Figure 4-6: Current Usage – Random Invitation Survey

4.2.2 Random Invitation Community Survey Summary (Statistically Valid)

A total of 5,500 surveys were mailed to a random sample of Oceanside residents in April 2018. The final sample size for this statistically valid survey was 487, resulting in a margin of error of approximately +/-4.4 percentage points calculated for questions at 50 percent response. The results were segmented and analyzed by presence of children in the household, ZIP code, respondent age, and length of time lived in Oceanside. Those results are presented in cases where meaningful differences were observed. Using U.S. Census Data, age, race, and ethnicity distribution in the sample were adjusted to more closely match the population profile of Oceanside.

Survey results indicate that the usage of beaches is extremely high, regardless of respondent demographics, as seen in Figure 4-6. About 97 percent of respondents said that they have visited the beach at least once in the past year and 40 percent at least once a week. Parks, trails, and special events are also very popular with the majority of respondents indicating attendance at least once in the past year. The parks in Oceanside are an important part of the community and respondents indicated parks, trails, and paths as the most important facilities (see Figure 4-7). Respondents also indicated in a second tier of responses that playgrounds, recreation centers, and special events are important facilities.

Most respondents agree that the community’s park needs are being met. Special event spaces, trails, and recreation centers, on the other hand, are less likely to be meeting the needs and represent areas for future improvements. Facilities such as golf courses and swimming centers rated considerably low in importance. Figure 4-8 indicates the importance of each facility to respondents and how important improvements to these facilities are. Facilities with high importance but that do not meet community needs are key areas for potential improvements. Improving these facilities would likely positively affect the degree to which community needs are met overall.

While reviewing Figure 4-8, please note that although a recreational amenity or activity may be found in Quadrant B, the supply of this facility may be underserving the community if it is located on the vertical axis between Quadrant A and B. The closer the activity is aligned with the red diagonal line, the more adequate high demand services are being met.

FIGURE 4-6: Current Usage – Random Invitation Survey