Fresno parks master plan wins California APA award for implementation

Assistant City Manager TJ Miller told the Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission on Sept. 15 that the city's parks master plan and Measure P "Transforming Parks and Communities" initiative received the 2025 Award of Excellence in the implementation category from the California chapter of the American Planning Association.

"This prestigious state-level recognition celebrates the City of Fresno's commitment to equitable park development, community engagement, and long-term investment in public spaces," Miller said, thanking parks staff and the parks department leadership.

Parks staff also gave a brief update on seasonal programming: fall movies in the park, pumpkin painting and other family activities are scheduled in coming months. The department said the award highlights progress on park projects funded by Measure P and ongoing efforts to expand access to facilities and programs.

TJ Miller credited parks department leadership and Measure P funding for accelerating projects and community engagement; Erin Aguirre, parks department lead mentioned by staff, was singled out in remarks for shepherding implementation work.

The commission received the report with no public comment on the item and no formal action was taken. Commissioners praised staff for the national recognition and encouraged continued outreach to neighborhoods underrepresented in park access.

Ending note: parks staff said residents can expect a schedule of fall events and continued updates as Measure P–funded projects move into construction and programming phases.