% 8.2% 10.2% 76.6%
Q11-6. Financial services program (tax filing) 1.2% 2.9% 6.1% 4.1% 85.7%
Q11-7. Healthy living programs & screenings
(blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 1.5% 4.4% 9.6% 7.6% 76.9%
Q11-8. Housing programs 0.9% 1.5% 4.4% 5.0% 88.3%
Q11-9. Legal assistance programs 0.9% 2.9% 3.5% 7.0% 85.7%
Q11-10. Lunch/meal programs 1.8% 2.9% 5.6% 3.8% 86.0%
Q11-11. Music classes & programs 1.2% 2.9% 7.0% 5.3% 83.6%
Q11-12. Special events at the senior center 2.9% 5.6% 7.0% 7.9% 76.6%
Q11-13. Special interest classes (gardening,
writing, book clubs) 2.9% 3.5% 7.6% 7.9% 78.1%
Q11-14. Support groups 1.2% 2.0% 3.5% 6.1% 87.1%
Q11-15. Transportation programs/services 2.3% 2.0% 5.3% 5.6% 84.8%
Q11-16. Volunteer opportunities programs 1.5% 3.2% 7.3% 7.0% 81.0%
Q11-17. Weekly programs (cards, billiards,
mahjong) 2.3% 2.6% 5.8% 4.1% 85.1%
Q11-18. Other 0.3% 0.3% 0.6% 0.6% 98.2%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
91 WITHOUT NO NEED
Q11. If you or someone in your household is over 50 years old, please indicate how well your/their needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below that promote ACTIVE AGING on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. (without "no need")
(N=342)
Fu lly met Mostly met Partly met Not met
Q11-1. Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 3.2% 22.6% 22.6% 51.6%
Q11-2. Arts & crafts programs & activities 6.3% 24.1% 35.4% 34.2%
Q11-3. Computer classes & programs 6.7% 16.7% 38.3% 38.3%
Q11-4. Dance lessons & programs 9.3% 14.8% 31.5% 44.4%
Q11-5. Day trips, tours, & excursions to
popular tourist attractions 10.0% 11.3% 35.0% 43.8%
Q11-6. Financial services program (tax filing) 8.2% 20.4% 42.9% 28.6%
Q11-7. Healthy living programs & screenings
(blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 6.3% 19.0% 41.8% 32.9%
Q11-8. Housing programs 7.5% 12.5% 37.5% 42.5%
Q11-9. Legal assistance programs 6.1% 20.4% 24.5% 49.0%
Q11-10. Lunch/meal programs 12.5% 20.8% 39.6% 27.1%
Q11-11. Music classes & programs 7.1% 17.9% 42.9% 32.1%
Q11-12. Special events at the senior center 12.5% 23.8% 30.0% 33.8%
Q11-13. Special interest classes (gardening,
writing, book clubs) 13.3% 16.0% 34.7% 36.0%
Q11-14. Support groups 9.1% 15.9% 27.3% 47.7%
Q11-15. Transportation programs/services 15.4% 13.5% 34.6% 36.5%
Q11-16. Volunteer opportunities programs 7.7% 16.9% 38.5% 36.9%
Q11-17. Weekly programs (cards, billiards,
mahjong) 15.7% 17.6% 39.2% 27.5%
Q11-18. Other 16.7% 16.7% 33.3% 33.3%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
92 Q11-18. Other
• Cycling club or rides.
• Lap swimming is my primary use of my senior center membership, I attend at Mary Gomez 4-5 times per week but MISS the ISC !!!!
There was a community Ed class that got me started with guitar with Rich Hawthorne and I have continued privately w him but now I wish there were adult jam sessions thru the senior center • Off leash dog parks
• Off leash dog parks
• Senior center pool/fitness center
• SWIMMING
Q12. Which FOUR programs/services from the list in Question 11 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q12. Top choice Number Percent
Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 9 2.6 %
Arts & crafts programs & activities 15 4.4 %
Computer classes & programs 10 2.9 %
Dance lessons & programs 8 2.3 %
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist attractions 13 3.8 % Financial services program (tax filing) 4 1.2 %
Healthy living programs & screenings (blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 10 2.9 %
Housing programs 8 2.3 %
Legal assistance programs 5 1.5 %
Lunch/meal programs 2 0.6 %
Music classes & programs 8 2.3 %
Special events at the senior center 8 2.3 %
Special interest classes (gardening, writing, book clubs) 10 2.9 % Transportation programs/services 8 2.3 %
Volunteer opportunities programs 9 2.6 %
Weekly programs (cards, billiards, mahjong) 6 1.8 %
None chosen 2 09 61.1 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q12. Which FOUR programs/services from the list in Question 11 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q12. 2nd choice Number Percent
Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 4 1.2 %
Arts & crafts programs & activities 13 3.8 %
Computer classes & programs 4 1.2 %
Dance lessons & programs 6 1.8 %
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist attractions 18 5.3 % Financial services program (tax filing) 4 1.2 %
Healthy living programs & screenings (blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 16 4.7 %
Housing programs 6 1.8 %
Legal assistance programs 7 2.0 %
Lunch/meal programs 2 0.6 %
Music classes & programs 3 0.9 %
Special events at the senior center 8 2.3 %
Special interest classes (gardening, writing, book clubs) 11 3.2 % Support groups 1 0.3 %
Transportation programs/services 3 0.9 %
Volunteer opportunities programs 6 1.8 %
Weekly programs (cards, billiards, mahjong) 6 1.8 %
None chosen 2 24 65.5 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
93 Q12. Which FOUR programs/services from the list in Question 11 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q12. 3rd choice Number Percent
Arts & crafts programs & activities 11 3.2 %
Computer classes & programs 5 1.5 %
Dance lessons & programs 3 0.9 %
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist attractions 11 3.2 % Financial services program (tax filing) 8 2.3 %
Healthy living programs & screenings (blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 6 1.8 %
Housing programs 2 0.6 %
Legal assistance programs 1 0.3 %
Lunch/meal programs 9 2.6 %
Music classes & programs 5 1.5 %
Special events at the senior center 12 3.5 %
Special interest classes (gardening, writing, book clubs) 17 5.0 % Support groups 3 0.9 %
Transportation programs/services 4 1.2 %
Volunteer opportunities programs 5 1.5 %
Weekly programs (cards, billiards, mahjong) 6 1.8 %
None chosen 2 34 68.4 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q12. Which FOUR programs/services from the list in Question 11 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?
Q12. 4th choice Number Percent
Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 2 0.6 %
Arts & crafts programs & activities 8 2.3 %
Computer classes & programs 5 1.5 %
Dance lessons & programs 2 0.6 %
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist attractions 8 2.3 % Financial services program (tax filing) 5 1.5 %
Healthy living programs & screenings (blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 10 2.9 %
Housing programs 1 0.3 %
Legal assistance programs 2 0.6 %
Lunch/meal programs 7 2.0 %
Special events at the senior center 7 2.0 %
Special interest classes (gardening, writing, book clubs) 7 2.0 % Support groups 4 1.2 %
Transportation programs/services 8 2.3 %
Volunteer opportunities programs 6 1.8 %
Weekly programs (cards, billiards, mahjong) 5 1.5 %
None chosen 2 55 74.6 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
94 SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES
Q12. Which FOUR programs/services from the list in Question 11 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? (top 4)
Q12. Top choice Number Percent
Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 15 4.4 %
Arts & crafts programs & activities 47 13.7 %
Computer classes & programs 24 7.0 %
Dance lessons & programs 19 5.6 %
Day trips, tours, & excursions to popular tourist attractions 50 14.6 % Financial services program (tax filing) 21 6.1 %
Healthy living programs & screenings (blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 42 12.3 %
Housing programs 17 5.0 %
Legal assistance programs 15 4.4 %
Lunch/meal programs 20 5.8 %
Music classes & programs 16 4.7 %
Special events at the senior center 35 10.2 %
Special interest classes (gardening, writing, book clubs) 45 13.2 % Support groups 8 2.3 %
Transportation programs/services 23 6.7 %
Volunteer opportunities programs 26 7.6 %
Weekly programs (cards, billiards, mahjong) 23 6.7 %
None chosen 2 09 61.1 %
Total 655
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
95 Q13. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statements about some potential benefits of the City of Santa Clara's parks and recreation services.
