Whittier Parks Master Plan

City of Whittier Parks Master Plan

Adopted February 2024

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The City of Whittier would like to thank all of the community members, stakeholders, and commissioners who participated in the planning process.

City of Whittier City Council

Mayor Joe Vinatieri

Mayor Pro Tem Fernando Dutra

Council Member Cathy Warner

Council Member Octavio Cesar Martinez

Council Member Jessica Martinez

City of Whittier Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department

Virginia Santana, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services

Erin Hamilton, Community Services Manager

Mike Montoya, Parks Manager

Margo Diamond, Management Analyst

KTUA

Mark Carpenter, Principal

Jacob Leon, Project Manager

Alex Samarin, GIS Manager

Nicole Rogge, Senior Planner

Marina Varano, Senior Planner

Mariella Delfino, Planner

Isabel Perez, Planner

Kolbe Stets, GIS Analyst

Matrix Consulting Group

Alan Pennington, Principal Analyst

Chas Jordan, Senior Analyst

Khushboo Hussain, Senior Manager

RRC Associates

Kailyn Haskovec, Associate

LIST OF TABLES

Executive Summary

The City of Whittier (City) recognizes that parks, open spaces, trails, and recreational programming are essential components of healthy communities. The adequate provision, equitable distribution, and continued maintenance of these public resources are critical to the long-term quality of life in Whittier. With the City projected to grow by over 13,000 residents by the year 2045, creating new recreational opportunities and maintaining and updating existing parks and facilities will be critical to meeting the needs of all community members. The City developed the Whittier Parks Master Plan (Plan) to establish a clear and feasible path to guide the City in providing accessible, well-maintained, and diverse park facilities and programming for residents and visitors alike. The City will use this Plan as a playbook for the long-term management, investment, development, and maintenance of parks and recreation facilities over the next decade or more.

PLANNING PROCESS

This Plan was developed through a comprehensive 15-month planning process that included a citywide parks and recreation facility inventory and analysis; extensive engagement with community members, key stakeholders, and City staff; and development of both site-specific and all-encompassing recommendations for parks and recreation improvement and expansion.

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

PHASE 4

Recommendations

Park Inventory & Assessment Plan Adoption

Assess existing City parks and recreation facilities, programs, and operations.

October 2022

Community Engagement

Engage community members and key stakeholders in the planning process through a variety of outreach activities and events.

Develop policy recommendations and site-specific park recommendations to improve existing and develop new parks, facilities, and programs.

Project Timeline

Present the draft Plan to City staff and commissions for review and modification before presenting it to the City Council for adoption.

January 2024

OVERVIEW OF THE DOCUMENT

The scope of the Plan encompasses a summary of existing planning efforts; an inventory of all parks and amenities; an assessment of the current standards; projections of future conditions; input from the community; and recommendations to the City. The Plan is organized into an executive summary, four chapters, and an appendix, all of which are described below.

Executive Summary: The executive summary provides an overview of the entire document, identifies key issues and themes within the City’s park system, and provides an overview of the recommendations.

1

2

Chapter 1: An introduction to the Plan and the planning context within the City. The Chapter includes an overview of the City’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department as well as policies and guidance from relevant reports. It also contains short summaries of the community engagement efforts and the existing park system analysis. This short, yet foundational, Chapter sets the stage for the rest of the Plan.

Chapter 2: Documents and analyzes existing conditions within the City. The Chapter begins with an overview of the park system in Whittier before diving into an in-depth analysis of the City’s parks and recreation system. The Chapter explains the differences between mini-parks, neighborhood parks, and community parks, and categorizes each Whittier park into its respective category. It lists the amenities of each park, shows the level of service of the entire park system based on national averages, and compares Whittier to several other Southern California cities. It provides a series of maps that show park distribution.

Key takeaways from Chapter 2 include:

» The City has 25 parks, which total 289 acres of park land.

» The City provides 3.39 acres per 1,000 residents, which is higher than many other cities in the region, but short of the National Standard of 5 park acres per 1,000 residents.

» The City would benefit from additional recreation amenities, especially more sports courts and fields, playgrounds, walking paths, and outdoor exercise areas.

4

Chapter 3: Recommendations for the City to improve and expand the parks and recreation system. The Chapter includes initiatives, objectives, and action items to improve the existing and future level of service of parks, recreational programs, and service delivery. The Chapter also identifies infill opportunity areas and proposes new amenities to be added to existing parks. The Chapter includes an analysis of future conditions based on planned and proposed parks and facilities.

Key takeaways from Chapter 3 include:

» The projected future population will create an increased demand for more park acres and more park amenities. In preparation for this increased demand, the City will need to pursue recommendations to develop new parks and add new amenities to existing parks.

» There are 13 existing parks with infill opportunity areas to add new amenities and diversify the City’s park infrastructure. Some new amenities recommended at existing parks include court sports, field sports, walking loops, update playgrounds, and many more.

» Vacant land in Whittier is minimal, which limits the City’s ability to develop new parks. However, the Plan recommends a potential opportunity to develop a new linear park along Whittier Boulevard, as well as options to continue to leverage joint-use agreements with local schools to increase the availability of public park space.

» Given limitations on the City’s capacity to build new parks, the Plan includes several non-traditional strategies to expand parks and recreation access under land constraints.

Chapter 4: Summarizes the information gathered from the extensive community engagement efforts completed throughout the planning process. The Chapter includes public input collected from community surveys, three stakeholder focus group meetings, three pop-up events, and one community workshop. The Chapter identifies key trends and priorities of the community and stakeholders.

Key takeaways from Chapter 4 include:

» There is a desire for more sports fields and courts throughout Whittier.

» There is a desire for new amenities at existing parks, such as picnic areas, seating, walking paths, sports courts, community gardens, and aquatic facilities.

» There is a desire to extend and enhance the Whittier Greenway Trail.

» There is a desire for improved safety and security at parks through the use of fencing, lighting, and surveillance.

» There is a need for regular maintenance, renovation, and upkeep of existing park amenities and facilities with an emphasis on play equipment, restrooms, and sidewalks.

Appendices: This plan has three appendices. Appendix A is the programming and staffing assessment that includes extensive analysis about existing programs and programming capacity. It also includes staffing analysis for parks and recreation.

B C

Appendix B is the recreational trends analysis. It outlines trends in recreation on a national and local context. The purpose of this section is to inform the City of growing recreational needs as the City’s demographics change and evolve to include new programming and amenities at parks in the future.

Appendix C contains the full results of both the community survey and Statistically-valid survey.

PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES

Existing Facilities

The City has five mini parks, eleven neighborhood parks, four community parks, one regional park, and four special use facilities for a total of 289 acres of park land. The City’s 25 existing parks contain a variety of passive and active recreation amenities, including recreation and community centers, playgrounds and tot lots, sports courts and fields, splashpads and water play features, walking paths, picnic areas, a skate park, a dog park, and more. While many parks and recreation amenities currently exist in Whittier, the City sees opportunities to enhance and expand the parks and recreation system to increase park accessibility, equity, and satisfaction for the community. The City has established an ambitious goal to provide five acres of park land for every 1,000 residents. Currently, the City provides 3.39 park acres per 1,000 people, which presents both a challenge and an opportunity to better serve current and future community members. Recognizing the need for more parks is the first step towards action and can help the City pursue and secure grant funding for parks and recreation facilities.

J.G. WHITTIER PARK

PENN PARK

LEE AND ERIKA OWENS PARK

KENNEDY PARK

GUIRADO PARK HOOVER FOUNTAIN

DORLAND PARK PALM PARK

FOUNDERS PARK BROADWAY PARK

CENTRAL PARK

DOG PARK

JOE MILLER FIELD

GREENWAY TRAIL

YORK FIELD

LAUREL PARK

MICHIGAN PARK

ANACONDA PARK

MURPHY RANCH PARK

LEFFINGWELL RANCH PARK

PARNELL PARK

HELLMAN PARK

PUENTE HILLS PRESERVE

ARROYO PESCADERO TRAIL AND OPEN SPACE (CITY-OWNED)

Planned Projects

While Whittier is home to an already robust system of parks and recreation facilities, the City recognizes that gaps in park and recreation amenity access still exist and is committed to increasing park provision and quality throughout Whittier. The City is already taking strides to accomplish this through the revitalization of existing parks in Whittier.

Park renovations to Guirado Park include new halfbasketball courts and outdoor fitness stations.

Park renovations to Kennedy Park include parking lot renovation, ADA improvements, and new turf in the east area of the park.

The City launched a $15-million renovation project for Parnell Park, a 12.8-acre community park located in southern Whittier. The renovation project will include several upgraded amenities, including sports fields and courts, a splashpad, new playground equipment, an expanded Storybook Petting Zoo, picnic seating, a bandshell for community performances and summer concerts, new restrooms, and more. The Parnell Park renovation project was guided by a public outreach process, as well as direction from the City Council.

The City has recently purchased land on 1st Avenue along the newly completed Whittier Greenway Trail East Extension. It is about two acres and may include, but not limited to, landscaping, passive park amenities, and seating.

The City plans to purchase land adjacent to Anaconda

to expand the park by 0.8 acres.

GUIRADO PARK

KENNEDY PARK

PARNELL PARK

1ST AVENUE LAND

Park

ANACONDA PARK

Community Engagement

2

Community Surveys

1,148

Survey Responses

Community Priorities

4 Workshops and Pop-up Events

3

Stakeholder Focus Group Meetings

The major findings from community engagement include the desire for:

» Upgraded play structures and surfaces at existing parks.

» Additional sports fields and courts to meet the needs of local sports organizations.

» Extension of the Whittier Greenway Trail and addition of new trail connection points.

» Utilization of vacant park space for new park amenities, such as picnic areas, seating, walking paths, community gardens, and aquatic facilities.

» Improved maintenance of existing park facilities, especially restrooms, sidewalks, playgrounds, and sports fields.

» Improved park safety and security through fencing, lighting, and surveillance.

» Improved marketing and promotion of recreation programs and special events.

Statistically Valid and Open Link Survey Key Findings

Key trends from the statistically valid and open link survey responses include:

» Desire for increased safety and security

» Desire for better maintenance of parks, facilities, and fields

» Concerns about the unhoused population

» General lack of awareness of parks, programs, and sports leagues

» Interest in dog-friendly park locations

» Need for more senior and youth programs

RECOMMENDATIONS

A series of recommendations were developed to guide the improvement of Whittier’s parks, recreation facilities, and programs. These recommendations were based on the cumulative findings of the inventory and analysis of existing facilities, evaluation of current and projected recreation trends, community and stakeholder input, and best practices and industry standards.

The recommendations are organized into seven overarching initiatives:

Parks and Facilities Initiative

Improvement of existing and development of new parks and facilities infrastructure.

Programs and Services Initiative

Enhancement and expansion of recreational programs and services.

Equity and Access Initiative

Prioritization of an equitable and accessible parks and recreation system.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Placemaking Initiative

Celebration of community diversity, culture, and history at parks and recreation sites.

Sustainability and Stewardship Initiative

Elevation of environmental sustainability and stewardship at parks and recreation sites.

Administration Initiative

Incorporation of innovative strategies for an efficient and modern park and recreation system.

Connectivity Initiative

Increased connectivity of parks, recreation facilities, trails, and open spaces.

Under each initiative are a series of objectives and actions for the City to consider. The initiatives, objectives, and actions represent ideas that have evolved from the beginning of the planning process and have been influenced by public input, data analysis, and other factors. The recommendations were designed to be both bold and realistic and are intended to serve as a leading vision and actionable framework to guide City staff over the next decade or more. The recommendations can be found in more detail in Chapter 3.

The following section describes overarching short, mid, and long-term goals the City can explore to improve the parks and recreation system. They are based on the feedback collected from the community as well as the initiatives discussed earlier in this Chapter.

Short-Term Goals

Short-term project goals are those that can typically be implemented within a one to two-year time frame.

» Improve park safety and security by adding items such as lighting, new fencing, or security cameras.

» Replace play equipment that has been identified in poor condition.

» Identify all sports fields maintenance needs and implement low to mid-cost renovations such as fencing, small seating areas, or small areas of surface replacements (sod or decomposed granite).

» Identify and add low-cost passive park amenities such as picnic tables, bench seating, community gardens, or small walking paths.

» Improve marketing and communications of programs and events.

» Install small park amenities along the Whittier Greenway Trail that can enhance the recreation experience.

» Continue conversations with local school districts to identify opportunities and challenges related to the schools identified as candidates for Joint Use Agreements.

» Offer additional programming for active older adults, particularly the subset of younger seniors, using part time staff or contractors.

» Add recreation staffing to address in-demand programming that is at or over 100 percent capacity.

Mid-Term Goals

Mid-term project goals are those that can typically be implemented within a two to five-year time frame.

» Identify sites to add or replace existing splashpads/ spraygrounds.

» Identify all sports fields maintenance needs and implement mid to high-cost renovations such as lighting, large seating areas (bleachers) or large areas of sod/artificial turf enhancements.

» Perform a detailed facility and asset conditions assessment to determine deferred maintenance to bring facilities into good condition or to determine large capital investment needs.

» Conduct a feasibility study to identify private sites that can be purchased and converted to park land.

Long-Term Goals

Long -term project goals are those that can typically be implemented within a five to ten-year time frame.

» Purchase private land to construct in-demand parks amenities such as sports fields and sports courts.

» Construct a new multi-purpose recreation center that offers spaces such as a large gymnasium for indoor basketball/volleyball/pickleball, community rooms, rentable banquet spaces, exercise equipment rooms, and passive outdoor spaces.

» Construct a teen center that offers spaces such as game rooms, lounges, a small gymnasium for indoor basketball/ volleyball, and multi-purpose rooms.

» Consider renovation the Palm Park Pool to include shallow-end pool space for programming.

» Design and install basketball, volleyball, tennis, and pickleball courts.

» Identify and purchase larger areas of land to help address large diamond field and rectangular fields deficit.

Skip to page 49 for objectives and actions.

Introduction

1.1 DEFINING THE PARKS MASTER PLAN

Parks, open space, trails, and recreational programming are essential components of healthy communities. The adequate provision, equitable distribution, and continued maintenance of these public resources are critical to the long-term well-being of the City of Whittier. The Whittier Parks Master Plan (Plan) establishes a clear and feasible path that identifies accessible, well-maintained, and diverse park facilities and programming for residents and visitors.

This Plan emerged from an extensive, year-long planning process that involved City staff, elected officials, and the community. The Plan summarizes the comprehensive assessment of the City’s existing parks and recreation facilities, the recreation programming and services, and the community engagement. The project team conducted park visits, community workshops, public surveys, and a series of data-driven analyses to identify the current and future needs of Whittier residents.

Updating a Parks and Recreation Master Plan is something a city does approximately every decade. Many things can change in ten years: demographics, trends, condition of parks, etc. This is why it’s important to learn from the community, understand gaps and opportunities in the City, and determine how to allocate the City’s resources appropriately.

Although the Plan identifies goals, objectives, and opportunity areas within existing parks, it does not go into design, environmental review, or engineering detail. The Plan is meant to help City staff, elected officials, and other stakeholders make informed decisions to enhance and maintain parks, facilities, programs, and special events over the next decade. Specific park, trail, and open space design projects can be initiated outside of this master plan.

Park Highlight

The Whittier Greenway Trail is an award-winning greenway that offers residents and visitors a fun, safe, and convenient way to exercise and explore the city. The 7+ mile long greenway has had a positive impact on the community by promoting active transportation, outdoor recreation, fitness, and education. Over a half million trail users enjoy the trail annually. Residents and visitors appreciate the safe space to walk, run, and ride bikes with their families and pets. The City celebrated the opening of an extension at the eastern end of the corridor in summer 2023.

FIGURE 1-1: Context Map

Plan Overview

The Parks Master Plan includes the following components:

Inventory of City-Owned Parks

A thorough, physical assessment of the quantity and condition of park facilities and amenities.

Park “Level of Service” Analysis

An analysis of geographic and demographic data to better understand gaps and underserved populations throughout the City.

Assessment

of Recreation Programming & Staff Resources

A review of recreation and staffing resource data from the last five years to assess future opportunities.

