Kerman initiates community-focused parks and recreation planning with SPARKY program

The Kingsburg Community Service Commission meeting on January 29, 2025, highlighted an exciting initiative aimed at enhancing the city's parks and recreation system. A representative introduced the SPARKY program, which stands for Sustainable Park and Recreation Community Initiative, detailing its successful implementation in nearby communities like Kerman and McFarland.

The focus of the discussion was a comprehensive work plan designed to engage Kingsburg residents in shaping the future of their parks. The representative emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "We have opportunities for your community to get involved and ask questions." To facilitate this, a survey will be launched online using Qualtrics, alongside mail-out surveys and intercept surveys conducted by local students at parks and community events.

The data collected will not only inform the community about current needs but will also help identify potential locations for new parks. The representative explained, "We'll analyze that data... and identify where we think you should locate additional parks." This process will include a focus group to prioritize investments in the parks system.

As Kingsburg embarks on this initiative, the community can look forward to a more tailored and responsive parks and recreation system that reflects their needs and aspirations. The next steps will involve gathering community input and mapping out a strategic plan for future development.