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Executive Summary WHY A RECREATION AND PARKS MASTER PLAN? San Leandro’s recreation and parks system not only defines the City’s landscape but also offers invaluable opportunities for leisure, wellness, community building, and enhancing biodiversity. It is comprised of 19 parks and recreational amenities including community and neighborhood parks, swimming pools, and community centers. In addition, recreation facilities such as the Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline Park, San Francisco Bay Trail, and the Shoreline Marshlands are within the city boundaries and are recreational assets accessible to the residents. Over recent decades San Leandro has not only seen significant population growth, but also a growing diversity in its demographic make-up. As the city continues to strengthen its economic position, it expects the trend in population growth to continue through 2035 with over 13,000 new residents1. Growing population and changing demographics also means increased demand and changing priorities for parks and recreation in San Leandro. The Recreation and Parks Master Plan establishes a vision for the city’s recreation and park system based on the assessment of existing parks and recreational assets and an understanding of community needs and priorities. It establishes goals and strategies to meet needs and provides a roadmap implementation. It serves as a blueprint for effective operations, providing maintenance standards and evaluative criteria. Rooted in the community’s vision, the recommendations within this plan will guide the City toward a vibrant and sustainable recreational landscape for generations to come. Rooted in the community’s vision, the recommendations within this plan will guide the City toward a vibrant and sustainable recreational landscape for the next 10-20 years. THE VALUE OF RECREATION & PARKS Improving Community Health Recreation and parks give people of all ages opportunities to walk, play, exercise, and participate in sports. These activities promote not just physical fitness but also mental wellbeing. They can improve concentration for children with attention deficit disorder, enhance relaxation, and promote self-esteem and resilience. Physical activity reduces the risk of chronic disease while improving brain function and memory. Bringing Community Together Parks are a source of community and neighborhood cohesion. Comfortable, attractive parks give people places to interact with neighbors, family, and friends. Parks and open space can give people access to diverse natural environments and reinforce our fundamental connection to nature. They strengthen our connection to our community, which instills a sense of pride and stewardship. As a result, research indicates that parks can counter stress and social isolation. Protecting Natural Resources Parks and open spaces are invaluable for their ability to enhance air and water quality, promote water infiltration, reduce flood hazards and urban heat island effect, and provide habitat to protect the local ecosystem. Vegetation in parks absorbs carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and help us adapt to a changing climate. Enhancing the Local Economy Quality park systems strengthen local economies by increasing property values, attracting tourism, supporting business development, and hosting events that boost sales and tax revenue. In 2021, park and U.S. recreation agencies generated over $201 billion in economic activity and supported 1.1 million jobs. (1) Source: Table 2-2; General Plan 2035. For additional details see “A Growing City” on pg. X Sources: The Power of Parks to Promote Public Health – Trust for Public Lands; The Health Benefits of Parks and their Economic Impacts – Urban Institute; The Economic Impact of Parks – National Recreation nd Park Association San Leandro Park Master Plan | 2 DRAFT DRAFT 3 | Executive Summary