Recommendations for Parks and Recreation Facilities & Programming

Recommendations based on feedback collected from residents, stakeholders, staff, and elected officials.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

A comprehensive community and stakeholder outreach program comprised of meetings, workshops, surveys, online tools, and more.

Implementation Strategies

Implementable short, mid, and longterm projects that will inform the City’s annual Capital Improvement Program over the next ten years. 4 5 6 1 2 3

1.2 PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

The City’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department is dedicated to providing Whittier residents a wide range of parks and recreation facilities and programs. The Department is responsible for the maintenance and improvement of Whittier’s 23 parks, greenspace areas, street medians, and parkway trees, as well as the acquisition and development of open space for new park purposes. The Department maintains the Civic Center Complex Health Department grounds, the Uptown Historic District, and the historic Bailey House. The Department also offers recreational programming, supports cultural arts, provides senior and youth services, and promotes accessible public transit.

This Plan was developed to support the Department by providing short, mid, and long-term implementable strategies. The goals, objectives, and opportunity areas will help the Department expand access to high-quality parks, facilities, and recreation programming.

1.3 PREVIOUS PLANNING HISTORY

1.3.1 City of Whittier General Plan (2021)

The City of Whittier’s General Plan, also known as “Envision Whittier,” is a long-term plan that establishes community values and centers them in decision-making to guide Whittier’s growth through the year 2040. As Whittier grows, the General Plan will serve as a blueprint that directs development based on a collective vision for Whittier’s future. The General Plan vision is anchored by eight guiding principles, five of which relate to this Plan:

» Whittier has a small town feel with a strong sense of community where gathering spaces, engaging events, and attractive streetscapes and greenways connect the community physically and socially. Our vibrant Uptown, diverse commercial corridors, stable residential neighborhoods, and natural open spaces provide places where all community members feel at home.

» Whittier strives to preserve its historic landmarks and districts, protect its hillsides, grow local businesses, and promote quality neighborhood character while encouraging complementary, managed, and sustainable growth.

» Whittier offers attractive, convenient transportation options and provides walkable, cyclable, safer, and livable streets while continuing to strengthen access to the greater region. Community amenities are accessible by all residents.

» Whittier values and is committed to enhancing the Puente Hills preserve, a safer, and scenic trail system, and diverse recreational facilities where the community can experience nature and engage in healthy activities.

» Whittier wisely manages its open space, water, energy, and air resources for sustainable use.

» Whittier residents, business interests, and local decision makers come together and celebrate Whittier’s shared community values while working toward Whittier’s best community interests.

More specifically, the Resource Management Element and the Land Use and Community Character Element of the General Plan contain goals and policies directly relevant to this Plan.

City of Whittier General Plan: Resource Management Element (2021)

The Resource Management Element of the General Plan covers a number of topics related to the City’s natural resources, including, but not limited to Whittier’s parks and open spaces. The Element seeks to provide a system of parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces that are within a 10-minute walk or bicycle ride of any Whittier resident. The Element acknowledges the limited available space to create new parks within city limits and prioritizes the development of non-traditional parks in infill opportunity areas, as well as much-needed additional sports facilities in the eastern and southern portions of the City. In addition to planning for new park facilities, the Element strives to expand the City’s recreational programs and enrichment opportunities to serve people of all incomes, cultural backgrounds, ages, and levels of physical capabilities. The Element’s goals for parks and open space are:

1. Create a superior system of parks, recreation facilities, amenities, green spaces, and open spaces accessible to all Whittier residents.

2. Provide residents of all ages, cultures, and incomes with a range of recreation opportunities to meet multi-generational, environmental, and recreation interests.

These goals, along with their supporting policies and actions, were considered throughout the planning process and integrated into the Plan’s recommendations, where applicable.

City of Whittier General Plan: Land Use and Community Character Element (2021)

The General Plan also includes the Land Use and Community Character Element, which directs Whittier’s long-term growth and physical development by designating future land uses. One of the Element’s goals is directly applicable to this Plan: “Urban recreation and open spaces and experiences that contribute to complete neighborhoods for all residents.” This goal is supported by the policy: “Encourage active living, physical activity, health, and wellness by creating and maintaining a green network that provides equitable access to recreational facilities, parks, trails, greenways, open spaces, gardens, etc.” Both the goal and policy will be advanced through the development and subsequent implementation of this Plan.

1.3.2 Uptown Whittier Streetscape Beautification Plan (2019)

The Uptown Whittier Streetscape Beautification Plan seeks opportunities to make the historic central business district an even brighter jewel for the community through design solutions for enhanced streetscapes. Many of the proposed streetscape design elements, such as shade trees and their associated benefits, are relevant to this Plan because streetscape improvements will encourage more people to walk and bicycle to Whittier’s parks, which fosters stronger relationships between community members and the City’s park system.

1.3.3 Los Angeles Countywide Comprehensive Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment (2016)

In 2016, the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation released the Los Angeles Countywide Comprehensive Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment, which included an assessment of Whittier’s park system. The document proposed a new method to evaluate and manage parks, recreation, and open space by:

» Considering parks as key infrastructure needed to maintain and improve the quality of life for all County residents.

» Using a new series of metrics to determine park need.

» Supporting a need-based allocation of funding for parks and recreation.

» Emphasizing both community priorities and deferred maintenance projects.

1.3.4 Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan (2015)

The Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan, updated in 2015, serves as a strategy to guide and govern the future development of Whittier Boulevard, commonly referred to as the “front door” of the City. Whittier Boulevard is a major transportation corridor and hub for office and commercial uses with important connections into the City’s neighborhoods and parks. An impactful component of the document was the initiation of the Whittier Greenway Trail, which travels from the northeast corner to the southwest corner of Whittier. The trail provides a scenic greenbelt and safe active transportation corridor through the center of Whittier. Additionally, the trail facilitates easy access to many of the City’s parks, recreation, and open space amenities. Opportunities to enhance and leverage the Whitter Greenway Trail were considered in the development of this Plan.

1.3.5 Puente Hills Habitat Preservation Authority

The Puente Hills Habitat Preservation Authority (Habitat Authority) is a public agency that was created to protect and preserve the native habitat in Puente Hills. Since 1994, the Habitat Authority has managed the acquisition, restoration, and management of open space in the Puente Hills. The Habitat Authority currently manages approximately 3,870 acres of preserved public open space and has goals to expand its reach to over 4,000 acres in the future. The City owns a portion of the land that the Habitat Authority manages and the City’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department recognizes the importance of preserving the natural environment and assists the Habitat Authority in preservation efforts for the hills surrounding Whittier.

1.4 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS OVERVIEW

A major component of this Plan was to conduct extensive community engagement to help inform the existing conditions and recommendations process. The project team organized workshops, pop-ups, surveys, and stakeholder meetings to connect with the community and to try to understand their needs for recreation in Whittier. Community engagement, a series of GIS analyses, and understanding trends and projections of recreation allowed the team to make informed recommendations found in Chapter 3 of this plan.

1.4.1 Key Trends from Community Engagement

Several key trends emerged from the feedback gathered from the focus group meetings, community surveys, pop-up events, and community workshop. The most common areas of community interest and concern are summarized on this page and were used as the foundation for developing the recommendations presented in Chapter 3.

14.7 sq mi

85,306

2021 Population

$80,306

Median Household Income

37.4

Median Age

29,953 Housing Units

Average yearly high temperature Average yearly low temperature

23 City Parks

1 Greenway Trail

1 Recreation Center

4 Community Centers

1.4.2 Demographics & City Overview

Analyzing Whittier’s existing and future demographics is an important component of the planning process. This analysis can help inform decisions in the recommendations phase and help identify unique strategies for parks, public spaces, and recreation programming.

The following demographic characteristics were analyzed:

» Existing and projected total population

» Race and ethnicity

» Age distribution

» Household information

» Household income

The demographics profile was completed using the most current data available from the U.S. Census Bureau. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Whittier has a population of 85,306 residents and 29,953 housing units. The racial and ethnic makeup is 35.99 percent White, 5.08 percent Asian, 1.44 percent African American, 0.22 percent Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander, 32.05 percent some other race, and 25.22 percent of people identify as two or more races. About 77.60 percent identify as Hispanic or Latino, making up a majority of the population of Whittier.

Key demographic comparisons with other city, state, and national statistics include:

» The estimated median age in Whittier is 37.4, which is slightly higher than California’s median age (36.5) and slightly lower than the United States (38.5).

» The median household income is estimated to be $80,306, which is higher than both California ($75,235) and the United States ($62,843) median household income.

» The estimated male and female population in Whittier is almost evenly split between the sexes. 49.1 percent of the population identify as female and 50.9 identifies as male. The populations of California and the United States are also roughly evenly divided between the sexes.

Whittier Population Growth Trends

Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) projects that the population will increase by 13.5 percent to a total of 98,900 residents by the year 2045. The number of households is projected to increase by 13.2 percent to 33,500 and the total employment in Whittier will increase by 8.4 percent to a total of 38,900 by the year 2045. The projected population estimates are displayed in Figure 1-2.

FIGURE 1-2: Population Growth Projections

Analysis 2

2.1 PARK CLASSIFICATIONS

The Plan classifies the City’s parks into five categories: Mini/Pocket Parks, Neighborhood Parks, Community Parks, Special Use Parks, and Regional Parks as shown in Table 2-1. Each park type provides standard and unique recreation opportunities. The park types were analyzed both independently and collectively to determine the City’s existing conditions. City parks are depicted in Figure 2-1.

2.1.1 Mini/Pocket Parks

Mini/pocket parks are small parks that provide both passive and limited active recreation. Although they tend to focus more on passive recreation, they play an important role in providing outdoor access for neighborhoods. These parks are typically less than two acres and primarily serve residents within a half-mile walkshed. Open grassy areas, landscaped gardens, benches, picnic tables, walking paths, and playgrounds are typical park amenities.

2.1.2 Neighborhood Parks

Neighborhood parks provide passive and some active recreation. Although they are typically small-to-medium in size and usually don’t provide a large variety of recreational amenities, they play an important role in providing outdoor recreation in close proximity to neighborhoods. These parks are typically less than eight acres and serve residents within a half-mile walkshed. Open grassy areas, restrooms, picnic tables, walking paths, playgrounds, and some sports courts, such as basketball or tennis, are typical park amenities.

J.G. Whittier Park, a neighborhood park

Central Park, a neighborhood park

Aquatic Center at Palm Park, a community park

2.1.3 Community Parks

Community parks serve the daily recreational needs of both the local neighborhood and the community at large. They are generally between eight and thirty acres in size. They include larger park facilities, such as sports fields, pools, and multiple sports courts, in addition to typical park amenities, such as playgrounds and picnic areas. Community parks serve both residents within a half-mile walkshed and within a two-mile driveshed.

2.1.4 Special Use Facilities

Special use facilities are park areas that provide unique recreation opportunities. Examples include linear parks (greenways), community gardens, dedicated amphitheaters, fountains, plazas, etc. These spaces can vary greatly in size.

2.1.5 Regional Parks

Regional parks are parks that are larger than 30 acres and provide a wide range of activities for passive and/or active recreation. Regional Parks can be found within City limits and may be managed by the City, County, State, or Habitat Authority. Recreation opportunities include natural open space, sports fields, courts, cultural facilities, trails, multi-purpose buildings, playgrounds, aquatic facilities, and many other amenities.

TABLE 2-1: Park Acres by Park Type

Hellman Park, a regional park

Whittier Greenway Trail, a special use facility.

FIGURE

J.G. Whittier Park

Whittier Transit Depot Park

Joe

2.2.1 A Glimpse Into Each Whittier Park

Guirado Park | 4.7 acres

Guirado Park is a neighborhood park located in northwest Whittier to the east of Pioneer Boulevard. There are several amenities packed into this 4.7-acre park, including a small community center, two picnic areas, a playground, two half-basketball courts, one diamond field, and a restroom facility. Construction is underway to add eight outdoor fitness stations and renovate the basketball court.

Hoover Fountain | 0.6 acres

Hoover Fountain is a mini park located in northwest Whittier sandwiched between Beverly Drive and Beverly Boulevard. The park itself contains zero amenities and is considered a passive park. As the name suggests, it contains a water feature as well as public art for residents to relax and enjoy.

Dorland Park | 2.4 acres

Dorland Park is a neighborhood park that serves mostly as a passive park located between Dorland Street and Whittier Boulevard. The park consists of grassy open spaces and trees and contains zero park amenities.

Palm Park | 12.7 acres

Palm Park is a community park located in central-northwest Whittier. The Whittier Greenway trail runs through the center of the park, providing vital access to the surrounding community. Palm Park is home to the aquatic center with a swimming pool where several swimming lessons and programs are offered for toddlers, youth, adults, and older adults. Other amenities at the park include a community center, tennis courts, an outdoor fitness area, a basketball court, a multi-purpose diamond field, large picnic areas, a water play feature, a playground (ages 5-12), and two tot lots (ages 2-5).

Founders Park | 5.9 acres

Founders Park is a neighborhood park and it is located in the northern-central area of Whittier between Dorland Street and Broadway Avenue. It serves mostly as a passive park with walking paths, trees, and a memorial in the center.

Broadway Park | 1.9 acres

Broadway Park is a small neighborhood park located on Broadway Avenue between Newlin Avenue and Milton Avenue. It contains several park amenities including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a small outdoor stage, as well as two tennis courts and a restroom facility located across Milton Avenue.

Guirado Park

Palm Park Swimming Pool

Founders Memorial Park

Broadway Park

Central Park | 1.7 acres

Central Park is a neighborhood park located in the Historic District in central Whittier. It contains a few amenities, including picnic areas, a small playground for ages 2-5, and a restroom facility. The park also has other features such as public art, a small pond, and a gazebo.

Whittier Dog Park | 1.1 acres

Whittier Dog Park is located along the Whittier Greenway Trail in west Whittier. It is a 1.1-acre special use facility with dedicated spaces and amenities for dog owners. The park consists of three shade structures, a separate area for small dogs, trees, and benches throughout.

J.G. Whittier Park | 1.9 acres

John Greenleaf (J.G.) Whittier Park is a small neighborhood park located in northwest Whittier off of Whittier Avenue next to the Whittier City School District Office building. The park contains picnic areas, playgrounds, restroom facilities, as well as two multi-purpose diamond fields.

Whittier Transit Depot Park | 0.2 acres

Whittier Depot Transit Park is a small passive mini park located at the City of Whittier Transportation Center. There are no active amenities at the park, but there are walking paths, benches, trees, and a historic clock post.

Joe Miller Field | 2.0 acres

Joe Miller Field is a neighborhood park located in northwest Whittier. It is the home of the Whittier Community Center and Whittier Senior Center, where many recreational programs are offered to residents of all ages. The park also contains a baseball field, which has restroom facilities and bleacher seating. The Uptown Whittier Skate Park is also located here.

Central Park

J.G. Whittier Park

Whittier Deport Transit Park

Dog Park

Penn Park | 5.6 acres

Penn Park is a neighborhood park located just south of the Whittier College Athletic Complex in north-central Whittier. It has a meandering pathway and a natural creek water feature with many trees and shaded areas. The amenities include a large group picnic area, playgrounds, a water play feature, and a restroom facility.

Lee and Erika Owens Park | 1.5 acres

Lee and Erika Owens Park is a small neighborhood park with many amenities packed into the 1.5 acre park. It includes a splashpad, two playgrounds, two half-basketball courts, a restroom facility, walking paths, and an outdoor exercise area.

Kennedy Park | 1.5 acres

Kennedy Park is a mini park located in central Whittier. The park contains a few amenities, including two picnic areas, playgrounds, and a restroom facility. Construction is underway for park renovation and upgrade to the parking lot.

York Field | 9.2 acres

York Field is a special-use park located in south Whittier on the corner of Santa Fe Springs Road and Mulberry Drive. The park contains baseball and softball fields with covered bleachers for spectators. The park also has picnic areas, a playground, a snack bar, and restroom facilities.

Laurel Park | 0.8 acres

Laurel Park is a mini park located off Jacmar Avenue in central Whittier. The park contains a few amenities, including a picnic area, a tot lot, and a restroom facility.

