LINCOLN VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Wicked Problem
To elevate Downey's quality of life and environmental sustainability, we must address the City's deficient green space-to-population ratio and the need for improved park amenities, by creating new green spaces and revitalizing existing park infrastructure.
TEAM DOWNEY
All team members rotated responsibilities and roles regularly and fully participated in all aspects of the Team's research and planning for this plan.
Shantae Duren
Ahmed Husain
Anthony Hildebrand
Jorde Pacquillo
Pressila Blanco
Heidi Lockwood
Cynthia Cruz
Julio Guerrero
Norma Pena
Downey
Green Spaces and Community Facilities
LINCOLN VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Team Downey
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
More
than just a grade
In March 2015, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a motion to initiate the Countywide Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment (PNA). This action represented an unprecedented effort to document existing parks and recreation facilities in cities and unincorporated communities and to use these data to determine the scope, scale, and location of park needs in Los Angeles County. The PNA is a project undertaken on a periodic basis that investigates the complex relationship between urban development, green space, and accessibility to it. Additionally, the quantity and condition of facilities associated with the region’s parks are included in this study.
On the 2016 PNA, the City of Downey finished near the bottom of the list in several of the reviewed categories. Specifically, the amount of park acreage compared to the City’s population, ease of accessibility to the parks for the City’s residents, and the quality of the facilities located at the City’s parks were determined to be subpar, ultimately rating the City in the High Need range.
As a City that prides itself on providing a high quality of life within the community, these rankings brought to light topics in need of attention.
(Parks Needs Assessment, 2016)
Executive Summary
Two Distinct, but Related Plans
Green Space 1.
Green space throughout the City of Downey is largely maintained by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. As a community whose land use for urban development is near one hundred percent, identifying potential locations for green space development was an immediate challenge Engaging with external resources, seeking unique and creative solutions, and breaking the traditional model of urban green space contributed to the ultimate proposal. Moreover, understanding that alignment with the established mindset of civic leaders would be paramount in accomplishing the stated mission, each potential solution was filtered through different City departments to gain critical perspective
Identify locations Four realistic and impactful locations have been identified for potential development into park locations
Geographic Information System (GIS) Advanced mapping using GIS allows clear identification of potential park locations as well as impacted residents/areas
Existing land use throughout the City of Downey, only 4% of geographic area is undeveloped leaving scant choices for parks
Alternative locations were considered due to minimal choices for park space. Common in European cities, rooftop green space is gaining traction in the US and has been explored as a viable option for the City of Downey.
Accessibility is critical to green space Every effort was made to identify potential locations relative to the most underserved areas of the Community
Executive Summary
Why green space?
“The green spaces in a city are drawing by nature to serve humanity with a good quality of life. ” (Kasim, 2019)
Health and wellness Economic factors
Green space and parks are some of the most important features of a community outside of its economic and municipal foundation. Not only does it contribute to the vibrancy and physical appearance of a community, but it provides intangible benefits to residents and visitors (Derkzen, 2017). Improved mental wellbeing and physical health are directly impacted by the presence of green space within a community. Moreover, it provides meaningful recreation opportunities, making a city a desirable place for residents
Green space contributes to increased property values and enhanced community engagement Research indicates a direct correlation between urban green space and higher local property values. Green space is considered an environmental factor with a substantial impact on the local community and its associated value.
Together with the aesthetics of green space interspersed throughout a community, these nonphysical benefits result in increased property values and improved community attractiveness.
Executive Summary
Two Distinct, but Related Plans
2. Recreation Facilities
In addition to expanding the green space throughout the City, careful attention was given to the number, condition, and amenities of the current and future recreational facilities. This consideration proved important due to its relevance to both the PNA and quality of life for the City’s residents. Fortunately, a subject matter expert was a member of the research team and provided critical insight and experience into this evaluation. In doing so, the team was able to prioritize the most impactful facilities, both statistically and practically.
Gap analysis that took into account PNA contents and recommendations identified the highest need areas.
Physical locations are severely affecting PNA ranking. Ranging from fair to poor, existing facilities require attention.
Amenities available to residents at existing park locations were reviewed for both condition and relevance to current and future needs.
Future Needs of the city were projected, to the greatest degree possible These needs have been considered in making facility recommendations.
Subject matter experts on the project team brought tremendous insight into the plan
Funding opportunities exist both within and outside the city Seeking grants to achieve the mission can supplement normal budget processes.
Executive Summary
Primary and secondary research drove the project team from the City of Downey to balance the needs of the community with PNA rankings.
Downey Forward 2030 PNA & PNA+ Environmental Justice
Organized around the City’s five strategic priorities, the Downey Forward - 2030 Strategic Plan provided a gauge of project goals alignment with existing City plans.