(N=342)
Strongly
Str ongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree disagree Don't know Q13-1. Helps to attract new
residents 19.0% 27.8% 19.9% 6.1% 1.5% 25.7%
Q13-2. Helps to reduce crime in
my neighborhood & keep kids out
of trouble 21.1% 30.1% 14.3% 5.0% 2.0% 27.5%
Q13-3. Improves my (my
household's) mental health &
reduces stress 28.1% 31.9% 14.6% 2.0% 0.9% 22.5%
Q13-4. Improves my (my
household's) physical health &
fitness 30.1% 32.2% 13.7% 2.0% 1.5% 20.5%
Q13-5. Increases my (my
household's) property value 21.1% 28.7% 18.1% 4.4% 0.3% 27.5%
Q13-6. Is age-friendly & accessible
to all age groups 22.8% 29.8% 16.1% 5.3% 1.5% 24.6%
Q13-7. Makes Santa Clara a more
desirable place to live 32.7% 31.0% 12.6% 3.2% 0.3% 20.2%
Q13-8. Positively impacts
economic/business development/
tourism 20.5% 27.8% 18.1% 5.6% 0.6% 27.5%
Q13-9. Preserves open space &
protects the environment 27.8% 32.5% 11.1% 4.1% 0.6% 24.0%
Q13-10. Provides jobs/
professional development for
youth 13.7% 20.8% 23.7% 6.4% 0.9% 34.5%
Q13-11. Provides positive social
interactions for me (my
household/family) 24.3% 28.4% 15.8% 4.4% 0.9% 26.3%
Q13-12. Provides volunteer
opportunities for the community 17.3% 26.6% 19.0% 3.8% 0.0% 33.3%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
96 WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q13. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statements about some potential benefits of the City of Santa Clara's parks and recreation services. (without "don't know")
(N=342)
Str ongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree Q13-1. Helps to attract new
residents 25.6% 37.4% 26.8% 8.3% 2.0%
Q13-2. Helps to reduce crime
in my neighborhood & keep
kids out of trouble 29.0% 41.5% 19.8% 6.9% 2.8%
Q13-3. Improves my (my
household's) mental health &
reduces stress 36.2% 41.1% 18.9% 2.6% 1.1%
Q13-4. Improves my (my
household's) physical health &
fitness 37.9% 40.4% 17.3% 2.6% 1.8%
Q13-5. Increases my (my
household's) property value 29.0% 39.5% 25.0% 6.0% 0.4%
Q13-6. Is age-friendly &
accessible to all age groups 30.2% 39.5% 21.3% 7.0% 1.9%
Q13-7. Makes Santa Clara a
more desirable place to live 41.0% 38.8% 15.8% 4.0% 0.4%
Q13-8. Positively impacts
economic/business
development/tourism 28.2% 38.3% 25.0% 7.7% 0.8%
Q13-9. Preserves open space &
protects the environment 36.5% 42.7% 14.6% 5.4% 0.8%
Q13-10. Provides jobs/
professional development for
youth 21.0% 31.7% 36.2% 9.8% 1.3%
Q13-11. Provides positive
social interactions for me (my
household/family) 32.9% 38.5% 21.4% 6.0% 1.2%
Q13-12. Provides volunteer
opportunities for the
community 25.9% 39.9% 28.5% 5.7% 0.0%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
97 Q14. Which FOUR of the benefits from the list in Question 13 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q14. Top choice Number Percent
Helps to attract new residents 7 2.0 %
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep kids out of trouble 54 15.8 %
Improves my (my household's) mental health & reduces stress 65 19.0 % Improves my (my household's) physical health & fitness 43 12.6 % Increases my (my household's) property value 22 6.4 %
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups 19 5.6 % Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live 31 9.1 % Positively impacts economic/business development/tourism 1 0.3 % Preserves open space & protects the environment 17 5.0 % Provides jobs/professional development for youth 3 0.9 % Provides positive social interactions for me (my household/ family) 8 2.3 %
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community 4 1.2 % None chosen 68 19. 9 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q14. Which FOUR of the benefits from the list in Question 13 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q14. 2nd choice Number Percent
Helps to attract new residents 8 2.3 %
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep kids out of trouble 32 9.4 %
Improves my (my household's) mental health & reduces stress 51 14.9 % Improves my (my household's) physical health & fitness 54 15.8 % Increases my (my household's) property value 22 6.4 %
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups 12 3.5 % Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live 36 10.5 % Positively impacts economic/business development/tourism 6 1.8 % Preserves open space & protects the environment 22 6.4 % Provides jobs/professional development for youth 4 1.2 % Provides positive social interactions for me (my household/ family) 13 3.8 %
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community 6 1.8 % None chosen 76 22. 2 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
98 Q14. Which FOUR of the benefits from the list in Question 13 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q14. 3rd choice Number Percent
Helps to attract new residents 9 2.6 %
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep kids out of trouble 19 5.6 %
Improves my (my household's) mental health & reduces stress 28 8.2 % Improves my (my household's) physical health & fitness 33 9.6 % Increases my (my household's) property value 19 5.6 %
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups 22 6.4 % Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live 38 11.1 % Positively impacts economic/business development/tourism 12 3.5 % Preserves open space & protects the environment 25 7.3 % Provides jobs/professional development for youth 10 2.9 % Provides positive social interactions for me (my household/ family) 25 7.3 %
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community 7 2.0 % None chosen 95 27. 8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q14. Which FOUR of the benefits from the list in Question 13 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q14. 4th choice Number Percent
Helps to attract new residents 5 1.5 %
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep kids out of trouble 19 5.6 %
Improves my (my household's) mental health & reduces stress 19 5.6 % Improves my (my household's) physical health & fitness 25 7.3 % Increases my (my household's) property value 13 3.8 %
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups 22 6.4 % Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live 37 10.8 % Positively impacts economic/business development/tourism 10 2.9 % Preserves open space & protects the environment 22 6.4 % Provides jobs/professional development for youth 10 2.9 % Provides positive social interactions for me (my household/ family) 26 7.6 %
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community 13 3.8 % None chosen 1 21 35.4 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
99 SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES
Q14. Which FOUR of the benefits from the list in Question 13 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household? (top 4)
Q14. Top choice Number Percent
Helps to attract new residents 29 8.5 %
Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood & keep kids out of trouble 124 36.3 %
Improves my (my household's) mental health & reduces stress 163 47.7 % Improves my (my household's) physical health & fitness 155 45.3 % Increases my (my household's) property value 76 22.2 %
Is age-friendly & accessible to all age groups 75 21.9 % Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live 142 41.5 % Positively impacts economic/business development/tourism 29 8.5 % Preserves open space & protects the environment 86 25.1 % Provides jobs/professional development for youth 27 7.9 % Provides positive social interactions for me (my household/ family) 72 21.1 %
Provides volunteer opportunities for the community 30 8.8 % None chosen 68 19. 9 %
Total 1076
Q15. Please rate your level of satisfaction with the overall value that your household receives from Santa Clara parks, trails, recreation facilities, pools, programs, or services.