Penn Park

Lee & Erika Owens Park

Kennedy Park

York Field

Michigan Park | 10.0 acres

Michigan Park is a community park located in central Whittier on the corner of La Cuarta Street and Michigan Avenue. The park contains a large group picnic area with dozens of tables. The park also includes two play areas, one for children ages 2-5 and another for children ages 5-12. The playground equipment includes a dinosaur skeleton that kids can climb and play on. Other amenities include a restroom, fitness stations, a water play feature, and a multi-purpose diamond field.

Anaconda Park | 2.7 acres

Anaconda Park is a small neighborhood park located off of Ben Hur Avenue in southeast Whittier. Amenities include a small walking loop with five outdoor fitness stations, playground, restroom facility, picnic area, and two half-basketball courts.

Murphy Ranch Park | 19.4 acres

Murphy Ranch Park is a large 19-acre community park that serves mostly as a passive open space park with hiking trails.

Leffingwell Ranch Park | 2.2 acres

Leffingwell Ranch Park is a neighborhood park located west of the Whittwood Branch Library on Starbuck Street and Santa Gertrudes Avenue. The park contains park amenities, such as four tennis courts, a picnic area, and a playground.

Parnell Park | 11.6 acres

Parnell Park is a community park located in eastern Whittier. Located on the park site is the Parnell Storybook Zoo which is a small viewing zoo open to the public with miniature horses, alpacas, tortoises, and more. The Parnell Park Community and Senior Center are also located here which offer programs to residents of all ages. The park contains several amenities including three picnic areas, playgrounds, a restroom, a water play feature, a multi-purpose diamond field, and a basketball court.

Whittier City Council has approved a complete park renovation plan, securing millions of dollars in State and County Grant funding to enhance athletic fields, open space, splash pad, and more.

Michigan Park Murphy Ranch Park

Parnell Park Storybook Zoo

Anaconda Park

Storybook Zoo at Parnell Park

Skip to page 67 for park infill recommendations.

2.3 ADJACENT PARK FACILITIES

Puente Hills Preserve

Puente Hills Preserve is a nearly 4,000-acre public open space area partially located within the northeast portion of Whittier. Puente Hills Preserve is managed by the Puente Hills Habitat Preservation Authority (Habitat Authority) but the City does own a portion of this land. The Preserve is considered an important recreation amenity and environmental asset to the community. Puente Hills Preserve contains 25 miles of recreational trails with options for hiking, bicycling, equestrian, walking dogs, and viewing wildlife. Three trailheads can be accessed from Whittier: Arroyo Pescadero Trailhead, Hellman Park Trailhead, and Turnbull Canyon Trailhead. The approximate boundary of the Puente Hills Preserve is depicted in Figure 2-2.

Pío Pico State Historic Park

Pío Pico State Historic Park is a 5-acre California State Park and Historic Landmark located in the northwest corner of Whittier, just west of the I-605 freeway and near the entrance to the Greenway Trail. Park features include historic gardens, grassy lawns, and the restored adobe home of Pío Pico, which contains interpretive displays, a horno (bread oven), and a dovecote. The City of Whitter owns the land but the park is operated by the State of California. Pío Pico State Historic Park is depicted in Figure 2-2.

Greater Whittier Regional Aquatic Center

This Aquatic Center was opened in 2022 and features a Olympic-sized swimming pool, a practice pool, and a new building with changing rooms, restrooms, and classrooms. It also offers programs to people of all ages and open-swim hours. This facility is located just 1.5 miles from Whittier’s western boundary in West Whittier-Los Nietos.

Sorensen Park

Sorensen Park is an 11-acre community park located in an unincorporated area just outside of Whittier. Sorenson Park is owned and operated by Los Angeles County, but is widely used by Whittier residents due to its close proximity to the City. This park offers a variety of amenities, including basketball courts, baseball fields, shaded picnic areas, community centers, computer labs, outdoor stages, and many others. Sorensen Park is depicted in Figure 2-2.

La Bonita Park

La Bonita Park is a community park in La Habra, east of Whitter’s City Boundary. It contains a wide variety of amenities including four baseball/softball fields, a skatpark, batting cages, a futsal/basketball multi-use court, picnic areas, a playground, and walking paths. La Bonita Park is depicted in Figure 2-2.

Other Parks near the City Boundary

» La Mirada Creek Park

» Oeste Park

» Terraza Park

» Osornio Park

» Adventure Park

» McNees Park

Source:L.A.CountyParks&Recreation

Puente Hills Preserve

Sorensen Park

Greater Whittier Regional Aquatic Center

FIGURE 2-2: Adjacent Parks

La Bonita Park

2.4 TRAILS & OPEN SPACE

2.4.1 Whittier Greenway Trail

The Whittier Greenway Trail is a 7.4-mile long commuter and recreational path. It spans entirely from north to south of the City beginning at Pioneer Boulevard and ending at Valley View Avenue reaching the border with the City of La Habra. The trail has become a vital asset to Whittier’s parks and recreation system since it opened in 2009. It has an impressive annual usage of over half a million trail users and has successfully promoted active transportation, outdoor recreation, fitness, and education in Whittier. Community members and outside visitors have embraced the space as a safe place to walk, run, and bike with their friends, family, and pets.

The trail is a part of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority Southeast Area Bicycle Master Plan and now connects the LA County trail network to the Orange County trails as the east extenstion is recently completed. The ultimate goal of the Trail is to connect neighboring cities from east and west connecting the San Gabriel River Trail to the Santa Ana River Trail.

2.4.2 Puente Hills Habitat Authority

The Puente Hills Habitat Authority maintains several City-owned trailheads and open spaces in the northern areas of the City depicted in Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2. This vital partnership between the City and the Habitat Authority enables public access to passive recreational amenities. The three trails in City limits include the Arroyo Pescadero Trail, the Hellman Park Trail, and the Turnbull Canyon Trail.

Arroyo Pescadero Trail

The Arroyo Pescadero trailhead is located east of the City adjacent to Colima Road. This trail is a two mile loop in Puente Hills Preserve.

Hellman Park Trail

Hellman Park trailhead is located at the north end of the City, on Greenleaf Avenue. This trailhead contains two out-and-back trails located in Hellman Park.

Turnbull Canyon Trail

Turnbull Canyon trailhead is located north of the City and about a halfmile east of Painter Avenue. The trail is a 1.2 mile out-and-back trail.

Whittier Greenway Trail Bridge

Whittier Greenway Trail, East Extension

Whittier Greenway Trail

Arroyo Pescadero Trailhead

2.5 SCHOOL FACILITIES

The City of Whittier has partnerships with three school districts in the City. The use of these school facilities varies with most of them being utilized for programming purposes. The use is limited to non-school house or district business and it encompasses use of fields, pools, and general facility use. The use agreement with East Whittier City School District is currently undergoing updates. The City currently does not have a Joint Use Agreement (JUA) with Whittier School District but they partner with the School District by using their permit system for after school programs. The lists below includes school sites, uses, and purpose.

East Whittier City School District

East Whittier Middle School

» Softball and soccer fields with lights

Hillview Middle School

» Soccer/football fields with lights

Granada Middle School

» Baseball/soccer fields

Evergreen Elementary School

» After School Program

Laurel Elementary School

» Baseball backstops

» After School Program

Ocean View Elementary School

» Baseball backstops

» After School Programs

Murphy Ranch Elementary School

» Baseball backstops

» After School Program

Leffingwell Elementary School

» Baseball backstops

» After School Program

Orchard Dale Elementary Schools

» Baseball fields

» After School Program

Scott Avenue Elementary Schools

» Baseball backstop

» After School Program

Mulberry Elementary Schools

» Baseball backstops

Whittier Union High School District

Sierra Education Center (District Offices)

» Soccer and football fields with lights

» Indoor gymnasium

» Outdoor basketball courts

» Quarter-mile walking loop

La Serna High School

» Baseball fields

» Softball fields

» Soccer fields

» Football fields

» Tennis courts

» Indoor gymnasium

» Outdoor basketball courts

» Swimming pool

California High School

» Football stadium with lights

» Baseball fields

» Soccer fields

» Softball fields

» Tennis courts

» Indoor gymnasium

» Outdoor basketball courts,

» Swimming pool

Whittier High School

» Football field

» Baseball field

» Soccer field

» Softball field

» Tennis courts

» Indoor gymnasium

» Outdoor basketball courts

» Swimming pool

Pioneer High School

» Football stadium with lights

» Baseball fields

» Soccer field

» Softball fields

» Tennis courts

» Indoor gymnasium

» Outdoor basketball courts

» Swimming pool

Whittier City School District

Hoover Elementary School

» After School Program

Skip to page 81 for recommendations for improving existing JUA’s and creating additional JUA’s.

2.6 LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS

Level of Service (LOS), within the context of park planning, is a measurement to evaluate how parks, open spaces, and facilities serve the community. For the purposes of this Plan, three different types of LOS analyses were used to determine park LOS.

1. Population-based service analysis

2. Amenity-based analysis

3. Geographic distribution-based analysis

These three LOS analysis methods allowed the project team to determine how well the existing park system is serving the community from an analytical perspective. The population-based service analysis uses population and park acres to determine LOS. The amenity-based analysis uses the quantity of park amenities and population data to compare national averages and determine surpluses and deficits. The geographic distribution-based analysis maps the geographic travelsheds of each park using the road network.

2.6.1 Population-based Level of Service Analysis

Population-based service analysis allows the City to compare itself to the national standard. The national standard is to have five park acres for every 1,000 residents. Table 2-2 shows the existing LOS in Whittier. The results show that the City currently stands at 3.39 park acres per 1,000 residents. This analysis highlights a shortcoming, meaning the City will need to add an additional 137 acres to the existing park system to reach the national standard of five acres per 1,000 residents. Although the City is currently not meeting the population-based standard. it is in a fairly positive condition as it sits above the average LOS when compared to many other southern California cities.

TABLE 2-2: 2021 Population Level of Service

2.6.2

Amenity-Based

Level of Service Analysis

A thorough analysis of Whittier’s park system was conducted. This analysis took into account the population and averaged metrics derived from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) from 2008 to 2022. An inventory that listed existing amenities for each park and existing recreational facilities throughout the City were cataloged and compared to the NRPA guideline service level and recommended benchmarks. The calculations are based on the latest population estimate

for Whittier (85,306) according to the 2021 Census American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year estimates. Results of this analysis are shown in Table 2-3.

While Amenity LOS serves as a valuable indicator for identifying deficits, it should not be the sole measure used to evaluate park facilities. It is important to consider regional trends specific to southern California, such as futsal, handball, pelota mixteca, and adventure-oriented sports like obstacle courses, climbing walls, rope courses, bouldering, pump tracks, all-inclusive playgrounds and other facilities, and adventure playgrounds. These

activities are not adequately reflected in the national survey. Therefore, it is necessary to have an additional perspective that captures the community’s priorities, needs, and impressions of the existing park system. This supplementary approach, coupled with the population-based level of service analysis, can provide a comprehensive understanding of future park requirements. Detailed discussions regarding these needs will be presented in the following chapters of the Plan.

According to the park inventory and the NRPA guidelines (see Table 2-3), the City currently meets the LOS needs under the following categories:

» Community center

» Senior center

» Picnic area (12+ People)

» Playground/tot lot (ages 2-5)

» Multi-purpose courts

» Splashpad/sprayground

Although the following categories are highlighted in red, they are within a small margin and can be considered as meeting the recommended LOS:

» Adult baseball field

» Swimming pool

» Skate park

» Pump track

» Dog park

The City does not meet the following categories based on the NRPA guidelines:

» Recreation center

» Teen center

» Nature center

» Playground (ages 6-12)

» Restroom facility

» Basketball

» Volleyball

» Tennis

» Futsal

» Youth baseball

» Youth and adult softball

» Rectangular soccer fields for both youth and adult

» Football

» Lacrosse

» Multi-purpose fields

» Outdoor stage and amphitheater

» Community garden

» Walking paths

» Outdoor exercise areas

Splashpad at Lee and Erika Owens Park

* Indicates an amenity with multiple uses. Use types listed below as a subset item. ** Indicates group of picnic tables.

2.6.3 Geographic

Distribution-Based Level of Service Analysis

A Geographic Distribution Analysis (GDA) was performed at all of the City parks. GDA examines the walktime and drivetime to these parks and facilities as determined by using a Geographical Information System (GIS) based parkshed analysis. Results from the half-mile walkshed analysis are displayed in Figure 2-3.

The park’s GDA analysis considers the percentage of the population served by mini/ pocket parks, neighborhood, community, and special-use parks. The method used takes into account walking or driving distances based on typical walking and driving routes that

someone would use to get to these parks. This method uses the actual road network, which puts attention on the need to improve the local sidewalk, road network, and entryways to parks to improve access to park facilities. The GDA is important because it highlights the areas that do not fall within these travelshed areas and do not have access to parks within a half-mile walk or two-mile drive.

Parksheds

For each park in Whittier, a GIS analysis was completed to show the general areas where residents have walkable access to parks. This analysis generated polygons that represents a half-mile walkshed or 15-minute walk, given a walking speed of 2.5 mph (slowed to 2 mph

to take into account street crossings, some with signals). The results of the analysis are displayed as walkshed polygons, that are shown as the green dot hatch areas on Figure 2-3. Figure 2-3 also shows that a majority of the residential land area in Whittier is covered within a half-mile travelshed; however, major gaps exist in the southeast and east areas of the City. Park gaps in the Friendly Hills and Leffingwell neighborhoods, as well as a small area in the north, should be examined closer in the recommendations section of this Plan.

FIGURE 2-3: Half Mile Park Walksheds

Amenity-Specific Parksheds

The following series of maps feature park walksheds of parks with specific amenities. These maps illustrate the spatial distribution of amenities across Whittier, such as playgrounds, sports courts (basketball, tennis, and pickleball), and sports fields (baseball, softball, soccer, etc.).

The map in Figure 2-4 displays the 1/2-mile park walkshed of parks that currently have playgrounds. A significant playground gap exists within the Friendly Hills neighborhood

and other eastern areas of the City. Playgrounds are present at most of the City’s existing parks. The map also features census data on children under 18 years, providing insights into where more playgrounds may be necessary to serve the community.

Figure 2-5 reveals that the City has seven parks with sport courts. However, the only sport courts provided are basketball and tennis courts. This analysis highlights gaps in several areas throughout the City.

Figure 2-6demonstrates that the City has seven parks with fields scattered throughout the City. However, the only field types provided are baseball and softball fields. This creates significant gaps in central and east Whittier.

Playgrounds Fields Sport Courts

FIGURE 2-4: Half Mile Playgrounds Walksheds

FIGURE 2-5: Half Mile Sport Courts Walksheds

FIGURE 2-6: Half Mile Fields Walksheds

2.7 PARK PRESSURE

Park pressure is a modeled analysis of park size and accessibility. This process takes into account the number of residents that reside within a parkshed. The park centered at each shed offers its unique amount of acres per the number of residents in the covered half-mile area. It is assumed that residents use the park that is closest to them. Based on the NRPA, we use the ratio of 5 acres per 1,000 residents to be the standard or baseline of the park pressure formula. Areas may have a surplus of acres per 1,000 residents or a deficit based on the unique makeup of the location. The model for this analysis is represented in Figure 2-7.

There are many parksheds within the City that fall within the deficit category. These are shown as the red, orange, and yellow colors in Figure 2-8. These are areas that have a greater number of residents for a smaller amount of park acres available to them. Areas around the southern part of the Greenway Trail, Central Park, Michigan Park, and York Field have greater park pressure.

The dark to light green areas represent where pressure on the parks is lighter meaning there’s a greater acre-to-resident ratio. This can reflect areas with bigger parks and fewer residents in close proximity. Areas around Murphy Ranch, Hellman Park, Broadway Park, and Founders Memorial Park fall have lighter park pressure.

