City Council and Authorities Concurrent
May 5, 2026

DDRRAAFFT | DT | MARCH 9, 2026
Acknowledgments

CITY OF SANTA CLARA STAFF
Cynthia Bojorquez
Kimberly Castro
Ray Castro
Tamra Orlando
Lupe Fuentes
Sandy Le
Carolyn McDowell
Gina Saporito
Dale Seale
Damon Sparacino

PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
Dana Caldwell
Maureen Reilly Chu, Chair
Derek DeMarco
Eversley Forte
Vikas Gupta, Vice Chair
Brittany Rickets
Edward Souza

CITY COUNCIL
Lisa M. Gillmore, Mayor
Albert Gonzalez, District 1
Raj Chahal, District 2
Karen Hardy, District 3
Kevin Park, District 4
Sudhanshu “Suds” Jain, District 5
Kelly G. Cox, Vice Mayor, District 6

CONSULTANT TEAM
WRT Planning + Design
PROS Consulting
Group 4 Architecture, Research + Planning
ETC Institute
Project Finance Advisory Limited
ART & WINE FESTIVAL, CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
4 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Contents
01 02
03 Introduction & Executive Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.1 The Value of Parks & Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.2 About this Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

1.3 The Planning Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1.4 Our Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Santa Clara Today. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

2.1 Santa Clara’s People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

2.2 Recreation Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

2.3 Building on Previous Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

2.4 Santa Clara’s Parks & Recreation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Our Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

3.1 Engaging the Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

3.2 Statistically-Valid Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

3.3 Guiding Themes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 04 05
Goals, Objectives & Recommendations . . . . 66

4.1 Goals & Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

4.2 Park & Open Space Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

4.3 Indoor Recreation Facility Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

4.4 Aquatic Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

4.5 Recreation Programming Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

4.6 Maintenance & Sustainability Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Realizing Our Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

5.1 Action Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

5.2 Funding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

5.3 Call to Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Appendices (Provided Under Separate Cover) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 A Resolution of Approval
B Demographics & Trends Report
C Parks Assessment
D Programming Assessment
E Facilities Assessment
F Maintenance Assessment
G Community Engagement Summary
H Statistically-Valid Survey Findings
6 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
Introduction
& Executive
Summary
1 8 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Parks, recreation, and open spaces not only
enhance quality of life but also contribute
to the social, environmental, and economic
well-being of a city. As Santa Clara
continues to grow and change, its parks and
recreational facilities must also evolve to
meet the diverse and expanding needs of its
residents.

To guide this transformation, the City
has developed the Santa Clara Parks &
Recreation Master Plan—a comprehensive,
community-informed framework for
decision-making over the next 15 years.

This plan outlines a strategic approach for
improving and reimagining the City’s parks
and recreation assets. It also sets priorities
for maintenance, staffing, and sustainable
funding to ensure long-term success.

In November 2024, Santa Clara residents
voted to approve $400 million of
general obligation bond money, of
which approximately $115 million has
been allocated to parks, libraries, the
Senior Center, and aquatic facilities. This
bond allows the City to make needed
maintenance and lifecycle replacement
improvements, and it is a confirmation
of residents’ belief in the value of parks
and recreation. The Santa Clara Parks &
Recreation Master Plan recognizes the great
value our community places on parks and
recreation and creates a strong framework
for using resources—both from the bond
and other sources—effectively in the years
ahead.

INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION & EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 9

1.1 THE VALUE OF PARKS &

RECREATION
Parks, recreation facilities, open spaces, and
trails benefit people across all age groups and in
multiple ways. These important spaces provide
opportunities to build confidence, learn new skills,
and find moments of calm and reflection, while also
enhancing air quality, cooling the urban environment,
and serving as gathering places that strengthen
social bonds.

SUPPORTING WELLNESS
Recreation areas promote active lifestyles by
encouraging walking, playing, sports, and physical
exercise for all ages. These activities not only support physical health but also boost mental well-being,
self-esteem, and emotional resilience. For children,
especially those who are neurodiverse, outdoor
activity can improve focus and reduce stress. Regular
movement helps prevent chronic illnesses and
supports cognitive functions such as learning and
memory

1. FOSTERING SOCIAL CONNECTIONS
Well-designed, inviting parks and recreation facilities offer spaces where people can come together—
whether for casual meetups, family outings, or
neighborhood events. These shared experiences
deepen our sense of community, build trust among
residents, and foster a shared responsibility for
maintaining public spaces. Time spent in parks
can reduce feelings of isolation and contribute to
emotional well-being

2. 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/ healthy-places/php/key-topics/parks, https://time.com/4405827/the-heal - ing-power-of-nature/
2 National Recreation and Park Association: https://www.nrpa.org/ parks-recreation-magazine/2022/april/studying-the-health-benefits-and- economic-impacts-of-parks/?utm

CONNECTING WITH NATURE
As urban areas expand, the connection between
people and the natural world can weaken. Parks
and trails serve as gateways to natural landscapes,
giving communities a chance to experience local
ecosystems and better understand the relationship
between human activity and the environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
Open spaces play a vital role in safeguarding the
environment. They help purify air and water, support
groundwater recharge, reduce flood risks, and
provide shade that lessens urban heat. Parks offer
habitat for wildlife and plant life, sustaining local
biodiversity. By capturing carbon and supporting
climate adaptation efforts, park landscapes
contribute to long-term environmental resilience

3. STRENGTHENING THE LOCAL

ECONOMY
Green spaces and parks contribute to economic
growth by boosting property values, supporting
tourism, and helping attract and retain businesses.

People often prefer to buy homes near well-
maintained parks, and popular destinations—
such as Santa Clara’s Central Park—draw visitors
whose spending benefits local shops and services.

Businesses are also more likely to invest in
communities where talented workers want to live,
work, and enjoy quality public spaces

4. 3 Sustainability : https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/17/13/6132?utm 4 National Recreation and Parks Association: https://www.nrpa.org/ parks-recreation-magazine/2022/april/studying-the-health-benefits-and- economic-impacts-of-parks/?utm

10 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

1.2 ABOUT THIS PLAN
This Master Plan presents a comprehensive, long-term vision for the City’s network of parks, recreation, and open spaces, shaped by the goals and desires of the community. It serves as a tool for setting priorities, directing funding resources, and providing a strategic framework for future initiatives. The Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Master Plan is organized into the following sections:

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION & EXECUTIVE

SUMMARY
Introduces the Master Plan document and
summarizes its most important elements.

Chapter 4

GOALS, OBJECTIVES &

RECOMMENDATIONS
Outlines goals, objectives, and recommendations for
Santa Clara’s parks, programs, facilities, open spaces, and trails.

Chapter 2

SANTA CLARA TODAY
Describes Santa Clara’s people, parks, and recreation
as they are today. Analyses include demographics;
relevant planning efforts; parks, facility, and program assessment; and maintenance overview.

Chapter 3

OUR VISION
Captures the community’s vision for parks and
recreation in Santa Clara, based on input from a
range of engagement events and feedback collected
throughout the process.

Chapter 5

REALIZING OUR VISION
Identifies the costs for improving and expanding
the parks and recreation system, along with the
ongoing costs of operating and maintaining it,
and outlines strategies for prioritizing and funding
implementation.

Appendices
Supporting analyses and reports are provided in a
separate appendices document.

INTRODUCTION & EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 11
The planning effort launched in Fall 2023 and
progressed through three key phases, beginning with
the collection and analysis of data and background
information. This informed the development and
refinement of initial goals and objectives, which were
then shaped into a cohesive Plan. The final Santa
Clara Parks & Recreation Master Plan was adopted by
City Council in [Month] [Year] . The planning process is illustrated in Figure 1.1 .

1.3 THE PLANNING PROCESS
FIGURE 1.1 | Project Timeline
Community members gave feedback at community
engagement events around Santa Clara and online
throughout the planning process–in total over 1,800 Santa Clarans were engaged!
Project Kick-off
Resource & Data Collection
Park
System
Mapping
Program &
Facilities
Assessment
Parks & Rec
Commission
Demographics &
Recreation Demand
Community
Engagement
Plan
Parks &
Open Space
Assessment
Draft
Recommendations
Plan Development
Implementation
Pop-Up
Events
Stakeholder
& Outreach
Meetings Statistically-Valid
Survey
Action Plan
Parks & Rec
Commission
City Council Final Plan
City Council
Online Survey
Community
Workshop
3 SURVEYS
5 POP UPS
5 FOCUS GROUPS
1 WORKSHOP
1,800 +
PEOPLE ENGAGED!
12 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

1.4 OUR GOALS
The goals outlined in this plan were shaped through extensive community involvement and collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders. The outcome is a unified vision for the future of Santa Clara’s parks, recreation services, and open space system. Detailed recommendations supporting each goal can be found in Chapter

4. Each goal speaks to one important element of a complete parks and recreation system: parkland, indoor facilities, aquatics, paths and trails, environmental resiliency, maintenance, and programs and events. 1 Improve functionality of aquatic facilities
to meet community demand and increase
accessibility .

Provide indoor recreation facilities to meet
current and future community recreation
needs.
2 3
Provide parkland to meet community needs
and ensure that existing and new parks
provide recreational value and are inclusive,
safe, and accessible for people of all ages and
abilities.

INTRODUCTION & EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 13
Create paths and trails to enhance
connectivity to existing parks, open spaces,
and recreation facilities, while supporting
recreational walking opportunities.

Maintain parks and recreation facilities by
implementing capital improvement and
replacement programs, best management
practices, safety and accessibility standards,
and adequate staffing and funding.
4 Incorporate environmental resiliency into
all parks and green spaces with native and
climate-ready plants, conservation, and other
similar strategies to maximize ecological
benefits.
5 6
7 Provide offerings for all ages and abilities and
address unmet program and event needs.
z Develop new parks to support
Santa Clara’s growing and changing
population—prioritizing park-deficient
areas and incorporating parks into new
development.
z Establish a vision for the new
destination park on the north side of
Santa Clara to ensure its development
meets the needs of the community.
z Ensure that new parks are of a size and
shape that supports recreational use
and have a robust mix of relevant
amenities.
z Pursue the development of a
multipurpose community center
on the north side of Santa Clara, and
explore options for a future indoor
recreation facility with a gymnasium.
z Evaluate existing facilities and develop
an approach for delivering aquatic
services that considers improvements
to existing neighborhood pools, new
aquatic facilities in underserved areas,
and potential consolidation.
z Continue to develop the Citywide
planned multiuse trail network and
ensure that trails are well-integrated
into parks, supporting park access
and recreation value, and minimizing
disruption of green space and user
conflicts.
z Develop new programs identified as
high-priority needs —such as fitness
and wellness, outdoor recreation,
water fitness, and swim lessons—while
monitoring industry trends.
z Reevaluate and establish sustainable
funding sources to adequately maintain
and operate the parks and recreation
system to the City’s desired maintenance
standard.

Key Recommendations
The Plan should result in specific outcomes that advance the goals on the previous pages.

INTRODUCTION & EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 15
CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
16 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
Santa Clara
Today
2 18 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

2.1 SANTA CLARA'S PEOPLE
To plan for the future of Santa Clara’s parks,
recreation, and open spaces, it’s essential to first
understand the community. This chapter highlights
key findings about the City’s parks and natural areas,
its range of recreational programs offered, and the
diverse people who live, play, and connect in these
spaces.

A Growing Population
Santa Clara’s population was estimated at 133,597 in
2023, having grown steadily over recent decades. By
2038, our population is projected to reach 154,569.

This anticipated growth underscores the importance
of thoughtful investment in, expansion of, and
ongoing care for the City’s parks and recreation
facilities to ensure they keep pace with community
needs.

FIGURE 2.1 | Population Growth
2010 2020 2023
(estimate)
2038
(projection)
200,000
116 , 610
127, 6 47
133,597
154,569
100,000
150,000
50,000
Source: US Census 2010, US Census 2020, Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI) 2023
Youthful but Aging
Santa Clara’s population has become slightly older,
following a nationwide trend. The 55+ population
grew from 19% to 24% of the population between
2010 and 2023. The City had a median age of 34.3
years old which is slightly younger than the U.S.
median age of 38.5 years. The City’s age distribution
is projected to remain relatively unchanged over the
next 15 years.

Figures 2.4 and 2.5 show the distribution of Santa
Clara’s population under age 18 and over age 55,
illustrating how different areas of the City serve
differing age groups.

Diverse Community
Between 2010 and 2023, Santa Clara became
significantly more diverse, with the Asian population
emerging as the largest racial group at 49%. By 2038,
this segment is projected to make up 58% of the
community, while the White population is expected
to decline to 16%.

Santa Clarans enjoy the Art & Wine Festival, held in Central Park.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 19
FIGURE 2.2 | Population by Age Segment
0-17
35-54
18-34
75+
55 -74
2010
Census
2023
Estimate
2038
Projection
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
5%
14%
29%
30%
21%
6%
18% 18% 19% 20%
28% 28% 28% 28%
26% 27%
25% 25%
21% 20% 21% 20%
7% 7% 7%
FIGURE 2.3 | Population by Race
Asian Alone
Two or More Races
Some Other Race
White Alone
Black or African American Alone
American Indian & Alaska Native Alone
2010
Census
2020
Census
2023
Estimate
2028
Projection
2033
Projection
2038
Projection
5%
8%
38%
45%
10%
9% 9% 10% 10% 10%
47% 49%
51%
55%
58%
31% 29% 26% 20% 16%
10% 10% 12% 13%
3%
2% 2%
2%
2%
2%
Note: Hispanic population is projected to stay constant at 18% of total population.

Source: US Census 2010, US Census 2020, Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI) 2023 20 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
FIGURE 2.4 | Santa Clara Youth Population - Percent Under 18

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 21
FIGURE 2.5 | Santa Clara Senior Population - Percent 55+

22 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Recreation trends provide valuable insight into
how Santa Clarans recreate, and how our needs
and interests may shift over time. When paired
with the community’s socioeconomic profile and
regional context, these trends help anticipate which
recreational activities are likely to be most in demand locally. The following section summarizes key
national trends and considers their implications for
Santa Clara.

Some activities have experienced large change,
growth or decline in popularity, while others have
remained relatively steady. For example, walking
remains the most popular national recreation activity
with 114,759,000 participants in 2022 but only
experienced growth of 3.6%.

Figure 2.6 illustrates five-year percentage changes
in national participation for key recreation activities.

Activities are arranged from left to right by total
participation, which is indicated in bold.

2.2 RECREATION TRENDS
Sports
As of 2023, the sports most participated in the United
States were basketball, golf, and tennis, which have
participation well above the other sport activities.

Tennis, golf, and pickleball grew significantly in
popularity—more than 25%--in a 5-year period (2017-
2023) while ultimate frisbee, roller hockey, and rugby
experienced a decrease in popularity.

Swimming
As a lifetime activity, swimming continues to have
strong participation. In 2023, fitness swimming
remained the overall leader in participation amongst
aquatic activities. Over the past five years, aquatic
recreation activities did not see significant growth or decline, with swimming and swimming teams seeing
slight decrease and aquatic exercise a slight increase
in popularity.

FIGURE 2.6 | National Recreation Participation and Trends Over 5 years Basketball
+ 20.3%
28,149,000
Free Weights
+ 1.8%
53, 140,000
Treadmill
+ 1.2%
53,589,000
Walking
+ 3.6%
1 14,759,000
Running/Jogging
- 5.8%
47 ,816,000 Stationary Cycling
- 10.9%
32,102,000
Yoga
+ 23.0%
33,636,000
Sports
Fitness
Swimming
SANTA CLARA TODAY | 23
Fitness
Overall, fitness activities have experienced growth
in recent years. Many of these have become popular
due to an increased interest among Americans to
improve their health 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 were walking, treadmill, free
weights, running/jogging, and yoga. Trail running
experienced by far the most growth over five years,
growing by nearly 50%, while cross-training, group
stationary cycling classes, and triathlon participation decreased in popularity.