Q15. Your level of satisfaction with overall value that your household receives from Santa Clara parks, trails, recreation facilities, pools, programs, or services N umber Percent Very satisfied 42 12.3 %
Satisfied 111 32.5 %
Neutral 93 27.2 %
Dissatisfied 40 11.7 %
Very dissatisfied 15 4.4 %
Don't know 41 12. 0 %
Total 342 100.0 %
WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q15. Please rate your level of satisfaction with the overall value that your household receives from Santa Clara parks, trails, recreation facilities, pools, programs, or services. (without "don't know")
Q15. Your level of satisfaction with overall value that your household receives from Santa Clara parks, trails, recreation facilities, pools, programs, or services N umber Percent Very satisfied 42 14.0 %
Satisfied 111 36.9 %
Neutral 93 30.9 %
Dissatisfied 40 13.3 %
Very dissatisfied 15 5. 0 %
Total 301 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
100
Q16. Maintenance. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara Parks and Recreation System.
(N=342)
Very
Ve ry satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q16-1. Athletic field maintenance 7.3% 16.4% 17.5% 6.7% 5.0% 47.1%
Q16-2. Athletic outdoor court
maintenance (tennis, pickleball,
basketball, etc.) 6.7% 19.3% 20.5% 6.7% 4.1% 42.7%
Q16-3. Community/recreation/
senior center maintenance 7.9% 19.0% 19.9% 7.9% 1.8% 43.6%
Q16-4. Dog park (off leash)
maintenance & care 3.8% 9.1% 11.4% 5.3% 2.9% 67.5%
Q16-5. Graffiti removal/vandalism
repair 6.1% 21.9% 20.5% 9.6% 3.2% 38.6%
Q16-6. Landscape care (flower
beds) 13.2% 30.4% 19.9% 9.6% 3.5% 23.4%
Q16-7. Mowing 16.1% 29.8% 19.0% 6.7% 4.7% 23.7%
Q16-8. Natural area/conservation
area management 10.5% 22.5% 23.1% 6.7% 1.5% 35.7%
Q16-9. Path/trail (paved)
maintenance 10.8% 30.1% 18.4% 9.1% 4.4% 27.2%
Q16-10. Pavilion/picnic area
maintenance 11.7% 27.5% 18.7% 7.0% 4.1% 31.0%
Q16-11. Playground safety &
maintenance 12.9% 24.3% 14.0% 7.9% 3.2% 37.7%
Q16-12. Pool/splash pad/spray
ground maintenance 3.8% 10.2% 12.3% 7.6% 10.2% 55.8%
Q16-13. Restroom maintenance 4.7% 20.2% 23.1% 15.5% 6.1% 30.4%
Q16-14. Specialized facility
maintenance 3.5% 8.2% 12.0% 4.7% 2.6% 69.0%
Q16-15. Trail (non-paved)
maintenance 7.6% 21.1% 16.4% 9.4% 2.3% 43.3%
Q16-16. Trash/litter/waste pickup 12.3% 26.9% 20.5% 10.8% 4.7% 24.9%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
101
Q16. Maintenance. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara Parks and Recreation System.
Very
Ve ry satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q16-17. Urban forest/tree
maintenance 10.5% 24.0% 20.8% 6.1% 2.3% 36.3%
Q16-18. Waterways/rivers/
streams 8.2% 19.0% 17.8% 13.7% 2.6% 38.6%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
102
WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q16. Maintenance. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara Parks and Recreation System. (without "don't know")
(N=342)
Ve ry satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q16-1. Athletic field
maintenance 13.8% 30.9% 33.1% 12.7% 9.4%
Q16-2. Athletic outdoor court
maintenance (tennis,
pickleball, basketball, etc.) 11.7% 33.7% 35.7% 11.7% 7.1%
Q16-3. Community/recreation/
senior center maintenance 14.0% 33.7% 35.2% 14.0% 3.1%
Q16-4. Dog park (off leash)
maintenance & care 11.7% 27.9% 35.1% 16.2% 9.0%
Q16-5. Graffiti removal/
vandalism repair 10.0% 35.7% 33.3% 15.7% 5.2%
Q16-6. Landscape care
(flower beds) 17.2% 39.7% 26.0% 12.6% 4.6%
Q16-7. Mowing 21.1% 39.1% 24.9% 8.8% 6.1%
Q16-8. Natural area/
conservation area
management 16.4% 35.0% 35.9% 10.5% 2.3%
Q16-9. Path/trail (paved)
maintenance 14.9% 41.4% 25.3% 12.4% 6.0%
Q16-10. Pavilion/picnic area
maintenance 16.9% 39.8% 27.1% 10.2% 5.9%
Q16-11. Playground safety &
maintenance 20.7% 39.0% 22.5% 12.7% 5.2%
Q16-12. Pool/splash pad/
spray ground maintenance 8.6% 23.2% 27.8% 17.2% 23.2%
Q16-13. Restroom
maintenance 6.7% 29.0% 33.2% 22.3% 8.8%
Q16-14. Specialized facility
maintenance 11.3% 26.4% 38.7% 15.1% 8.5%
Q16-15. Trail (non-paved)
maintenance 13.4% 37.1% 28.9% 16.5% 4.1%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
103
WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q16. Maintenance. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara Parks and Recreation System. (without "don't know")
Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q16-16. Trash/litter/waste
pickup 16.3% 35.8% 27.2% 14.4% 6.2%
Q16-17. Urban forest/tree
maintenance 16.5% 37.6% 32.6% 9.6% 3.7%
Q16-18. Waterways/rivers/
streams 13.3% 31.0% 29.0% 22.4% 4.3%
Q17. Which of the FOUR maintenance activities from the list in Question 16 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q17. Top choice Number Percent
Athletic field maintenance 19 5.6 %
Athletic outdoor court maintenance (tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc.) 12 3.5 %
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 20 5.8 % Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care 13 3.8 %
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 23 6.7 %
Landscape care (flower beds) 11 3.2 %
Mowing 11 3.2 %
Natural area/conservation area management 19 5.6 %
Path/trail (paved) maintenance 30 8.8 %
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance 10 2.9 %
Playground safety & maintenance 15 4.4 %
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance 18 5.3 %
Restroom maintenance 19 5.6 %
Specialized facility maintenance 1 0.3 %
Trail (non-paved) maintenance 8 2.3 %
Trash/litter/waste pickup 17 5.0 %
Urban forest/tree maintenance 6 1.8 %
Waterways/rivers/streams 12 3.5 %
None chosen 78 22. 8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
104
Q17. Which of the FOUR maintenance activities from the list in Question 16 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q17. 2nd choice Number Percent
Athletic field maintenance 9 2.6 %
Athletic outdoor court maintenance (tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc.) 16 4.7 %
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 17 5.0 % Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care 5 1.5 %
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 26 7.6 %
Landscape care (flower beds) 11 3.2 %
Mowing 11 3.2 %
Natural area/conservation area management 13 3.8 %
Path/trail (paved) maintenance 41 12.0 %
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance 10 2.9 %
Playground safety & maintenance 20 5.8 %
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance 12 3.5 %
Restroom maintenance 21 6.1 %
Specialized facility maintenance 3 0.9 %
Trail (non-paved) maintenance 12 3.5 %
Trash/litter/waste pickup 16 4.7 %
Urban forest/tree maintenance 6 1.8 %
Waterways/rivers/streams 6 1.8 %
None chosen 87 25. 4 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q17. Which of the FOUR maintenance activities from the list in Question 16 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q17. 3rd choice Number Percent
Athletic field maintenance 7 2.0 %
Athletic outdoor court maintenance (tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc.) 7 2.0 %
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 13 3.8 % Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care 5 1.5 %
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 21 6.1 %
Landscape care (flower beds) 10 2.9 %
Mowing 11 3.2 %
Natural area/conservation area management 8 2.3 %
Path/trail (paved) maintenance 34 9.9 %
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance 9 2.6 %
Playground safety & maintenance 18 5.3 %
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance 6 1.8 %
Restroom maintenance 26 7.6 %
Specialized facility maintenance 3 0.9 %
Trail (non-paved) maintenance 14 4.1 %
Trash/litter/waste pickup 25 7.3 %
Urban forest/tree maintenance 18 5.3 %
Waterways/rivers/streams 12 3.5 %
None chosen 95 27. 8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
105
Q17. Which of the FOUR maintenance activities from the list in Question 16 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household?