The map also depicts splinters of sheds that are different in color from their neighbors. These areas show smaller overlapping sheds that fall on the far sides of the standard park-to-residents ratio. Thus, a greater number of acres per 1,000 residents or a much lower number of acres per 1,000 residents and vice versa for residents per acre. For example, the map depicts slivers of green next to areas of red in the southern part of the City. The closest parks are the Greenway Trail and Parnell Park. These two green splinters display areas where there is a gap in residents for the number of acres those sheds provide. The surrounding area is mainly red to deep orange, indicating a higher residential density with limited access to park spaces.

FIGURE 2-7: Park Pressure Model

FIGURE 2-8: Park Pressure

2.8 PARK EQUITY

Despite the widespread and well-documented benefits of parks and open spaces to health and well-being, in many cities across the United States, these benefits are not distributed equitably. Studies show that racial and socio-economic factors play a role in the provision, distribution, and quality of parks in many cities across the nation. In 2021, The Trust for Public Land reported that neighborhoods where residents predominantly identify as people of color have access to an average of 44 percent less park acreage than predominantly white neighborhoods, and low-income neighborhoods average 42 percent less park acreage per person than high-income neighborhoods. The Trust for Public Land also revealed that parks in communities of color are, on average, five times more likely to be crowded and smaller than parks that serve white populations. Similarly, parks that primarily serve low-income households are, on average, four times smaller than parks that serve a majority of high-income households. Studies have also shown that in addition to having access to less park acreage, low-income communities and communities of color tend to have access to lower-quality parks with less recreational programming.

Recognizing systemic inequities in park access and quality is integral to creating an equitable park and recreation system for Whittier. The Envision Whittier General Plan (2021) established goals for addressing community-wide injustices and determined that access to public facilities, including parks and recreation, should be prioritized within Disadvantaged Communities. Disadvantaged Communities refer to State-identified communities that experience combined high levels of economic, health, and environmental burdens. As displayed in Figure 2-9, the highest impacted Disadvantaged Communities within Whittier are located south of Whittier Boulevard (SR-72), along both sides of Washington Boulevard, and west of Santa Fe Springs Road to the western City boundary. Some neighborhoods in and around Uptown are also designated as Disadvantaged Communities.

Figure 2-10 highlights areas where residential areas with limited park access overlap with Disadvantaged Communities. The yellow areas show residential neighborhoods that are not within a half-mile (walking distance) of a park to show areas with limited park access. The red areas show residential neighborhoods with limited park access that are also designated as Disadvantaged Communities. Unlike other cities, in Whittier, there are relatively few areas where gaps in park access overlap with Disadvantaged Communities, indicating that park deficiencies do not disproportionately affect underserved neighborhoods. However, while these areas are limited in Whittier, they still exist. For example, the areas outlined in red, located south of Whittier Boulevard, contain Disadvantaged Communities with limited park access. To address systemic injustices, invest in Whittier’s Disadvantaged Communities, and advance City-adopted policies in the Envision Whittier General Plan, the areas featured in Figure 2-10 and Figure 2-11 should be prioritized for any park improvement, enhancement, or development projects.

FIGURE 2-9: Park Access in Disadvantaged Communities

FIGURE 2-10: Disadvantaged Communities with Limited Park Access

2.9 PROGRAMMING OVERVIEW

The City of Whittier provides a wide variety of recreational programming activities for the community to enjoy. These programs are hosted at a number of City-owned facilities, as well as local schools, neighboring community facilities (such as La Habra), and private locations.

Palm Park Aquatic Center

Whittier Uptown Senior Center

Whittier Community Center

Parnell Park Community and Senior Center

The City offers recreational programs and events in the following topics listed below:

Youth Programs

» Adaptive Recreation, 14+

» Arts and Crafts

» Cheerleading

» Day Camps

» Dance

» Students Run Whittier

» Special Interest

» Sports

» Theater

» Whittier Youth Network (WYN) Club

» VolunTEENS

Adult Programs

» Adaptive Recreation , 14+

» Aquatics

» Arts and Crafts

» Dance

» Fitness

» Music

» Sports

Senior Programs

» Painting

» Dance

» Fitness

» Quilting

» Special Interests

» Special Events

» Sports

» Trips

Skip to Appendix A for full programming and staffing analysis

Recommendations

3.1 THE FUTURE OF WHITTIER PARKS

The Plan provides a set of goals, objectives, and implementation actions to guide the City’s parks and recreation efforts over the next ten years. These recommendations are based on the findings of a comprehensive year-long planning process and integrate guidance from the Envision Whittier General Plan (2021), insights from extensive community and stakeholder engagement, and results from LOS, and comparative analyses. Taken together, the information gathered and lessons learned throughout the planning process have led to the development of visionary, yet realistic recommendations for the City to consider to improve the quality of life for current and future Whittier residents.

GUIDE TO RECOMMENDATIONS

INITIATIVE: An initiative represents an overarching theme addressed by the Plan. Each initiative is supported by guiding objectives and implementation actions designed to guide City staff.

OBJECTIVE: An objective serves as a goal to be accomplished through the successful implementation of the Plan. Clear objectives help visualize desired outcomes and are achieved through implementation actions.

ACTION: An action is a well-defined step that the City can take to reach Plan objectives. Actions provide City staff with a clear path to implement the Plan over time. As actions are completed, objectives go from being goals to actualized outcomes.

3.1.1 Plan Initiatives

The Plan recommendations provide a guide and vision for how Whittier can continue to plan, design, and implement park-related projects and programs. The recommendations are categorized into seven guiding initiatives:

1

Parks and Facilities Initiative

Improvement of existing and development of new parks and facilities infrastructure.

2

Programs and Services Initiative

Enhancement and expansion of recreational programs and services.

3 4

Equity and Access Initiative

Prioritization of an equitable and accessible parks and recreation system.

Connectivity Initiative

Increased connectivity of parks, recreation facilities, trails, and open spaces.

5 6

Placemaking Initiative

Celebration of community diversity, culture, and history at parks and recreation sites.

Sustainability and Stewardship Initiative

Elevation of environmental sustainability and stewardship at parks and recreation sites.

7

Administration Initiative

Incorporation of innovative strategies for an efficient and modern park and recreation system.

3.2 PARKS AND FACILITIES INITIATIVE

Parks and recreation facilities often serve as community beacons due to the essential services they provide to enhance community health, well-being, and camaraderie. Parks and facilities with a variety of amenities are more likely to provide a well-rounded recreation experience and accommodate the diverse interests and needs of community members. Park amenities like sports fields and courts, playgrounds, outdoor exercise areas, walking paths, picnic areas, and more are important elements that attract park users. Park assets like benches, trash cans, shade, and picnic tables help to facilitate a more comfortable and accessible park experience for visitors. Maintaining the right balance between active and passive park elements is critical to a successful park system.

While Whittier is already home to a robust system of quality parks and recreation facilities, the work to provide diverse, accessible, and well-maintained parks and facilities must continue. The Parks and Facilities Initiative seeks to increase the variety of amenities at existing parks and facilities, while also exploring opportunities for the development of new park and recreation spaces in underserved areas.

Objective 1.1 Provide a variety of amenities spread throughout Whittier’s existing parks and recreation facilities through infill development.

» ACTION 1.1.1 Consider the addition of new amenities at existing City-owned properties, as shown in the infill opportunity areas in section 3.12 of this Chapter.

» ACTION 1.1.2 Identify which parks will require individual park master plans to redevelop into well-balanced parks that address park amenity gaps and recreation needs.

» ACTION 1.1.3 Install new recreation amenities at existing parks as identified in section 3.12 of this Chapter to address park amenity level of service deficits such as playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, rectangular soccer fields, tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts.

» ACTION 1.1.4 Prioritize the addition of new and renovation of existing amenities that will increase the Level of Service and/or increase amenity access in underserved areas.

» ACTION 1.1.5 Consider renovation the Palm Park Swimming Pool to include shallow-end pool space.

» ACTION 1.1.6 Renovate existing sports courts and fields as needed and defined by a facility conditions assessment.

» ACTION 1.1.7 Provide comfortable seating adjacent to playgrounds for adults.

Objective 1.2 Build new parks and recreation facilities to address park gaps and recreation amenity needs.

» ACTION 1.2.1 Identify vacant land in existing indoor recreation gap areas to develop new indoor recreation facilities (Teen Center, Recreation Center, etc.).

» ACTION 1.2.2 Pursue and/or allocate funding to construct new indoor recreation facilities in underserved areas (Teen Center, Senior Center, etc.).

» ACTION 1.2.3 Explore the feasibility of developing flexible-use and multi-purpose fields in underserved areas.

Objective 1.3 Maintain high-quality parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 1.3.1 Continue conducting facility conditions assessments yearly to determine improvement and capital investment needs to bring facilities into good condition.

» ACTION 1.3.2 Employ the necessary number of park maintenance staff to ensure parks are as clean and safe as possible.

3.3 PROGRAMS AND SERVICES INITIATIVE

High-quality parks and facilities provide the foundation for an attractive and enjoyable recreation experience, but programs and services are what bring them to life. Programs and services provide community members of all age groups and abilities with low and no-cost options to engage in physical activity, learn new skills, and meet new friends. Providing a broad range of programs and activities allows the community to stay engaged and keeps the parks activated year-round. The provision of diverse and accessible recreational programs, community services, and special events is a vital component of this Plan. The Programs and Services Initiative strives to enhance and expand recreational programs and services to meet the needs of a growing and changing population.

Objective 2.1 Expand recreational programs and community services.

» ACTION 2.1.1 Expand Youth Services programming by offering more opportunities for half-day and full-day camps through partnerships with local facilities.

» ACTION 2.1.2 Evaluate the development of multi-purpose fields throughout the parks that could be utilized for multiple sports activities.

» ACTION 2.1.3 Continue to further collaborate with affiliates to expand youth sports (softball, soccer, and football).

» ACTION 2.1.4 Expand performing arts programming through collaborations with neighboring theaters in the community.

» ACTION 2.1.5 Consider the development of more non-sport park activities to engage residents and encourage community involvement.

» ACTION 2.1.6 Institute Teen, Young Adult, or Student programming offerings that serve the City’s high school and college-aged residents.

» ACTION 2.1.7 Partner with additional area businesses and community organizations to provide low-cost nutritional, recreational, and transportation programming options for seniors.

Objective 2.2 Provide more diverse program offerings.

» ACTION 2.2.1 Establish classes that utilize indoor facilities in programmable spaces.

» ACTION 2.2.2 Continue to have a diverse range of contracted instructors to offer enhanced fitness programming in Whittier.

» ACTION 2.2.4 Include more programming for adult residents without children.

» ACTION 2.2.5 Explore more alternative programming options, such as chess, gaming, and programming for toddlers.

» ACTION 2.2.6 Continue to develop and enhance Adaptive programming offerings and expand daytime programming.

Objective 2.3 Modernize existing program offerings.

» ACTION 2.3.1 Purchase equipment and materials to provide new fitness and other training programs that are focused on modern options.

» ACTION 2.3.2 Consider the implementation of an e-sports programming option that provides the ability for competitive online gaming.

3.4 EQUITY AND ACCESS INITIATIVE

Easy and comfortable access to parks, open spaces, and recreation facilities is vital to mental and physical health and well-being. The Envision Whittier General Plan (2021) recognized the importance of park access and established a goal to create a system of parks, recreation facilities, amenities, green space, and open spaces that is accessible to all Whittier residents via an easy 10-minute walk or bicycle ride. The City also committed to prioritizing projects to improve park and recreation access in Disadvantaged Communities. The Equity and Access Initiative provides a pathway for the City to prioritize the creation of an equitable and accessible parks and recreation system.

Objective 3.1 Create a system of parks, recreation facilities, amenities, green space, and open spaces accessible to all Whittier residents via an easy 10-minute walk or bicycle ride.

» ACTION 3.1.1 Assess existing parks and gathering spaces around Uptown and within Disadvantaged Communities, and ensure that opportunities are offered within comfortable walking distance of homes, schools, and businesses to encourage more physically and socially active lifestyles.

» ACTION 3.1.2 Prioritize the addition of new parks and recreation facilities in park-deficient areas, higher-density areas with little access to private outdoor spaces, and/or Disadvantaged Communities.

» ACTION 3.1.3 Consider unique neighborhood needs when developing recreation facilities and programs for indoor and outdoor activities within Disadvantaged Communities.

» ACTION 3.1.4 Engage residents, property owners, business owners, and organizations in the planning process for any new parks and recreation facility development projects.

» ACTION 3.1.5 Evaluate opportunities to acquire land for temporary and/or permanent parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 3.1.6 Identify feasible locations to develop pocket parks in underserved areas with limited land vacancy.

Objective 3.2 Provide residents of all ages, cultures, and incomes with a range of recreation services to meet multigenerational, recreational, and educational interests and needs.

» ACTION 3.2.1 Evaluate the demographics of participants in Whittier’s programming, events, and services to determine if participation is representative of community demographics.

» ACTION 3.2.2 Conduct targeted outreach to neighborhoods and demographics with low participation in Whittier programs and services.

» ACTION 3.2.3 Explore ways to provide additional access to wireless communications services (free public WiFi) at all parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 3.2.4 Provide additional temporary “pop-up” recreational programming in park-deficient areas with limited access to standard recreational programming (yoga in the park, ultimate frisbee, pick up games for soccer and football, scavenger hunts, book clubs, art classes, etc.)

» ACTION 3.2.5 Consider providing public transportation for residents in park-deficient areas and Disadvantaged Communities to facilitate access to special events.

» ACTION 3.2.6 Expand existing scholarship program to provide reduced or eliminated fees for programs for youth.

Objective 3.3 Create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 3.3.1 Use multiple languages and easy-to-understand graphics on parks and recreation signage and posted information.

» ACTION 3.3.2 Install accessible play equipment for children with disabilities and park amenities at existing and new parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 3.3.3 Identify potential parks for a future all-inclusive playground in Whittier.

» ACTION 3.3.4 Design new parks and recreation facilities to be welcoming and inclusive to all Whittier residents and visitors.

» ACTION 3.3.5 Design interesting playground seating for parents and guardians to make playgrounds fun and inclusive for everyone.

3.5 CONNECTIVITY INITIATIVE

Providing safe paths and trails between parks, schools, and residential neighborhoods is key to making Whittier parks and recreation facilities more accessible to the community. People are often more inclined to walk or bicycle to parks if they are given a safe and direct route to take. Not only can the addition of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure provide community members with the means to access parks without a vehicle, but they also facilitate exercise and outdoor recreation experiences. The Connectivity Initiative aims to increase the connectivity of Whittier parks, recreation facilities, trails, and open spaces by increasing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, promoting active transportation, and expanding the popular Greenway Trail.

Objective 4.1 Provide pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections to new and existing parks and recreation facilities to enhance use and access.

» ACTION 4.1.1 Identify and remove any barriers to access for Whittier parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 4.1.2 Install bicycle and pedestrian amenities at and adjacent to parks and recreation facilities, such as on-site multi-use paths, sidewalk improvements, bicycle racks, benches, and pedestrian signal push-buttons at nearby intersections, where appropriate.

» ACTION 4.1.3 Prioritize pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connection enhancements to new and existing parks and recreation facilities in Whittier’s Disadvantaged Communities.

» ACTION 4.1.4 Adjust Rapid Bus Service to better connect Disadvantaged Communities with parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces.

Objective 4.2 Establish a citywide pedestrian and bicycle network to connect neighborhoods and schools to parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces.

» ACTION 4.2.1 Explore the feasibility of installing new multi-use paths to connect neighborhoods, schools, parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces.

» ACTION 4.2.2 Install new multi-use paths to connect neighborhoods, schools, parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces, where feasible and as funding permits.

» ACTION 4.2.3 Close sidewalk gaps and install curb ramps within a quarter mile of parks.

» ACTION 4.2.4 Continue to implement the City of Whittier Bicycle Transportation Plan (2013) and update as necessary.

» ACTION 4.2.5 Coordinate with developers to install missing pedestrian and bicycle facilities if a development is adjacent to or near parks, an existing trail, or a multi-use path.

