Swearengin on parks
Yes, I believe the amount of parks and open space should be expanded in Fresno. Providing a good quality of life for its residents is the primary reason that cities exist. Economic opportunity and safety are high priorities, but recreation and culture are also extremely important and support improvements in the economy and public safety. Fresno should provide recreational opportunities to our citizens and must be competitive with the amenities that other cities offer.
I have been working with the Regional Jobs Initiative and Tree Fresno on a project called “TreeTOPS” (Trees, Trails and Open Space) that seeks to develop a metropolitan trail system throughout the City of Fresno that would link to other trails in the area and eventually connect to regional trails leading to the national parks. I am very optimistic about the potential of this project and will work to bring it to fruition as the next Mayor of Fresno.
I’m also encouraged by the improvements and new parks that the City’s Parks and Recreation Department have advanced in the last several years. The Department’s vision of becoming the outdoor recreation capital of California is an inspiring one, and I will provide my full support to their efforts.
I will work with the City Council and staff to ensure the City’s Parks Master Plan is updated so that the appropriate policies are in place to support the expansion of parks and open space in our community.
As usual, finding the funding necessary to support the development of these amenities in our community will be a challenge. We will work with our existing resources that include development fees, Quimby Act resources (state funds), and some Measure C funds (provides for trails projects). My administration will aggressively pursue state and Federal grants. We will also look for creative partnership opportunities with school districts for mutual use and shared maintenance agreements in order to open up hundreds of acres of existing green space for our community.