Q17. 4th choice Number Percent
Athletic field maintenance 10 2.9 %
Athletic outdoor court maintenance (tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc.) 6 1.8 %
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 7 2.0 %
Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care 5 1.5 %
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 21 6.1 %
Landscape care (flower beds) 9 2.6 %
Mowing 5 1.5 %
Natural area/conservation area management 9 2.6 %
Path/trail (paved) maintenance 12 3.5 %
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance 17 5.0 %
Playground safety & maintenance 19 5.6 %
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance 4 1.2 %
Restroom maintenance 33 9.6 %
Trail (non-paved) maintenance 12 3.5 %
Trash/litter/waste pickup 33 9.6 %
Urban forest/tree maintenance 13 3.8 %
Waterways/rivers/streams 14 4.1 %
None chosen 1 13 33.0 %
Total 342 100.0 %
SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES
Q17. Which of the FOUR maintenance activities from the list in Question 16 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household? (top 4)
Q17. Top choice Number Percent
Athletic field maintenance 45 13.2 %
Athletic outdoor court maintenance (tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc.) 41 12.0 %
Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 57 16.7 % Dog park (off leash) maintenance & care 28 8.2 %
Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 91 26.6 %
Landscape care (flower beds) 41 12.0 %
Mowing 38 11.1 %
Natural area/conservation area management 49 14.3 %
Path/trail (paved) maintenance 117 34.2 %
Pavilion/picnic area maintenance 46 13.5 %
Playground safety & maintenance 72 21.1 %
Pool/splash pad/spray ground maintenance 40 11.7 %
Restroom maintenance 99 28.9 %
Specialized facility maintenance 7 2.0 %
Trail (non-paved) maintenance 46 13.5 %
Trash/litter/waste pickup 91 26.6 %
Urban forest/tree maintenance 43 12.6 %
Waterways/rivers/streams 44 12.9 %
None chosen 78 22. 8 %
Total 1073
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
106
Q18(1-9). Improvements to Existing Facilities: The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action using a scale of 5 to 1, where 5 means "Very Supportive," and 1 means "Not at all Supportive."
(N=342)
Very Somewhat Not at all
suppo
rtive supportive Neutral Not supportive supportive Don't know Q18-1. General repair & increase
maintenance of parks & facilities 42.7% 26.3% 8.2% 0.3% 0.0% 22.5%
Q18-2. Improve existing aquatic
facilities 37.4% 18.1% 9.4% 3.5% 2.0% 29.5%
Q18-3. Add/expand/improve
trails/walking loops in existing
parks 36.5% 25.4% 12.6% 1.8% 0.3% 23.4%
Q18-4. Improve ADA/disabled
persons accessibility at parks 25.7% 24.3% 19.6% 3.2% 1.2% 26.0%
Q18-5. Improve/expand natural
open space areas in existing
parks 33.0% 24.6% 15.8% 1.2% 1.2% 24.3%
Q18-6. Improve restroom
facilities in existing parks 35.7% 25.1% 13.5% 1.8% 1.2% 22.8%
Q18-7. Improve playgrounds in
existing parks 30.1% 23.4% 14.0% 5.6% 0.9% 26.0%
Q18-8. Renovate recreation/
senior centers 25.4% 24.3% 18.7% 4.1% 2.0% 25.4%
Q18-9. Add Wi-Fi/other
technology improvements to
existing parks 21.3% 17.3% 19.9% 11.4% 9.4% 20.8%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
107
WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q18(1-9). Improvements to Existing Facilities: The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action using a scale of 5 to 1, where 5 means "Very Supportive," and 1 means "Not at all Supportive." (without "don't know")
(N=342)
Somewhat Not at all
Ver y supportive supportive Neutral Not supportive supportive Q18-1. General repair &
increase maintenance of
parks & facilities 55.1% 34.0% 10.6% 0.4% 0.0%
Q18-2. Improve existing
aquatic facilities 53.1% 25.7% 13.3% 5.0% 2.9%
Q18-3. Add/expand/improve
trails/walking loops in
existing parks 47.7% 33.2% 16.4% 2.3% 0.4%
Q18-4. Improve ADA/
disabled persons
accessibility at parks 34.8% 32.8% 26.5% 4.3% 1.6%
Q18-5. Improve/expand
natural open space areas in
existing parks 43.6% 32.4% 20.8% 1.5% 1.5%
Q18-6. Improve restroom
facilities in existing parks 46.2% 32.6% 17.4% 2.3% 1.5%
Q18-7. Improve playgrounds
in existing parks 40.7% 31.6% 19.0% 7.5% 1.2%
Q18-8. Renovate recreation/
senior centers 34.1% 32.5% 25.1% 5.5% 2.7%
Q18-9. Add Wi-Fi/other
technology improvements to
existing parks 26.9% 21.8% 25.1% 14.4% 11.8%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
108
Q18(10-15). Developing New Facilities: The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action using a scale of 5 to 1, where 5 means "Very Supportive," and 1 means "Not at all Supportive."
(N=342)
Very Somewhat Not at all
suppo
rtive supportive Neutral Not supportive supportive Don't know Q18-10. Develop new parks 33.9% 21.9% 15.2% 3.8% 0.6% 24.6%
Q18-11. Develop new sports
facilities (fields, basketball,
pickleball) 28.7% 24.0% 16.7% 4.1% 3.5% 23.1%
Q18-12. Develop new off-leash
dog parks 15.2% 17.5% 20.8% 10.5% 8.5% 27.5%
Q18-13. Develop new trail & bike
lane connections) 33.3% 21.3% 12.9% 5.0% 3.2% 24.3%
Q18-14. Develop new splashpads 12.3% 16.7% 20.2% 7.3% 7.9% 35.7%
Q18-15. Develop/improve
community-wide event venues 26.3% 25.1% 18.7% 3.8% 1.8% 24.3%
WITHOUT DON’T KNOW
Q18(10-15). Developing New Facilities: The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action using a scale of 5 to 1, where 5 means "Very Supportive," and 1 means "Not at all Supportive." (without "don't know")
(N=342)
Somewhat Not at all
Ver y supportive supportive Neutral Not supportive supportive Q18-10. Develop new parks 45.0% 29.1% 20.2% 5.0% 0.8%
Q18-11. Develop new sports
facilities (fields, basketball,
pickleball) 37.3% 31.2% 21.7% 5.3% 4.6%
Q18-12. Develop new off-
leash dog parks 21.0% 24.2% 28.6% 14.5% 11.7%
Q18-13. Develop new trail &
bike lane connections) 44.0% 28.2% 17.0% 6.6% 4.2%
Q18-14. Develop new
splashpads 19.1% 25.9% 31.4% 11.4% 12.3%
Q18-15. Develop/improve
community-wide event
venues 34.7% 33.2% 24.7% 5.0% 2.3%
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
109
Q19. Which FOUR actions from the list in Question 18 on the previous page would you be MOST WILLING to fund?