Tennis
+ 33.4%
23,595,000
Golf (9 or 18 hole)
+ 7 .3%
25,566,000
Soccer (outdoor)
+ 9.2%
13,018,000
Baseball
- 1.0%
15,478,000
Aquatic Exercise
+ 2.1%
10,676,000
Swimming (fitness)
- 3.2%
26,272,000
Swimming on a Team
- 3.4%
2,904,000
Pickleball
+ 185.7%
8,949,000
24 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

2.3 BUILDING ON PREVIOUS PLANS
Building on Santa Clara’s previous plans is essential
for ensuring the recreation and parks system works
in synergy with the City’s guiding policy documents,
planned development, and public investments. An
overview of related efforts follows.

CITY OF SANTA CLARA 2010-2035
GENERAL PLAN (2010)
The City of Santa Clara 2010-2035 General Plan serves
as the City’s foundational planning document, and
provides high-level guidance for the recreation,
parks, and open spaces. Adopted by City Council in
2010, the General Plan offers a strong framework and
starting point for the Master Plan, with guidance on
park access, provision, amenities, and partnerships
with schools and other local agencies. Its most
relevant guidance includes:
• Maintain a park service standard of 2.4 acres
of parkland per 1,000 residents. The Parks and
Recreation Master Plan shall consider increasing
the standard to 3.0 acres per 1,000 residents.
• Provide sufficient facilities, parks, trails and
open spaces that promote community health
and physical activity within a 10-minute walk to
residential neighborhoods.
• Coordinate with local school districts to share
school facilities during non-school hours.

FACILITIES CONDITION ASSESSMENT
(KITCHELL REPORT) (2018)
The City selected Kitchell CEM to perform F acility
Condition Assessments (FCAs) for Santa Clara Parks
and Recreation Facilities, including 47 parks and
65 buildings. This assessment detailed inventory,
conditions, repair cost determinations, and
forecasted necessary renewals. Each site was given
a rating of Critical, Poor, Fair, or Good. The Kitchell report was an invaluable resource and touchstone in
the creation of this Plan.

SANTA CLARA CREEK TRAIL MASTER

PLAN (IN PROGRESS)
The City is preparing a master plan for the
development and construction of three trail corridors
within the City limits: Calabazas Creek, Saratoga
Creek and the Hetch-Hetchy right of-way. The plan
will include recommendations that aim to close gaps
and expand upon the existing trails.

SANTA CLARA PEDESTRIAN MASTER
PLAN (2020)
The Santa Clara Pedestrian Master Plan was
developed in collaboration with the Santa Clara
Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC).

The key goals of the Plan are to expand the existing
pedestrian network; improve connectivity to public
transit; enhance pedestrian mobility, safety, and
ADA accessibility; provide amenities and activation;
and encourage the use of more sustainable modes
of transportation. The City aims to increase the
pedestrian commute mode share from 4 percent in
2020 to 8 percent by 2027.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 25

SANTA CLARA BICYCLE MASTER PLAN
(2018)
The Santa Clara Bicycle Master Plan aims to improve
bicycle safety Citywide through bike infrastructure
that is safe, clearly designated, and well-connected.

The plan recommends a 70-mile bicycle network that
includes over 11 miles of car-free, shared-use paths,
32 crossing location enhancements, 50 locations
for new bike parking, and 20 strategic Citywide
programs.

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (2022)
Adopted in 2022, the Climate Action Plan aims to
holistically address climate change by reducing
greenhouse gases, building resiliency to anticipated
climate impacts, and bringing vital social and
economic co-benefits to Santa Clara. The plan
targets an 80% reduction in emissions by 2035, and
net carbon neutrality by 2045. The plan highlights
buildings and energy, transportation and land use,
materials and consumptions, natural systems and
water resources, and community resiliency and
well-being as key sectors and provides strategies and
actions for each.

PARK MASTER PLANS & DESIGNS
Several park sites have improvement plans already
in place or under development. These plans outline
more detailed changes at the site level, with common
goals such as enhancing amenities, improving
accessibility, expanding recreation opportunities, and
preserving open space. Current and upcoming plans
include:
• Central Park (2019)
• Henry Schmidt Park (2019)
• Warburton Park Rehabilitation Plan (2025)
• Mary Gomez Park (in progress)
• Earl Carmichael Park (in progress)
• Maywood Park (in progress)

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PLANS
Numerous specific plans and master-planned
development projects have been approved or are
underway in Santa Clara, including the Santa Clara
Station Area Specific Plan , El Camino Real Specific Plan, Freedom Circle Focus Area Plan, Lawrence Station Area
Plan, Patrick Henry Drive Specific Plan , Santa Clara
Downtown Precise Plan, Tasman East Specific Plan, and
the Related Santa Clara development.

These new developments will bring additional
houses and offices, and significant population and
job growth. The plans may also come along with new
parks, recreation facilities, and trails, introducing
expanded recreation opportunities within Santa
Clara. Planned development and associated
recreation improvements are described in more
detail In the following section.

26 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

2.4 SANTA CLARA'S PARKS &

RECREATION SYSTEM
Santa Clara’s parks and recreation system includes
approximately 308 acres of parkland , ranging from
urban plazas to small neighborhood parks to larger
destination parks and greenways (as detailed in the
Park Typology section on the following pages). Of this
parkland, 305 acres are City-owned and operated,
while the remaining 3 acres are owned by the Santa
Clara Unified School District (SCUSD) or private
entities but made available to the public through
joint-use agreements.

The City features several miles of trails that connect
neighborhoods and parks, providing residents
with opportunities for walking, biking, and outdoor
recreation. There are three City-operated recreation
centers and additional community facilities offering a
variety of programs and activities.
9 swimming pools
Park System Amenities

AT A GLANCE
6 diamond fields
19 basketball courts
33 playgrounds
88 picnic areas
35 tennis courts
1 skate park
11 soccer fields
15 multiuse fields
Parks
Santa Clara’s parks system is classified into seven
park types: destination parks, community parks,
neighborhood parks, mini parks & plazas, special use
parks, sports parks, and natural areas & greenways.

These park types are shown in Figure 2.7 and
summarized on the pages that follow.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 27
FIGURE 2.7 | Parks by Type
Natural Area or Greenway
Destination Park
Planned Park
Community Park
Neighborhood Park
Mini Park
Special Use Park
Sports Park
Recreation Facility
Cemetery
28 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

PARK TYPOLOGY
While Santa Clara’s General Plan identifies five
basic park types, this Plan refines and expands the
framework to include seven categories. As described
below, each category is designed to serve a distinct
function while complementing the broader park
system.

Destination Parks
Destination parks are larger parks that serve multiple
and diverse recreation needs, including places for
community gathering, active recreation, passive
enjoyment of green space, trees, and natural areas.

Destination parks include recreational facilities and
community services that serve all City residents.

Community Parks
Community parks are medium to large parks that
provide opportunities for recreation, community
gathering, and passive enjoyment of green space.

Community parks feature amenities that may attract
people from a larger part of the City.

Neighborhood Parks
Neighborhood parks are small to medium-sized
parks that provide passive and active recreation
opportunities and green space within walking
or biking distance for residents in one or more
neighborhoods.

Mini Parks & Plazas
Mini parks provide limited recreation amenities and
green space for nearby residents. Plazas provide
passive and flexible gathering areas that can support
socialization.

Geof Goodfellow Sesquicentennial Park (Mini Park & Plaza) Homeridge Park (Neighborhood Park)
Henry Schmidt Park (Community Park)
Central Park (Destination Park)
SANTA CLARA TODAY | 29
Santa Clara Youth Soccer Park (Sports Facility)
Special Use Parks
Special use parks generally center on one non-
traditional amenity, like a skate park, dog park, golf
course or community garden. This category also
includes cemeteries and parks that feature historic
sites. These parks can vary widely in size, shape,
location, and use.

Sports Parks
Sports parks are focused on providing specific sport
amenities that typically serve a citywide or regional
population.

Natural Areas & Greenways
Natural areas are primarily dedicated to conserving
natural resources or protecting the public from
natural hazards. This category also encompasses
greenways, which form linear networks of open space
that frequently tie into nearby parks. Often aligned
with creeks, greenways offer inviting places for
walking, biking, and simply experiencing nature.

Community Garden at Copper Place- LSAP Park G (Special
Use Park)
Ulistac Natural Area (Natural Areas & Greenways)

30 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
PARKS & OPEN SPACE (2025) ACRES
Neighborhood ParksNeighborhood Parks
Agnew Park 2.0
Bill Wilson, Jr. Park 2.7
Bracher Park 3.4
Everett Alvarez Jr. Park 1.6
Fairway Glen Park 4.0
Fremont Park 2.7
Fuller Street Park 2.4
Homeridge Park 4.3
Jenny Strand Park 4.5
Meadow Park 1.9
Parkway Park 4.5
Steve Carli Park 1.6
Thamien Park 3.4
Westwood Oaks Park 1.7
Subtotal, Neighborhood Parks 40.7
TABLE 2.1 | Santa Clara Parks & Open Spaces
PARKS & OPEN SPACE (2025) ACRES
Destination ParksDestination Parks
Central Park 45.0
Subtotal, Destination Parks 45.0
Community ParksCommunity Parks
Bowers Parks 8.7
Earl R. Carmichael Park 8.3
Everett N. “Eddie” Souza Park 2.5
Henry Schmidt Park 7.5
Larry J. Marsalli Park 7.3
Lick Mill Park 9.9
Live Oak Park 9.9
Machado Park 2.7
Mary Gomez Park & Pool 5.6
Maywood Park 7.0
Montague Park 7.5
Warburton Park & Pool 4.0
Subtotal, Community Parks 80.9
SANTA CLARA TODAY | 31
PARKS & OPEN SPACE (2025) ACRES
Mini Parks & PlazasMini Parks & Plazas
City Plaza Park 1.6
Civic Center Park 1.6
Creekside Park 0.9
Geof Goodfellow Sesquicentennial Park 0.2
LSAP Park A 0.4
LSAP Park B 0.2
LSAP Park C 0.2
LSAP Park D 0.7
LSAP Park E 0.8
LSAP Park F 0.2
Memorial Cross Park 0.3
Rotary Park 0.3
Thomas Barrett Park 1.0
Vincent Fiorello Family Park 0.3
War Memorial Playground* 0.9
Subtotal, Mini Parks & Plazas 9.6
PARKS & OPEN SPACE (2025) ACRES
Special Use ParksSpecial Use Parks
Agnews Historic Park 15.7
LSAP Park G 0.2
LSAP Park G-2 0.2
LSAP Park H 0.3
Mission City Memorial Park 1.7
Raymond G. Gamma Dog Park 1.7
Santa Clara P .A.L. BMX Track 49.1
Santa Clara Skate Park* 1.0
Subtotal, Special Use Parks 69.9
Sports ParksSports Parks
Buchser Tennis Courts* 1.0
Reed & Grant Sports Park 9.2
Santa Clara Youth Soccer Park 11.2
Subtotal, Sports Parks 21.4
Natural Areas & GreenwaysNatural Areas & Greenways
Ulistac Natural Area 40.9
Subtotal, Natural Areas & Greenways 40.9
TOTALTOTAL 308.3308.3
* Joint-Use Facility
Note: Santa Clara features an extensive and growing trail system. These trails and their greenways are not counted toward parks and open space acreage.

School Grounds &
Joint-Use Facilities
School grounds within Santa Clara Unified
School District (SCUSD) and Cupertino
Union School District play a vital role in
supplementing the City’s recreation system,
providing 152 acres of fields, hardcourts,
and playgrounds across 28 elementary,
middle, and high school sites. While these
spaces offer valuable recreation opportunities,
the absence of formal joint-use agreements
leaves public access undefined and
inconsistent.

Strengthening partnerships through joint
use agreements with SCUSD, CUSD, and other
agencies could increase recreational resource
access for the community. The City already
maintains several joint-use agreements
with SCUSD, Mission College, and other
partners , providing access to facilities such
as the Santa Clara Skate Park, Montague Pool,
and War Memorial Park (see Table 2.1 ).

PLANNED PARKS
Several new parks and major park improvements
are currently in the planning stages in Santa Clara,
including parks that will be constructed as part of
new residential development projects, as well as
projects planned by the City. When considering the
future of the park system, it is important to factor in these upcoming projects. Some of the parks already
in the pipeline may help address recreation needs
identified in this analysis—this Plan builds upon those ongoing efforts. Planned parks are shown in Figure

2.8. A new mini park will be added as part of the Patrick Henry Drive Specific Area Plan. This specific plan includes approximately 10 acres of new public parkland and 4 acres of new private open space.

The Related Santa Clara development is planned to include a new 35-acre park, as conceptually rendered above.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 33
FIGURE 2.8 | Planned Parks
Related
Santa Clara
Development
Santa Clara Station
Area Specific Plan
34 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

PARKS ASSESSMENT
To better understand the current state of individual
parks in Santa Clara, each of the City’s parks was
visited and assessed in Spring 2024. In the field, the
team used a criteria-based scoring system to record
findings in the following four categories: access and
connectivity, condition, functionality, and safety and
comfort.

All features were scored using a scale of 1 to 4
(Critical, Poor, Good, Great). For parks that were
included in the 2018 Kitchell Report, the team
converted the Kitchell score to be comparable with
the site assessment scoring system.

Although each park has its unique strengths and
challenges, the following summarizes the systemwide
strengths and opportunities identified in the Parks
Assessment. Full Parks Assessment results are
detailed in Appendix C.

Strengths
• Parks are clearly well-loved , with many people
observed using the parks.
• Parks are generally well-maintained – though
there is some room for improvement.
• Parks are welcoming and open .
• Parks feel safe and comfortable with little to
no evidence of derelict use.
• Most parks offer diverse amenities and
activities.
• Most parks provide parking and are easily
accessible by car.

Areas for Improvement
• In many parks, play structures, exercise
equipment, benches, and picnic areas are
nearing the end of their lifecycle and need to
be replaced.
• Signage throughout the park system is
inconsistent, presenting an opportunity to add
wayfinding signs, especially in larger parks with
more complex programming.
• Some parks are located next to major
roadways, which can compromise their
tranquility.
• Better traffic calming and pedestrian
crossings at some parks would improve
comfort and safety for those arriving on foot or
by bike.
• Some parks, typically the smaller ones, are
underutilized and feel isolated .
• Comfort amenities are limited or absent in
some parks, especially smaller ones, and in
some cases, they are not in working condition.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 35
FIGURE 2.9 | Parks Assessment Criteria
• Sight lines and entrances
• Signage, maps, and City branding
• ADA accessibility
• Presence of crosswalks and crossing signals
• Sidewalks and surrounding circulation
• Path connectivity within park
• Sufficient parking
• Nearby bike lanes and adequate bike parking
• Adjacent trails or trailheads
• Public transportation nearby
• Paving condition
• Vegetation condition
• Tree canopy condition
• Playground condition
• Recreation amenities condition
• Building/restroom facility condition
• Trash receptacles condition
• Seating/benches condition
• Relevance and variety of recreational
amenities
• Appropriate amenity adjacencies
• Distribution of shady and sunny areas
• Variety of shrubs and trees
• Absence of visible drainage issues or erosion
• Compatibility with neighbors
• Availability of comfort amenities (drinking
fountains, seating, restrooms, etc.)
• Relevance and variety of play equipment
• Level of activation during site visit
• Adjacent derelict features
• Graffiti, vandalism, broken furniture
• Evidence of illicit or unauthorized use
• Road/traffic calming measures near park
• Line of sight/openness
• Eyes on the street
• Ease of navigation
• Nighttime safety
• Mitigation of views/noise from surrounding
land uses
Functionality Safety & Comfort
ConditionAccess & Connectivity
36 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Trails
Trails are a vital component of a park system,
providing safe, accessible routes for walking, running, cycling, and other forms of active transportation.

They connect neighborhoods to parks and
community destinations, encourage healthy
lifestyles, and offer opportunities to experience the
natural environment.

Santa Clara is served by three primary north–south
trails that offer strong connections across the City
and to regional destinations. In contrast, east–west
corridors are less developed, revealing several
gaps and opportunities for enhanced linkage.