Identified as an area high in environmental vulnerability, these external surveys became a primary focus and increasing the city’s current abysmal ranking- the mission.
Through community interaction during the general plan update, it was noted that residents felt strongly that green space and facilities were among the City’s greatest environmental needs.
Executive
Summary
Community Input
Through previously conducted surveys of Downey residents, several key factors were indicated. 71% of residents answered that they believe additional municipal funding is required to maintain a high quality of life throughout the City. Though this may come from several sources, a quarter percent sales tax initiative was passed in 2024.
Respondents placed safe community spaces for rec reation second only to public safety.
The public has demonstrated that parks and green space are important to the city and its residents. While they are likely unaware of the PNA and PNA+ reports, the response shows a strong desire to maintain and expand green space and recreation facilities throughout the City.
71% of residents are supportive of seeking additional funding for City services.
89% of respondents rated the presence and maintenance of safe outdoor spaces as Extremely/Very Important on the Downey Discussion survey conducted in early 2024.
44% of Downey’s parks were rated as poor/fair at the time of the most recent PNA reporting period. This figure can aid in directing future funding initiatives in the City’s most needed areas.
Executive Summary
Project Goals
Located in Southeast Los Angeles County, the City of Downey is a small independent city that is big on amenities and community engagement. With its motto, “Future Unlimited”, the City’s overarching mindset is one of continuous improvement for the benefit of its residents while maintaining strong social and fiscal conservatism. In addition to its own Fire and Police Departments, the City prides itself on maintaining strong community involvement, often through its robust Parks and Recreation Department. Despite all its strengths as a municipal organization, noted deficiencies have surfaced in specific regional assessments that require attention.
Short Term Long Term
Proposed new Park locations Understanding that the relative amount of green space within a community is an important factor in the PNA rating system, potential locations for new parks have been explored as a part of this project.
Proposed Recreation Facilities The condition of existing park facilities is such that immediate attention is required. Addressing this will impact the PNA ranking.
Proposed Amenities Existing plans that have not yet been acted upon offer excellent opportunities for raising PNA rankings and improving the quality of life of Downey residents.
PNA 2031 Increasing the PNA ranking for the City of Downey is the primary focus of all actions taken.
PNA & PNA+ Both the most recent assessments and the supplementary surveys have provided excellent feedback on the current condition of Downey green space. Addressing areas of concern identified are part of the 5- and 10-year plans.
Strategic Planning The Downey 2030 Strategic Plan is the guidebook by which current and future actions are taken. Implementing recommendations from this project will ensure long term success.
“
I T I S N O T A B O U T I D E A S , I T ’ S A B O U T M A K I N G I D E A S H A P P E N . ” - S C O T T B E L S K Y
Methodology
Methodology
PRIMARY & SECONDARY RESEARCH
The City of Downey is proudly committed to continuously improving the quality of life for its community by providing excellent service in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner (City Mission Statement & Values, 2025). With this is mind, we took great care and systematically considered which community needs to problem-solve for. After discussing different areas of opportunity throughout the organization, we decided to explore the feasibility of securing capital for Green Space and Recreation Facilities. Our primary research led us to look at external and internal factors to develop project goals that represent the needs of the public. Externally, we collaborated with County officials assigned to the Parks Needs Assessment reports (PNA & PNA+) for a better comprehension of our City’s ranking and analyzed baseline surveys taken by residents, business owners, and City employees. The majority of the referenced surveys (Downey Discussions) were initiated prior to start of this project and results became available throughout different phases of our research. All of our qualitative and quantitative data stem from these sources. This initial research helped us develop a recommendation aligned with the City’s Strategic Plan. Considering the challenges associated with municipal budgets, the team formed a recommendation that would align with more than one city initiative.
Methodology
PRIMARY & SECONDARY RESEARCH
Our secondary research stems from a different subset of stakeholders. We analyzed feedback from a workshop on the Environmental Justice (EJ) Element from the General Plan Update and results from two Harwood Surveys conducted by the Downey City Library These types of surveys capture the concerns, stories, and ideas of the community. Narrative feedback is vital in staying attuned to the needs of the community and to respond accordingly. The project team consulted with the Directors of Parks & Recreation and Economic Development as well as the Fire Department Chief and the GIS Manager for further insight on viable land options and potential impact to residents, businesses, and unhoused individuals. The team reviewed an agreement with Caltrans for a recently relinquished green space area, conducted an internal assessment of the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects, and funding associated with Measures A & S (County and local voter-approved tax increases intended to fund parks’ related CIP’s, as well as additional annual allocations under the Maintenance and Servicing Program to offset Prop A and Measure A fu
Lastly, we performed a comparative analysis of neighbori in an effort to gain a better understanding of challenges t outcome of this collaborative and comprehensive work provides a two-part recommendation for our City Manager and Council to deliberate in an effort to secure additional capital funds towards maintenance of three Recreational Facilities as well as approve a financial analysis of three proposed sites for Green Space expansion and inclusion into the City Park property portfo
Methodology
PRIMARY RESEARCH
PNA & PNA+ Reports
The Los Angeles County Parks Needs Assessment (PNA) is an ongoing assessment at the regional level that assesses current status of parks, facilities, and open space. A full assessment was conducted in 2016, with a follow-up occurring in 2022 (PNA+).