Objective 4.3 Promote walking, bicycling, and taking public transit to Whittier parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 4.3.1 Conduct public outreach to promote walking, bicycling, and public transit as viable transportation modes to parks and recreation facilities. Public outreach may include, but is not limited to educational materials, signage, special events, interactive contests, or social media campaigns.

» ACTION 4.3.2 Provide bicycle etiquette and safety training for youth, adults, and families.

» ACTION 4.3.3 Host guided bicycle rides, nature walks, and other special events to introduce residents to walking and bicycling routes to parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 4.3.4 Establish pedestrian-scale wayfinding signage along trails and popular routes to parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 4.3.5 Create park entrances, rest stops, and trail access points along trails and multi-use paths to encourage walking and bicycling to parks.

Objective 4.4 Expand and enhance the Greenway Trail.

» ACTION 4.4.1 Explore the feasibility of installing additional connection points to the Greenway Trail.

» ACTION 4.4.2 Install additional connection points to the Greenway Trail, where feasible and as funding permits.

» ACTION 4.4.3 Determine the need for new trail stations along the Greenway Trail.

» ACTION 4.4.4 Encourage new uses along Lambert Road to orient or otherwise provide direct public access to the Greenway Trail to activate the corridor, provide a link between Lambert Road and Whittier Boulevard, and promote walking, biking, and alternative modes of travel citywide.

» ACTION 4.4.5 Explore the feasibility of extending the Greenway Trail.

» ACTION 4.4.6 Pursue funding opportunities to extend the Greenway Trail.

» ACTION 4.4.7 Partner with regional agencies and surrounding jurisdictions to expand the connectivity of the Greenway Trail to trails outside of Whittier.

» ACTION 4.4.8 Consider an “Adopt-a-Greenway-Trail-Segment” program to engage local organizations and businesses in the stewardship and/or sponsorship of a Greenway Trail segment.

3.6 PLACEMAKING INITIATIVE

Placemaking is a term used to describe the act of enhancing a public space to cultivate a distinct sense of place. Placemaking can be achieved in various ways and by many people, both formally and informally. It is typically derived from the history, culture, and heritage of a place that can be enhanced through art, vegetation, architecture, scale, signage, programming, and others. It is further enhanced through the interaction between people and the placemaking elements. Placemaking can help people feel seen, celebrated, and part of a community. The Placemaking Initiative encourages the celebration of community diversity, culture, and history at parks and recreation sites in Whittier.

Objective 5.1 Showcase community diversity, culture, and history at parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 5.1.1 Continue to identify areas for temporary and permanent public art installations at parks and recreation facilities as stated in the Art in Public Places Master Plan (AIPP).

» ACTION 5.1.2 Continue collaborating with local artists to design and install public art at parks and recreation facilities that celebrates community diversity, culture, and history as stated in the AIPP Master Plan.

Objective 5.2 Facilitate opportunities for social interactions at Whittier parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 5.2.1 Provide additional and more formalized gathering areas for community members to host parties, meetings, and events at parks.

» ACTION 5.2.2 Provide additional park amenities that facilitate social interaction, such as outdoor exercise equipment, public art, chess tables, ping pong, corn hole, and other similar activities.

» ACTION 5.2.3 Continue to provide special events that bring the community together and encourage social interaction (i.e., movies in the park, holiday events, etc.).

» ACTION 5.2.4 Host themed pop-up events at a variety of different parks throughout Whittier.

Objective 5.3 Create a distinct sense of place at Whittier parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 5.3.1 Identify unique characteristics and features within each park and showcase them.

» ACTION 5.3.2 Install entry monuments or gateways at park entrances to establish park identity.

» ACTION 5.3.3 Integrate different park themes into the built features and buildings at parks to distinguish one park from another.

» ACTION 5.3.4 Integrate placemaking design elements into the development of future parks and recreation development projects.

Objective 5.4 Consider exploring partnerships with organizations and local businesses to sponsor new park features and amenities.

» ACTION 5.4.1 Consider partnering with local businesses to install informational kiosks in parks and along the Whittier Greenway Trail. Kiosks can be used to advertise for local Whittier businesses.

» ACTION 5.4.2 Explore identifying parks in Whittier to allow for public-private partnerships between commercial vendors like food trucks and local businesses to draw visitors to parks and provide valuable services to the community.

» ACTION 5.4.3 Consider partnerships with local businesses to sponsor signage and navigational aids along the Whittier Greenway trail and at Parks. Signage can also direct park users to Uptown Whittier and the Groves.

3.7 SUSTAINABILITY AND STEWARDSHIP

INITIATIVE

Whittier parks and recreation facilities have a key role to play in advancing environmental sustainability and stewardship in the community. Incorporating sustainable design elements and management practices into parks and recreation facilities not only reduces negative impacts on the surrounding environment, but sets a tone of leadership and responsibility for the City. Parks and recreation facilities can serve as emblems of environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Recreational programming can be designed to provide community members with the knowledge and skills needed to become environmental stewards. The Sustainability and Stewardship Initiative builds on the policies in the Envision Whittier General Plan (2021) to elevate environmental sustainability and stewardship at parks and recreation sites.

Objective 6.1 Use parks and recreation facilities as community resources to alleviate climate-related impacts.

» ACTION 6.1.1 Continue to provide publicly accessible “cooling centers” at City-owned facilities during extreme heat events to provide comfortable air-conditioned spaces in times of need.

» ACTION 6.1.2 Identify parks and recreation facilities in greatest need of additional shade.

» ACTION 6.1.3 Install shade structures above playgrounds, picnic areas, and other park amenities, where appropriate, to enable comfortable park use in hot weather.

» ACTION 6.1.4 Design new parks with adequate shade to facilitate comfortable use during the summer and extreme heat events.

» ACTION 6.1.5 Explore the feasibility of installing and upgrading drinking fountains to include water bottle filling stations at parks and recreation facilities.

Objective 6.2 Incorporate sustainable design elements into Whittier parks, recreation facilities, trails, and open spaces.

» ACTION 6.2.1 Use reclaimed water to irrigate parks, decorative fountains, and other public open space areas.

» ACTION 6.2.2 Plant shade trees in parks, along trails, and open spaces to provide passive cooling, soil stabilization, erosion reduction, and flood reduction.

» ACTION 6.2.3 Design park, trail, and recreation sites to retain and detain surface and stormwater runoff to minimize flooding and pollutant concentrations.

» ACTION 6.2.4 Replace impermeable surfaces in existing parks with natural vegetation and soils, where feasible, and limit the development of new impermeable surfaces to reduce runoff and flood hazards.

» ACTION 6.2.5 Consider the use of water-conserving appliances and fixtures in new parks and recreation facilities.

» ACTION 6.2.6 Prioritize native, climate-appropriate, and drought-tolerant landscaping at parks, trails, and open spaces to reduce water demand and create native habitats.

Objective 6.3 Preserve and protect natural open spaces that contain significant natural resources, including sensitive biological resources, native habitats, and vegetation communities supporting wildlife species as identified in the General Plan.

» ACTION 6.3.1 Continue to preserve open space areas with a diversity of habitats and plants native to Whittier while balancing the community’s recreational, scientific, economic, educational, and scenic needs.

» ACTION 6.3.2 Continue to promote native habitat preservation within the Puente Hills Preserve, including efforts to restore native vegetation damaged due to overuse or wildfire.

» ACTION 6.3.3 Control invasive and non-native vegetation in natural open space areas.

» ACTION 6.3.4 Encourage the preservation of continuous open space that promotes the movement of wildlife, such that wildlife corridors are maintained and/or re-established.

» ACTION 6.3.5 Partner with landowners and wildlife agencies to promote sustainable land use and reduce impacts to the environment and wildlife habitats

» ACTION 6.3.6 Collaborate with wildlife and conservation agencies to identify areas to target for conservation and preservation of native habitats, while allowing open space to be accessed for recreation, resource management, and public safety purposes.

» ACTION 6.3.7 Continue collaborations with Los Angeles County and natural resource agencies for evaluating proposed developments in areas adjacent to and within sensitive habitats of Whittier, including Puente Hills, with an aim to reduce impacts to ecosystem services and wildlife habitat.

Objective 6.4 Cultivate environmental awareness and stewardship at Whittier parks, trails, and open spaces.

» ACTION 6.4.1 Host environmental education programs and events to give community members the knowledge and tools to become environmental stewards.

» ACTION 6.4.2 Promote and encourage community involvement in urban ecology projects that preserve or expand neighborhood green space, create space for communities to gather, and connect people to nature.

» ACTION 6.4.3 Install interpretive signage at parks, trails, and open spaces to draw attention to and highlight the importance of Whittier’s natural habitats.

» ACTION 6.4.4 Launch a volunteer stewardship program for community members to actively participate in the care and enhancement of Whittier’s parks, trails, and open spaces.

» ACTION 6.4.5 Incorporate and showcase sustainable design elements at Whittier parks, trails, and open spaces. Sustainable design elements can include, native and drought-tolerant landscaping, reflective roofs, shade trees, bioswales, permeable pavement, rain harvesting systems, etc.

3.8 ADMINISTRATIVE INITIATIVE

Behind the scenes of every successful park and recreation system is a passionate, innovative, and efficient team of City staff. City staff conduct the essential administrative, operations, and maintenance tasks that determine the success of a park, facility, or program. Administrative responsibilities include operating lease agreements with other recreational providers, negotiating joint-use agreements, applying for funding, developing new programming, hiring and managing staff, recruiting volunteers, publicizing special events, and much more. The Administration Initiative supports the incorporation of innovative strategies for an efficient and modern park and recreation system.

Objective 7.1 Enhance park user experience by considering infrastructure enhancements.

» ACTION 7.1.1 Consider the enhancement and addition of restrooms to the parks.

» ACTION 7.1.2 Evaluate the need for lighting for continued park usage after or near sunset.

» ACTION 7.1.3 Consider the development of designated pickleball courts and programming.

» ACTION 7.1.4 Continue further enhancement of playgrounds and the upgrade of the equipment.

» ACTION 7.1.5 Continue the use of the maintenance plan for the upkeep of parks, restrooms, and equipment.

» ACTION 7.1.6 Evaluate park user traffic patterns to determine the need for additional security and/or police presence.

Objective 7.2 Improve multi-lingual (at least English and Spanish) communications and enhance overall communications for activities, events, and services.

» ACTION 7.2.1 Identify and utilize marketing tools and strategies to actively promote parks and recreation services (i.e., flyers, social media, etc.).

» ACTION 7.2.2 Engage all segments of the community through various marketing efforts, while obtaining feedback about parks services.

Objective 7.3 Leverage partnerships and joint use agreements.

» ACTION 7.3.1 Further develop partnerships with the school districts and local organizations to leverage the ability to offer expanded outdoor and indoor programming.

» ACTION 7.3.2 Research strategic partnerships with organizations such as non-profits, etc.

» ACTION 7.3.3 Generate partnerships that will further expand the variety of recreational classes offered.

Objective 8.4 Develop security systems within the park systems.

» ACTION 7.4.1 Develop a plan to implement and manage security cameras.

» ACTION 7.4.2 Continue to work with Whittier Police to prioritize parks that have been identified as safety concerns.

» ACTION 7.4.3 Add prominent signage at parks and facilities encouraging users to call and report suspicious activity to the Police Department.

» ACTION 7.4.4 Investigate solutions such as outsourced park monitoring services to immediately flag issues at parks for police to respond to.

Objective 7.5 Develop and use technology within parks, recreation facilities, and programs.

» ACTION 7.5.1 Research and develop technological methods that continuously engage parks and recreation users (i.e., interactive apps, etc.).

» ACTION 7.5.2 Explore digital methods to secure parks and recreation facilities restrooms after park hours.

Objective

7.6

Develop a Parks Maintenance Management Plan

» ACTION 7.6.1 Improve the Parks maintenance plan that incorporates the following aspects:

1. Levels of service – Designated end outcomes for the planned maintenance of parks and greenways.

2. Scheduled maintenance – Incorporating existing mowing, pruning, and landscaping schedules and documenting how levels of service are met due to that schedule.

3. Staffing requirements – Using schedules and levels of service, designate minimum staffing levels required and planned staffing assignments to document necessary resource allocation.

4. Minimum outputs – Acres mowed, park inspections performed, and other outputs, based upon set time periods (usually per month and per year).

» ACTION 7.6.2 Maintain current staffing levels and increase staff as additional park acres or parks are developed.

» ACTION 7.6.3 Evaluate reassigning parks to balance the four person team workload based on geographic location and proximity.

» ACTION 7.6.4 Maintain current standards of care including; mowing all property once per week, inspecting all parks once every two weeks, and inspecting all irrigation systems once every two weeks.

» ACTION 7.6.5 Recommend the following activities be included in routine maintenance:

1. Performing regular sporting field inspections weekly.

2. Inspecting playgrounds monthly by a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) with an annual or biannual audit.

3. Performing herbicide and fungicide review monthly and spraying annually.

3.9 FUTURE LEVEL OF SERVICE WITH EXISTING PARK SYSTEM

Whittier’s population is projected to grow by 13.5 percent by the year 2045, according to SCAG, with a total projected population of 98,900. The projected growth is going to bring many demographic changes to Whittier and can pose new challenges for the park and recreation system. It is assumed that the new population will use Whittier’s existing parks and facilities, which is going to put a higher demand on the existing park system. This section of the Plan analyzes how the projected growth will impact the City’s parks and recreation system and help identify even larger park acreage and amenity deficits.

3.9.1 Future Park Acres and Population Level of Service

If zero new parks are to be developed by the year 2045 beyond the planned future park on 1st Avenue and the expansion to Anaconda Park, but the population grows, the park acres per 1,000 population decreases by 0.44 acres to 2.95 park acres per 1,000 population as shown in Table 3-1. The City will require additional parkland to match the 2021 deficit and to address the growing deficit in park acreage.

TABLE 3-1: 2045 Level of Service with Existing Park Acres

3.9.2 Future Park

Amenity Level of Service

Table 3-2 uses the future population to determine future amenity surpluses and deficits. Using the future population, all of the park amenity deficits increase slightly because the future population grows. This table assumes that the City does not add any additional amenities or parks by the year 2045. If the City does not add additional facilities by the year 2045, the City will be in a deficit for each amenity with the exception of Community Centers, Senior Centers, Playground/totlot (ages 2-5), and splashpads/ spraygrounds.

Section 3.12 of this Chapter identifies potential opportunity areas at each park and recommended amenities for each existing park site.

LEVEL OF SERVICE FOR 2045 POPULATION (98,900

EST. POP. SCAG)

* Indicates an amenity with multiple

** Indicates group of picnic tables.

3.10 PARK PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

3.10.1 Parnell Park Renovation

Parnell Park is a 12.8-acre community park located in southern Whittier that is slated for a $15-million renovation project. The park will undergo major renovations and will include a number of upgraded amenities, including sports fields and courts, splash pad, new playground equipment, an expanded Storybook Petting Zoo, picnic seating, a bandshell for community performances and summer concerts, new restrooms, and more. The new sports fields and courts will include two multi-use fields for youth soccer leagues and two basketball courts with one serving as a dual-purpose court for pickleball. The expansion of the Storybook Petting Zoo will include larger and more functional spaces for the animals. The new playground will include a splash pad, as well as space for families to sit and gather. The Parnell Park renovation project was guided by a public outreach process, as well as direction from the City Council, and is expected to begin construction in late 2024 with approximately a year-and-a-half-long timeline for construction. This timeline is subject to change.

3.10.2 1st Avenue Park

The City has recently purchased land on 1st Avenue along the newly completed Whittier Greenway Trail East Extension. It is approximately 1.9 acres and may include, but not limited to, landscaping, passive park amenities such as seating and active park amenities such as small playground equipment, outdoor exercise stations, or half-court basketball . This project is in the early stages of development so the timelime for completion is undetermined.

3.10.3 Anaconda Park Expansion

The City plans to purchase the vacant land adjacent to the park to expand the park to the northeast. This expansion would add an additional 0.8 acres to the park, totaling 3.5 acres for the entire park. This expansion would allow for additional small amenities like sport courts, fitness stations, picnic areas, and more.