Q19. Top choice Number Percent
General repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities 60 17.5 % Improve existing aquatic facilities 48 14.0 %
Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks 17 5.0 % Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks 6 1.8 % Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks 13 3.8 % Improve restroom facilities in existing parks 13 3.8 %
Improve playgrounds in existing parks 17 5.0 %
Renovate recreation/senior centers 10 2.9 %
Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks 7 2.0 % Develop new parks 22 6.4 %
Develop new sports facilities (fields, basketball, pickleball) 16 4.7 % Develop new off-leash dog parks 9 2.6 %
Develop new trail & bike lane connections) 26 7.6 %
Develop new splashpads 2 0.6 %
Develop/improve community-wide event venues 5 1.5 %
None chosen 71 20. 8 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q19. Which FOUR actions from the list in Question 18 on the previous page would you be MOST WILLING to fund?
Q19. 2nd choice Number Percent
General repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities 37 10.8 % Improve existing aquatic facilities 26 7.6 %
Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks 32 9.4 % Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks 10 2.9 % Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks 22 6.4 % Improve restroom facilities in existing parks 26 7.6 %
Improve playgrounds in existing parks 15 4.4 %
Renovate recreation/senior centers 12 3.5 %
Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks 7 2.0 % Develop new parks 16 4.7 %
Develop new sports facilities (fields, basketball, pickleball) 17 5.0 % Develop new off-leash dog parks 9 2.6 %
Develop new trail & bike lane connections) 22 6.4 %
Develop new splashpads 2 0.6 %
Develop/improve community-wide event venues 7 2.0 %
None chosen 82 24. 0 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
110
Q19. Which FOUR actions from the list in Question 18 on the previous page would you be MOST WILLING to fund?
Q 19. 3rd choice Number Percent
G eneral repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities 20 5.8 % Improve existing aquatic facilities 10 2.9 %
Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks 24 7.0 % Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks 10 2.9 % Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks 21 6.1 % Improve restroom facilities in existing parks 29 8.5 %
Improve playgrounds in existing parks 20 5.8 %
Renovate recreation/senior centers 13 3.8 %
Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks 8 2.3 % Develop new parks 15 4.4 %
Develop new sports facilities (fields, basketball, pickleball) 16 4.7 % Develop new off-leash dog parks 5 1.5 %
Develop new trail & bike lane connections) 31 9.1 %
Develop new splashpads 4 1.2 %
Develop/improve community-wide event venues 10 2.9 %
None chosen 106 31.0 %
Total 3 42 100.0 %
Q19. Which FOUR actions from the list in Question 18 on the previous page would you be MOST WILLING to fund?
Q 19. 4th choice Number Percent
G eneral repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities 27 7.9 % Improve existing aquatic facilities 11 3.2 %
Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks 12 3.5 % Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks 5 1.5 % Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks 20 5.8 % Improve restroom facilities in existing parks 23 6.7 %
Improve playgrounds in existing parks 17 5.0 %
Renovate recreation/senior centers 10 2.9 %
Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks 8 2.3 % Develop new parks 20 5.8 %
Develop new sports facilities (fields, basketball, pickleball) 7 2.0 % Develop new off-leash dog parks 10 2.9 %
Develop new trail & bike lane connections) 24 7.0 %
Develop new splashpads 6 1.8 %
Develop/improve community-wide event venues 17 5.0 %
None chosen 125 36.5 %
Total 3 42 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
111
SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES
Q19. Which FOUR actions from the list in Question 18 on the previous page would you be MOST WILLING to fund? (top 4)
Q19. Top choice Number Percent
General repair & increase maintenance of parks & facilities 144 42.1 % Improve existing aquatic facilities 95 27.8 %
Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks 85 24.9 % Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks 31 9.1 % Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks 76 22.2 % Improve restroom facilities in existing parks 91 26.6 % Improve playgrounds in existing parks 69 20.2 %
Renovate recreation/senior centers 45 13.2 %
Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks 30 8.8 % Develop new parks 73 21.3 %
Develop new sports facilities (fields, basketball, pickleball) 56 16.4 % Develop new off-leash dog parks 33 9.6 %
Develop new trail & bike lane connections) 103 30.1 %
Develop new splashpads 14 4.1 %
Develop/improve community-wide event venues 39 11.4 %
None chosen 71 20. 8 %
Total 1055
Q20. From the following list, please CHECK ALL of the ways you learn about the City of Santa Clara parks, recreation facilities, and programs, events, activities and services.
Q20. Ways you learn about City parks, recreation
facilities, & programs, events, activities & services N umber Percent City activity guide 235 68.7 %
City weekly newsletter 102 29.8 %
City website 174 50.9 %
Materials at parks or recreation facilities 78 22.8 %
Conversations with recreation staff 24 7.0 %
Newspaper 32 9.4 %
Friends & neighbors 130 38.0 %
Promotions at special events 66 19.3 %
Banners at parks or City facilities 143 41.8 %
Email/eBlasts from City 112 32.7 %
Facebook 64 18.7 %
X/Twitter 9 2.6 %
Instagram 38 11.1 %
Flyers 42 12.3 %
Other 14 4. 1 %
Total 1263
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
112
Q20-15. Other:
Q20-15. Other Number Percent
Google maps 2 14.3 %
Google 1 7.1 %
BlueSky 1 7.1 %
NEXTDOOR 1 7.1 %
Apartment bulletin board 1 7.1 %
Mail 1 7.1 %
San Jose Spotlight 1 7.1 %
Calendar and inside Santa Clara mailings 1 7.1 %
SCYSL, schools, city council members 1 7.1 %
Monthly report 1 7.1 %
NEWS TV 1 7.1 %
Calendar 1 7.1 %
Nextdoor, broadcasted city council meetings 1 7.1 %
Total 14 100.0 %
Q21. From the list in Question 20, which THREE methods of communication would you MOST PREFER the City use to communicate with you about recreation programs and activities?