Cities are tasked with rating their parks, recreation facilities, and green space annually and submitting the results to Los Angeles County to be used in the designated PNA reports. Together, these comprehensive evaluations provide an effective ranking tool for a City to plan allocation of funding towards the development of more green space and upgrading of existing park facilities.
(PNA, 2016)
Los Angeles County Parks Needs Assessment Results, 2016
Methodology
PNA & PNA+ Reports Cont. PRIMARY RESEARCH
Together, the PNA reports identified Downey as an area with high environmental vulnerability. Green space, accessibility, and condition of park amenities are factors that are used to determine how a city is assessed and graded according to the PNA framework and scoring methodology The finalized PNA final assessment provides a framework and guidance for future funding and decision-making.
City of Downey Parks Needs Assessment Results, 2016
(PNA, 2016)
Methodology
PRIMARY RESEARCH
PNA & PNA+
The next PNA evaluation is expected to be released in 2031 This window allows adequate time for cities to identify, analyze, and formulate a plan to address the areas of highest need and concern related to a city park’s infrastructure. The mission of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation is to serve as stewards of parklands by building healthy and resilient communities and advanc ing social equity and cohesion (About Us, 2025). In line with this mission, the City of Downey strives to maintain a successful relationship with partners that share such values.
As indicated by our score on the needs assessment, the City has significant maintenance and accessibility needs due to aging infrastructure and updated code requirements.
Additionally, y lacks convenient and adequate access to parks for its residents.
The City has res based on a standard of 1.5 acres/1000 residents identified in the City’s Genera
Methodology
PRIMARY RESEARCH
Downey Forward - 2030 Strategic Plan
The Downey Forward - 2030 Strategic Plan's five goal areas are organized around the City Council's five priorities (Downey Forward, 2024):
Fiscal Responsibility
Economic Vibrancy
Efficiency and Adaptability
Quality of Life, Safety and Infrastructure
Public Engagement.
Our goal to raise the City’s 2016 PNA highlights the need for proactive planning to mitigate risks & costs associated with increasingly deteriorating facilities. Prioritizing increased maintenance levels and green space expansion projects intend to beautify our existing public spaces and demonstrate to residents that they have responsive leadership that values feedback and uses an analytic approach to identify and set priorities such as those captured in the Downey Discussion. Incorporating our recommendations to tie into the Strategic Plan displays responsiveness to community engagement efforts with the community through meaningful and proactive action.
Methodology
PRIMARY RESEARCH
Downey Discussion Survey
In July of 2024, the City released its findings from its public engagement efforts that reached over 1,200 residents through community surveys, community presentations, and interactive community engagement efforts, known as the Downey Discussion (Downey Discussion, 2024). Results from the Downey Discussion showed that 89% residents rated “Providing safe places for children to play” as extremely/very important to them.
Downey parks are busy community spaces. Recent years have seen significant growth in geometric park attendance (GPA), with the most current data indicating a GPA of over 3 million people in the current calendar year. This upward trend will likely continue, as population density rises due to statewide housing programs such as high-density housing units that are expected to increase the community’s need for open space.
(Downey Discussion, 2024)
Experts contend that green space is essential in urban environments. From increased property values to improved environmental health, green spaces provide residents of urban locales tremendous benefits (Mwendwa, 2012). Moreover, as development and redevelopment pushes forward, the need to ensure the availability and accessibility of urban green space is reinforced (Derkzen, 2017).
Methodology
SECONDARY RESEARCH
Environmental Justice
As part of the General Plan Update, the City of Downey holds a series of community workshops to gather feedback and inform the community on various elements in the plan. The Environmental Justice (EJ) Element is a statewide requirement (General Plan Update, 2025). Survey consultants presented four areas of discussion: pollution burdens, walkability, access to resources & healthy living, and community engagement. The project team reviewed the feedback to evaluate if residents continue to voice concerns related to improvements to recreational facilities (existing or new) and/or green space. Findings related to this exercise found consistency and relevancy in statements collected from the participants. Narrative feedback is critical when developing related goals to ensure recommendations are relevant, compelling, and resonate with the needs of the community.