Future 1st Avenue Park

WhittierGreenwayTrail

3.11 INFILL OPPORTUNITY

AREA ANALYSIS

Vacant land to develop new parks is limited within Whittier city limits. As a result, the construction of entirely new parks and recreation facilities is challenging. While there are constraints on the City’s ability to acquire land to build new parks, many of the City’s existing parks have the space to accommodate new amenities. Adding new amenities to existing parks can help provide the community with modern, diverse, and trending recreation activities within already-developed park spaces. The following section identifies opportunity areas within existing parks that can help address the community’s concerns and desires.

3.11.1 What is an Opportunity Area Analysis?

The opportunity area analysis determines undeveloped and/or underutilized areas within a park and suggests park amenities that can potentially fit based on the square footage of the area. Each park with an opportunity area is shown alongside a table of potential amenities, supporting text, and a key map highlighting potential recommendations. The table identifies what kinds of amenities will fit in the opportunity areas based on square footage and dimensions. The amenities with an “X” indicate a need based on park amenity deficits, geographic distribution of park amenities identified in Chapter 2, community engagement feedback, and general best practices.

Parks with no opportunity areas and therefore not included in this analysis are Founders Park, Dog Park, Whittier Transit Depot Park, Joe Miller Park, Lee & Erika Owens Park, York Field, Murphy Ranch Park, Parnell Park, and Hellman Park. Renovations for Parnell Park are already in the planning phase with construction expected to start in 2024.

Public Input on Opportunity Areas

During the final public workshop for this Plan, participants were asked to vote on their most desired amenity at each existing park. Votes for amenities at each park were tallied. Input from all workshops, pop-ups, stakeholder focus group meetings, and community surveys was taken into consideration when making recommendations for new park amenities.

Flexibility is important! The City is encouraged to explore the best options for each park and is expected to use the following figures and tables as a guide to determine which amenities to design and construct over the next ten years. The key recommendations were identified by park planners and designers on the project team.

3.11.2 Anaconda Park

Anaconda Park is a small neighborhood park located off Ben Hur Avenue in southeast Whittier. The existing amenities at Anaconda Park include a small walking loop with exercise stations, a playground, a restroom facility, a picnic area, and two half-basketball courts.

There are three opportunity areas that can help address citywide deficits and they include: a group picnic area (covered seating for 8+ people), a sports court such as volleyball, tennis, or pickleball, and a small dog run. Area 1 could accommodate either a sand volleyball court or a multi-purpose tennis/pickleball court. Caution should be taken with noise complaints from the residential neighborhood if the City chooses to explore a pickleball option.

The CIty should also consider updating the existing tot-lot playground to include all-inclusive play elements when assessing a new tot lot or playground.

Adding a small dog run to Area 1 or 2 could help address geographic access since the existing dog park is located in the central-west region of the City.

Special Note:

The City is exploring the purchase of land located at the northern end of Anaconda Park. When complete, it will add expand the park by 0.80 acres. The space itself provides ample opportunities to add additional park amenities that can help address gaps identified in Chapter 2 of this Plan.

PotentialExpansion

Group Picnic

Updated TotLot

Group Picnic Dog Run Court Sport

TABLE 3-3: Anaconda Park Possible Amenities for Infill

*Update Playground

FIGURE 3-1: Anaconda Park Infill Opportunity Areas

3.11.3 Broadway Park

Broadway Park is a medium-sized neighborhood park located on Broadway Avenue between Newlin Avenue and Milton Avenue. The park currently contains several park amenities that are enjoyed by the surrounding neighborhood including picnic tables, a playground, a restroom facility, a small outdoor stage, and two tennis courts. Broadway Park has the potential to provide new park amenities that can help address citywide deficits.

There are four opportunity areas identified in this analysis and the top recommendations include: a covered group picnic area, a tot-lot (separate from the existing playground), tennis/pickleball courts, and an outdoor exercise area. The City could consider combining Area 2 and 3 to accommodate either a full-size basketball court or a sand volleyball court.

The park site is divided by Milton Avenue, therefore the City should consider adequate pedestrian-scale street lighting and a high-visibility crosswalk to ensure safe and comfortable access between the two sections of the park.

Group Picnic Areas (12+ people)

Playground (ages 2-5)

Tot-lot

Group Picnic Area

/ Pickleball

Area

FIGURE 3-2: Broadway Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-4: Broadway Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.4 Central Park

Central Park is a neighborhood park located in the Historic District in central Whittier. The park has a traditional “park square” aesthetic with several amenities including picnic areas, a small playground, a restroom facility, a statue, and a gazebo. The large, mature trees add great value to this park and should be protected to the greatest extent possible.

There are five opportunity areas identified for this park consisting of flat grassy areas. The City should focus on adding passive recreation amenities first such as group picnic areas or a community garden. Active park amenities that can be considered include a half-size basketball court and an outdoor exercise area.

The City is also encouraged to consider updating the restroom facility and the playground area. A larger playground that accommodates an older age group would complement the tot-lot.

Group Picnic Areas Update Playground Exercise Area

FIGURE 3-3: Central Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-5: Central Park Possible Amenities for Infill

*Update Playground

3.11.5 Dorland Park

Dorland Park is currently a passive neighborhood park located between Dorland Street and Whittier Boulevard. The park contains zero park amenities and consists entirely of grassy spaces and large, mature trees. Dorland Park is located at the northwestern edge of the City’s boundary and has the potential to serve as a gateway entrance into the City and to be transformed into a multi-use park.

A balanced approach of adding passive and active amenities is recommended. Top recommendations include: group picnic areas, a large playground, a walking loop with exercise stations, a basketball court, and a combination tennis/pickleball court. The City should also consider adding fencing along the southern edge of the park to protect people from the highly-trafficked Whittier Boulevard.

This park is divided by Rockne Avenue, so the City should consider pedestrian-scale street lighting and a high-visibility crosswalk to ensure safe and comfortable access between the two sections of the park. A new gateway sign or monument can be added to the western corner of the park on Redman Avenue and Whittier Boulevard.

Group Picnic Areas Playground / Tot-lot

Tennis / Pickleball

Exercise Area

Basketball

Walking Loop

FIGURE 3-4: Dorland Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-6: Dorland Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.6 Guirado Park

Guirado Park is a neighborhood park located in northwest Whittier to the east of Pioneer Boulevard. This park is a joint-use park owned by the School District. There are many amenities packed into this 4.7-acre park, including a small community center, two picnic areas, a playground, one diamond field, and a restroom facility. The City is in the process of renovating two half-court basketball courts and adding an outdoor exercise area.

Four small opportunity areas were identified and have the potential to further enhance an already highly-amenitized park. The top recommended amenities for Guirado Park include: a group picnic area, a larger playground with more tot-lot features, and a full walking loop. The City can also consider adding a sports court (volleyball, tennis, or pickleball) if they combine Areas 1 and 2. Potential noise levels should be considered due to the surrounding residential area.

Picnic Areas (12+ people)

Larger Tot-lot

Group Picnic Area

Walking Loop Court Sport

FIGURE 3-5: Guirado Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-7: Guirado Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.7 Hoover Fountain

Hoover Fountain is a small special-use park located in northwest Whittier between Beverly Drive and Beverly Boulevard. Hoover Fountain contains zero amenities and is considered a passive park. It currently contains a water feature and public art for residents to enjoy.

The planning process identified two opportunity areas. This park is likely to remain a passive space, but adding group picnic areas can help activate it and encourage residents to visit.

Group Picnic Areas

FIGURE 3-6: Hoover Fountain Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-8: Hoover Fountain Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.8 J.G. Whittier Park

J.G. Whittier Park is a small neighborhood park located in central-west Whittier. The park contains picnic areas, a playground, a restroom facility, and two informal multi-purpose diamond fields. The park serves an important role of providing outdoor recreation for the residents that live in the multi-family residential units along Whittier Avenue and Wardman Street. These higher density areas typically lack backyard spaces.

The City can consider: a full walking loop, outdoor exercise equipment, a couple of youth soccer fields, or a couple of sports courts such as tennis, volleyball, or basketball. The City should also consider updating the existing aging playground, restroom facility, and splash pad.

Youth Soccer or Sports Courts

Walking Loop Exercise Area

FIGURE 3-7: J.G. Whittier Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-9: J.G. Whittier Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.9 Kennedy Park

Kennedy Park is a small neighborhood park located in central Whittier. The park contains few amenities including two picnic areas, playgrounds, and a restroom facility. As of the writing of this Plan, the City will begin Phase One of planned improvements which include: enhancements to the parking lot and the edge wall, as well as ADA fixes to improve the park’s circulation and access points. Other improvements include the removal of the restroom building and the addition of new turf in the backside of the park for passive recreation use.

The top recommended amenities for a passive park include: a new restroom building, an updated playground area, a splashpad/water play feature, a small community garden, and a group picnic area. The City can consider sports courts (basketball, volleyball, or a multi-use tennis/pickleball court) in Area 2 if they prefer adding active recreation amenities.

Updated Playground Splashpad Group Picnic Areas Sports Courts

Restroom

FIGURE 3-8: Kennedy Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-10: Kennedy Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.10 Laurel Park

Laurel Park is a neighborhood park located in central Whittier off of Jacmar Avenue. It is located in a large residential area with good accessibility. The park contains a picnic area, a playground, a restroom facility, and nicely-maintained open grassy areas. The park has the potential to add several new amenities that will greatly diversify the recreation experience for local residents.

Three opportunity areas were identified at Laurel Park. The City can consider adding the following: a group picnic area, outdoor exercise area, a splashpad/water play feature, and small sports courts such as a half-size basketball court or a multi-use tennis/pickleball court. The City should take into consideration the noise levels that come from pickleball since this park is located adjacent to residential homes.

The City should also consider updating the existing aging playground and adding more diverse play features.

Group Picnic Areas Exercise Area

FIGURE 3-9: Laurel Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-11: Laurel Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.11 Leffingwell Ranch Park

Leffingwell Ranch Park is a community park located in south Whittier and adjacent to the East Whittier YMCA. The park contains four lighted tennis courts, picnic tables, and a small playground.

Leffingwell Ranch Park has three opportunity areas that would help diversify the recreation experience for residents. The top recommendations to consider include: a community garden, a dog park/run, an outdoor exercise area, a sports court such as basketball or volleyball, and replacing the existing playground with a new, larger, more diverse playground.

The City can also consider converting one or two tennis courts into multi-purpose courts to accommodate pickleball play, although noise levels and parking demand from pickleball should be assessed since the park is adjacent to residential homes.

FIGURE 3-10: Leffingwell Ranch Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-12: Leffingwell Ranch Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.12 Michigan Park

Michigan Park is a community park located in central Whittier on the corner of La Cuarta Street and Michigan Avenue. The park contains a large group picnic area with dozens of tables, two play areas for different age groups, a restroom, a water play feature, outdoor exercise areas, and one multi-purpose diamond field. The City is in the process of improving the parking lot to address ADA accessibility as well as looking to add a prefabricated building that can accommodate park staff office space.

The planning process identified two large opportunity areas that can accommodate a wide variety of new amenities. The top recommended amenities the City should consider based on citywide deficits include: a walking loop and either an adult-sized diamond field, an adult-sized multi-purpose rectangular field (soccer), or several sports courts adjacent to each other such as volleyball, tennis, and basketball.

A combination of sports fields and courts can be achieved depending on what the City chooses to do in Areas 1 and 2. For example, sports courts can be added to Area 1 along with either a diamond field or a multi-purpose rectangular field in Area 2. The City will need to consider adding additional parking, most likely off of La Cuarta Street if they decide to add a sports field to accommodate new demand.

The City should also consider replacing the existing, old water play feature with a new splashpad, although this is not considered a high priority.

Splashpad

Walking Loop Sports Field Sports Courts

FIGURE 3-11: Michigan Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-13: Michigan Park Possible Amenities for Infill

*Update Splashpad

3.11.13 Penn Park

Penn Park is a neighborhood park located just south of the Whittier College Athletic Complex in north-central Whittier. It functions mostly as a passive park with a meandering pathway and a natural creek water feature with shaded areas. The park is also home to large, mature trees that contribute to the park’s unique, calming, and beautiful character. Existing park amenities include a large group picnic area, a playground, a water play feature, a walking loop, and a restroom facility.

There are two opportunity areas identified and the City is encouraged to consider the following: a new splashpad/water play feature, an outdoor exercise area, and sports courts.

The City should also be mindful of protecting mature trees to the greatest extent possible and maintaining the park’s overall serene aesthetic that residents admire when adding or updating park amenities.

FIGURE 3-12: Penn Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-14: Penn Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.11.14 Palm Park

Palm Park is large community park located in central-northwest Whittier. It has a direct connection to the Greenway Trail, providing great access from the surrounding neighborhood and for those traveling on foot or bike from other regions of the City. Palm Park is home to an aquatic center that has a swimming pool and a recreation center with indoor community spaces. Other amenities at Palm Park include seven tennis courts, an outdoor fitness area, a basketball court, one multi-purpose diamond fields, a large picnic area, restrooms, and a large playground area with play features for various ages.

Although the park already has many active recreation amenities, there is room to add more. There are five opportunity areas identified and the recommended amenities include: walking loops, picnic areas (on the west side of the park), youth soccer fields, and sports courts such as an additional basketball, volleyball, and pickleball.

The City can also consider making permanent pickleball courts in lieu of the existing multi-purpose tennis courts with overlay striping to address the growing pickleball demand. The City should take into consideration the noise levels that come from pickleball since this park is located adjacent to residential homes.

FIGURE 3-13: Palm Park Infill Opportunity Areas

TABLE 3-15: Palm Park Possible Amenities for Infill

3.12 FUTURE PARKS AND RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES

The following section describes future opportunities and potential partnerships that can help create additional park spaces or recreational activities. These future opportunities require extensive coordination but can deliver positive results for residents if implemented.

3.12.1 New Linear Park Opportunity

The City purchased new parkland at the southeastern end of the Greenway Trail. This land is located immediately east of 1st Avenue, varies in width between 50-60’, and is approximately 1.9 acres in size. Features for the site may include landscaping, passive park amenities such as seating, and active park amenities such as small playground equipment, outdoor exercise stations, or half-court basketball. This site is in the early design phase of development and when complete, will have positive impacts for the surrounding neighborhood.

3.12.2 Recreation Opportunities along Whittier Blvd (SR 72)

The City is in a unique and exciting position to one day have full ownership of Whittier Boulevard (SR 72). Caltrans currently has jurisdiction over this corridor and any improvements the City wishes to make must include extensive coordination with them. When the opportunity to relinquish the highway presents itself, the City will be able to implement infrastructure improvements outlined in plans such as

the Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan, the General Plan, and this Parks and Recreation Plan. The City is encouraged to explore recreation elements such as linear parks, parklets, or public plazas along Whittier Boulevard. These kinds of improvements will complement the existing Whittier Greenway Trail that runs parallel and intersects the corridor as well as help address park access gaps in the eastern region of the City.

3.12.3 Coordination with School Districts

The City acknowledges that vacant land is very limited and understands that partnerships with local school districts is a strategy that can help improve access to recreation amenities. The City should continue to uphold current joint use agreements and should explore additional partnerships with other school districts in the future. Establishing agreements for shared schoolyards that allow public use of amenities such as athletic fields, playgrounds, and sports courts can positively impact the neighborhoods around the schools. These shared schoolyards can also help address park access gaps, such as those seen in the eastern region of Whittier. It is important for the City to develop equitable partnerships that strike a balance between responsibilities and costs for maintenance, repairs, and operations.

The right column depicts the schools identified as potential candidates for shared schoolyards:

East Whittier Middle School (approx 3.96 acres)

» 3 softball fields

» 4 tennis courts

La Serna High School (approx 8.20 acres)

» 1 softball field

» 8 tennis courts

» 2 baseball fields

» 1 football field / running track

» 4 basketball courts

Murphy Ranch Elementary School (approx 1.55 acres)

» 1 basketball court

» 1 playground

» 1 youth softball / t-ball

Whittier Union High School District (approx 7.85 acres)

» Soccer fields (AYSO)

» 1 running track / walking path

» 3 basketball courts

Laurel Elementary School (approx 0.65 acres)

» 2 basketball courts

» 1 playground

Evergreen Elementary School (approx 0.88 acres)

» 4 basketball courts

» 1 playground

» 1 youth softball / t-ball

Ocean View Elementary School (approx 0.62 acres)

» 3 basketball courts

» 1 playground

» 1 youth softball / t-ball

The schools and the hypothetical new walksheds that depict improved geographic access are shown in Figure 3-15.