Q21. Top choice Number Percent
City activity guide 86 25.1 %
City weekly newsletter 40 11.7 %
City website 37 10.8 %
Materials at parks or recreation facilities 7 2.0 %
Conversations with recreation staff 2 0.6 %
Newspaper 4 1.2 %
Friends & neighbors 4 1.2 %
Promotions at special events 4 1.2 %
Banners at parks or City facilities 11 3.2 %
Email/eBlasts from City 53 15.5 %
Facebook 19 5.6 %
X/Twitter 4 1.2 %
Instagram 16 4.7 %
Flyers 6 1.8 %
None chosen 49 14. 3 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
113
Q21. From the list in Question 20, which THREE methods of communication would you MOST PREFER the City use to communicate with you about recreation programs and activities? Q 21. 2nd choice Number Percent
C ity activity guide 41 12.0 %
City weekly newsletter 38 11.1 %
City website 57 16.7 %
Materials at parks or recreation facilities 12 3.5 %
Conversations with recreation staff 1 0.3 %
Newspaper 9 2.6 %
Friends & neighbors 8 2.3 %
Promotions at special events 8 2.3 %
Banners at parks or City facilities 28 8.2 %
Email/eBlasts from City 39 11.4 %
Facebook 14 4.1 %
X/Twitter 3 0.9 %
Instagram 16 4.7 %
Flyers 5 1.5 %
None chosen 63 18.4 %
Total 3 42 100.0 %
Q21. From the list in Question 20, which THREE methods of communication would you MOST PREFER the City use to communicate with you about recreation programs and activities? Q 21. 3rd choice Number Percent
C ity activity guide 39 11.4 %
City weekly newsletter 24 7.0 %
City website 32 9.4 %
Materials at parks or recreation facilities 18 5.3 %
Conversations with recreation staff 2 0.6 %
Newspaper 7 2.0 %
Friends & neighbors 10 2.9 %
Promotions at special events 11 3.2 %
Banners at parks or City facilities 36 10.5 %
Email/eBlasts from City 27 7.9 %
Facebook 17 5.0 %
X/Twitter 1 0.3 %
Instagram 11 3.2 %
Flyers 8 2.3 %
None chosen 99 28.9 %
Total 3 42 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
114
SUM OF TOP 3 CHOICES
Q21. From the list in Question 20, which THREE methods of communication would you MOST PREFER the City use to communicate with you about recreation programs and activities? (top 3) Q21. Top choice N umber Percent
City activity guide 1 66 48.5 %
City weekly newsletter 102 29.8 %
City website 126 36.8 %
Materials at parks or recreation facilities 37 10.8 %
Conversations with recreation staff 5 1.5 %
Newspaper 20 5.8 %
Friends & neighbors 22 6.4 %
Promotions at special events 23 6.7 %
Banners at parks or City facilities 75 21.9 %
Email/eBlasts from City 119 34.8 %
Facebook 50 14.6 %
X/Twitter 8 2.3 %
Instagram 43 12.6 %
Flyers 19 5.6 %
None chosen 49 14.3 %
Total 864
Q22. How many years have you lived in the City of Santa Clara? Q22. How many years have you lived in City of Santa
Cl
ara Number P ercent
0-5 years 77 22. 5 %
6-10 years 44 12.9 %
11-20 years 60 17.5 %
21-30 years 50 14.6 %
31+ years 95 27.8 %
Not provided 16 4.7 %
Total 342 100.0 %
WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED
Q22. How many years have you lived in the City of Santa Clara? (without "not provided") Q22. How many years have you lived in City of Santa
Cl
ara Number P ercent
0-5 years 77 23. 6 %
6-10 years 44 13.5 %
11-20 years 60 18.4 %
21-30 years 50 15.3 %
31+ years 95 29.1 %
Total 326 100.0 %
Q23
. Are you or any members of your family of Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ancestry? Q23. Are you or any members of your family of
H
ispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ancestry Numbe r Percent Yes 56 16. 4 %
No 269 78.7 %
Not provided 17 5.0 %
Total 342 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
115
WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED
Q23. Are you or any members of your family of Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ancestry? (without "not provided")
Q 23. Are you or any members of your family of
Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ancestry Num ber Percent Ye s 56 17.2 %
No 269 82. 8 %
Total 3 25 100.0 %
Q24. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? Q 24. Your race/ethnicity Number Percent
As ian or Asian Indian 161 47.1 %
Black or African American 8 2.3 %
American Indian or Alaska Native 3 0.9 %
White 105 30.7 %
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 4 1.2 %
Other 17 5.0 %
Total 2 98
Q24-6. Self-describe your race/ethnicity:
Q2 4 -6. Self-describe your race/ethnicity Number Percent H ispanic 2 11.8 %
Portuguese 2 11.8 %
Italian American 1 5.9 %
Multi race 1 5.9 %
Mexican 1 5.9 %
South American 1 5.9 %
Slavic 1 5.9 %
Jewish 1 5.9 %
Hispanic/Native American 1 5.9 %
Filipino/Hispanic 1 5.9 %
Greek,French, American Indian, English 1 5.9 %
Filipino 1 5.9 %
Native American 1 5.9 %
Latino 1 5.9 %
Middle Eastern 1 5. 9 %
Total 17 10 0.0 %
Q25. Your gender:
Q 25. Your gender Number Percent
M ale 162 47.4 %
Female 165 48.2 %
Non-binary 2 0.6 %
Prefer not to answer 13 3.8 %
Total 3 42 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
116
WITHOUT PREFER NOT TO ANSWER
Q25. Your gender: (without "prefer not to answer")
Q25. Your gender Number Percent
Male 162 49.2 %
Female 165 50.2 %
Non- bina ry 2 0.6 %
Total 329 100.0 %
Q26. Your age:
Q26. Your age Number Percent
18-34 70 20.5 %
35-44 69 20.2 %
45-54 67 19.6 %
55-64 67 19.6 %
65+ 69 20.2 %
Total 342 100.0 %
Q27. What is the primary language spoken in your home?
Q27. Primary language spoken in your home Number Percent English 281 87.5 %
Spanish 14 4.4 %
Chinese 7 2.2 %
Cantonese 3 0.9 %
Hindi 2 0.6 %
Vietnamese 2 0.6 %
Telugu 1 0.3 %
Kannada 1 0.3 %
Bengali 1 0.3 %
Tamil 1 0.3 %
Marathi 1 0.3 %
Japanese 1 0.3 %
Serbo Croatian 1 0.3 %
Portuguese 1 0.3 %
Tamal 1 0.3 %
Llocano 1 0.3 %
Arabic 1 0.3 %
Albanian 1 0.3 %
Total 321 100.0 %
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
117
Response to Contract
Terms and Conditions
Response to Mandatory
Specifications and
Forms
2021 MoDOT Statewide
Survey Report
7 Survey Instrument
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
118
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
119
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs
Assessment Survey
The City of Santa Clara requests your input to help determine park and recreation priorities for our community.
This survey will take 10-15 minutes to complete. When you are finished, please return your survey in the enclosed postage-paid, return-reply envelope. If you prefer, you can complete the survey online at santaclarasurvey.org. We greatly appreciate your time!
1. Including yourself, how many people in your household are...
Under age 5: ____
Ages 5-9: ____
Ages 10-14: ____
Ages 15-19: ____
Ages 20-24: ____
Ages 25-34: ____
Ages 35-44: ____
Ages 45-54: ____
Ages 55-64: ____
Ages 65-74: ____
Ages 75-84: ____
Ages 85+: ____
2. Have you or any member of your household visited any parks or recreation facilities offered by the City of Santa Clara during the past 12 months?
____(1) Yes [Answer Q2a-c.] ____(2) No [Skip to Q3.]
2a. How often do you visit Santa Clara parks and/or recreation facilities? ____(1) More than 5 times a week
____(2) 2-4 times a week
____(3) Once a week
____(4) 1-3 times a month
____(5) Less than once a month
____(9) Don't know
2b. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the City of Santa Clara parks and recreation facilities you have visited?