The City's planned trail network helps address
these deficiencies by introducing new east–west
connections and closing critical gaps within the
system. Existing and planned trails and bike lanes
are shown in Figure 2.10 . Descriptions of the City’s
major regional trails follow.

SAN TOMAS AQUINO CREEK TRAIL
The San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail is the main trail in
Santa Clara as of 2025. It runs north-south, almost
the entire length of the City. The southern end of the
trail has yet to be completed.

CALABAZAS CREEK TRAIL
The Calabazas Creek Trail runs along the Calabazas
Creek and western border of Santa Clara. This trail
has significant gaps that would require multiple under
or over crossings.

GUADALUPE RIVER TRAIL
The Guadalupe River trail is a 9.5-mile paved path
along the river corridor, from downtown San Jose
to the Bay. The segment that follows Santa Clara’s
eastern border has a parallel levee trail along the
river.

PLANNED TRAILS
As shown in Figure 2.10 , future trails and bikeways
are planned to fill trail gaps, create new east-west
connections, and connect the community’s parks
and open spaces. A complete trail system would
provide great connectivity between the City’s parks
and other key community destinations. The Santa
Clara Creek Trail Master Plan, Bicycle Master Plan,
and Pedestrian Master Plan should be referenced for
further details.

The Guadalupe River Trail runs through Ulistac Natural Area and allows users easy access to the full open space area and adjacent parks and trails.

The San Tomas Aquino Trail provides a safe and comfortable off-street route through the heart of Santa Clara. When complete, it will traverse the City from its northern to its southern border.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 37
FIGURE 2.10 | Existing & Planned Trails
Sa
n Tom as Aquino C
reek /
Sar atoga
Cree
k T
rail
Calabazas Creek Trail
38 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Indoor Recreation
Facilities
Santa Clara has three major indoor recreation
facilities: the Community Recreation Center,
the Senior Center, and the Youth & Teen Center.

Additionally, there are numerous smaller park
buildings throughout the park system.

COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
The Community Recreation Center (CRC) was built
in 1962 and encompasses 29,000 square feet. The
CRC has a multipurpose room, a stage, kitchen and
activity rooms, a ceramics room, and various offices.

Activities held here include art, dance, enrichment,
fitness, music, and theater.

SENIOR CENTER
The Santa Clara Senior Center, built in 1973 and
renovated in 2007, is a two-story, 45,000-square-foot
facility. The center includes a swimming pool, spa
fitness center, locker rooms and showers, ceramics
room, lapidary, wood shop, lounge, offices, and
multiple multipurpose rooms.

YOUTH & TEEN CENTER
Constructed in 2003, the 7,535-square-foot Youth &
Teen Center is a City facility situated on school district property. The center has a conference room, arts
room, computer room, offices, lounge, classroom,
and large multipurpose room. It is also home to the
City's skate park.

OTHER COMMUNITY CENTERS &

BUILDINGS
Youth Soccer Park
The Youth Soccer Park sits directly adjacent to Levi’s
Stadium and includes a 7,000-square-foot fieldhouse.

Constructed in 2005, the building also features a large multipurpose room and a small conference room.

Reed & Grant Sports Park
Beyond its sports facilities, Reed & Grant Sports Park
features a 3,800-square-foot multipurpose building
and a concession stand. The park opened in 2020.

Park Buildings
Many parks also feature small buildings that provide
bathrooms, storage, and multipurpose rooms. Some
even house specialized recreation facilities, such as
the gymnastics center at Earl R. Carmichael Park.

Overall, these smaller park buildings are generally
in disrepair and require maintenance, lifecycle
replacements, and upgrades, as detailed in the
Kitchell Report.

SPECIFIC PLAN FACILITIES
A future recreation facility is planned in northern
Santa Clara. As currently envisioned in the Patrick
Henry Specific Plan area, this facility would include
a community center and library. Additionally, the
Tasman East development is anticipated to include a
new community room. Further details on proposed
facilities are provided in Chapter 4.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 39

YOUTH & TEEN CENTERYOUTH & TEEN CENTER

YOUTH SOCCER YOUTH SOCCER

PARKPARK

REED & GRANT SPORTS PARKREED & GRANT SPORTS PARK

PARK BUILDINGSPARK BUILDINGS

COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTERCOMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER

SENIOR CENTERSENIOR CENTER
40 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
FIGURE 2.11 | Existing & Planned Indoor Recreation & Aquatic Facilities

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 41

FACILITY ASSESSMENT
The Community Recreation Center, Santa Clara Senior
Center, and Youth & Teen Center were evaluated to
assess their current state and functionality. The key
findings from this analysis follow. The full assessment can be found in Appendix E.

KEY FINDINGS
Community Recreation Center
• Several deferred maintenance items
• Interior finishes, furniture, lighting, and
mechanical and electric systems need updates
• Opportunity to expand the building footprint
• Opportunity to enclose the courtyard to provide
more program space
Santa Clara Senior Center
• Several deferred maintenance items
• Opportunity to reprogram space for better
efficiency
• Finishes, furniture, and lighting need updates
• HVAC system needs updates to be able to
function as a warming/cooling center, separate
from the aquatics system
Youth & Teen Center
• Several deferred maintenance items
• Opportunity to reprogram space and layout for
efficiency and flexibility
• Finishes, furniture, and lighting need updates
• Program and facility supervision line of sight
needs updates
• Programming spaces would benefit from
acoustic separation/dividers
• Limited storage
Santa Clara indoor recreation facilities are mostly functional and well-used, but require updates to remain relevant and functional.
42 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Aquatics
Santa Clara stands out for its aquatics amenities and
programs. As of 2025, the City operates ten pools at
five sites—including, the Santa Clara International
Swim Center, or ISC. Per capita, Santa Clara has five
times more public recreational pools and two and a
half times more competitive pools than the national
average for similarly sized cities.

Similar to parks, aquatic facilities are concentrated
in southern Santa Clara, limiting access in northern
neighborhoods. Recommendations for potential
new aquatic facilities and improvements to existing
facilities are detailed in Chapter 4.

MARY GOMEZ POOL
The Mary Gomez pool facility consists of 1
recreation pool and sits within Mary Gomez Park.

The pool was built in 1958.

WARBURTON PARK
Warburton Park houses 2 recreation pools . These
aquatic facilities were built in 1954.

INTERNATIONAL SWIM CENTER (ISC)
The International Swim Center is located within
Central Park and has 3 competitive pools . The
facility was built in 1967 and is cornerstone of Santa
Clara aquatics.

The International Swim Center is aging and
required urgent renovations during the
master planning process. The City is moving
ahead with a remodel of the ISC, with critical
funding provided through the bond measure
approved by voters in 2024. The project
will be completed in two phases. Phase I
focuses on major pool upgrades, including
new decking, recirculation and plumbing
systems, boilers, and perimeter gutters for
all pools, as well as improvements to the
dive tower and adjustments to the racing
pool’s depth, lighting, temperature, and
equipment. Phase II will add a new amenity
center with administration offices, rentable
space, restrooms and locker rooms, and
equipment storage.

The ISC is a beloved community asset and piece of
Santa Clara history.

ISC Renovations

MONTAGUE SWIM CENTER
Montague Swim Center is adjacent to Montague Park
and is comprised of 2 recreation pools . This facility
was built in 1970.

SENIOR CENTER
The Santa Clara Senior Center holds 2 indoor
recreation pools and a spa. These facilities were
built in 2007.
44 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Recreation Programming
The Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department
manages a wide range of recreation programs and
community events, including youth camps, aquatics,
sports, health and fitness, literacy, senior services,
and special events. To further enhance programming
and expand access, the Department also partners
with nonprofit organizations and other community
groups. These formal and informal partnerships
support the delivery of select programs and help
broaden the reach of recreation services throughout
the community.

CORE PROGRAM AREAS
The Department’s vision is to be a premier parks
and recreation system in the region, providing all
residents with access to high-quality programs
and experiences. A key step toward achieving this
vision is identifying Core Program Areas, which
help focus efforts on the activities that matter most
to the community. This framework enables staff,
policymakers, and the public to align around shared
priorities.

Currently, the Department offers programs across
nine Core Program Areas:

Aquatics
Santa Clara offers year-round lap swim and, at
times, aquatic fitness programs. Seasonally, the City
provides Recreation Swim and Swim Lessons. Swim
lessons include both group and private options for
children and adults.

Athletics
Recurring group recreational and instructional sports
leagues, programs, and activities are operated,
taught, or managed by the Department—through
contractors, staff, or volunteers.

Enrichment
The Department operates, teaches, or manages a
wide range of group and individual recreational and
instructional offerings including groups, activities,
special interest programs, STEM programs, arts and
crafts, and more, for participants of all ages, delivered through contractors or staff.

Older Adults
Santa Clara provides facilities, programs, and services that meet the needs of older adults (50+) at different
stages and levels of life.

Visual & Performing Arts
Roberta Jones Junior Theatre provides youth with
high-quality recreational experiences in theatre
arts, visual arts, dance, and choir. Participants are
offered opportunities for self-expression in a fun, safe environment that supports the development of self-
esteem, confidence, and social skills.

Youth Development
The Department offers programs that support
positive physical and emotional development for
early learners, school age and teens through a variety
of afterschool, summer camps, early learning and
teen leadership programs.

Rentals/Reservations
The City offers one-time rentals of facilities, parks,
and other amenities to the general public. Fee
waivers and discounts for certain users—such as
government agencies and community civic groups—
are addressed in the Facility Use Policy.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 45
Older adult programming is an important and popular Core Program area in Santa Clara.

KEY FINDINGS
• Santa Clara has high program participation ,
though quality ratings fall below the national
benchmark.
• Top barriers include inconvenient times,
lack of awareness of offerings, and lack of
interest.
• Participation distribution generally reflects
population patterns.
• The Department offers a balanced range of
programs for all ages.
• Eight of nine core programs are in early or
growth stages , and there are few mature core
programs.
• A cost recovery policy , rooted in best
practices, was adopted by City Council in April
2022.
• Program success is measured mainly by
participation and enrollment ; the Department
does not currently track satisfaction, retention,
or unmet needs.
• Staffing is not sufficient to expand program
offerings.
• While several marketing strategies are used,
there is no formal Marketing Plan .
• The Department has a strong volunteer
program.
• Programs are supported by partner providers,
but no formal partnership policy exists.

Special Events
The Department organizes themed activities and
events, which may or may not require registration.

These include food-focused events, entertainment,
holiday celebrations, cultural programs, and other
special-interest activities.

Special Event Permitting
Events planned and implemented by outside
organizations may be co-sponsored by the City at
varying levels. City co-sponsorship may include fee
discounts, fee waivers, or in-kind services.

PROGRAMMING ASSESSMENT
Recreation programming is a vital component of
the Santa Clara parks system. An analysis of current
offerings was conducted to identify both strengths
and opportunities for improvement. The assessment
examined how well existing programs serve different
age groups, the lifecycle stage of each program, user
participation data, and results from the Statistically- Valid Survey (see Chapter 3). Key findings are
summarized below, with detailed recommendations
provided in Chapter 4.
46 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance is essential to the health,
safety, and long-term value of a parks and
recreation system. Well-maintained parks, trails,
and facilities ensure that residents can enjoy safe,
clean, and functional spaces year-round, while also
protecting the City’s investment in its infrastructure.

Regular upkeep—such as landscaping, repairs,
and equipment replacement—extends the life of
amenities, reduces long-term costs, and prevents
small issues from becoming major problems.

Maintenance also plays a critical role in preserving
natural areas, protecting plant and wildlife habitats,
and ensuring that parks remain attractive and
welcoming.

The Parks & Recreation Department is responsible for
managing and maintaining the City’s extensive park
system, recreation facilities, pools, and cemeteries.

Their maintenance responsibilities encompass a wide
range of tasks to ensure the safety, functionality,
and aesthetic appeal of public spaces. Through
these comprehensive maintenance activities, the
City ensures that its parks and recreational facilities remain safe, functional, and enjoyable for all
residents and visitors. 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 Systems
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.

Mission City Memorial Park Public Cemetery
Providing burial services and ongoing upkeep of
the grounds, including landscaping, irrigation, and
monument care.

Trail Maintenance
Maintaining trails within parks 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.

Picnic areas, like the one shown above in Bowers Park, require regular maintenance to stay functional and inviting.

SANTA CLARA TODAY | 47
Maintenance operations are extensive and require numerous facilities and equipment. The Santa Clara maintenance facilities and team support the entire park and recreation system.

MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT
Maintenance and operations are essential to
sustaining the quality and usability of Santa Clara’s
parks and facilities. An assessment of current
practices was conducted to highlight strengths and
areas for improvement. Key findings are summarized
below, with detailed recommendations provided in
Chapter 4.

Key Findings
• The annual operations funding for
parks, pools, and facilities maintenance is
approximately $12.8 million.
• There is a lack of adequate space for
maintenance equipment, storage, support
facilities, planning, and team meetings.
• The Parks Maintenance Division , including
Cemeteries has around 52 full-time positions
and enough equipment to meet current system
needs when fully staffed.
• Maintenance generally follows written
standards, but there is no formal maintenance
management plan to set park-specific
standards, track performance, or forecast costs.
• A GIS-based asset management system is
not in use , limiting the City’s ability to track
work, resources, and replacement schedules.
• The City maintains parks, athletic complexes,
irrigation systems, and playgrounds, while
contracting turf, landscape, and weed
abatement .
• The City lacks dedicated staffing to oversee
construction projects within parks.
48 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
ART & WINE FESTIVAL, CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
Vision
& Priorities
3 50 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

3.1 ENGAGING THE COMMUNITY
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Parks
and Recreation Master Plan , ensuring that residents’
voices shape priorities and outcomes. Throughout
the process, the planning team hosted a variety of
engagement activities—including focus groups, pop-
up events, surveys, and a community workshop—
reaching more than 1,800 participants. The Parks
To hear from the most community members possible, the City advertised community engagement events, feedback opportunities, and project updates.
and Recreation Commission and City Council were
also engaged at key milestones. A detailed summary
of engagement activities and feedback is provided in
the following sections, with full results and analysis
available in Appendix G.

OUR VISION | 51
3 SURVEYS
5 POP-UPS
5 FOCUS GROUPS
1 WORKSHOP
1,800 +
PEOPLE ENGAGED!
Pop Ups & Online Survey
Five pop-up events were held in the late summer and
early fall of 2024. An online survey was also published on the City’s website, providing another way for
community members to leave feedback. In total,
over 700 people provided insight into their parks and
recreation needs and desires at the pop-up events.

Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2 on the following pages
show the combined results from the data collected at
pop-up events. This data gave the project team great
insight into what facilities and amenities are most
important to Santa Clara residents.
52 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

OUR VISION | 53
Santa Clarans made their voices heard, sharing their vision for the future of parks, amenities, facilities, and programs in the City.

WHAT WE HEARD
• Favorite Parks: Residents indicated that
Central Park is the overall favorite and also
needs the most work, along with Henry Schmidt
Park, Bowers Park, and Warburton Park & Pool.
• Desired Amenities: Residents would like to see
more aquatic facilities, a connected trail system,
play areas, splash pads, and habitat restoration.
• Events, Programs & 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 & Environmental
Sustainability: Emphasis on expanding
shaded green spaces, using native plants, and
maintaining parks as resilient and eco-friendly
havens.
• Clean & Well-Maintained: Residents would like
to see a clean, well-maintained park system that
feels safe for all users.
• Accessible & Connected: Demand for better
connectivity through walking/biking paths and
accessible infrastructure.

54 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
FIGURE 3.1 | Which Park Is Your Favorite? (Pop-Up Feedback) WHICH PARK IS YOUR FAVORITE?

RESPONSES
OUR VISION | 55
FIGURE 3.2 | Which Park Needs Improvement the Most? (Pop-Up Feedback) WHICH PARK NEEDS IMPROVEMENT THE MOST?

RESPONSES
56 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Pop-up engagement at beloved Santa Clara events like Concert in the Park (shown above), was a great way to reach community members. Team members were able to chat with residents, answer questions, and listen to priorities and concerns.