Executive Leadership
Team members met with the Director of Parks and Recreation for input on renovations, maintenance, and other risk factors impacted by funding. The team also worked with the Fire Department Chief and GIS Manager for insights on community facilities and potential areas for expansion of existing facilities or opportunities to acquire new properties for the development of green space. Collaborators from the Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments helped develop an analysis of CIP Projects, Measure A & S funding, and shared a summary report of a recent acquisition of land (Dollison Drive) from Caltrans. This research helped identify the most promising areas in the City for acquisition and/or development.
Methodology
SECONDARY RESEARCH
Downey City Library
The Harwood Method is a community surveying approach based on a philosophy that lasting change occurs only when people and communities help lead the solution (Harwood, 2024) Bi-annual meetings with small sample groups are held to discuss:
What kind of community do you want to live in?
Why is that important to you?
How is that different from how you see things now?
What are some of the things that need to happen to create that kind of change?
This approach enables participants to discuss multiple facets of their community. Participants typically share a common interest or trait to form a sample group (i e Spanish speakers, high school students, storytime attendees). The library then shares feedback with their civic counterparts and holds a follow-up meeting with the same sample group to provide an update of how prior feedback either led to changes in the City or how the library shared ideas/feedback with the applicable City departments for further research. In the months of April and September of 2024, the Library held meetings with Spanish speakers and Beyond the Book festival attendees In the survey results section, we provide a summary of the public’s interest and insights as it pertains to parks and green space.
Economic Development- Consolidated Plan
The City of Downey receives a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for community development activities such as:
Affordable Housing Activities
Neighborhood Improvement Programs
Economic Development Strategies
Improvement of Public Facilities
Support for Needed Public Services
As recently as January of 2025, residents continue to voice interest in further improvement for Recreational Facilities. We’ve included a summary of current survey results (survey closes in February) and the CDBG allocations used from 2020-2025 towards these goals.
Methodology
City of Downey- CIP Projects
CIP projects are categorized as Roads, Utilities, and Public Facilities. We reviewed the highest needs under Public Facilities from a current project list and identified areas with the greatest opportunity. We considered the need for a new community center in the North Downey area, analyzed existing safety hazards to players on our sports fields, focused on restrooms that are inadequate or unsanitary, and assessed reports of termite damage that compromise the structural integrity of the roof. Furman Park, Golden Park, and Rio San Gabriel Park are heavily used recreation centers. The research team considered safety risks and capacity at these locations, and found them to be extremely inadequate for their respective underserved segments of the City. With these parks being previously rated “poor” for facility condition, retrofits or improvements to any of their structures would likely have a significant positive impact on the City’s overall PNA rating.
PNA & Our Neighbors
To help understand our standing in the PNA rankings, the team performed a comparative analysis with the nearby Cities of Norwalk, South Gate, West Covina, and Whittier. This comparison was necessary to highlight and identify factors which have led to a difference in our ranking and provide a better perspective on the maintenance programs and development efforts in the aforementioned cities that helped them attain a better per green capita ratio The research team selected these cities for one of two reasons; their proximity and comparable population, and/or the City has at least one public safety department that is directly staffed by the City, such as Downey funds its own police and fire departments.
Methodology
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District (RPOSD)
Maintenance and Servicing Fund Allocations
Examples of Eligible Costs include:
Maintenance and Servicing funds (M&S funds) from Los Angeles County are allocated annually to our City as designated in the 1996 Proposition A. Proposition A M&S funds can be used to offset increased maintenance costs resulting from Proposition A funded projects. Funds may only be used to maintain and service projects that received funding from RPOSD’s Proposition A. Furthermore, funds may not be used to fund existing levels of service but only to supplement or enhance existing service levels:
Project elements (per project description) paid for with Proposition A funds
Project elements that were not paid for with Proposition A grant funds but were part of the entire project. For example, in a Proposition A–funded pool rehabilitation grant project, the pool pump was paid for with other funds. Replacement of the pool pump is eligible for M&S funds
Increased staff costs necessary for the usual operation and maintenance of the facility
Cost of the staff member(s) needed to open, schedule, and oversee (i.e., operate) a new recreation building, such as life guards, maintenance workers, etc.
An agency’s direct overhead rates as applied to wages, services, and supplies. These must be shown as a percentage of the total expenditure, such as supplies or a staff maintenance worker’s hourly rate
Replacement of equipment included in the original project description (e.g., swimming pool pump)
Lighting and security systems
Graffiti removal
The costs of using maintenance equipment; rental rate or a set hourly rate that reflects such factors as depreciation, maintenance and repair of the equipment, replacement parts, and fuel
Contracts with maintenance providers (e g , conservation corps, weed abatement)
Methodology
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District (RPOSD)
Maintenance and Servicing Fund Allocations
This is an alternative funding source that is available to the City to offset maintenance and servicing costs incurred due to implementation of RPOSD grant funded projects. An analysis of specific grant funded project operating budget line items is necessary to determine eligible expenditures in an effort to seek reimbursement.