____(4) Excellent ____(3) Good ____(2) Fair ____(1) Poor 2c. Please CHECK ALL the following reasons that you and members of your household currently use Santa Clara parks and recreation facilities. ____(01) Participate in a program/attend an
event/league
____(02) Walk for exercise
____(03) Walk dog(s)
____(04) Play on a playground
____(05) Picnicking/family-friend gathering
____(06) People watch
____(07) Read a book
____(08) Hang out
____(09) Ride a bike
____(10) Run/Jog
____(11) Go swimming/use a splash pad
____(12) Watch birds/wildlife
____(13) Play non-league/program sports (basketball, tennis, pickleball, soccer, lawn bowling)
____(14) Other: ____________________________________
3. Has your household participated in any recreation programs or activities offered by the City of Santa Clara during the past 12 months?
____(1) Yes [Answer Q3a.] ____(2) No [Skip to Q4.]
3a. How would you rate the overall quality of the City of Santa Clara recreation programs and/or activities in which your household has participated? ____(4) Excellent ____(3) Good ____(2) Fair ____(1) Poor
4. From the following list, please CHECK ALL the organizations that you or members of your household have used for recreation programs and activities during the past 12 months. ____(01) City of Santa Clara
____(02) Santa Clara County
____(03) Neighboring cities
____(04) Public/private schools
____(05) Places of worship (e.g., synagogues, churches) ____(06) Private and non-profit youth sports
____(07) Private summer camps
____(08) Private clubs (tennis, health, swim, fitness)
____(09) Homeowners association
____(10) Other: __________________________________
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
120
4a. If you or members of your household have used other organizations for recreation programs and activities, please CHECK ALL the following reasons as to why you do so. ____(01) Quality of instructors
____(02) Newer facilities
____(03) Value of program matches the fee paid
____(04) Program times are more convenient
____(05) Offers programs that I am interested in
____(06) Closer to my home
____(07) Other: __________________________________
5. Please CHECK ALL the following reasons that prevent you and members of your household from participating in the City of Santa Clara recreation programs or activities more often. ____(01) Lack of quality instructors
____(02) Old and outdated facilities
____(03) Use programs offered by other agencies
____(04) I don't know what is offered
____(05) Lack of quality programs
____(06) Fees are too high
____(07) Too far from my home
____(08) Program times are not convenient
____(09) Classes are full
____(10) Program not offered
____(11) Registration is difficult
____(12) Poor customer service by staff
____(13) Lack of transportation
____(14) Lack of right program equipment
____(15) Too busy/not interested
____(16) Lack of trust in government
____(17) Language/cultural barriers
____(18) Other: _____________________________________
6. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the facilities/amenities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. If you do not have a need for an item listed, please circle "9" for "No Need." Type of Facility/Amenity Fully Met Mostly Met Partly Met Not Met No Need
01. Community center (multi-use space for all ages) 4 3 2 1 9
02. Community gardens 4 3 2 1 9
03. Diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball) 4 3 2 1 9
04. Environmental education center 4 3 2 1 9
05. Golf course 4 3 2 1 9
06. Indoor basketball/volleyball courts (indoor gyms) 4 3 2 1 9
07. Indoor walking/jogging track 4 3 2 1 9
08. Lawn bowling 4 3 2 1 9
09. Multi-use trails (biking, walking, jogging, hiking) 4 3 2 1 9
10. Off-leash dog park 4 3 2 1 9
11. Open space and conservation areas 4 3 2 1 9
12. Outdoor amphitheater/outdoor performing arts venue 4 3 2 1 9
13. Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment 4 3 2 1 9
14. Outdoor multi-use courts (basketball, badminton, pickleball, tennis) 4 3 2 1 9
15. Pickleball courts (dedicated) 4 3 2 1 9
16. Picnic areas and shelters 4 3 2 1 9
17. Rectangular sports fields (e.g., football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer) 4 3 2 1 9
18. Skate parks 4 3 2 1 9
19. Specialty bike parks (BMX park/pump track) 4 3 2 1 9
20. Splash pads 4 3 2 1 9
21. Swimming pool 4 3 2 1 9
22. Tennis courts (dedicated) 4 3 2 1 9
23. Universally accessible play areas 4 3 2 1 9
24. Other: ________________________________________________ 4 3 2 1 9
7. Which FOUR facilities/amenities from the list in Question 6 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 6, or circle "NONE."]
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
121
8. Please indicate how well your needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. If you do not have a need for an item listed, please circle "9" for "No Need." Type of Programs/Services Fully Met Mostly Met Partly Met Not Met No Need
01. After school programs for youth of all ages 4 3 2 1 9
02. Community special events 4 3 2 1 9
03. Cultural enrichment programs 4 3 2 1 9
04. EGaming/ESports 4 3 2 1 9
05. Fitness and wellness programs 4 3 2 1 9
06. Gymnastics/tumbling programs 4 3 2 1 9
07. Lawn bowling activities/leagues 4 3 2 1 9
08. Out of school day camps 4 3 2 1 9
09. Out of school sports camps 4 3 2 1 9
10. Outdoor environmental/nature camps and programs 4 3 2 1 9
11. Outdoor recreation (hiking, canoe, kayak, archery, etc.) 4 3 2 1 9
12. Performing arts programs (dance/music) 4 3 2 1 9
13. Pickleball lessons and leagues 4 3 2 1 9
14. Preschool programs/early childhood education 4 3 2 1 9
15. Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention 4 3 2 1 9
16. Programs for people with special needs 4 3 2 1 9
17. Recreation/competitive swim team 4 3 2 1 9
18. Sports leagues 4 3 2 1 9
19. STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and
mathematics)/tech classes 4 3 2 1 9
20. Swim lessons 4 3 2 1 9
21. Tennis lessons and leagues 4 3 2 1 9
22. Visual arts/crafts/performing arts programs 4 3 2 1 9
23. Water fitness programs/lap swimming 4 3 2 1 9
24. Other: _________________________________________________ 4 3 2 1 9
9. Which FOUR programs/activities from the list in Question 8 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 8, or circle "NONE."]
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE
10. Santa Clara Parks and Recreation is in the process of evaluating its event offerings. From the list below, which THREE of the single or multi-day event concepts would you and the members of your household be MOST INTERESTED in participating? [Write in your answers using the numbers from the list below, or circle "NONE." For example, if your top choice is "Summer Camp Information Fair," you would write "11" in the space next to "1st" below.]
01. Cultural celebrations (ethnic music, traditions, performances)
02. Competitions (triathlon, bike, 5K/10K runs, adventure/obstacle courses)
03. Employment/job fairs
04. Entertainment (music, movies, performers)
05. Environmental event (Water Matters Day, sustainability, recycling)
06. Food events (farmer's market, food tastings, beer/wine)
07. Health and wellness events (nutrition counseling, preventative health education, mental health wellness, City resources)