CENTRAL PARK, WITH ITS

NEWLY CONSTRUCTED

PLAYGROUND, AMPLE

PARKING, EXCELLENT

FACILITIES, AND VIBRANT

ATMOSPHERE FILLED WITH

FAMILIES AND KIDS, IS THE
BEST PARK IN THE CITY.

Which City of Santa Clara park is your favorite?
Why is that park your favorite?
-Santa Clara resident, online survey
OUR VISION | 57

CLEAN AND GREEN SPACES

FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY

ALONG WITH COMMUNITY-

BASED PROGRAMS THAT

PROMOTE EXERCISE AND

WELL-BEING FOR PEOPLE OF
ALL AGES.

Can you describe your vision for the future of Santa
Clara parks and recreation?
-Santa Clara resident, online survey
Focus Groups
In September 2024 the project team met with five
separate focus groups to hear their needs for the
parks and recreation system and desired outcomes
for the Plan. The focus groups were arranged as
follows:

Sports and Athletics
• Santa Clara Activities League
• Santa Clara Westside Little League
• Aquatic User Groups
Community Connectors
• Santa Clara Historical and Landmarks
Commission
• Discover Santa Clara
• Mission College
• Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department
Senior Advocates
• Santa Clara Senior Advisory Commission
• Senior Center members
Planning and Development
• Santa Clara Water & Sewer Utilities
• Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department
• Santa Clara Economic Development Department
• Edgecore Digital Infrastructure
• Hunter Properties
Specialized Users
• Youth & Teen Center
• Santa Clara Lawn Bowling Club
• Santa Clara Womens League
• Ulistac Natural Area
• Santa Clara Community Recreation Center;
Performing Arts Users

WHAT WE HEARD
The focus groups discussed their desired outcomes,
with some overlapping themes emerging. Key
takeaways from all focus groups included:
• Facility & Maintenance Needs: 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 staffing is essential to
maintaining facilities, expanding programming,
and ensuring recreation service needs are met.
58 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Workshop & Online
Survey
A community workshop was held in June 2025 at the
Santa Clara Senior Center; approximately 20 people
were in attendance. Participants discussed a series of
questions in small groups, recording their answers on
comment cards, and left feedback in an open house
format on preliminary recommendations for the park
system.

A second online survey was launched on the City’s
website in June 2025 and remained open through
August 2025. More than 800 responses were received
from a wide and relatively even distribution of ages
and ZIP codes across Santa Clara. The survey was
developed to mirror the community workshop and
was to gather similar feedback.

WHAT WE HEARD
Both the workshop and second online survey asked
participants about which parks, facilities, and
programs they use most; what they want to see
more of in the parks system; and for their feedback
on preliminary goals and recommendations. Key
findings from the workshop and online survey are
summarized below:
• Central Park was, by far, reported as the most
used park . Henry Schmidt was the second most
frequently used park. Mary Gomez Park and
Pool, Steve Carli Park, and Live Oak Park were
also mentioned multiple times.
• The Community Recreation Center is the
most used indoor facility , followed by the
Senior Center and then the Youth & Teen Center.

Responses from senior residents indicated very
high and predominantly sole use of the Senior
Center.
• Trails and walking paths, playgrounds,
swimming pools, lawn bowling, tennis
courts, and pickleball courts were reported as
the most desired outdoor recreation facilities.
• Additional and improved amenities in parks
were identified, especially sports fields and
courts, pickleball courts, walking trails , and
comfort amenities.
• Longer hours, an easier reservation
system, better promotion of programs,
multigenerational programs (music in the
park, all-family games, and arts and crafts fair
were noted), more accessible and plentiful
parking, specialized amenities (pickleball and
mahjong were noted), and senior programs
and field trips would attract residents to
engage in City programs.
• There is openness to interagency
collaboration, especially with schools , to
expand community use and programming.

MORE WALKING TRAILS,

SMALL DOG PARKS,

MEETING & PARTY ROOMS,
COMMUNITY SPACES.

What would attract you and your household to
participate in recreation programs more often?
-Santa Clara resident, workshop
OUR VISION | 59
The workshop allowed participants to leave individual feedback and participate in group discussions, learning more about their fellow residents’ ideas.

60 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Parks & Recreation
Commission
The team met with the Parks and Recreation
Commission early in the project in August 2024. The
group discussed key aims for the project, as follows.
• Sustainable Parks and Recreation: Focus on
maintenance and funding to ensure the delivery
of quality parks and recreation over time.
• 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.
• Community Engagement: Broaden input
through diverse, accessible outreach methods.

The Commission was also engaged later in the
planning process, during the implementation phase
in April 2025, to give feedback on the planning
direction. The Commission highlighted the following
key ideas in review and discussion.
• Community Priorities: Prioritizing community
feedback, now and in the future, is extremely
important. In this planning process the
community has stated the importance of trails,
open space, nature, and conservation.
• Access: Exploring joint-use facility options
and creating access for use of school sites is a
goal. For future locations, setting priorities for
choosing sites and filling gaps in park access is
important.
• Programming: The Commission has interest in
benchmarking with neighboring communities
and recognizing opportunities to leverage
recreation programs from other providers,
communities, and school districts.
• Maintenance and Staffing: Maintenance and
staffing are critical to park health and longevity
and must be appropriately addressed in the
plan.
• Further Study and Data Collection: It is
important to clearly understand how the
community uses different sites and facilities, and
why they do so. The Commission wants to have
accurate information on utilization numbers and
patterns.

OUR VISION | 61

3.2 STATISTICALLY-VALID SURVEY
A survey was conducted in November 2024. The
survey was delivered by mail to a random selection
of households, and returned at a rate that generated
a statistically-valid sample of the City’s population.

This quantitative data is supported by the qualitative
data collected through other community engagement
events.

KEY FINDINGS
• Survey results indicated that Santa Clara
residents use parks and recreation facilities
at a high rate—92% of households reported
visiting a park or facility within the past year (the
national average is 81%).
• Satisfaction with the value of parks and
recreation programs, activities, and events
is lower than the national average. Only 51%
of respondents were very satisfied or satisfied
(compared to the national average of 62%),
while 18% were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied
(compared to 3% nationally).
• When asked to rate the condition of parks and
recreation facilities and amenities, only 9% of
participants responded “excellent,” far below
the national benchmark of 35%.
• Survey respondents indicated the most
support for general repair and increased
maintenance as a strategy to improve the
existing parks and recreation system (89% of
respondents).

PRIORITY RECREATION AMENITIES &

PROGRAMS
Figures 3.3 and 3.4 show the Priority Investment
Ratings (PIR) for amenities and programs. The PIR
combines how important a facility or program is to
the community with how well current offerings meet
residents’ needs.

Top Priority Facilities
• Multiuse trails
• Swimming pools
• Open space and conservation areas
• Picnic areas and shelters
• Indoor walking/jogging track
• Outdoor multiuse courts
• Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
• Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
• Pickleball courts
Top Priority Programs/Activities
• Fitness and wellness programs (scored 200,
the maximum, reflecting high importance and
unmet needs)
• Outdoor recreation
• Water fitness/lap swimming
• Community special events
• Cultural enrichment programs
• Performing arts programs
• Recreation/competitive swim teams
These PIR results are reinforced by qualitative
community feedback , which highlighted consistent
priorities such as shade, aquatic facilities, and a
connected trail system.
62 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
156
113
104
97 97
94 85
79 75
74 73
71 60
58 58
49 47
45 184
FIGURE 3.3 | Top Priorities for Facilities/Amenities
43 32
28 25
50 100 150 2000
Open space &
conservation areas
Swimming pool
Multiuse trails
Picnic areas & shelters
Indoor walking/jogging
track
Community center
Outdoor multiuse 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
HIGH PRIORITY (110+)
LOW PRIORITY (69 or less)
MEDIUM PRIORITY (70-109)
OUR VISION | 63
179
158
157
116
105
97 88
87 85
84 83
77 68
60 57
56 51
50 200
FIGURE 3.4 | Top Priorities for Programs/Activities
50 46
32 28
50 100 150 2000
Water fitness programs/
lap swimming
Outdoor recreation
Fitness & wellness programs
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/sports
HIGH PRIORITY (110+)
LOW PRIORITY (69 or less)
MEDIUM PRIORITY (70-109)
64 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

3.3 GUIDING THEMES
Below, community feedback is summarized into a set of guiding themes. These themes capture the community’s priorities and aspirations, and they serve as the foundation for the goals, objectives, policies, and recommendations outlined in the chapters ahead.

PATHS & TRAILS
Walking and other forms of exercise are
fundamental recreational activities in Santa
Clara. Walking loops within parks and
connected trail systems are key priorities.

MAINTENANCE & AGING

INFRASTRUCTURE
Funding for maintenance and lifecycle
improvements or replacements has
not kept up with needs and has led to
deteriorating park and facility conditions.

AQUATICS
Aquatic facilities, water fitness,
swimming lessons, and aquatics
programs and programs are high
priorities for community members. Aging
infrastructure and design limitations create
aquatic program challenges.

PROGRAM PRIORITIES
Fitness and wellness programs, outdoor
recreation programs, and programs
serving all community members, are top
priorities.

INDOOR RECREATION

FACILITIES
An indoor track, a community center,
indoor basketball courts, and indoor
volleyball courts all ranked relatively high
on the survey. An indoor sports/gymnasium
facility could address this demand.

SPORTS COURTS
Additional outdoor sport court facilities,
particularly multiuse and pickleball courts,
are highly desired.

OPEN SPACE & CONSERVATION
AREAS
Green spaces and conservation areas
are important to the community. Parks
and open spaces can provide recreation,
health and wellness opportunities, and
environmental benefits.

FUNCTIONAL & INCLUSIVE
PARKS
Existing and new parks should provide
recreational value and amenities that
serve all members of the community.

PARK COMFORT
Well-maintained restrooms, trees, shade,
seating, and picnic areas will make parks
more comfortable and desirable for the
community.

COMMUNITY EVENTS
Residents place a high value on community
events that highlight Santa Clara park
spaces, culture, and unique character.

THAMIEN PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
66 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
4 Goals,
Objectives &
Recommendations
68 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
This chapter presents a strategic framework to guide
the future development and stewardship of Santa
Clara’s parks, facilities, and programs. It begins
with a set of overarching goals, each supported
by specific objectives. A revised park classification
system follows, outlining distinct categories that
define the unique recreational roles parks play in
the community. The chapter also introduces Level
of Service Standards, which set benchmarks for
the amount and distribution of parkland, ensure
equitable and walkable access citywide, and identify
the key amenities needed to serve Santa Clara’s
growing population.

4.1 GOALS & OBJECTIVES
Goal 1: Parkland
Provide adequate parkland to meet
community needs and ensure that
existing and new parks provide
recreational value and are inclusive,
safe, and accessible for people of all
ages and abilities.

PROVIDE NEW PARKLAND
• Develop new parks to support Santa Clara’s
growing and changing population—prioritizing
park-deficient areas and incorporating parks
into new development—while striving to meet
the City’s standard of 3.0 acres per 1,000
residents.
• Establish a vision for the new park in north of
Santa Clara to ensure its development meets
the needs of the community.

Magical Bridge play area, located in Central Park, provides a functional, accessible, and inclusive high priority amenity, and is well- integrated with the rest of the park space and uses.

IMPROVE PARK EXPERIENCE
• Ensure parks are of a size and shape that
supports recreational use and have a
robust mix of relevant amenities, following the
standards provided in this plan.
• Provide high-priority amenities in new parks,
existing parks or through joint-use agreements.
• Provide comfort amenities like restrooms,
trees and shade, picnic and seating areas,
drinking fountains, parking, and trash
receptacles.
• Provide complete walking loops or walking
opportunities in all parks.
• Improve the condition and functionality of
existing parks in alignment with the Kitchell
Report and the Park Improvement Tiers
identified in this plan.
• Implement universal design principles for all
new and rehabilitated park facilities.

City Park North
A new 32-acre park is planned on City-
owned land in north Santa Clara, adjacent to
and connected with the Related development
project. The new destination park offers
an opportunity to provide parkland and
amenities in an area that currently has limited
access to recreation.

This site is a former landfill and as a
result planning must carefully address
environmental and topographic constraints,
while ensuring strong connections to the
surrounding development. Equally important
will be robust community engagement to
help shape the park’s programming and
design. With these considerations in place,
the park can be envisioned to meet many of
Santa Clara’s recreation needs.

The Future North Park site in northern Santa Clara
Source: Related Santa Clara
70 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Goal 2: Indoor Recreation
Facilities
Provide adequate indoor recreation
facilities to meet current and future
community recreation needs.

PROVIDE NEW INDOOR FACILITIES
• Pursue the development of a multipurpose
community center on the north side of Santa
Clara and explore options for a future indoor
recreation facility.
• Seek opportunities for increasing recreational
access and use through partnerships and
shared-use recreation sites, including public
and private recreation facilities.

ENHANCE EXISTING FACILITIES
• Enhance the Community Recreation Center,
Senior Center, and Youth & Teen Center
to better serve the recreation needs of the
community.
• Upgrade other City park and recreation
facilities to improve programming, accessibility,
and overall user experience.

Goal 3: Aquatic Facilities
Improve functionality of aquatic
facilities to meet community demand
and increase accessibility .

SUSTAINABLE AQUATIC FACILITIES
• Complete planned improvements to the
International Swim Center (ISC) to serve both
recreational and competitive aquatic needs.
• Evaluate existing facilities and develop an
approach for delivering aquatic services
that considers improvements to existing
neighborhood pools, new aquatic facilities in
underserved areas, and potential consolidation.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 71
Additional or expanded indoor recreation space would allow for greater volume and variety of recreation and programming, like the fitness class shown above.

Making the necessary improvements to the ISC (above)
and exploring the potential for new aquatic facilities in underserved areas will help fill current gaps in aquatic recreation service. A new aquatic facility could provide new types of aquatic recreation, like play spaces (right).

72 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Goal 4: Paths & Trails
Create new paths and trails to enhance
connectivity to parks, open spaces, and
recreation facilities, while supporting
walking opportunities.

CONNECTED TRAIL SYSTEM
• Continue to develop the citywide planned
multiuse trail network and ensure that trails
are well-integrated into parks, supporting park
access and recreation value, and minimizing
disruption of green space and user conflicts.
• Provide trailhead amenities at parks ,
including bicycle parking, water fountains/refill
stations, and wayfinding signage and maps.
• Collaborate with Public Works to identify and
implement safe crossing and traffic calming
improvements near parks and trails.

Thoughtfully designed paths and trails can peacefully coexist within, and enhance, parks. Multiuse trails, like the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail shown above, are the top recreational amenity priority identified in the statistically-valid survey findings and need to be prioritized, while not disrupting adjacent park space and uses too much.

Source: Weekend Sherpa
Trail Design in Parks
Parks and trails have a mutually beneficial relationship, each enhancing the value of the other. Trails act as vital connectors, guiding walkers, runners, and cyclists to parks, while parks provide trails with scenic and meaningful segments, including rest areas, social gathering spaces, green space, and amenities along the route. At the same time, this synergy can create conflicts—differences in speed, activity type, and user expectations can lead to incompatibility, particularly in shared spaces. Recognizing both the opportunities and challenges of this relationship is essential to designing parks and trails that work for all users. Thoughtful planning and design can help mitigate conflicts while maximizing benefits for both park and trail users. Figure 4.1 highlights key considerations for successfully integrating trails within parks.

FIGURE 4.1 | Design Guidelines for Successful Park-Trail Interface

74 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Goal 5: Open Space &
Conservation
Incorporate environmental resiliency
into all parks and green spaces with
native and climate-ready plants,
conservation, and other similar
strategies to maximize ecological
benefits.

HABITAT & CONSERVATION
• Conserve water in parks through native
plantings in non-active areas and the
implementation of efficient irrigation systems.
• Preserve and enhance habitats, riparian
corridors, and heritage trees within all parks
and open spaces.
• Use permeable surfaces and landscaped
areas to increase filtration and manage
stormwater.