Current Available Maintenance & Servicing Fund Balances for the City of Downey are as follows:
Proposition A Maintenance Funding: $158,822.58
Measure A Maintenance Funding: $656,337.42
There are a total of seven City parks and facilities including Apollo, Golden, Rio San Gabriel, Independence, Discovery Sports Complex, Columbia Memorial Space Center and Furman with various eligible facility and/or amenity types, as shown on the list of RPOSD grant funded projects listed on the following page. Los Angeles County representatives have confirmed that both Prop A and/or Measure A M&S fund types may be used to maintain the projects on our list.
Methodology
Methodology
Summary- Hybrid Scenario Planning
In summary, civic leaders who promote civic engagement to collect feedback from their residents, share decision-making (such as with public committees), work with stakeholders from different alliances and public entities (such as Los Angeles County), and demonstrate meaningful leadership have a higher probability to succeed and deliver on their promises. Through the use of hybrid scenario planning, our research group looked at initiatives in Green Space and Recreational Facilities to identify goals that would align with the city's Strategic Plan. This process was essential in exploring key drivers of change within and outside of our local environment, developing pathways that align with long-term goals, and applying quantitative & qualitative data to develop potential solutions and recommendations that address both current and future urban needs.
According to the City Parks Alliance, more than 80 percent of Americans live in urban areas. Green Space and Recreational Facilities are critical to making cities healthier places. Parks offer opportunities for outdoor activity, can help alleviate mental stress, and provide numerous environmental benefits. In general, Green Space & Recreational Facilities are a smart investment as a tool in reducing medical expenses and saving cities money (Ernst & Waterman, 2024). All in all, the key driver that ultimately benefits initiatives in both areas of our analysis is to raise the City of Downey’s PNA rating.
Survey Results
Survey Results
PARK CONDITIONS
The following table classifies the overall condition of parks as well as each facility type as either good, fair, or poor in the following years (2016, 2019, 2022, and 2024).
*Note that 6 facility types are new as of 2022-2024.
Survey Results
PARK CONDITIONS (2016)
Pie Graph showing the conditions of the overall parks within Downey according to the Park Needs Assessment in 2016.
56% of Overall Parks
Conditions are marked as good
44% of Overall Parks
Conditions are marked as fair
Survey Results
PARK CONDITIONS (2024)
Pie Graph showing the conditions of the overall parks within Downey in 2024.
50% of Overall Parks
Conditions are marked as good
37% of Overall Parks
Conditions are marked as fair
13% of Overall Parks
Conditions are marked as poor
Survey Results
Downey City LibraryHarwood Method
What does your ideal community look like?
April, 2024
Spanish Outreach Meeting
Participants: 10
Communal Dining:
“Plaza-Style Socialization”
“Al Fresco” areas through the city
Construction:
“Reduce repeat repairs”
Procurement of higher-quality materials
Green Spaces:
“Need more walking options”
Need more sidewalks or walking trails
Water Park:
“Create free and accessible water play”
Add a Wading Pool with water play area
Similar to Santa Fe Springs Parks
Survey Results
Downey City LibraryHarwood Method Age Demographics
Beyond the Book FestivalOutreach Meeting
Survey Results
Economic Development- Consolidated Plan: Public Facilities & Infrastructure/Stakeholder Survey Results
Survey Results
Economic Development- Consolidated Plan: Public Facilities & Infrastructure/Level of Need for Improvements
Survey Results
Economic Development- Consolidated Plan: Public Facilities & Infrastructure/Entitlement Funding (46%)
GIS Analysis
GIS Analysis
Potential Park Space Locations
The team proposed four new areas for selection as part of future green space initiatives, significantly expanding the City's overall park space This expansion improves accessibility to green spaces, promoting recreational opportunities, and ecological benefits. The selection aligns with efforts to enhance the green space-to-population ratio, address urban density challenges, and increase public access to nature.
Identifies four new parcels designated for park development (shown in red)
Existing Park Locations (shown in green)
GIS Analysis
Park Space Distribution Analysis
The GIS analysis provides a detailed layout of how the newly proposed park parcels contribute to increasing green space within Downey. The map highlights areas with insufficient recreational land, emphasizing the need for equitable park distribution. By selecting available parcels, the initiative aims to enhance community well-being by improving park access.
Provides a clear layout of how each parcel contributes to increasing the City’s green space.
