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San Leandro is falling short of its park acreage goal, with several neighborhoods lacking a park within a 10-minute walking distance. Additionally, the statistically valid survey highlighted additional neighborhood and community parks as top priority investment areas (see Figure 3.1). It is therefore recommended that the City of San Leandro expand its recreation and park system through three key strategies: leverage future development to create new open spaces through zoning requirements and incentives, expand recreational opportunities by reimagining existing assets and exploring innovative solutions, and strategically acquire parkland to improve access and experiences. These approaches can provide a framework to meet the city’s growing need for parks and recreation. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1.1 Leverage Future Development A) Establish clear expectations for amenities provided by future development (as private open space or publicly accessible open space) that align with the high priority needs identified in Table 3.1, to receive a “Credit for Private Recreation and open Space” or “Park and Recreational Improvements” under Municode Chapter 7-1; Section 8. B) Ensure that improvements to existing or provision of new park and recreational facilities meet the park design standards established on pages 74-78 to receive a “Credit for Private Recreation and Open Space” or “Park and Recreational Improvements” under Municode Chapter 7-1; Section 8. C) Prioritize the use of parkland dedication, park in-lieu fees, and development impact fees to meet park and recreational needs prioritized in the Recreation and Parks Master Plan. D) Establish clear parks and open space requirements for the Bay Fair Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), specifying minimum acreage, design standards, and investment levels to ensure these spaces meet the needs of current and future residents. 1.2 Expand Recreational Opportunities A) Update shared-use agreements with the San Leandro and San Lorenzo Unified School Districts to enhance community access to recreational facilities (see Goal 2: Establish Strategic Partnerships). B) Extend the city’s trail system by implementing improvements from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan and exploring the opportunities identified in Map 4.3. C) Assess the potential for transforming underutilized city assets, such as canals or defunct rail corridors, into linear parks or greenways. D) Identify and evaluate streets as potential open space assets, considering their use for public trails, greenways, plazas, and linear parks within the rights of way. 1.3 Strategically Acquire Parkland A) Acquire parkland that meaningfully enhances park experiences and improves accessibility for all residents (see Figure 5.1). B) Create a Land Acquisition Plan that identifies strategic properties, funding sources, and departmental roles. C) Utilize city-owned properties to establish new parks, trails, and open spaces. GOAL 1: EXPAND ACCESS TO RECREATION AND PARK OPPORTUNITIES FIGURE 5.1 | Criteria for Strategic Parkland Acquisition Though there is considerable need for additional parkland in San Leandro, the City should be selective in their acquisitions to ensure public resources are well-spent on properties that will make a meaningful difference in meeting community need. Acquisition opportunities that satisfy one or more of the following criteria may be a worthy investment for the city’s park system. Equitable Access: Located in a residential area lacking a public park within a ½-mile walk (See Map 4.1) or situated in areas projected for future growth. Adequate Size: Large enough to accommodate substantial park amenities and support diverse recreational uses Enhanced Connectivity: Expands or connects to an existing park, open space, or trail network. Unique Features: Contains rare or significant environmental, cultural, historic, geologic, scenic, or other valuable resources. Minimal Impacts: Near compatible land uses with minimal exposure to heavily trafficked roads or other sources of noise, pollution, or other environmental hazards. San Leandro Park Master Plan | 62 DRAFT DRAFT 63 | Realizing Our Vision