TREE CANOPY
• Develop and implement a park tree policy and
strategy to preserve and improve the park
tree canopy that establishes a current park tree
inventory and a system for tracking tree removal
and planting.
• Plant additional trees and landscaping in
parks to provide shade, reduce the impacts
of extreme heat, and sequester carbon, while
replacing aging or structurally compromised
trees on a 2:1 basis.

Community gardens (LSAP Park community garden, Santa
Clara, top) and healthy and robust tree canopies (Steve Carli Park, Santa Clara, bottom) enhance recreation value and park experience as well as contribute to environmental and conservation efforts.

Source: GameTime (below)

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 75
Goal 6: Maintenance &
Aging Infrastructure
Maintain parks and recreation facilities
by implementing capital improvement
and replacement programs, best
management practices, safety and
accessibility standards, and adequate
staffing and funding.

SUSTAINABLE FUNDING
• Reevaluate and establish sustainable funding
sources to adequately maintain and operate
the parks and recreation system to the City’s
maintenance standard.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels are
dedicated to the management and oversight of
construction projects occurring within parks.

IMPROVED MAINTENANCE PRACTICES
• Develop a comprehensive maintenance
management plan with defined outcomes and
standards that reflect community maintenance
priorities, ensuring all work action plans are
aligned.
• Implement an enterprise asset management
system to track lifecycle of facilities, amenities,
and equipment to help staff perform scheduled
capital projects and preventative maintenance.
• Develop a formal customer service
satisfaction tool to evaluate parks on an
annual basis.

Adequate funding and staffing are vital to providing crucial park maintenance, keeping sites and facilities safe and functional.

A customer service satisfaction tool could be implemented in many different forms. Consistent feedback would provide the City and maintenance teams with valuable information.

Source: Opiniator
76 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Provide offerings for all ages and
abilities and address unmet program
and event needs.

IMPROVE EXISTING PROGRAMS &
EVENTS
• Analyze program and event participation data
and develop strategies to expand engagement
citywide.
• Evaluate program and event schedules and
timing; adjust offerings to meet community
needs.
• Increase program and event awareness by
leveraging current and emerging communication
trends.
• Provide an accessible system for program
registration and park or recreation facility
reservations .
• Continuously review program fees to ensure
alignment with the City’s cost recovery policy.
• Continue to develop partnerships and
sponsorships to support programming and
events.

PROVIDE NEW PROGRAMS & EVENTS
• Develop new programs identified as high-
priority needs—such as fitness and wellness,
outdoor recreation, water fitness, and swim
lessons—while monitoring industry trends.
• Increase activation of City parks and facilities
by adding new community events based
on public interest, such as food festivals,
entertainment, and holiday and cultural
celebrations.
• Regularly survey the community for program
satisfaction to identify unmet needs.

Santa Clara already has many successful and well-loved programs and events like Early Learners programs, the 4th of July Celebration, Concerts in the Park, the Art & Wine Festival, and the Health & Wellness Fair (all highlighted in the photos on the right). Expanding engagement, awareness, partnerships, offerings, and feedback opportunities would improve the City's programs and events.

Goal 7: Programs & Events
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 77

78 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

4.2 PARK & OPEN SPACE NEEDS
Parkland & Access
Adequate parkland and walkable access to parks
and open spaces is essential for promoting physical
activity, fostering community connection, and
supporting overall well-being. Two key metrics are
used to evaluate and establish standards for park
access: park acreage level of service (LOS) and
park distribution .

PARK ACREAGE LEVEL OF SERVICE
Level of Service (LOS) measures the availability
of parks and recreational facilities relative to a
community’s population, helping ensure equitable
access and adequate resources. As of 2025, Santa
Clara has 2.3 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.

This Plan endorses the ratio of 3.0 acres per 1,000
residents, consistent with the recommendations
found in the City’s General Plan.

As shown in Table 4.1 , by 2035 Santa Clara will need
156.2 additional acres of parkland to serve a growing
population. Current development projects and City-
led improvements are expected to contribute 70.2
acres, leaving a shortfall of 86 acres .

This additional acreage can be achieved through
a combination of new park development and
joint-use opportunities at school sites. The Santa
Clara Unified School District (SCUSD) provides
152 acres of fields, hardcourts, and playgrounds
across 28 school sites, offering significant potential
to expand community parkland through joint-use
agreements. To maintain the current 2.3 acres of
parkland per 1,000 residents, as well as meet the
increased ratio of 3.0 acres per 1000 residents, the
plan calls for a balanced approach of new City-
owned parkland and joint-use site agreements .

TOTAL PARK &

OPEN SPACE

ACRES (CITY &

OTHERS)

EXISTING

LEVEL OF

SERVICE
(ACRES/1000

RESIDENTS)

LEVEL OF

SERVICE GOAL
(ACRES/1000

RESIDENTS)
2035 ACREAGE
NEEDED
(PARK OR

JOINT-USE)

PLANNED
ACRES
(AS PART OF

PLANNED

DEVELOPMENT)

ADDITIONAL

ACRES NEEDED
(IN ADDITION

TO PLANNED
ACRES)

EXISTING
SCHOOL
ACRES
(GROUNDS WITH

POTENTIAL FOR

JOINT-USE)
308.3* 2.3 3.0 156.2 70.2 86.0 152
T
ABLE 4.1 | Park Acreage Level of Service
*Santa Clara currently has 6 public parks that are not owned by the City. Other owners include Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD), private developers, and HOAs.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 79

AMENITY CITY

INVENTORY

CURRENT

SERVICE LEVEL

SERVICE

STANDARD

ADDITIONAL

AMENITIES
NEEDED IN 2035
SCHOOL

DISTRICT

INVENTORY
Diamond (Baseball/
Softball) Field 6 1 per 22,822
residents
1 per 13,500
residents 5 15
Multiuse Field 15
1 per 19,129
residents
1 per 9,000
residents 2 19
Soccer Field 11 1 per 12,448
residents
1 per 10,000
residents 4 4
Cricket Field 0 N/A 1 per 100,000
residents 2 2
Outdoor Basketball
Court
19 1 per 7,207
residents
1 per 8,500
residents - 16
Pickleball Court 6 1 per 22,822
residents
1 per 8,500
residents 12 -
Tennis Court 35 1 per 3,912 1 per 4,000
residents 3 22
Dog Park 7 1 per 19,562
residents
1 per 20,000
residents 1 -
Splash Pad 0 N/A 1 per 75,000
residents 2 -
Playground 33 1 per 4,149
residents
1 per 4,250
residents 2 14
Reservable Picnic Areas 9 1 per 15,215
residents
1 per 9,000
residents 8 -
TABLE 4.2 | Amenity Level of Service (LOS)

PARK AMENITIES LEVEL OF SERVICE
Assessing the level of service for specific park
amenities helps us understand the community’s
access to these facilities. Table 4.2 shows Santa
Clara’s level of service—measured as population per
amenity—for common park facilities and presents
standards based on best practices, tailored to the
City’s needs as identified through the community
engagement process. Applying these standards to the
City’s projected population highlights deficiencies
in key amenities , including diamond fields ,
rectangular (soccer) fields, and pickleball courts.

Increasing the level of service for these amenities can be achieved through the construction of new parks,
reimagining existing parks, or expanding access to
joint-use sites. As shown in far-right column of Table

4.2, school sites contain numerous recreational
amenities that could be made available to the
public through joint-use agreements and address
most of the current gaps in recreation opportunity.

This analysis focuses on traditional park amenities
commonly tracked by the National Recreation
and Park Association (NRPA). However, additional
needs identified through community engagement—
such as trails, walking/jogging tracks, shade
structures, community gardens, and outdoor fitness
equipment—are not reflected in Table 4.2 .

CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 81

PARK DISTRIBUTION
Understanding how parks are distributed and
accessible is critical to measuring community access.

Figure 4.2 on the following page shows park access
within a 10-minute walk in Santa Clara, highlighting
uneven coverage across the City. Some older
residential areas along the El Camino Real Corridor
and elsewhere currently lack good park access, while
areas experiencing redevelopment will require parks
to serve future residents.

Planned parks will expand access in northern Santa
Clara to meet future growth, but some existing
neighborhoods will still lack nearby parks. Potential
new park sites would help address these areas
and advance the City’s goal of 3.0 acres per 1,000
residents. The 10-minute walk areas for potential
new park sites are shown in purple in Figure 4.2 .

Together, existing, planned, and potential parks
would bring nearly all residents within a 10-minute
walk of a park.

Joint-use agreements with public schools offer
another opportunity to fill service gaps. As shown
in Figure 4.3 , on the following pages, most
neighborhoods are already within a 10-minute walk
of either a park or school. Securing access to these
school sites and enhancing them for recreation—
especially in areas lacking park access—would
create a more evenly distributed system across the
community.

FIGURE 4.2 | Existing, Planned & Potential Park Walksheds

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 83
FIGURE 4.3 | Planned Park & School Walksheds

84 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Park Type Standards
Park Type Standards provide clear guidelines for
the planning and design of Santa Clara’s park
system. They establish expectations for amenities
and promote a consistent level of service across
neighborhoods. By tailoring requirements to each
park’s intended role and community context,
this framework advances equitable access, high-
quality recreational experiences, and sustainable
development practices.

For each park type, standards are provided in a set of
categories, as follows:
• Size & Shape
• Use Duration
• Location Characteristics
• Access
• Parking
• Required Amenities
• Optional Amenities
• Landscape Features
Parks and plazas in urban districts play a
vital role in enhancing livability and vibrancy.

Though often compact, these spaces can be
highly amenitized, with thoughtful design
that maximizes usability and comfort. In
addition to traditional park features, they may
incorporate distinctive seating and shade
structures, interactive installations or art, and
creative landscaping. Their greatest value
often comes from their location and context—
embedded within walkable urban areas,
they offer convenient places for rest, social
interaction, and casual recreation.

When designed intentionally and strategically,
parks in urban areas become vibrant,
functional, and well-used components of the
broader park system.

Standards indicate what park users can expect from
each park type, and guide the creation of future parks
and enhancements to existing parks.

Note: Due to the unique characteristics of Santa Clara’s parks, not all sites will meet every definition or amenity requirement. These standards should be applied with
discretion, taking into account site constraints and
community needs. This applies to private and publicly
developed parks.

These mini parks and plazas incorporate interesting and aesthetic design choices, artwork, plantings, seating and rest options, and other strategic amenities at a smaller scale. They are embedded in and add to the surrounding urban environment. 86 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Destination Parks

SIZE & SHAPE
• Typically 20 acres or greater
• Configuration must create functional community
-wide access, gathering and recreational space

USE DURATION
• 1 to 4 hours

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• May be adjacent to schools, libraries, other
community facilities, and commercial and
mixed-use activity centers
ACCESS
• Connection to transit stations, sidewalks,
bikeways, and trails
• Frontage on at least two streets
• Primary access and parking should be from a
collector or arterial roadway; secondary access
may be from local neighborhood streets

PARKING
• On-site parking lot(s), sized based on amenities
• Street parking
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• At least one community active-use amenity,
such as a sport court or field (lighted or
unlighted), aquatic facility, or park building
• At least one special recreation amenity, such
as a dog park, amphitheater, skate and/or bike
park, etc.
• Unique, thematic, or innovative playground
equipment or comparable creative play
environment that is universally accessible
• Open lawn for multiuse recreation and
unstructured play
• Accessible walking path, loop, and/or trail
• Reservable and drop-in picnic areas, preferably
shaded and with barbecues
• At least two restrooms
• Site furnishings including seating, drinking
fountains, and trash receptacles
• Signage, including site identification, wayfinding,
and regulation signs
Destination amenities are important features of destination parks (Central Park, above).

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 87

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Indoor recreation facility, gymnasium, or
community center
• Aquatic facility
• Additional recreation facilities such as skate and/
or bike park or outdoor fitness equipment
• Outdoor amphitheater with covered stage
• Environmental education facility
• Interpretive trail with signage or environmental
education facility
• Community, demonstration, or pollinator
garden(s)
• Designated space for concessions
• Public art
• Storage or maintenance building(s) and lockable
trash enclosure with dumpster, architecturally
complementary with the rest of the park and
located area away from main park attractions

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Large shade trees should be plentiful, aiming
for a tree canopy of at least 25% of the site at
maturity. Distinct trees and/or planting areas
in key areas to establish stronger park identity,
such as park entrances/gateways and central
gathering places
• Natural turf areas designed for multipurpose
active and passive recreation activities
• In passive areas, climate-ready plant species
that are native, drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-
supporting
• Approximately 50-60% of the site should be
relatively level, and usable
• Existing natural features should be preserved
and incorporated into park design, when
practical and possible
Plentiful large shade trees are essential for park comfort (Central Park, above). 88 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Community Parks

SIZE & SHAPE
• Typically 5 to 20 acres
• Smaller sites may be acceptable due to site-
specific conditions or inclusion of key amenities
• Configuration must create functional
community-wide access, gathering and
recreational space

USE DURATION
• 1 to 3 hours

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• Typically, adjacent to schools, libraries, other
community facilities, and commercial and
mixed-use activity centers
• Distributed across the City
ACCESS
• Served by the City’s public transportation
network, including bus routes, bikeways, and
trials
• Street frontages at site boundary wherever
possible, including frontage on at least two
major streets

PARKING
• On-site parking lot(s). Sized based on amenity
needs
• On-street parking
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• At least one community active-use amenity, such
as a sport court or field (lighted or unlighted),
aquatic facility, or park building
• At least one special recreation amenity, such
as a dog park, amphitheater, skate and/or bike
park, etc.
• Unique, thematic, or innovative playground
equipment or comparable creative play
environment that is universally accessible
• Accessible walking path, loop, and/or trail
• Open lawn for multiuse recreation and
unstructured play
• Reservable and drop-in picnic area, preferably
shaded
• Restrooms
• Site furnishings including seating, drinking
fountains, and trash receptacles
• Signage, including site identification, wayfinding,
and regulation signs
Restrooms are necessary for Community Parks (Earl R.

Carmichael Park, above).

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 89

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Indoor recreation facility, gymnasium, or
community center
• Aquatic facility
• Additional active use amenities (such as sports
courts and fields)
• Interpretive trail with signage or environmental
education facility
• Community, demonstration, or pollinator
garden(s)
• Public art
• Storage or maintenance building(s) and lockable
trash enclosure with dumpster, architecturally
complementary with the rest of the park and
located away from main park attractions

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Large shade trees should be plentiful, aiming
for a tree canopy of at least 25% of the site at
maturity
• Natural turf areas designed for multipurpose
active and passive recreation activities
• In passive areas, climate-ready plant species
that are native, drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-
supporting
• Approximately 75-80% of the site should be
relatively level, and usable
• Existing natural features should be preserved
and incorporated into park design
Ball fields and other active use amenities are required at community parks (Henry Schmidt Park, above).

90 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Neighborhood Parks

SIZE & SHAPE
• Typically 1 to 5 acres
• Proportions must create functional community
gathering and recreational spaces. If linear,
width should be a minimum of 90 feet

USE DURATION
• 1 to 2 hours

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• Central to the neighborhoods they serve
with residential or school adjacent land uses.

Relevant considerations include proximity to
other park sites and trail connections
ACCESS
• Connected to bikeways and trails, where feasible
• Typically two street frontages, with sidewalks
• Minimal access barriers, including fencing, steep
slopes, or major arterial roads

PARKING
• Street parking.
• On-site parking if needed to support amenity or
where street parking is inadequate
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• Playground(s) with creative play environment
including several elements of play for ages 2-12
• Accessible walking loop
• Open lawn for multiuse recreation and
unstructured play
• At least one active-use full sports court or field,
• Dispersed picnic facilities, including tables
shaded by trees or shade structures
• Site furnishings, including seating, drinking
fountains, and trash receptacles
• Signage, including site identification and
regulation signs

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Restroom or access to restroom in adjacent
facility
• Small sports amenity (table tennis, cornhole,
bocce, or similar)
• Amphitheater
• Par course or fitness stations
• Splash pad
• Community garden
• Barbecues
• Public art
• Additional sports court or field
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 91

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Large shade trees should be plentiful, aiming
for a tree canopy of at least 25% of the site at
maturity. Distinct trees and/or planting areas
should be placed at park entrances and central
gathering places to establish park identity
• Natural turf areas designed for multipurpose
active and passive recreation activities
• In passive areas, climate-ready plant species
that are native, drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-
supporting
• At least 80% of the site should be relatively level,
and usable
• Existing natural features should be preserved
and incorporated into park design, when
practical and possible
Playgrounds are a required element for neighborhood parks (Thamien Park, above; Homeridge Park, below).