Highlights areas that currently lack sufficient recreational land.
Supports efforts to improve community well-being by increasing park access.
GIS Analysis
Park Space Initiave Findings
The GIS analysis highlights the integration of four newly proposed park parcels, expanding Downey’s green space by approximately 1.28 square miles. While most parcels contribute substantial acreage, Area 4 adds comparatively less. If the parcels are strategically selected, the parks at least a mile apart could maximize their impact, potentially increasing total green space coverage to 3 square miles. This initiative enhances accessibility, promotes recreational opportunities, and improves the green space-to-population ratio, addressing urban density concerns and ensuring a more balanced distribution of parks across the city
Displays the integration of the newly proposed park areas into the existing park network.
Illustrates the total added park space and its distribution across the City.
Highlights Area 4's contribution, which is smaller compared to the other proposed parcels.
Helps assess the overall impact of the initiative on urban planning and green space equity.
If the parcels are strategically selected at least a mile apart, the maximum contribution to the City's green space could reach up to 3 square miles.
Vision and Goals
Vision & Goals
Addition of Pocket Parks
Innovative solutions a communities that lack su “pocket park” location no concept and would be th
Development proposals
Facilities (including pock following:
Recurring maintenan Internal Reporting Too Global Warming Solut Green Solutions
Growing Population
Downtown Downey P
The use of rooftop spa popularity in metropolit longer exists or is cost pr parking structure would users while capitalizing address the need for acc “triangle” neighborhoods location considered the acreage, and City-owne Downtown Downey. Dev would make a tremendo for one of the City’s highe
Vision & Goals
Downtown Downey Rooftop Parking
Structure Pocket Park
Currently, the City is grappling with a surge of incident reports originating from the parking garage's top level, necessitating an immediate increase in security presence. To mitigate these issues, the top level has been temporarily blocked off to deter inappropriate access. However, the proposed conversion of this space into a pocket park offers a long-term solution. In addition to providing much-needed green space to an underserved area, the park design includes a gated entrance that would be closed during nighttime hours, effectively preventing the misuse currently plaguing the location. This transformation would not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also proactively address the security concerns that have arisen.
Vision & Goals
Dollison Drive/ Longworth Ave Passive Park & Greenway
In 2013, the City executed a Freeway Agreement with Caltrans related to the widening of the I-5 Freeway through the City between the Norwalk boundary and the I-605 Freeway. The agreement required the City of Downey to vacate some land to the State in order to allow the construction of the freeway widening to occur. In addition, the State purchased several residential properties.
Per the terms of the Freeway Agreement, Caltrans agreed to allow the City to utilize the vacated area previously occupied by Dollison Drive and some vacant residential lots, which were not capable of independent redevelopment, with a condition that this area is used for public use as a green space and pedestrian pathway
The I-5 Freeway Widening Project has since been completed. As part of the project, a lighted pedestrian pathway along with landscaping and irrigation were installed within the State-owned, vacated area comprising the green space. The green space area is shown on the location map.
Vision & Goals
Dollison Drive/ Longworth Ave Passive Park & Greenway
A landscaping maintenance agreement was executed between the parties in January of 2025. The agreement specifies that the State-owned, vacated “green space” area will be maintained by the City. More specifically, the City is responsible for the maintenance of the landscaping, irrigation, lighting, weed control, pruning and removing dead plant material, graffiti, and litter control as well as providing power for the irrigation and lighting
The vacated area is in the process of being relinquished back to the City by the State. While this space will not significantly improve the City’s score on the PNA due to it not being located within a disadvantaged “hotspot” area of the City and due to it being located within close proximity to Wilderness Park, it is a welcome addition to the community as a passive park that residents can enjoy for years to come without the City having to invest scarce capital project do
Vision & Goals
Dollison Drive/ Longworth Ave Passive Park & Greenway
Among the many benefits that passive parks provide include:
Mental health- exposure to nature can improve attention, cognitive flexibility, and working memory.
Physical health- Parks can improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduce stress, and improve general health.
Social health- Parks provide a place for social interaction and collaboration, which can contribute to a sense of community.
Community pride- Parks can enhance community pride and a sense of engagement with the local area.
Property values- Homes near parks tend to have higher property values, which can benefit both homeowners and the local economy.
This green space is also located adjacent to one of the properties that the City is looking to acquire, 10816 Longworth Ave., in an effort to expand its parks footprint. If the City is successful in purchasing the property, this passive park will become a natural extension of a larger park site, while also becoming a more significant contributor to the City’s existing park network and our score on the PNA.