FIGURE 3-14: Potential Future Park Walkshed

Additional Walkshed Area of Potential Future JUAs

FIGURE 3-15: Potential Future JUAs Walksheds

1. East Whittier Middle School

3. Murphy Ranch Elementary School

4. Whittier Union High School District

6. Evergreen Elementary School

2. La Serna High School

5. Laurel Elementary School

7. Ocean View Elementary School

3.13 THE FUTURE PARK SYSTEM

Although this Plan does not identify an abundant amount of new park acres to add to the City’s park system, prioritizing the construction of new park amenities within existing park footprints and the creation of JUAs with local schools can create a better parks and recreation system. These two recommendations will not bring the City out of its park acreage deficit, but they will nonetheless create a positive impact for current and future residents.

The goals and actions described at the beginning of this Chapter will help the City enhance the parks and recreation system, but the City is also encouraged to think about other creative elements that can help chip away at their park level of service goals. The City should consider both typical and creative ways to improve access to safe and comfortable outdoor spaces. It is easy to forget that not everything has to be a traditional definition of a park (grass, playgrounds, courts, etc.). As expressed by the Trust for Public Land, “Sometimes it’s the most unassuming spaces that have the biggest impact on residents’ lives, especially when that space is right outside their front doors.”

The City can explore the following ideas and strategies to help improve both the traditional and nontraditional approach to parks and recreation:

» Public rooftop parks with new developments

» Pocket parks, parklets, or plazas in centrally-located areas such as Uptown Whittier or near multi-family residential areas

» Conversion of underutilized parking lots in large shopping centers to park spaces

» Temporary interactive art installations that double as outdoor social play spaces

» Partner with local hospitals or medical facilities to offer health and fitness classes

» Expand partnerships with the Puente Hills Habitat Authority to offer more trail and nature-oriented programming opportunities

» Purchase of private land to convert an existing underutilized building into a new park

» Public/private partnerships with community organizations (non-profits, churches, etc.) to leverage space on non-City-owned lots (i.e. church that hosts a community garden with raised beds in an underutilized space of their property)

» Temporary pop-up events or neighborhood block parties that allow the City to shut down a street(s) to vehicles for people to safely play, ride, walk, etc.

» Adding public paseos or plazas in between buildings that can accommodate public art and gathering spaces

» Host field trips for underserved residents to nearby parks and open spaces

EXAMPLES OF CREATIVE PARK SPACES

The following section describes overarching short, mid, and longterm goals the City can explore to improve the parks and recreation system. They are based on the feedback collected from the community as well as the initiatives discussed earlier in this Chapter.

Short-Term Goals

Short-term project goals are those that can typically be implemented within a one to two-year time frame.

» Improve park safety and security by adding items such as lighting, new fencing, or security cameras.

» Replace play equipment that has been identified in poor condition.

» Identify all sports fields maintenance needs and implement low to mid-cost renovations such as fencing, small seating areas, or small areas of surface replacements (sod or decomposed granite).

» Identify and add low-cost passive park amenities such as picnic tables, bench seating, community gardens, or small walking paths.

» Improve marketing and communications of programs and events.

» Install small park amenities along the Whittier Greenway Trail that can enhance the recreation experience.

» Continue conversations with local school districts to identify opportunities and challenges related to the schools identified as candidates for Joint Use Agreements.

» Offer additional programming for active older adults, particularly the subset of younger seniors, using part time staff or contractors

» Add recreation staffing to address in-demand programming that is at or over 100 percent capacity.

Mid-Term Goals

Mid-term project goals are those that can typically be implemented within a two to five-year time frame.

» Identify sites to add or replace existing splashpads/spraygrounds.

» Identify all sports fields maintenance needs and implement mid to high-cost renovations such as lighting, large seating areas (bleachers) or large areas of sod/artificial turf enhancements.

» Perform a detailed facility and asset conditions assessment to determine deferred maintenance to bring facilities into good condition or to determine large capital investment needs.

» Conduct a feasibility study to identify private sites that can be purchased and converted to park land.

Long-Term Goals

Long -term project goals are those that can typically be implemented within a five to ten-year time frame.

» Purchase private land to construct in-demand parks amenities such as sports fields and sports courts.

» Construct a new multi-purpose recreation center that offers spaces such as a large gymnasium for indoor basketball/volleyball/ pickleball, community rooms, rentable banquet spaces, exercise equipment rooms, and passive outdoor spaces.

» Construct a teen center that offers spaces such as game rooms, lounges, a small gymnasium for indoor basketball/volleyball, and multi-purpose rooms.

» Consider renovation the Palm Park Pool to include shallow-end pool space for programming.

» Design and install basketball, volleyball, tennis, and pickleball courts.

» Identify and purchase larger areas of land to help address large diamond field and rectangular fields deficit.

Community Engagement

4.1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW

Community and stakeholder engagement was an essential component of this Plan. Outreach strategies were designed to ensure community needs were well-documented and addressed. Everyone who lives, works, or plays within Whittier was considered an essential collaborator in the existing conditions and recommendations phases of the Plan. To engage a diverse range of community members in the planning process, the team hosted multiple engagement opportunities across different platforms. Engagement activities consisted of pop-up events, a community workshop, focus group meetings, a statistically-valid survey, a simple community survey, social media announcements, and a project website.

4.1.1 Community Engagement Strategy

Community engagement activities for the Plan included:

» Meetings with City staff

» City Council and City commission Presentations

» Stakeholder Focus Group Meetings

» Statistically Valid Survey (Mailed and Online)

» Simple Community Survey (Online)

» Community Pop-Up Events and Workshop

» Project Website

» Flyers, hand-outs, and other community outreach materials

4.2 PROJECT PUBLICITY

Several tools were used to inform the community about the Plan and to invite community members to participate in the planning process. Tools included distinct project branding, social media announcements, posted flyers, and a project website. Engagement materials were provided both in English and Spanish.

4.2.1

Project Branding

Unique project branding was developed to create a distinct and recognizable identity for the project and Plan. A project logo and color palette were created for the project and used for all outreach materials, the project website, presentations, and this Plan.

4.2.2

Social Media

Social media was used throughout the development of the Plan to share information and invite community members to participate in a collaborative planning process. Regular social media posts were made to publicize the Plan, promote events and feedback opportunities, and share project updates.

4.2.3

Project Website

A project website was created to provide information about the project, share project announcements, and gather community feedback. The website included an interactive online comment map that enabled community members to add comments for a specific park.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TIMELINE

4.3 COMMUNITY POP-UPS & WORKSHOP

The planning team collected essential input from three pop-up community events and one traditional community workshop. The interactive pop-up events and community workshop allowed the team to interact with the community transparently on key issues and opportunities regarding Whittier’s parks. The interactive pop-up events and traditional community workshops took place between December 2022 and October 2023.

4.3.1 Pop-Up #1: Cookies with Santa

The first interactive pop-up was held on December 17th, 2022 at the City’s annual Cookies with Santa event at the Whittier Community Center. The planning team hosted a booth with several informational and interactive poster boards that invited visitors to give feedback. Most community members focused on what they consider is missing from the City’s park system. Recurring themes from conversations with participants and comments on the poster boards included the need for passive park amenities, additional aquatic facilities, and a lack of sports fields.

4.3.2 Pop-Up #2: EGGxtravaganza Pop-Up

The second pop-up took place at the City’s annual EGGxtravaganza event at Parnell Park on April 1st, 2023. The planning team hosted a booth with several exhibits to engage with community members. The focus of this pop-up was to collect more feedback on residents’ concerns and future needs for Whittier. Common themes from participant comments consisted of the need for additional sports fields and sports courts, the need to upgrade play structures, the need for better park maintenance, the need for more trees for shade, and the need for better public aquatic facilities.

4.3.3 Community Workshop

A traditional community workshop was hosted at Whittier Community Center on September 8th, 2023. This workshop consisted of a presentation, informational poster boards, interactive exhibits, an open question and answer session, and raffle prizes. Approximately 22 community members attended the workshop and actively participated in collective discussions and interactive exhibits.

The goals of this workshop were to:

1. Present the findings of the community feedback collected through previous outreach efforts

2. Present the results of an analysis of Whittier’s existing parks and recreation facilities

3. Invite participants to vote on their most desired park amenities in the “Opportunity Infill Areas” exercise

The “Opportunity Infill Areas” exercise highlighted certain areas within City parks that could potentially accommodate new park amenities that the City might be lacking. This exercise allowed participants to indicate their preferences and help the City prioritize future investments in the park system. Key findings from this activity included the need for complete walking loops within parks, pickleball courts, community gardens, and splash pads.

4.3.4 Pop-Up #3: Whittier Movies in the Park Pop-up

The final pop-up occurred on October 21st, 2023, at Parnell Park during the City’s last Movies in the Park event of the year. During this event, the team hosted a booth to present draft recommendations for the addition of potential amenities at selected parks. This final pop-up event gave community members an opportunity to provide feedback on proposed changes to Whittier parks. Community input on draft recommendations from surveys, pop-ups, workshops, and stakeholder focus group meetings was integrated into the final recommendations presented in Chapter 3.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM

POP-UPS & WORKSHOP

Passive Park

Many participants expressed a desire for more passive park amenities, such as picnic areas, community gardens, bench seating, trails, and paths.

Participants advocated for better marketing of existing aquatic facilities and upgrades to existing aquatic facilities.

Participants noted an overall lack of sports fields and courts.

4.4 STAKEHOLDER FOCUS GROUPS

Three focus group meetings were conducted to collect input from key stakeholders in Whittier. Focus group meetings were comprised of stakeholders from the City’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission, City Task Force participants, sports groups, community organizations, Whittier City School District, and other local agencies.

The meetings were held via Zoom and involved discussions around the following questions:

1. What are the strengths and areas of opportunity of existing park facilities?

2. What are the strengths and areas of opportunity of existing recreation programs?

3. What areas in Whittier are underserved?

4. What would make you want to visit Whittier parks more often?

5. How well does the City provide park facilities, recreation programs, and services?

6. What are the top 3 outcomes you would like to see from this master plan?

7. What is your vision for Whittier as it relates to parks and recreation (short-, mid-, and long-term)?

4.4.1 Focus Group #1: City Commissioners and Task Forces

The first focus group meeting was held on April 19th, 2023 via Zoom with the City’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission and other City Task Force participants. The meeting started with a presentation on the scope of the project followed by an open discussion.

Key input included:

» The importance of pursuing Joint Use Agreements (JUAs) with outside partners

» Adding more linear recreation spaces

» Being creative with developing new park spaces such as rooftop park facilities

» The use of vacant/underutilized land for purchase and development

4.4.2 Focus Group #2: Sports Groups

The second focus group meeting was held via Zoom on June 12th, 2023 with representatives from Whittier sports leagues and programs. Stakeholders included Whittier Girls Softball, Whittier Area Youth Soccer, Whittier Trojans Football, Whittier Football, and Murphy Ranch Little League. The meeting started with an introductory presentation followed by an open discussion. Key input included:

» The lack of sports fields for teams to practice and play games

» Sports fields not being maintained well

» Exploring and utilizing vacant land for the development of additional sports fields

4.4.3 Focus Group #3: Community Organizations and Partners

The third focus group meeting was held via Zoom on June 29th, 2023 with representatives from non-profit organizations and community partners. Stakeholders included the YMCA, Special Olympics, Boys and Girls Club, Rotary Club, Jovenes, Rio Hondo College, Whittier Chamber of Commerce, Blue Shield Promise, and LA County Department of Public Health. This meeting followed a similar agenda to the other two meetings, starting with a presentation and ending with an open discussion.

Key input included:

» The need for more pickleball courts

» The lack of sports fields

» Additional aquatic facilities

» Additional linear recreation opportunities and park connections

» The need for additional recreation programs

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM STAKEHOLDER FOCUS GROUPS

Athletic Fields

Stakeholders stressed the need for more athletic fields to accommodate the demand by soccer and football organizations.

Efficient Use of Space Greenway Trail Enhancement

Stakeholders expressed the need to take advantage of vacant land for park space and be creative with green space for added park amenities.

Stakeholders shared a desire for the extension of the Greenway Trail and added trail connection points.

4.5 COMMUNITY SURVEY

Surveys were used to collect community input from residents and other park users on City parks, recreation facilities, amenities, future planning, communication, and more. The surveys were designed to yield results that could assist the City in developing a plan that accurately reflects the needs and desires of the community. The survey results were analyzed and incorporated into the development of this Plan.

Three samples were collected in this survey effort:

» Statistically Valid Invite Sample (514): Paper surveys were mailed to a random sample of 5,000 residential households in Whittier with instructions for how to complete the survey through a password-protected web link. Additional reminder postcards were also sent to encourage residents to take the survey. Out of the 5,000 paper surveys mailed to Whittier households, 514 surveys were completed.

» Open Link Sample (278): Three weeks after the statistically valid surveys were mailed out, an open link online survey was made available to all Whittier residents. The open survey contained the same questions as the statistically valid survey and was promoted via social media, the City’s website, and at over 10 City-sponsored events at various park and recreation facilities throughout Whittier. A total of 278 open link surveys were completed online.

» Simple Survey Sample (356): A simplified community survey was created via SurveyMonkey to gather quick community feedback on Whitter’s parks and recreation facilities. This was a simple, five-question survey that allowed City staff to quickly engage with residents at various park events between March and September 2023. The simple survey gathered 356 responses from community members.

Together, the three samples provide a useful source of community input on Whittier’s existing parks and recreation facilities and programming, as well as the need for future improvements. A summary of the survey results is included in this Chapter. Complete survey results can be found in the appendix.

1,148

4.5.1 Statistically Valid & Open Link Survey Results

A statistically valid survey was mailed to a randomly selected sample of 5,000 Whittier households and resulted in 514 completed surveys. An open link survey comprised of the same questions as the mailed survey was made available to all Whittier residents three weeks later. The open link survey had 278 respondents and was promoted via social media, the City’s website, and at over ten City-sponsored events at various park and recreation facilities throughout the Whittier. In total, 792 surveys were completed. The survey results provided insightful feedback regarding Whittier’s existing facilities as well as opportunities for future projects.

Key trends from the statistically valid and open link survey responses include:

» Desire for increased safety and security

» Desire for better maintenance of parks, facilities, and fields

» Concerns about the unhoused population

» General lack of awareness of parks, programs, and sports leagues

» Interest in dog-friendly park locations

» Need for more senior and youth programs

Figure 4-1 through Figure 4-3 present a snapshot of survey results as a comparison of responses from both the statistically valid survey sample and the open link survey sample. In general, responses from the two samples are similar, which indicates a general consensus in the community on various park and recreation-related topics and ideas. Complete survey results are provided in the appendix.

FIGURE 4-1: What are the Most Important Items that, if addressed by the City of Whittier, Would Increase Your Use of Parks and Recreation Facilities?

FIGURE 4-2: What are Your Top Three Parks and Recreation Priorities? (Statistically Valid Survey Results)

FIGURE 4-3: What are Your Top Three Parks and Recreation Priorities? (Open-Link Survey Results)

4.5.2 Simple Survey Results

A second community survey was created via SurveyMonkey to gather quick community feedback on Whitter’s parks and recreation facilities. This was a simple, five-question survey that allowed City staff to engage with residents at various park events. The survey was available to the public between March and September 2023 and successfully collected 356 responses from community members. This survey helped the planning team better comprehend how residents interact with their parks and recreation facilities, and what amenities they wish to improve.

Key trends from the simple survey responses include:

» Need for improved park safety, such as lighting, restroom cleanliness and maintenance, and vigilance

» Lack of sports fields

» Need for improved park maintenance of picnic areas, sports fields, playground equipment, and surfaces

» Need for upgrades to certain playground equipment

» Desire for additional aquatic facilities such as splash pads in more parks

Figure 4-4 through Figure 4-6 present a snapshot of survey results from the simple survey sample. Complete survey results are provided in the appendix.