92 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Mini Parks & Plazas

SIZE & SHAPE
• Typically 0.5 to 1 acre
• Proportions must create functional community
gathering and recreational space. If linear, width
should be a minimum of 90 feet

USE DURATION
• 30 minutes to 1 hour

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• Embedded within neighborhoods or urban
districts
• At trailheads or access points to open space
ACCESS
• Served by adjacent sidewalks.
• Frontage on two or more streets is preferable;
one street frontage is acceptable

PARKING
• Street parking
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• Site furnishings including seating and trash
receptacles
• Signage, including site identification and
regulation signs
• At least three of the recreation amenities
identified as “optional”

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Playground equipment or comparable creative
play environment
• Open lawn for multiuse recreation and
unstructured play
• Small sports amenity (table tennis, cornhole,
bocce, or similar)
• Plaza or gathering space
• Picnic areas with table games
• Shade structures
• Water features or splash pads
• Par course or fitness stations
• Public art

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Shade structures and trees should be plentiful,
aiming for a canopy of at least 25% of the site.

Distinct trees and/or planting areas should be
placed at park entrances or in central gathering
places to establish park identity
• In passive areas, plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 93
Site furnishings, trees and plantings, and synergy with the surrounding neighborhood make mini parks and plazas functional and inviting, even with small footprints (Vincent Fiorillo Park, left above; LSAP Park, right above; mini park in the Tasman East neighborhood, right middle; Civic Center Park, below).

94 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Special Use Parks

SIZE & SHAPE
• Variable, dependent on purpose and available
land
• Configuration must create functional
community-wide access, gathering and
recreation space

USE DURATION
• Variable, dependent on purpose

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• Variable, dependent on purpose
ACCESS
• Connected to bikeways and trails where feasible.
• At least two street frontages

PARKING
• On-site and/or street parking, dependent on
purpose
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• Community-wide amenities and facilities (e.g.
skate and/or bike park, dog park, golf course,
community garden, cemetery, historic site)
• Site furnishings including seating, drinking
fountains, and trash receptacles
• Signage, including site identification and
regulation signs

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Playground equipment or comparable creative
play environment
• Accessible walking loop
• Open lawn for multiuse recreation and
unstructured play
• Picnic areas
• Restroom(s)
• Public art

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Large shade trees should be plentiful, aiming
for a tree canopy of at least 25% of the site at
maturity. Distinct trees and/or planting areas
in key areas to establish stronger park identity,
such as park entrances/gateways and central
gathering places
• Climate-ready plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting
• Approximately 50-60% of the site should be
relatively level, and usable
• Existing natural features should be preserved
and incorporated into park design, when
practical and possible
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 95
Special Use Parks have one or more unique primary amenity, such as a skate park or dog park (upper and lower left), or a historic site (right).
96 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Sports Parks

SIZE & SHAPE
• Typically 10 to 55 acres
• Configurations must create functional
community-wide access, gathering and
recreation space

USE DURATION
• 1 to 4 hours, including nighttime use

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• Distributed throughout the City
• May be adjacent to schools, libraries, other
community facilities, and commercial and
mixed-use activity centers
ACCESS
• Connected to the City’s transportation system.
• A minimum of two major street frontages is
desirable
• Direct connection to sidewalks, bike routes, and
trail system

PARKING
• On-site parking lot(s), sized based on amenities
• Street parking
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• Lighted recreation amenities (e.g. aquatic
facility, soccer fields, baseball/softball fields).

Multiple fields/sites should be included to
enable tournament play
• At least two restrooms
• Site furnishings, including seating, drinking
fountains, and trash receptacles
• Signage, including site identification, wayfinding,
and regulation signs

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Playground equipment or comparable creative
play environment
• Spectator seating
• Reservable picnic site or multipurpose building
• Concession
• Public art
• Integrative public address system
• Storage or maintenance building(s) and lockable
trash enclosure with dumpster, architecturally
complementary with the rest of the park
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 97
Sports parks are dedicated to ball fields, courts, or aquatics facilities (Reed and Grant Sports Park, above).

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Trees should be appropriately sized and
placed to provide shade and complement the
functionality of the sports facility
• Climate-ready plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting
• All areas designated for sports will be flat, level,
and usable
98 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

SIZE & SHAPE
• Typically 20 acres or greater
• Variable shape, responsive to natural features
• Wide enough to accommodate both a multiuse
trail and a natural or park-like environment, with
greater width and amenities at entry points or
connections
• Configuration must create functional
community-wide access, gathering and
recreation space

USE DURATION
• 30 minutes to 3 hours

LOCATION CHARACTERISTICS
• Encompassing undeveloped land and natural
features (hillsides, marshlands, creek corridors,
etc.)
• May be adjacent to parks, facilities, and trails
ACCESS
• Direct connections to sidewalks, bike facilities,
and trail system
• Trailheads with parking should have pedestrian
and bike access
• Appropriate crosswalks, speed tables, and
signage should be implemented at intersections

PARKING
• Street parking
• Bike parking

REQUIRED AMENITIES
• Seating and trash receptacles at entry points
• Signage, including site identification, wayfinding,
and regulation signs
• Trails that accommodate multiple uses, including
hiking and biking

OPTIONAL AMENITIES
• Viewpoints
• Interpretive signage
• Restroom(s)
• Dispersed picnic areas
• On-site parking lot(s)
• Outdoor fitness equipment

LANDSCAPE FEATURES
• Undeveloped areas should be preserved in a
natural state while mitigating invasive species
• Assess and track vegetation; implementing
maintenance and management standards to
mitigate potential fuel loads and fire risks
• Trees for shade and windbreaks
• No planting should impede sight lines or hinder
view into the greenway or trail
• Climate-ready plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting
• Existing natural features should be preserved
and incorporated into park design, when
practical and possible
Note: Open spaces and greenways are not eligible for developer credit.

Natural Areas & Greenways
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 99
Ulistac Natural Area is Santa Clara’s signature public open space, featuring natural vegetation, nature trails, and interpretive signage.
100 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Joint-use Sites
Joint-use sites, stand-alone schools that also
function as public parks or recreation amenities,
can expand recreation opportunities in Santa Clara
and significantly help meet community needs.

Partnership and communication between entities
can allow for improved recreational services for both
students and residents—all part of the Santa Clara
community.

A strong joint-use agreement is essential to ensure
a fair, mutually beneficial arrangement. Such
agreements should be transparent, community-
facing documents that highlight access and
partnership, clearly define maintenance and
Fencing at a joint-use site should enforce any necessary separation, while maintaining sight lines and a cohesive feeling between the areas of the site.
operational responsibilities, outline cost-sharing for
capital improvements. Some level of City investment
in school sites is necessary to ensure an equitable
agreement that creates functional and appealing
recreation opportunities, balancing student needs
during school hours and general community needs
after hours and during school breaks.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 101
Successful Park-School Design Considerations
Creating successful joint-use facilities
requires a thoughtful balance between safety,
accessibility, and community benefit. During
school hours, sites must ensure a secure environment
for students, while outside those times, they should
invite the public to enjoy the space with ease. Well-
planned access points and fencing can achieve both
goals—protecting children while signaling openness
beyond the school day. Clear signage, welcoming
entrances, and consistent public hours help reinforce
when and how the community can engage with the
space.

Parks and schools that directly border each
other can provide mutual benefits by leveraging
the distinct amenities each offers. Municipal parks
typically include restrooms, picnic areas, walking
paths, and other spaces for passive enjoyment, in
addition to key active recreation facilities where
space allows. School grounds often feature sports
fields, courts, playgrounds, and other active
recreation amenities but lack areas for comfort and
relaxation. Through collaboration and intentional
design, the City and school district can create a
cohesive site that is safe, welcoming, and functional,
offering a wide array of recreational opportunities
beyond what either could provide independently.

Figure 4.4 illustrates the potential of an integrated
park-school adjacency, showing how such a site can
function as a cohesive joint-use area during non-
school hours while maintaining necessary security
during school hours. The amenities at each site
complement one another, offering visitors a wide
range of recreational options. Key elements of a
successful design include clear signage, established
standards and rules around use times, and
thoughtfully designed barriers where necessary.

FIGURE 4.4 | Design Guidelines for Successful Park-School Adjacency 102 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
A Park Improvement Strategy provides a structured
approach to upgrading and enhancing the City’s
park system to ensure it meets current and future
community needs. By organizing improvements
into three categories, the strategy prioritizes
maintaining existing resources, strategically
enhancing functionality, and undertaking visionary
transformations. This framework allows for a clear
understanding of the scope, goals, and investment
required for each type of improvement, while also
aligning upgrades with community aspirations and
long-term objectives.

PRESERVING WHAT WE HAVE
This category includes essential park improvements
necessary to keep the park system operational.

This encompasses routine maintenance, repairs,
repainting, replanting, “lifecycle replacements”
(such as replacing aging amenities or infrastructure),
and removing accessibility barriers for individuals
with disabilities. The focus of this category is to
maximize the use of existing resources, with the
primary objective of preserving the City’s current
investments.

Fuller Street Park would benefit from added seating, shaded areas, vegetation, and other plantings. Repurposing a
portion of the open lawn space for alternative uses could be beneficial.

Preserve:
• Bill Wilson, Jr. Park
• Bracher Park
• City Plaza Park
• Civic Center Park
• Creekside Park
• Everett Alvarez Jr. Park
• Everett N. “Eddie” Souza Park
• Fuller Street Park
• Geof Goodfellow Sesquicentennial Park
• Henry Schmidt Park
• Live Oak Park
• LSAP Parks
• Meadow Park
• Memorial Cross Park
• Montague Swim Center
• Reed and Grant Sports Park
• Rotary Park
• Thamien Park
• Thomas Barrett Park
• Vincent Fiorillo & Family Park
• War Memorial Playground
• Warburton Park
• Westwood Oaks Park
Park Improvement Strategy
Preserving
what we have
Improving what
we have
Envisioning
enhancement
$ $$ $$$
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 103

IMPROVING WHAT WE HAVE
This category encompasses park upgrades designed
to enhance functionality, visitor experience, and
recreational opportunities. While these updates
generally do not significantly alter the park’s overall character or layout, they may involve improving
existing features, adding new amenities, or
implementing other strategic changes to enrich the
park experience. Such improvements often require
substantial funding.

Maywood Park would benefit from basic repairs and a
reorganization of its layout. Key ideas include creating a walking loop, moving the play area to the west near the amphitheater, turning the current play area into a fitness node, grouping picnic areas on the east side, hosting small events, adding an off-leash dog area in the west corner, and exploring changes to the parking layout.

Improve:
• Agnew Park
• Agnews Historic Park
• Bowers Park
• Central Park
• Earl R Carmichael Park
• Fairway Glen Park
• Fremont Park
• Homeridge Park
• Jenny Strand Park
• Lick Mill Park
• Machado Park
• Mary Gomez Park
• Maywood Park
• Montague Park
• Parkway Park
• Raymond G. Gamma Dog Park
• Steve Carli Park
• Ulistac Natural Area
104 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

ENVISIONING ENHANCEMENT
Parks in this category are identified as prime
candidates for extensive upgrades, which may
include major renovations or complete redesigns to
deliver entirely new park experiences. This typically
encompasses full park overhauls, land acquisitions,
and the development of new parks. Parks in this
category generally fall short of meeting current
community needs and require comprehensive
renovation to address gaps. These projects typically
begin with a master planning process to assess
existing conditions, understand community priorities,
and develop a new design. While often the costliest,
these projects provide the greatest flexibility to
bring trending recreational opportunities to the
community.

Larry J. Marsalli Park would be improved with better screening from the adjacent highway, additional connection points and entrances, and a repurposing of the existing lawn space for new amenities.

Envision and Enhance:
• Larry J. Marsalli Park
• City Park North
• Future planned parks
GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 105
Typical Park
Improvements
The specific improvement needs at individual park
sites are unique and should be clarified through a
detailed site design and a community engagement
process. However, the following improvements
have been identified and prioritized through site
assessments and community input as common
improvement needs in many parks throughout Santa
Clara.

1. Repurpose underutilized areas for new
recreational amenities

2. Install complete walking loops in parks

3. Provide additional seating, shade, and trash
receptacles

4. Plant more diverse vegetation and trees

5. Enhance and modernize restrooms

6. Install educational and wayfinding signage

7. Connect trails to parks and provide trailhead
amenities

8. Provide screening from major streets
Park improvements can create unique spaces and
experiences for Santa Clarans.
106 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

4.3 INDOOR RECREATION FACILITY
NEEDS
Improving Existing
Facilities
Making improvements to existing facilities
helps ensure they remain safe, accessible, and
functional, while modernizing spaces to better
meet evolving needs. This plan makes the following
recommendations for Santa Clara’s existing facilities.

These recommendations are fully detailed in
Appendix E: Facilities Assessment.

COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
• Address deferred maintenance
• Renovate interior finishes, furniture, and lighting
and update mechanical and electrical systems
• Enclose or protect courtyard to provide more
program space
• Expand building footprint where possible; add
community hall
• Expand and enhance program spaces

SENIOR CENTER
• Address deferred maintenance
• Reenvision layout of rooms for efficiency,
flexibility, and expanded capacity
• Update finishes, furniture, and lighting
• Evaluate and upgrade HVAC systems to allow
the facility to efficiently function as designed,
including operating as a warming and cooling
center

YOUTH & TEEN CENTER
• Address deferred maintenance
• Add acoustic separation and new dividers in
programming spaces
• Reenvision layout for efficiency and flexibility
• Update finishes, furniture, and lighting
• Update security technology
The Senior Center, like the Community Recreation Center and Youth & Teen Center, requires routine maintenance to ensure ongoing functionality. There is an opportunity to make additional improvements and expand facilities to better serve programs and community use.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 107
Recreation Needs
The national average for square feet of indoor
recreation facilities per population is approximately

0.75 SF per resident. In 2025 Santa Clara had 0.67 SF
per resident (NRPA 2025 Agency Performance review).

This is similar to some surrounding and comparable
communities (Sunnyvale has 0.68 SF per resident and
San Mateo has 0.62 SF per residents), while others
meet and exceed the national average (Mountain
View: 1.23 SF per resident; Daly City: 1.07 SF per
resident). Additionally, the average for a gymnasium
multiuse court is 1 per 38,924 residents nationally.

Santa Clara has no gymnasiums as of 2025.

Considering projected population growth and
community need, it is estimated that Santa Clara will
need approximately 70,000 additional square feet of
indoor facility space in 2035. This plan recommends
the following:
• Expansion of the Community Recreation
Center: 5,000 to 10,000 square feet
• New library & recreation center in north
Santa Clara : 20,000 to 25,000 square feet of
indoor recreation space
• New recreation facility with a multi-court
gymnasium : 38,000 to 43,000 square feet
In addition, the City should pursue community access
to additional gymnasiums through partnerships with
the school districts, Mission College, or other public
or private partners.

This plan recommends two new recreation facilities,
a health and wellness center and a facility with a
gymnasium, to help meet the projected indoor
recreation needs.

The Community Recreation Center courtyard is a space that could be redesigned to better serve residents’ needs. 108 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
New Facilities

NORTH LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY
CENTER
To provide needed indoor recreation space on the
developing north side of the City, a multigenerational
health and wellness center and library are envisioned.

Altogether, this facility should have approximately
20,000 to 25,000 square feet of indoor recreation
space as well as a library branch. The recreation
space would include a community center, gym and
fitness area.

