San Mateo Park Committee proposes community engagement ideas for July Park and Rec month

During the recent Belmont City Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, members discussed innovative ideas to enhance community engagement in local parks. One standout proposal involved creating interactive installations that encourage residents to express their feelings and thoughts. Inspired by a successful initiative in Downtown San Mateo during the COVID-19 pandemic, the idea is to set up a chalkboard or similar structure where visitors can fill in prompts like "Today I'm feeling..." This initiative aims to foster connection and conversation among park-goers, making the parks not just places for recreation but also for community dialogue.

Commissioners also explored the potential of seasonal installations, such as rotating inspirational quotes or artistic displays, to keep the parks vibrant and engaging throughout the year. This could serve as a way to invite residents to reflect and share their experiences, creating a sense of belonging and community spirit.

Another topic of discussion was the enhancement of park lighting. Commissioners emphasized the importance of ensuring that any new lighting does not inadvertently turn parks into after-hours gathering spots. Instead, they proposed using lights to create a welcoming atmosphere during the day, with the option to illuminate them for special events. This approach aims to balance safety and accessibility while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the parks.

The meeting also touched on practical considerations for park improvements, such as ground cover options to ensure accessibility and resilience. The commission is considering using decomposed granite, similar to what was implemented at Emmet Plaza, to create a more user-friendly environment.

Looking ahead, the commission set an ambitious goal to break ground on new projects by July, coinciding with Park and Recreation Month. They plan to move beyond discussions and start planning actionable steps, including exploring grant opportunities to fund these initiatives. This proactive approach reflects the commission's commitment to enhancing Belmont's parks and making them more inviting and functional for all residents.