Vision & Goals
Dollison Drive/ Longworth Ave Passive Park & Greenway
The City is actively engaged in discussions with Caltrans regarding the potential acquisition of the lot at 10816 Longworth Ave, situated adjacent to the recently acquired Dollison Drive right-of-way. The City is currently awaiting the results of an appraisal to determine the land's value and the plausibility for the City to purchase the lot form Caltrans.
Should the acquisition be successful, Team Downey envisions transforming the space into a pocket park that seamlessly connects to an interactive greenway. Possible features for this greenway include curated art exhibits showcasing local talent, engaging interactive play structures for children, outdoor fitness equipment for community wellness, or native plant gardens complete with informational plaques to educate visitors about local flora and fauna.
Vision & Goals
Property Located at 8327 Third Street
Vacant Lot Owned by local Church in Downtown Downey
Through the Team’s communications with the Director of Economics the team was able to identify a great location for potential development in a pocket park in the Downtown Downey area. The lot located at 8327 Third St is currently owned by a local church who may be looking into either selling the lot or developing it into a housing development in the near future.
Currently there has been no formal discussion with the property owner regarding their plans for development.
Due to the above, the project team is unable to determine the cost to acquire the land at this time.
The lot is located in a high-need area which would be an ideal location to develop a park that would directly impact the City’s ranking on the PNA by 2031.
Vision & Goals
Property Located at 8501 Muller Street
Vacant Lot Currently Owned by a Private Trust
Through the Team’s communications with the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Economics the team was able to identify a fourth location for potential development in a pocket park close to the Downtown Downey area. The lot located at 8501 Muller St is currently listed under the ownership of a private trust.
City Staff has reported that this lot is regularly unkept and has been considered an eye sore for the neighborhood.
Staff has identified the lot to be an adequate size to develop into a pocket park to serve the surrounding neighborhood.
Currently there has been no formal discussion with the property owner regarding their plans for development.
Due to the above, the project team is unable to determine the cost to acquire the land at this time.
The lot is located in a high-need area which would be an ideal location to developing a park that would directly impact the City’s ranking on the PNA by 2031.
Vision & Goals
Buildings Located at Furman Park
Replacement of the 3 buildings at Furman Park with one large community center
Through the Team’s communications with the Director of Parks and Recreation the project team was able to determine that an ideal update to the facilities located at Furman Park would include the demolition of the buildings currently located on the park in order to construct one larger community center to better serve the community.
The ideal community center would include the following features:
Staff Offices
Recreation Programming Rooms
Rentable Activity Rooms
Media Room
Teen Center
The City would need to identify a funding source, most likely through one or multiple grants, in order to pursue the development of a new community center at Furman Park
Replacing the buildings with a modern community center will contribute to the Park’s overall rating on the PNA
Vision & Goals
Building Located at Golden Park
Replacement and expansion of the buildings currently at Golden Park with one large community center
Communications with the Director of Parks and Recreation also helped the project team determine that the building at Golden Park is high on the list of facilities that need improvement. The building location at the park currently has issues with both termite damage and its plumbing infrastructure. Additionally, Golden Park is located in an area of the City that is often considered “underserved” by residents. Staff is recommending the renovation and expansion of the current building The expansion would extend to the boarders of the current un-used Amphitheater area of the Park allowing for the addition of more rooms and offices to the facility.
The ideal community center would include the following features:
Staff Offices
Recreation Programming Rooms
Rentable Activity Rooms
The City would need to identify a funding source, most likely through one or multiple grants, in order to pursue the development of a new community center at Golden Park
Replacing the buildings with a modern community center will contribute the Park’s overall rating on the PNA
Vision & Goals
Building Located at Rio San Gabriel Park
Replacement of the existing building with a modern building to match the planned park renovations.
Team Downey is recommending replacing the building currently located at Rio San Gabriel Park with a new building.
New building to compliment the scheduled park renovations
Rentable activity room
Replacing the buildings with a modern community center will contribute the Park’s overall rating on the PNA
Vision & Goals
Long-Term Goals
To improve City of Downey’s PNA ranking by the release of the PNA in 2031
Address PNA & PNA+ area of concerns in the next 5-10 years
Strategic Goal #1: Explore the Development option of the four identified locations to add new green space to the City:
8201 Second Street: Rooftop level of the Cityowned Downtown Downey parking structure
10816 Longworth Ave: Parcel of land currently owned by Caltrans
8327 Third Street: Lot of land in Downtown Downey owned by a local church
8501 Muller Street: Lot of land close to Downtown Downey currently owned by a private trust
Strategic Goal #2: Explore the feasibility of rehabilitating or replacing the three existing Park facilities identified as in need of Improvement:
Furman Park: Replace all three buildings with one large community center
Rio San Gabriel Park: Replace current building with an updated facility to match the scheduled park remodel
Golden Park: Renovate current building to fix plumbing and termite issues
Impact:
Positive for residents and visitors
More green space has health benefits
Revenue increase for surrounding businesses
Better maintenance of new facilities
More opportunities for youth sports
Vision & Goals
Long Term Goals
Vision for Long-Term Goals
Priorities & areas of concern: Address parks infrastructure by continuing to track the ranking of green space, overall park and facility conditions, and park amenities each year.