08. Holiday celebrations (Memorial, Veterans, 4th of July)
09. Educational workshops for seniors and youth (Fraud Prevention, D.A.R.E., etc.)
10. Sports tournaments (baseball, basketball, football, dodgeball, pickleball, soccer)
11. Summer Camp Information Fair
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ NONE
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
122
11. If you or someone in your household is over 50 years old, please indicate how well your/their needs are being met for each of the programs/activities listed below that promote ACTIVE AGING on a scale of 4 to 1, where 4 means your needs are "Fully Met," and 1 means your needs are "Not Met" at all. If you do not have a need for an item listed, please circle "9" for "No Need." Type of Active Aging Programs/Services Fully Met Mostly Met Partly Met Not Met No Need
01. Alzheimer/Parkinson's programs 4 3 2 1 9
02. Arts and Crafts programs and activities 4 3 2 1 9
03. Computer classes and programs 4 3 2 1 9
04. Dance lessons and programs 4 3 2 1 9
05. Day trips, tours, and excursions to popular tourist attractions 4 3 2 1 9
06. Financial services program (tax filing) 4 3 2 1 9
07. Healthy living programs and screenings (blood pressure, cancer, vision, etc.) 4 3 2 1 9
08. Housing programs 4 3 2 1 9
09. Legal assistance programs 4 3 2 1 9
10. Lunch/meal programs 4 3 2 1 9
11. Music classes and programs 4 3 2 1 9
12. Special events at the senior center 4 3 2 1 9
13. Special interest classes (gardening, writing, book clubs) 4 3 2 1 9
14. Support groups 4 3 2 1 9
15. Transportation programs/services 4 3 2 1 9
16. Volunteer opportunities programs 4 3 2 1 9
17. Weekly programs (cards, billiards, mahjong) 4 3 2 1 9
18. Other: _______________________________________________________ 4 3 2 1 9
12. Which FOUR programs/services from the list in Question 11 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 11, or circle "NONE."]
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE
13. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statements about some potential benefits of the City of Santa Clara's parks and recreation services by circling the corresponding number.
Parks and recreation services in Santa Clara... Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
Disagree
Don't
Know
01. Helps to attract new residents 5 4 3 2 1 9
02. Helps to reduce crime in my neighborhood and keep kids out of trouble 5 4 3 2 1 9
03. Improves my (my household's) mental health and reduces stress 5 4 3 2 1 9
04. Improves my (my household's) physical health and fitness 5 4 3 2 1 9
05. Increases my (my household's) property value 5 4 3 2 1 9
06. Is age-friendly and accessible to all age groups 5 4 3 2 1 9
07. Makes Santa Clara a more desirable place to live 5 4 3 2 1 9
08. Positively impacts economic/business development/tourism 5 4 3 2 1 9
09. Preserves open space and protects the environment 5 4 3 2 1 9
10. Provides jobs/professional development for youth 5 4 3 2 1 9
11. Provides positive social interactions for me (my household/family) 5 4 3 2 1 9
12. Provides volunteer opportunities for the community 5 4 3 2 1 9
14. Which FOUR of the benefits from the list in Question 13 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the first column in Question 13, or circle "NONE."]
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE
City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
123
15. Please rate your level of satisfaction with the overall value that your household receives from Santa Clara parks, trails, recreation facilities, pools, programs, or services. ____(5) Very satisfied
____(4) Satisfied
____(3) Neutral
____(2) Dissatisfied
____(1) Very dissatisfied
____(9) Don't know
16. Maintenance. Please rate your satisfaction with each of the following maintenance activities provided in the Santa Clara Parks and Recreation System.
Maintenance Activity/Task Very
Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very
Dissatisfied
Don't
Know
01. Athletic field maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
02. Athletic outdoor court maintenance (tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc.) 5 4 3 2 1 9
03. Community/recreation/senior center maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
04. Dog park (off leash) maintenance and care 5 4 3 2 1 9
05. Graffiti removal/vandalism repair 5 4 3 2 1 9
06. Landscape care (flower beds) 5 4 3 2 1 9
07. Mowing 5 4 3 2 1 9
08. Natural area/conservation area management 5 4 3 2 1 9
09. Path/Trail (paved) maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
10. Pavilion/Picnic area maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
11. Playground safety and maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
12. Pool/Splash pad/spray ground maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
13. Restroom maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
14. Specialized facility maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
15. Trail (non-paved) maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
16. Trash/Litter/Waste pickup 5 4 3 2 1 9
17. Urban forest/tree maintenance 5 4 3 2 1 9
18. Waterways/Rivers/Streams 5 4 3 2 1 9
17. Which of the FOUR maintenance activities from the list in Question 16 are MOST IMPORTANT to you and members of your household? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the first column in Question 16, or circle "NONE."]
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE
18. The following is a list of actions the City of Santa Clara could take to improve the parks and recreation system. Please indicate your support for each potential action using a scale of 5 to 1, where 5 means "Very Supportive," and 1 means "Not at all Supportive." Improvements to Existing Facilities: Very
Supportive
Somewhat
Supportive Neutral Not
Supportive
Not at all
Supportive
Don't
Know
01. General repair and increase maintenance of parks and facilities 5 4 3 2 1 9
02. Improve existing aquatic facilities 5 4 3 2 1 9
03. Add/expand/improve trails/walking loops in existing parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
04. Improve ADA/disabled persons accessibility at parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
05. Improve/expand natural open space areas in existing parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
06. Improve restroom facilities in existing parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
07. Improve playgrounds in existing parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
08. Renovate Recreation/Senior Centers 5 4 3 2 1 9
09. Add Wi-Fi/other technology improvements to existing parks 5 4 3 2 1 9 Developing New Facilities:
10. Develop new parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
11. Develop new sports facilities (fields, basketball, pickleball) 5 4 3 2 1 9
12. Develop new off-leash dog parks 5 4 3 2 1 9
13. Develop new trail and bike lane connections) 5 4 3 2 1 9
14. Develop new splashpads 5 4 3 2 1 9
15. Develop/improve community-wide event venues 5 4 3 2 1 9 City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
124
19. Which FOUR actions from the list in Question 18 on the previous page would you be MOST WILLING to fund? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 18, or circle "NONE."]
1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE
20. From the following list, please CHECK ALL of the ways you learn about the City of Santa Clar a par
ks, recreation facilities, and programs, events, activities and services. ____(01) City activity guide
____(02) City weekly newsletter
____(03) City website
____(04) Materials at parks or recreation facilities
____(05) Conversations with recreation staff
____(06) Newspaper
____(07) Friends and neighbors
____(08) Promotions at special events
____(09) Banners at parks or City facilities
____(10) Email/Eblasts from City
____(11) Facebook
____(12) X (Twitter)
____(13) Instagram
____(14) Flyers
____(15) Other: ________________________________________
21. From the list above in Question 20, which THREE methods of communication would you MOST PREFER the City use to communicate with you about recreation programs and activities? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 20, or circle "NONE."] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ NONE
Demographics: The following questions are about you and your household. We ask these questions to ensure we reach all groups in Santa Clara and to see if all residents are experiencing City services equitably. Your individual responses will remain confidential.
22. How many years have you lived in the City of Santa Clara? ______ years
23. Are you or any members of your family of Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ancestry? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No
24. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? [Check all that apply.] ____(01) Asian or Asian Indian
____(02) Black or African American
____(03) American Indian or Alaska Native
____(04) White
____(05) Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
____(99) Other: ____________________________________________
25. Your gender:
____(1) Male
____(2) Female
____(3) Non-binary
____(4) Prefer not to answer
____(5) Prefer to self-describe: ______________________
26. Your age: ______ years
27. What is the pr
imary language spoken in your home?
28. Would you be willing to participate in future surveys sponsored by the City of Santa Clara? ____(1) Yes [Please provide your contact information below.] ____(2) No Mobile Phone Num ber: Email Address:
This concludes the survey. Thank you for your time!
Please return your completed survey in the enclosed return-reply envelope addressed to:
ETC Institute, 725 W. Frontier Circle, Olathe, KS 66061 Your responses will remain completely anonymous. The
information to the right will ONLY be used to help identify the level of need and priorities in your area. Thank you! City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey ETC Institute (2024)
125