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Stockton council approves Van Buskirk Park revitalization project after calls for stronger outreach and anti-displacement protections
Summary
Council approved the final initial study/mitigated negative declaration and concept for Van Buskirk Park revitalization. Environmental and community groups urged more water-access infrastructure, anti-displacement measures for people experiencing homelessness, and broader outreach; staff said outreach has been extensive and design is at 60% for phase 1.
The council approved the Van Buskirk Park revitalization project and adopted the final initial study/mitigated negative declaration after staff described the project’s goals and a public-comment period that included environmental and community groups asking for stronger displacement-avoidance measures and additional water-access infrastructure.
Restore the Delta and other commenters supported the park improvements but asked the city to plan for equitable water access, to publish an engagement and transition plan for unhoused residents near the site (including 30-day written notice in multiple languages and shelter options), and to adopt anti-displacement commitments tied to the park redevelopment. Mary Elizabeth and Sierra Club representatives requested more transparent outreach beyond the CEQA minimum and asked that the Water Advisory Group receive regular updates. Staff said the project has reached roughly 60% design, that six stakeholder meetings and four community meetings have occurred since 2020, and that outreach will continue as design advances.
Council members congratulated staff and community partners on the long-running effort and approved the item by unanimous vote, with staff noting additional design-phase outreach and a phased approach to construction and funding.