Create a 5–10-year plan on how to address the following:
Deficits in number of playgrounds and trails
Priority needs for trails, sports fields, multiuse facilities for rent, accessible restrooms, more green space
Overall conditions of park amenities
Access to park in high needs areas of Downey
Discuss feasibility prioritization of proposed projects:
Discuss prioritization for land acquisitions of proposed park development locations
Discuss prioritization of proposed facility improvements
Discuss potential and availability of project resources
Vision & Goals
Short-Term Goals
New Park Location:
Turn one of the proposed park locations into a new park
Gather ideas, funding, proposed plan and amenity layout
Hold community meeting
Find funding
Proposed Facility Improvements:
Build new community centers or park buildings at Furman, Rio San Gabriel, and Golden Parks
Implement upgrades with accessibility in mind
Hold meetings to get community input
Identify funding sources
Create an amenity layout and plan
Park Amenity Improvements and Additions:
New Dog Park
Pickleball Courts
Rio San Gabriel Renovation
Priorities & areas of concern:
Move forward with installation of a new dog park at Golden Park
Turned one tennis court into 4 pickleball courts at Independence Park
Plan for Fiscal Year 25/26: Installation of permanent pickleball nets on court 5 at Independence Park
Rio San Gabriel Park renovation project to start
Upgrades to the 2 current dog parks
Addition of Community Gardens
New picnic shelters
Replace current run-down playground with 2 new fully accessible ADA playgrounds
Addition of 1 new obstacle structure
Resurfacing of parking lots
Installation of bike service station near the entrance to the river bed.
Vision & Goals
Park Improvements Completed Since the 2016 Park Needs Assessment Rankings
Amenity Improvements and Additions:
Measure S Improvements
New Playgrounds at Temple & Crawford Park
New Trashcans
New Picnic Benches and Seated Benches
Measure A Project Fund Improvements
Statistics for Improvements implemented since 2016:
New turf multi-purpose fields at Apollo Park
Contruction of the new Rancho Los Amigos Sports Center featuring 3 turf athletic fields.
Installation of 18 new picnic shelters
Installation of new picnic shelter identification signs
Installation of 16 new hot coal receptacles
Installation of 36 new concrete picnic tables
Installation of 19 new concrete park benches
Construction of a new park building at Dennis the Menace Park
Installation of an obstacle course at Dennis the Menace Park
New restrooms at multiple City parks
New HVAC system at the Barbara J. Rile Community and Senior Center
Installation of new irrigation systems at Furman and Apollo Parks
Restoration of 2 ponds at Wilderness Park
Automated parking at Wilderness Park
Replacement of playground at Temple Park
Replacement of playground at Crawford Park
Installation of pour and play flooring at 6 City playgrounds
Replacement/Installation of 70 new trashcans
Installation of new park rules signs at all City parks
Conclusion
Conclusion
In conclusion, this project outlines a comprehensive strategy for the City to significantly improve its standing in the Los Angeles County Park Needs Assessment by 2031. Our team’s primary goal is to elevate our City’s score through strategic expansion and enhancement of our park infrastructure. This will be achieved by creating a new park in a high-need area, renovating existing facilities to improve their overall quality, and increasing the variety and accessibility of park amenities.
The positive impacts of this plan are far-reaching. By investing in our parks, we are investing in the well-being of our community. We anticipate improvements in the quality of life for all residents, a potential increase in property values, positive environmental impacts related to urban warming, and significantly enhanced park accessibility. These benefits will contribute to a more vibrant, healthy, and equitable city for all.
Next Steps
To ensure the successful achievement of these objectives, the City must now move decisively into the implementation phase. Our immediate next steps include:
Location Evaluation: Conducting thorough evaluations of the recommended locations for potential park development, determining their feasibility, and prioritizing them based on need and overall impact.
Facility Renovation Prioritization: Assessing the current recreation facilities recommended for repairs or replacement, prioritizing the highest-need projects, and determining the feasibility of the desired upgrades.
Funding Strategy Development: Researching and identifying diverse funding sources, including grants, partnerships, and City budget allocations, to support the implementation of these critical projects
By diligently pursuing these next steps, we can ensure that the City not only meets but exceeds its goals for improving park access and quality ratings, ultimately creating a more thriving and resilient community for generations to come.
Bibliography
References
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