Proposed Features
• 20,000 to 25,000 SF of indoor recreation space
• Library & Community Center
• Senior recreation & programming
• Health and Wellness Center/fitness
• Active recreation
• Lobby/reception

RECREATION FACILITY WITH

GYMNASIUM
This Plan recommends a future facility with
approximately 38,000 to 43,000 square feet that
includes a minimum of one multi-court gymnasium
and spaces to support athletic, health and wellness
classes and drop-in recreation. This gym should be
located for convenient access for all residents.

Proposed Features
• 38,000 to 43,000 SF
• Up to 3 gymnasiums
• Fitness/dance studio
• Fitness/cardio space
• Lobby/reception
• Staff offices
This Plan recommends that the City add a library and recreation center on the north side, with approximately 21,600 square feet of indoor recreation space, and a 38,000 to 43,000 square foot gymnasium-focused recreation center. Examples from other communities are shown here.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 109

4.4 AQUATIC NEEDS
Aquatics Level of Service
The three competitive pools at the ISC and the seven
recreation pools distributed throughout the City
currently provide residents with one competitive
pool per 44,532 residents and one recreation pool
per 19,085 residents. Per capita, Santa Clara has five
times more recreational pools and 2.5 times more
competitive pools than the national average for
similar sized cities.

International Swim Center
The International Swim Center (top left), Senior Center pool (top right), and Warburton Pool (above) are each recommended for improvements.

At a Citywide scale, Santa Clara is well-served by
aquatic facilities. However, existing facilities are
concentrated in southern Santa Clara with limited
access in northern neighborhoods. Additionally,
many aquatics facilities are aging, with deferred
maintenance and insufficient funding. There is an
opportunity to better serve the community’s aquatics
needs, now and in the future.

Figure 4.5 illustrates a potential future concept for
aquatics in Santa Clara. This approach proposes
phasing out two of the City’s smaller, aging pools
to allow for the development of larger, upgraded
facilities.

This concept aims to:
• Better distribute aquatic facilities
t
hroughout the community.
• Deliver larger, modern aquatic centers that
can support a broader range of recreational
and competitive amenities than smaller
neighborhood parks.
• Focus City resources, enabling funding to be
more strategically allocated and balanced
across all recreational needs.
• Reevaluate the existing Montague Pool , which
is on school district property and doesn't have
good access; and Mary Gomez Pool , which
doesn't adequately meet the City's aquatic
needs.

NEW WARBURTON AQUATIC FACILITY

EXISTING SENIOR CENTER POOLS
Improved ISC

PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS

NEW NORTH AQUATIC CENTER
A Vision for the Future of Santa Clara Aquatics
The ISC would maintain its 3 competitive pools, with
necessary maintenance issues and upgrades addressed.

A future north aquatic center is envisioned to have 2
recreation pools and potentially include elements like splash pads and water play features.

Warburton Pool would be reimagined as a family-friendly aquatic facility. The existing 2 recreation pools would be consolidated and include other aquatic elements such as water play features.

The Senior Center aquatic facilities would remain as is with any necessary maintenance issues and upgrades addressed.

FACILITY TYPE INVENTORY
(2025)

FACILITIES
(# OF POOLS)

LEVEL OF SERVICE
(2035)

N ATIONAL AVERAGE

LEVEL OF SERVICE

PROPOSED
Competitive Pool 3 ISC (3) 1 per 51,608 residents
1 per 110,270
residents
Recreation Pool 5
Future Regional Aquatics
Facility (2)
Warburton (1)
Senior Center (2 + spa)
1 per 38,706 residents
1 per 111,385
residents
TABLE 4.3 | Aquatics Level of Service - Proposed
This concept would achieve an aquatic level of
service of 1 competitive pool per 51,608 residents
and 1 recreation pool per 38,706 residents by
incorporating a new regional aquatics facility and
repurposing the current pool space at Montague and
Mary Gomez parks, shown in Table 4.3.

FIGURE 4.5 | Proposed Aquatic Center Service Area Map

112 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

4.5 RECREATION PROGRAMMING
NEEDS
High quality recreation programs serve all ages
and abilities, foster social inclusion, and contribute
to physical and mental well-being. They also help
define a City’s identity, bringing people together
through shared activities and experiences. To remain
relevant and effective, programming must continually
evolve to reflect community needs, preferences, and
participation trends. The following recommendations
are intended to strengthen the quality, reach, and
efficiency of Santa Clara’s programming and help
deliver high-value offerings that make the most of
available resources:
• Increase Participation: Through ongoing
participation data analysis, create strategies
to expand participation from all geographical
areas in programs and services offered by the
department.
• Expand Programs: Expanding programming
in areas of greatest unmet need is essential for
delivering high-quality services. By prioritizing
high-demand offerings and reducing low-
interest programs, detailed in Figure 3.4 : Top
Priorities for Programs/Activities , staff can
ensure resources are focused where they will
have the greatest impact.
• Program Evaluation Tools: Pre- and post-
program tools should be developed and utilized
to evaluate the quality and success of the
programs more fully.
• 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
participants to identify why quality and value
scores fall below national benchmarks and take
action to improve them.
• Marketing: Develop a formal marketing
program that aligns with how residents would
most like to receive information.
• Partnerships: Develop and implement a formal
partnership policy to guide updates to existing
agreements.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 113
A variety of program offerings supports a diverse, changing, and vibrant City. Maintaining and expanding existing, popular programs, and implementing new programs to address resident needs, will help build the Santa Clara community and culture.

114 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

4.6 MAINTENANCE & SUSTAINABILITY

RECOMMENDATIONS
Maintenance and sustainability are central to a
thriving parks system, ensuring safety, accessibility,
and enjoyment for all users. Recommendations focus
on routine upkeep and proactive strategies to extend
the life of parks and facilities while keeping the
system resilient and vibrant:
• Maintenance Management Plan: Develop a
comprehensive plan with clear outcomes and
standards for each park, using findings from this
plan as a guiding resource.
• Community-Aligned Work Plans: Align
maintenance activities with both community
satisfaction and priority.
• Asset Management: Implement an asset
management system to track maintenance,
prevent breakdowns, and capture actual costs of
work performed.
• Work Order Scheduling: Use GIS to organize
assets by location, type, or age and create
preventive, reactive, or inspection tasks.
• Mapping Tools: Leverage GIS maps to visualize
work orders and interact with asset data
efficiently.
• Data Mobility: Provide staff with mobile tools
to access and update maintenance information
in the field.
• Asset Lifecycle Tracking: Monitor work
performed on any asset throughout its lifecycle,
including overdue tasks and contractor
assignments.
• Minimize Unproductive Time: Analyze worker
time for efficiency, including travel and idle time.
• Equipment Investment: Invest in new
equipment as the park system grows.
• Cost-Reduction Strategies: Lower
expenditures through volunteer programs and
operational partnerships that share costs and
responsibilities.
• Construction Project Oversight: Hire 2–3
project managers to manage bond-funded and
ongoing lifecycle replacement projects.
• Staffing Evaluation: Assess hiring
and retention practices and implement
improvements to strengthen the workforce.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES & RECOMMENDATIONS | 115
Functional and efficient maintenance equipment and teams ensure that the parks system is robust and thriving over time.

Checklist for Project Success
With numerous projects competing for attention,
deciding which initiatives to pursue can be
challenging. Without clear criteria, prioritization can seem subjective and inconsistent, making it difficult
to allocate resources effectively. The following criteria provides a structured framework to both evaluate
and shape projects within the broader vision for
Santa Clara’s Parks and Recreation system. The same
criteria can also be used to drive project definition
and design, ensuring that community value is being
achieved.
• Community Priority: Reflects public interest
and community engagement findings.
• Resolves Deficiency: Fills gaps in amenities or
programs and supports future growth.
• Equity: Improves access for underserved
populations and across areas.
• Functionality, Condition & Safety: Addresses
infrastructure issues and enhances operations.
• Environmental Sustainability: Supports
water conservation, biodiversity, or resilience.
• Operational Efficiency & Sustainability:

Reduces costs, increases cost recovery, and
preserves investments.
• Feasibility: Considers cost, funding,
partnerships, and staff capacity.
116 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CIVIC CENTER PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA

NEED NEW PHOTO
MAGICAL BRIDGE PLAYGROUND, CENTRAL PARK | SANTA CLARA, CA Realizing
Our Vision
5 118 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

5.1 ACTION PLAN
Given limited staffing and financial resources,
the plan’s recommendations are intended to be
implemented strategically over the next decade and
beyond. Table 5.1: Action Plan provides a long-term
implementation framework, translating the goals,
policies, and improvement recommendations from
Chapter 4 into a clear and actionable roadmap that
considers both capital investments and ongoing
operational needs.

The Action Plan is designed to support informed
decision-making by helping the City prioritize
projects, align resources with community priorities,
and thoughtfully sequence investments over
time. It is intended to guide capital improvement
programming and annual budgeting efforts, while
linking project timing and feasibility to potential
funding opportunities.

Costs
Table 5.1: Action Plan includes high-level
capital and operational cost estimates for each
recommended a ction. Th ese estimates are intended
to serve as broad, planning-level guidance to assist
the City in evaluating priorities and allocating
resources. T hey are not precise figures and will
require refinement through future feasibility studies,
design efforts, an d detailed cost analysis.

Note: All costs are presented in 2025 dollars. A 3 to 5 percent annual escalation is recommended to account for inflation.

CAPI TAL COSTS
Capital investments include improvements to existing
parks and facilities, as well as the development of
new parks, facilities, and amenities. Understanding
these costs is essential to incorporating projects
into the City’s capital improvement program and
long-term financial planning. Costs associated
with planning and design of new parks and park
improvements are also included in this category.

Full implementation of the vision outlined in this
Master Plan is esti mated to require between $618
and $850 million i n total capital investment. Of this amount, approximately $194 to $258 million is
attributable to the acquisition of additional parkland needed to achieve the City’s park acreage level-of-
Earl Carmichael Park is slated for near-term improvements that would enhance park comfort, functionality and
condition, and introduce new amenities.

Total Cost of Ownership
Every park and recreation amenity requires
not just an initial investment to build, but
a reliable stream of funding to keep it safe,
attractive, and functional over the long term.

True costs extend beyond construction to
include lifecycle improvements, routine and
preventative maintenance, utilities, and
staffing impacts. By considering both direct
and indirect expenses, this section helps
the City develop a more complete picture
of the resources required. The goal is to
ensure that financial planning supports a
sustainable strategy—one that preserves the
community’s investment and maintains a
high-quality parks and recreation system for
generations to come.

CAPITAL

INVESTMENT

OPERATIONS
+ MAINTENANCE

LIFECYCLE

REPLACEMENTS

TOTAL COST OF

OWNERSHIP
service goal (see page 78 for additional detail).

OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE COSTS
In addition to one-time capital investments, the
recommendations in this Master Plan will result
in ongoing costs associated with continued
maintenance, enhanced operations, and expanded
programming. Typical maintenance activities include
landscape care, irrigation operation and repair, and
the upkeep or replacement of park amenities and
facilities. Operational costs include implementing
programs and events, identifying and securing
funding, upgrading City systems, construction
management, and overall project coordination.

Based on the recommendations in this plan, full
implementation would require an estimated $4 to
$7 million in additional annual operations and
maintenance funding . Approximately two-thirds
of this cost is associated with the additional staffing needed to support expanded or improved facilities,
services, and programs. This equates to an estimated
32 to 55 additional full-time equivalent (FTE)
positions to fully support implementation of the
Master Plan over time.
120 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
# RECOMMENDATION PROJECT
TYPE

ESTIMATED

CAPITAL COST

ESTIMATED
ANNUAL

OPERATIONAL
COST

PHASE NOTES
1 PARKS

1.1 Improve Existing Parks $43M-63M Varies

1.1.1 Enhance park comfort and
functionality by providing adequate
comfort amenities, walking loops,
and incorporating universal design
principles.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
See 1.1 Varies Ongoing
Capital costs for park
improvements are
aggregated (see line 1.1).

Costs are estimated per
acre, with assumptions
tied to park type and
tier within the Park
Improvement Strategy
(see pp. 102-104).

Operational costs
are dependent on
project specifics. Some
improvements may
increase operational
costs while others may
decrease.

1.1.2 Improve the condition and
functionality of existing parks in
alignment with the Kitchell Report
and the Park Improvement Tiers
identified in this plan.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
See 1.1 Varies Ongoing

1.1.3 Provide deficient and high-
priority amenities in new parks,
existing parks or through joint-use
agreements.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
See 1.1 Varies
Near/
Mid-
Term
TABLE 5.1 | Action Plan (1 of 4)
Phasing
Implementing this plan requires significant
investment. A strategic approach to phasing capital
projects ensures that resources are prioritized,
allocated efficiently, and applied in a realistic,
achievable manner.

Table 5.1: Action Plan assigns each
recommendation to one of the following phases:
• Ongoing (spans all phases)
• Short-Term (1-5 years)
• Mid-Term (6-10 years)
• Long Term (11+ years)
Phases were determined based on a combination
of community need and project feasibility.

Recommendations that have the greatest impact on
meeting community needs (as identified in Chapters
3 and 4) and are more readily achievable were placed
in near-term phases. Projects requiring substantial
funding or with slightly lower immediate impact were
scheduled for later phases.

Estimated investment by phase:

Short-Term (1-5 years):
• Estimated Capital Cost: $185M-260M
• Estimated Annual Operational Cost: $650K-1.2M
Mid-Term (6-10 years):
• Estimated Capital Co st: $248M-327M
• Estimated Annual Opera tional Cost: $1.2M -2.0M
L
ong Term (11+ years):
• Estimated Capital Cost: $185M-263M
• Estimated Annual Operational Cost: $2.2M-4.1M
Note: Ongoing projects are distributed evenly across all phases.

REALIZING OUR VISION | 121
TABLE 5.1 | Action Plan (2 of 4)
# RECOMMENDATION PROJECT
TYPE

ESTIMATED

CAPITAL COST

ESTIMATED
ANNUAL

OPERATIONAL
COST

PHASE NOTES

2.2 Provide New Indoor Facilities $89M-107M $1.6M-2.3M

2.2.1 Construct and operate proposed
north Santa Clara Library/Recreation
Center.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$36M-40M $540K-760K
Mid/
Long-
Term
Assumes capital costs
will be covered by the
developer.

2.2.2 Construct and operate proposed
recreation center with gymnasium.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$53M-67M $1M-1.5M
Mid/
Long-
Term

2.2.3 Seek opportunities for additional
indoor recreation access through
partnerships.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-25K Ongoing
# RECOMMENDATION PROJECT
TYPE

ESTIMATED

CAPITAL COST

ESTIMATED
ANNUAL

OPERATIONAL
COST

PHASE NOTES

1.2 Provide New Parks* $359M-499M $2M-4M

1.2.1 Support the development and
operation of the parks planned as
part of future development.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$30M-40M $420K-875K Ongoing
It is assumed that all 35
acres of parks identified
in specific and master
plans are delivered.

1.2.2 Establish a clear vision, plan,
develop and operate 35-acre new
park in north Santa Clara.

Policy/
Planning;
Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$75M-102M $420K-875K Ongoing

1.2.3 Obtain land for 86 acres of additional
parkland through acquisition,
future development, or joint-use
agreements, prioritizing park access
gaps.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$194M-258M N/A
Near/
Mid-
Term Costs assume 50% of
park acreage would be
joint-use.

1.2.4 Develop and operate 86 acres of
additional parkland, prioritizing park
access gaps.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$60M-99M $1M-2M
Long-
Term
2 RECREATION FACILITIES

2.1 Enhance Existing Indoor Facilities $63M-85M Varies

2.1.1 Remodel/expand Community
Recreation Center, and operate.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$38M-53M Varies
Mid/
Long-
Term
Operational costs are
dependent to project
specifics. Some
improvements may
increase operational
costs while others may
decrease.