What Would Make You Visit Parks More Often? (Simple Suvey Results)

FIGURE 4-4:

FIGURE 4-5: Which Amenities Would You Like to See Added to City Parks? (Simple Suvey Results)

FIGURE 4-6: Which Recreational Programs Would You Like to See Added/Enhanced at Recreation Facilities? (Simple Suvey Results)

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM COMMUNITY SURVEYS

Safety & Security

Respondents expressed a need for more surveillance, fencing, and lighting at neighborhood parks.

Park, Facility, and Field Maintenance

Respondents shared the need for better attention to and maintenance of playgrounds, sports fields, and park facilities (i.e., restrooms, sidewalks, etc.)

Playground

Equipment

Respondents voiced need to upgrade play structure equipment and play surfaces.

Public Awareness

Respondents would like to see better promotion of recreation programs, sports leagues, and events available in Whittier.

Appendix

Recreation Programming A

A.1 RECREATION PROGRAMS

A.1.1 Current Programs and Services

Offerings

Recreation Facilities

The City provides recreational programming through its Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department (Department) throughout the various facilities and parks that it owns. Programs are hosted at different City-owned facilities, as well as local schools, neighboring community facilities (such as La Habra), and private locations. The Department manages four primary recreational facilities: the Whittier Community Center, the Parnell Park Community and Senior Center, the Palm Park Aquatic Center, and the Whittier Uptown Senior Center. The Department also manages the Whittier Center Theater and multiple park amenities throughout the City. The Whittier Community Center and Whittier Center Theatre are located near City Hall and the Whittier

Central Library in the center of the City.

» The Whittier Community Center is Whittier’s central recreational facility and primarily provides youth and adult programs. These programs include adult arts and crafts, fitness classes, youth activities, youth sports, and other special programs.

» The Parnell Park Community and Senior Center provides programs for all age groups and types. Programs include the City’s Adaptive Recreation Program, as well as adult arts and crafts, performance arts, fitness programs, senior activities and sports, preschool and youth activities, and computer skills training.

» The Whittier Uptown Senior Center is another facility focused on senior programming that is currently temporarily closed. This facility is typically used for drop-in

type of programming and serves as a location for educational classes, exercise programs, and other senior-focused activities.

» Aquatics programs are provided at the Palm Park Aquatic Center and include swim lessons, aquatic fitness, lifeguard training, and other aquatics activities. The activity center also hosts martial arts classes and adult tennis programming.

Recreation Programs

The City offers various services and programs for youth, adults, and seniors. Most of the City’s recreational programming falls into the following primary areas: Youth, Adult, Adaptive, Aquatics, Senior, and Cultural Arts. Other services the Department provides include social services and transit options for programs and events. Table A-1 displays the types of recreation programs available to Whittier’s youth, adults, and seniors.

TABLE A-1: City of Whittier Recreation Programs by Type and Age Range

Within the broad program types are a range of unique programs and activities offered by the City. The City’s diverse programs are listed by age range below to demonstrate the wide variety of program offerings.

Youth Programs

» Adaptive Recreation, 14+ (Cooking Classes, Drama Club, Game Nights, Craft Night, Dances, Exercise Classes, Recreational Bowling, Recreational Swim, Scavenger Hunts, Virtual Field Trips, Walking/Hiking Groups, YouTube programs)

» Arts and Crafts (Acrylic Painting, Elementary, Cartoon Drawing)

» Cheerleading

» Day Camps

» Dance (Ballet, Hip Hop, Salsa, Tap, etc.)

» Students Run Whittier

» Special Interest (Math Development, Reading Development, Reading)

» Sports (Soccer, Tee Ball, Tennis)

» Theater

» Whittier Youth Network (WYN) Club (Drop-in outdoor recreation program)

» VolunTEENS

Adult Programs

» Adaptive Recreation, 14+ (Cooking Classes, Drama Club, Game Nights, Craft Night, Dances, Exercise Classes, Recreational Bowling, Recreational Swim, Scavenger Hunts, Virtual Field Trips, Walking/Hiking Groups, YouTube programs)

» Aquatics

» Arts and Crafts (Knitting, Stained Glass)

» Dance (Belly Dance, Salsa, Latin Dance, Zumba)

» Fitness (Aerobics, Circuit Training, Boot Camp, Pilates, Yoga)

» Martial Arts (Karate-Do, Krav Maga, Tai Chi, Aikido)

» Music (Piano and Guitar Lessons)

» Sports (Softball, Tennis Lessons)

Senior Programs

» Painting (Acrylic and Oil Techniques, Watercolor Workshop)

» Dance (Dancerobics, Line Dancing)

» Fitness (Monday Jam, Chair Boxing, Hiking, Joyful Movement, Latin Groove, Tai Chi, Senior Fitness, Strong and Fit)

» Quilting

» Special Interests (Book Club, Pinochle, Technology Training)

» Special Events (National Senior Citizens Day, Self-Defense)

» Sports (Senior Softball)

» Trips (SoFi Stadium Tour, Old World Oktoberfest)

Special Events

» EGGxtravaganza Spring Event

» Memorial Day Ceremony

» 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular

» Summer Concerts in the Park

» Movies in the Park

» Veterans Day Celebration

» Spooktacular 5k Run/Walk

» Harvest Feast

» Christmas Parade

Adaptive Recreation

Water Aerobics

Senior Luau

Recreation Program Popularity

Tracking the most popular recreation programs currently offered by the City provides critical insights into program successes and areas for improvement. Table A-2 displays the top fifteen recreation programs based on registration totals from 2019 to 2023. While water aerobics ranks the highest, several of these programs are very popular in the community. The number of program registrations is one indicator of the popularity of each activity, but not the only factor that weighs into that determination. Other factors such as program capacity, attendance, and satisfaction also provide insight into program success.

Recreation Program Capacity

Program registrations were also analyzed to determine which programs met or exceeded registration capacity. Table A-3 lists the programs that, on average, have met or exceeded capacity since 2019. Programs at 100 percent capacity or higher are highly anticipated by the community. To meet community demand, the City should consider offering more sessions of programs that continually meet or exceed capacity or/and expand space for programs such as creating additional pool areas for swimming programs.

Table A-4 displays programs with registrations between 75 and 99 percent of the program capacity.

TABLE A-2: Top Fifteen Programs based on Registration Totals from 2019 to 2023

TABLE A-3: Recreation Programs at Over 100% of Capacity Since

TABLE A-4: Recreation Programs

A.1.2 Popular Recreation Programming

Nationwide

The NRPA has published an Agency Performance Review that documents programming offered by parks and recreation agencies across the country. The results of the review included the percentage of agencies that perform specific types of programs. The examples provided show various programs that fall under each category. The data includes agencies of all sizes in various regions to illustrate that the City is providing elements of programming that are popular in agencies across the country.

» Themed special events (offered by 90 percent of agencies)

» Social recreation events (88 percent)

» Team sports (87 percent)

» Fitness enhancement classes (82 percent)

» Health and wellness education (80 percent)

» Individual sports (76 percent)

» Safety training (72 percent)

» Racquet sports (71 percent)

» Aquatics (70 percent)

A.1.3 Recreational Programming and Staffing Analysis

A review and analysis of the City’s recreation programming and staffing was conducted to compare Whittier to nationwide data collected in the NRPA Agency Performance Review.

» Nationwide Programming Assessment: The City’s recreation programming was compared to nationwide recreation programming data to assess if major programming areas commonly provided across the nation are offered in Whittier.

» The general programming analysis compares general programming areas, such as team sports, special events, and aquatics, based on a set of variables, designed through NRPA’s research, to compare communities of similar size. These variables are park acres, number of parks, population, and region. This assessment allows an ‘apples to apples’ comparison between Whittier and similarly sized communities.

» The specific programming analysis is very similar to the general programming analysis, but with a deeper dive into types of programming. This table compares specific types of programming, such as STEM, summer camps, and specific senior programming.

» Regional Programming Comparison: In addition to a nationwide programming assessment, a regional programming comparison was conducted to compare the City’s program offerings to local agencies in the same region.

» Recreational Programming Staffing Analysis: A staffing analysis was performed to determine if City staffing for recreation programming is adequate compared to agencies of similar size and geographic location.

Nationwide Programming Assessment

An assessment was conducted using NRPA Agency Performance Data to compare Whittier’s general and specific program offerings to the offerings provided by other parks and recreation agencies. To facilitate a fair comparison, the agencies included in the assessment have a similar number of parks, park acreage, and population as Whittier.

General Programming Assessment

Table A-5 lists the general programming types included in the NRPA Agency Performance Review and shows which programs are provided by the City alongside the percentage of

comparable communities that provide the same program. The general programming analysis shows that Whittier compares favorably to most entities with similar circumstances. The City continues to add new programs and, as of Fall 2023, now offers youth golf lessons. The addition of youth golf further increases the variety of programming provided by the City.

Specific Programming Assessment

Table A-6 displays an analysis that compares specific programming provided by the City to comparable national entities. The analysis shows that the City provides the majority of specific programs geared towards youth, adults, and seniors, including

TABLE A-5: General Programming Analysis based on NRPA Agency Performance Data

summer camps, which are one of the most popular programs provided across the nation. The only specific program not provided by the City is full daycare.

Regional Programming Comparison

Table A-7 displays a summary of the types of classes or programs provided by the City compared to similar local agencies. This listing is based on a review of current recreation program guides. Additional programs listed outside of each agency’s recreation program guides may be offered, but are not captured in this analysis.

When compared to several local parks and recreation agencies, the City is one of two organizations that offer every category of recreation programming. This comparison shows that the City offers a robust variety of recreation programming and provides more program offerings than similar agencies in the region. While the City already provides a substantial range of recreation programs, the City can continue to refine and expand its offerings through feedback from participants and other local stakeholders.

TABLE A-6: Specific Programming Analysis based upon NRPA Agency Performance Data

A-7: Program Comparison with Local Recreation and Parks Organizations

Childhood (Tiny Tots and Toddlers)

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Recreational Programming Staffing Analysis

The City currently has 38.77 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff in the Parks Division of the Department. The Community Services Division has 52.03 FTE staff, which are predominantly focused on recreation programs. The Community Services Department Staff totals is what is used in this analysis.

In the analysis of the City’s parks and recreation programming, staffing levels were reviewed to determine if current program staffing meets established industry benchmarks. The NRPA’s

Agency Performance Review was used as the basis for the analysis. This analysis reviews parks and recreation agencies nationally and provides data sets based on qualifiers such as population and park acreage. This dataset is based on percentages of staffing and total staffing in the parks and recreation departments in a geographic region. Using this system, the comparable cities have between 34.45 (lowest quartile of agencies) and 125.18 (highest quartile of agencies) full-time employees dedicated to programming activities.

The NRPA data also provides an expected percentage breakdown

by types of positions within those agencies that responded. These percentages when applied to the average show that typically 44 percent of all staff are operations and maintenance-focused, 34 percent are programming-focused, 16 percent are allocated to department administrative functions, 3 percent are allocated to capital development or project management, and 4 percent for other purposes. The City has roughly 42 percent of staff dedicated to operations and maintenance of parks and the remaining 57 percent for programming and administration.

TABLE

Trends in Recreation

Parks and recreation services are influenced by changes in societal trends, demographics, income, new technologies, and other exterior factors. While the City already offers a diverse range of recreational programs, trends continue to change and it is critical for the City to continue to support existing trends as well as pursue new nontraditional ones. The Plan includes local and national recreation trends that can help the City meet the community’s evolving needs.

B.1 NATIONAL AND LOCAL TRENDS

The 2023 Sports, Fitness, and Leisure Activities Topline Participation Report from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) highlights national recreation trends. The SFIA report indicates that participation in recreational activities in the U.S. has increased for the fifth consecutive year, rising 9.2 percent from 2017 and 1.9 percent from 2021. During 2022, 77.6 percent (236.9 million people) of United States residents participated in at least one recreational activity, roughly 20 million more people than in 2017. Now more than ever, people are prioritizing recreational activity and bouncing back from all-time lows recorded before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The number of totally inactive people decreased for the fourth consecutive year with 22.4 percent (68.6 million) of United States residents being inactive. Inactivity in every single age group decreased, except for 18-24-year-olds and 25-34-year-olds, likely due to life changes brought on by the pandemic, like enrolling in college and having children. Similarly, inactivity rates for every income level decreased by more than 3 percent in 2022, indicating that people are investing in physical activity more than in previous years.

See Tables B-1 through B-6 for more data on the six categories of National Trends.

» Fitness Sports Trends

» Team Sports Trends

» Individual Sports Trends

» Racquet Sport Trends

» Outdoor Activity Trends

» Winter Sports Trends

B.1.1 Household Participation in Sports

Figure B-1 displays estimated sports participation in Whittier based on data from ESRI Business Analyst. This data uses national propensities applied to local demographic composition to estimate the relative likelihood of adults and households in the specified trade area to exhibit certain consumer behavior. According to the ESRI Business Analyst, it is estimated that 35 percent of all sports participants in Whittier participate in swimming, followed by 18 percent participating in basketball, and 11 percent participating in soccer and tennis. With the exception of swimming, the top team sports played in Whittier are similar to national trends. The SFIA report shows that nationally, basketball and soccer are two of the top five team sports based on participation numbers. Additionally, the two sports had the highest increases in participation over the last three years out of all team sports (13.0 and 9.3 percent, respectively), indicating that interest in these sports continues to grow nationally, as well as locally.

B.1.2 Household Participation in Recreation

Figure B-2 shows recreational activity participation in Whittier based on estimated data from ESRI Business Analyst. Walking for exercise is by far the most popular activity, followed by hiking, weight lifting, swimming, and road bicycling. Other recreational activities that ranked highly include jogging/running, yoga, and aerobics. Recreational activity trends in Whittier indicate a high interest in physical

Source: ESRI Business Analyst

B-2: Estimated Recreational Activity Participation in Whittier

Source: ESRI Business Analyst

Participation Estimates

FIGURE B-1: Estimated Sports Participation in Whittier

FIGURE

fitness and exercise, which aligns with national trends. The SFIA report shows that the majority of active individuals in the U.S. participate in fitness sports (>65 percent), compared to lower participation rates in individual, outdoor, racquet, team, water, and winter sports. The City can accommodate community interest in these recreational activities by increasing related amenities, such as trails, bicycle lanes, and outdoor exercise equipment, as well as related programming like fitness classes, guided hikes, group runs, and bicycle rides.

B.1.3 Generational Changes

Activity participation and preferences tend to vary based on several demographic factors, but can also differ based on generational preferences. Figure B-3 explains each generation and their three year participation categories. Overall, the most participated sports categories are outdoor sports and fitness according to the SFIA.

Baby Boomers (1945-1964)

This age group needs customized experiences that cater to their health and social desires. They lead all other generations in racquet sports participation and have decreased participation in individual and winter sports.

Millennials (1980-1999)

They are a social and driven group who share the biggest participation increase categories as Gen X. Along with Gen Z, they lead in participation of team sports.

Gen X (1965-1979)

In the midst of building their own families, this generation has the biggest participation increases in water, racquet, and team sports. Programming more sports leagues would benefit them.

Gen Z (2000+)

A tech-savy generation, their participation is lower than all other generations in fitness sports and unlike all other age groups their participation of racquet sports is second to water sports.

Fitness Sports Trends

TABLE B-1: SFIA National Fitness Trends Participants

Team Sports Trends

TABLE B-2: SFIA National Team Sports Trends Participants

Increase - Decrease

Individual Sports Trends

TABLE B-3: SFIA National Individual Sports Trends Participants + Increase - Decrease

Top 5 Sports Based on Participation Numbers Top 5 Sports by 3-Year Percentage Change

Racquet Sports Trends

TABLE B-4: SFIA Racquet Sports Trends Participants

Outdoor Activity Trends

TABLE B-5: SFIA Outdoor Activity Trends Participants

Winter Sports Trends

TABLE B-6: SFIA Winter Sports Trends Participants