2.1.2 Remodel Senior Center, and operate.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$25M-32M Varies
Mid-
Term

2.1.3 Remodel Youth & Teen Center, and
operate.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
N/A Varies
Mid/
Long-
Term
Costs not provided since
facility is located on
School District property.
*See Section 4.2: Park & Open Space Needs on page 78 for details on park acreage needs. 122 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
TABLE 5.1 | Action Plan (3 of 4)
# RECOMMENDATION PROJECT
TYPE

ESTIMATED

CAPITAL COST

ESTIMATED
ANNUAL

OPERATIONAL
COST

PHASE NOTES
3 AQUATICS

3.1 Sustainable Aquatic Facilities $25M-46M Varies

3.1.1 Complete planned ISC improvements
and operate.

Capital
Improvement;
O&M
$25M-45M Varies Near-
Term
Operational costs are
dependent to project
specifics. Some
improvements may
increase costs while
others may decrease.

3.1.2 Evaluate existing facilities and
community need and develop
aquatics strategy for the future.

Planning/
Policy $350K-500K $0 Near-
Term
Consultant fees for
strategy development
are represented under
Capital Costs.
4 PATHS & TRAILS

4.1 Connected Trail System $39M-50M $27K-54K

4.1.1 Develop and operate planned
Citywide trail network.

Capital
Improvement $35M-45M $27K-54K Ongoing
Capital costs are based
on the Creek Trail Master
Plan.

4.1.2 Implement safe crossings and traffic
calming.

Capital
Improvement $4M-5M $0
Near/
Mid-
Term
5 OPEN SPACE & CONSERVATION

5.1 Habitat & Conservation See 1.1 Varies

5.1.1 Conserve water and enhance habitat
in parks through use of native
plantings in non-active areas and
efficient irrigation systems.

Capital
Improvement See 1.1 Varies Near-
Term
Capital costs for park
improvements are
aggregated (see line 1.1).

Operational costs are
dependent to project
specifics. Some
improvements may
increase costs while
others may decrease.

5.1.2 Integrate green infrastructure in park
and facility design.

Capital
Improvement See 1.1 Varies Ongoing

5.2 Tree Canopy $200K-400K Varies

5.2.1 Conduct a Tree Master Plan and
Inventory.

Planning/
Policy $200K-400K $0
Near-
Term
Consultant fees for
plan development are
represented under
Capital Costs.

5.2.2 Plant trees to provide shade, while
replacing aging or structurally
compromised trees 2:1.

Capital
Improvement See 1.1 Varies
Ongoing
Capital costs for park
improvements are
aggregated (see line 1.1).

Operational costs are
dependent on project
specifics.

REALIZING OUR VISION | 123
TABLE 5.1 | Action Plan (4 of 4)
# RECOMMENDATION PROJECT
TYPE

ESTIMATED

CAPITAL COST

ESTIMATED
ANNUAL

OPERATIONAL
COST

PHASE NOTES
6 MAINTENANCE & AGING INFRASTRUCTURE

6.1 Sustainable Funding $0 $15K-25K

6.1.1 Reevaluate and establish sustainable
funding sources for maintenance,
operations, and lifecycle
improvements.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-$25K
Near-
Term

6.2 Improved Maintenance Practices $50K-75K $415K-625K

6.2.1 Develop a Maintenance Management
Plan.

Planning/
Policy; O&M $50K-75K $0
Near-
Term
Consultant fees for
plan development are
represented under
Capital Costs.

6.2.2 Implement an Asset Management
System.

Planning/
Policy; O&M $0 $200K-300K
Near-
Term

6.2.3 Provide adequate staffing dedicated
to construction management.

Planning/
Policy; O&M $0 $200K-300K Ongoing

6.2.4 Evaluate parks annually through a
customer service satisfaction tool.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-25K Ongoing
7 PROGRAMS & EVENTS

7.1 New Programs & Events to Meet
Needs $80K-240K

7.1.1 Implement high-priority program
needs (fitness and wellness, outdoor
recreation, water fitness/swim
lessons).

Programs/
Events $0 $50K-120K
Near/
Mid-
Term

7.1.2 Activate parks and facilities through
new special events based on
community interest.

Programs/
Events $0 $30K-120K Ongoing

7.2 Ensure Existing Programs Meet
Needs $60K-100K

7.2.1 Analyze program and event
participation data and develop
strategies to expand engagement
Citywide.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-25K Near-
Term

7.2.2 Evaluate schedule and timing of
programs to meet resident needs.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-25K Near-
Term

7.2.3 Analyze program use fees to ensure
they are consistent with the City's
cost recovery policy.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-25K Ongoing

7.2.4 Develop community partnerships to
support programs & events.

Planning/
Policy $0 $15K-25K Ongoing
Total
$618M - 850M $4M - 7M
124 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Current Funding
Mechanisms and Sources
Santa Clara relies on a mix of local revenues, external grants, and one-time contributions to fund parks and
recreation. Key sources include:

General Fund: The General Fund—which brings
together a variety of funding sources—is the primary
mechanism that supports park operations and
maintenance.

Quimby Act Fees: The Quimby Act requires
developers of new residential subdivisions to provide
recreation value through land dedication, in-lieu fees, or a combination of both. The contribution amount
is based on the number of new residents (and
therefore greater need for parkland) generated from
the development. Revenues must be used to acquire,
develop, or improve park and recreation facilities.

5.2 FUNDING
Park Mitigation Fee Act (MFA): Like the Quimby
Act, the Park Mitigation Fee Act allows municipalities
to collect revenue to fund parks and recreation
facilities. MFA fees are established through a nexus
study that establishes a reasonable relationship
between new development—not just residential
subdivisions—and the need for additional park
resources. The MFA applies to a wider range of
development types and allows municipalities greater
revenue to support the recreation needs of future
populations.

Capital Projects Reserve: Federal, state, county,
and private sources have funded ADA compliance,
playground upgrades, greening, and facility
rehabilitation. Examples include CDBG, County
Inclusive Playground Grants, and Urban Greening
programs.

Bonds: The City’s voter-approved infrastructure
bond, Measure I, is backed by property tax, and
is used for large-scale acquisition or capital
improvements.

Grants and Donations: External funds—federal,
state, county, and private—support projects such as
ADA compliance, playground safety, greening, and
facility rehabilitation. Examples include Community
Development Block Grants (CDBG), Santa Clara
County Inclusive Playground Grants, and state
programs like Urban Greening.

In addition, special one-time sources have provided
critical support—for example, a $5 million developer
agreement funded Phase I of Future North Park,
while a partnership with Silicon Valley Power (SVP)
supplied solar panels during the Parks Service Center
roof replacement.

Delivering the Master Plan vision will require
significant investment and a diverse set of funding
strategies. In November 2024, Santa Clarans
approved an infrastructure bond providing $115
million for parks, recreation, and libraries. This
represents a major step forward, but additional
resources will be needed to fully address community
needs. This chapter first outlines Santa Clara’s
current funding practices, then highlights additional
funding opportunities that can help sustain long-term
investment.

REALIZING OUR VISION | 125
Funding Sources
Meeting the capital needs of the Master Plan will
require a layered funding approach that leverages
federal, state, regional, and local resources. Many
of these sources are used today; others may be
explored in the years ahead. Key opportunities
include:

TA X SUPPORT
• Property Taxes: Ad valorem taxes on real
property.
• Sales or Hospitality Taxes: Dedicated portions
of sales tax, hotel/motel, or restaurant taxes for
parks and recreation.
• Special Districts: Improvement Districts or
Community Facilities Districts (Mello-Roos) can
fund capital and maintenance in growth areas.
2024 Infrastructure Bond
In November 2024, Santa Clarans approved an
infrastructure bond providing over $115 million
for parks, libraries, the Senior Center, and
aquatic facilities. These funds are critical for key
improvements, including:
• Aquatics Facility Renovation(s) (including the
ISC)
• Aged Park Infrastructure
• Senior Center Renovation
• Park Renovations at Bowers, Earl Carmichael,
Warburton, Henry Schmidt, and Mary Gomez
• Additional Pickleball Courts
International Swim Center

CAPITAL FEES
• Parkland Dedication and Impact Fees
(Quimby Act and Mitigation Fee Act): Local
development-based funding source requiring
land dedication or in-lieu fees.
126 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
GRANTS
There are many federal, state, regional, and local
grant programs that support parks and recreation.

However, pursuing grants—writing and managing the
process—takes significant staff time. The list below
highlights key opportunities most relevant to Santa
Clara, with details on eligibility, funding levels, and match requirements. Funding opportunities will
change during the course of the planning period.

Federal Programs
• Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF):

Supports acquisition and development of
outdoor recreation areas. Requires a 50% local
match; awards typically range from $1–6 million.

Biennial funding cycles.
• USDOT Safe Streets for All (SS4A): Supports
roadway safety planning and implementation.

Requires a 10–20% local match depending on
project type. Annual funding cycles.
• Community Development Block Grants
(CDBG, HUD): Provides annual entitlement
funding for public facility improvements and
planning benefiting low- and moderate-income
populations. No match required.

State Programs
• California Natural Resources Agency Urban
Greening Grants: Funds projects like tree
planting, shade, pathways, and stormwater
improvements. No match required, though
leveraged funds improve applications. Cycles
open every 2–3 years.
• Caltrans Active Transportation Program
(ATP): Funds trails, crossings, and active
transportation projects. Requires a 10% local
match. Biennial cycles.
• California Recreational Trails Program:

Supports trail construction and rehabilitation,
covering up to 88% of costs. Requires ~12% local
match. Annual or biennial cycles.
• CAL FIRE Urban and Community Forestry
Grants: Supports tree inventories, master plans,
and canopy projects. Match requirements vary.

Cycles tied to state bond allocations.
• California ReLeaf Grants: Funds community-
based urban forestry projects. Requirements
vary by grant type; cycles offered periodically.

Regional & County Opportunities
• Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority
Urban Grant Program: Supports trails, park
development, greening, and environmental
education. Flexible match requirements; offered
every 2–3 years.
• Santa Clara County All-Inclusive Playground
Grants: Funds playgrounds designed to
universal standards. No set match requirement,
though local contributions strengthen
applications. Offered as funds become available.
• VTA Measure B Bicycle and Pedestrian
Program: Supports countywide bike and
pedestrian projects. Match requirements vary;
cycles offered periodically.

REALIZING OUR VISION | 127
Local Utilities & Rebates
• Silicon Valley Power (SVP) Rebates and
Incentives: Provides rebates for energy
efficiency and electrification projects. No match
required; available year-round while funds last.
• Valley Water Rebate and Grant Programs:

Provides rebates for water efficiency retrofits
and stewardship grants. No match required;
rolling applications with annual budget
allocations.

USER FEES
User fees are a key component of the City's Cost
Recovery Policy (highlighted on pages 45 and 76, and
supported with recommendation 7.2.3 in the Action
Plan on page 123). Currently user fees are funneled
into the general fund. Ensuring these fees are set
aside for recreation facility, amenity, and program
development and improvement would help support
the park system and its sustainability.
• Recreation Service Fees: Dedicated user fees
paid by facility users, such as sports leagues and
special interested classes, to help contribute
toward the upkeep or construction of the
facility.
• Ticket Sales/Admissions: Fees for self-directed
activities such as pools, ice skating rinks,
ballparks, and entertainment facilities.
• Special Use Permits: Charges for permits
that allow individuals to use park property
for financial gain. The City either receives a
set amount or percentage of total revenue
generated.
• Reservations: Fees allowing users to reserve
specific public facilities for a set amount of time,
including group picnic shelters, meeting rooms,
etc.
• Equipment Rental: Fees from rental of
equipment such as tables, chairs, tents, stages,
sports equipment, roller blades, watercraft, etc.

EXTERNAL PARTNERSHIPS &

COMMUNITY SUPPORT
• Corporate Sponsorships: Allows corporations
to invest in new or existing recreation facilities,
programs or events.
• Partnerships & Interlocal Agreements: Joint
funding effort in partnership with separate
agencies, including government entities, non-
profits, or private businesses. Based on a
negotiated agreement, partners often share the
asset, along with their associated operational
and maintenance costs and responsibilities.
• Private Donations & Friends Groups: Funds,
land, or in-kind services via campaigns or
endowments.
• Volunteerism: Donation of time to assist the
department in providing a service.

FRANCHISES & LICENSES
• Naming Rights: Sale of naming rights for new
or renovated facilities.
• Utility Easements: Leasing rights for utility
companies to develop above- or below-ground
infrastructure on parkland
128 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Funding Alignment
Matrix
Table 5.2 maps key Master Plan recommendations
to the most relevant funding sources. This alignment
illustrates how Santa Clara can maximize existing
tools while strategically pursuing new opportunities.

Some key observations follow.

Built-in Alignment: Many recommendations can be
delivered through existing streams (developer fees,
CDBG, utility rebates).

Bond Leverage: Measure I (2024) provides bond
capacity for large-scale park and aquatic projects.

Stable Entitlement: CDBG continues to offer a
dependable stream for smaller, high-impact projects.

Utility Incentives: SVP and Valley Water rebates can
be embedded into facility design to offset costs.

Developer Leverage: Future development
agreements present opportunities for major land
dedications or direct contributions.

REALIZING OUR VISION | 129

PROJECT CATEGORY RECOMMENDATION POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES Improve Existing Parks
Add/improve restrooms, seating, shade, walking
loops, and universal design features (per Kitchell
Report and Park Improvement Tiers)
Mitigation Fee Act & Quimby; 2024 bond funds; General
Fund Capital Projects Reserve (safety/ADA); County
Inclusive Playground Grants (supplemental); SVP &
Valley Water rebates (lighting, irrigation)
Provide New Parks
Plan and develop the 35-acre new park in north
Santa Clara
Developer contributions; LWCF; Parkland in-lieu fees;
General Fund Capital Projects Reserve (match)
Acquire 86 acres of additional parkland
Joint-Use Agreements; Parkland in-lieu fees; Open
Space Authority Urban Grants; LWCF; developer
agreements
Develop and operate 86 acres of additional
parkland
Quimby/MFA; Joint-Use Agreement; Mello-Roos
(operations/maintenance); Urban Greening
Enhance Indoor
Facilities
Remodel/expand Community Recreation Center
CDBG entitlement; SVP rebates (HVAC/lighting); Valley
Water rebates (fixtures); General Fund reserve (ADA)
Remodel Senior Center
CDBG entitlement; SVP rebates; Valley Water rebates;
General Fund reserve
Remodel Youth & Teen Center
CDBG entitlement; SVP rebates; Valley Water rebates;
General Fund reserve
Provide New Indoor
Facilities
Construct new north Santa Clara Library/
Recreation Center
Mello-Roos; GO bonds (large-scale facility funding,
Measure I precedent); CDBG entitlement
Construct new recreation center with
gymnasium
Mello-Roos; GO bonds (large-scale facility funding,
Measure I precedent); CDBG entitlement
Sustainable Aquatic
Facilities
Complete ISC improvements (design and
construction)
2024 bond funds; SVP rebates (pool pumps, HVAC);
Valley Water rebates (conservation)
Evaluate facilities and develop aquatics strategy
2024 bond funds; CDBG planning funds; General Fund
Capital Projects Reserve; Valley Water mini-grants
Connected Trail System
Develop Citywide trail network
Active Transportation Program (10% match);
Recreational Trails Program (12% match); VTA Measure
B; Parkland fees
Implement safe crossings and traffic calming SS4A (10–20% match); VTA Measure B Tree Canopy
Design and implement Tree Master Plan and
Inventory.

CAL FIRE Urban Forestry grants; California ReLeaf;
Urban Greening; General Fund Reserve (inventory
software).

TABLE 5.2 | Funding Sources for Key Capital Improvements 130 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN

5.3 CALL TO
ACTION
The Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Master Plan
provides a road map for enhancing, expanding, and
sustaining our community’s parks and recreation
assets. It outlines strategies for prioritization,
maintenance, staffing, and funding to ensure these
spaces meet the needs of all residents.

Bringing this vision to life will require the
collaboration of City staff, elected officials, and
community members alike. By making smart
investments now, Santa Clara can ensure that current
and future residents have access to safe, welcoming,
and high-quality parks and recreation opportunities.

Together, we can create a thriving, vibrant parks and
recreation system for the future!

REALIZING OUR VISION | 131
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER | SANTA CLARA, CA
132 | SANTA CLARA PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN
ULISTAC NATURAL AREA & GUADALUPE RIVER TRAIL | SANTA CLARA, CA Appendices