West Sacramento unveils conceptual Arlington Neighborhood Park plan; expansion dependent on grant and land purchase

Erin Ayala, Parks and Recreation Business Manager, presented a workshop on the Arlington Neighborhood Park project to the West Sacramento Parks and Recreation Intergenerational Services Commission on June 3, describing a conceptual plan that could add nearly 32 acres if the city purchases an adjacent parcel owned by the Port of West Sacramento and obtains grant funding.

Ayala told commissioners the city’s General Plan 2035 (adopted 2016) and the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan (adopted 2019) identify a service‑level goal of 5 acres of park space per 1,000 residents. "We are currently 72 acres shy of that goal," Ayala said, and added that increasing residential development will widen that gap.

Staff presented a larger, grant‑dependent park footprint adjacent to the Barge Canal recreational access area that would connect to the city’s trail network, including the Sycamore Trail and the Barge Canal Trail. Proposed amenities were presented as conceptual ideas and included preservation of mature oak groves, a children’s play area, picnic and shade pavilions, amphitheater, flexible lawns for informal sports, community gardens, dog park, restrooms, hydration stations, kayak and non‑motorized boat rentals, a fishing boardwalk, improved and accessible boat launch for non‑motorized craft, and potential waterfront safety and life‑vest programs.

Ayala emphasized that the larger footprint is not guaranteed and is contingent on grant awards and property acquisition. She said the acquisition opportunity combined with a potential grant would allow the city to "add nearly 32 acres of open green space to the city's park inventory." Ayala also said staff is required to obtain community input for the grant process and invited feedback; the city scheduled a public engagement event for June 10 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bart's Hill Access area.

Commissioner Jans raised safety and operational concerns about the boat launch, noting that the Port of Sacramento allows motorized watercraft on portions of Lake Washington and recommending the city design any new launch to be clearly for small, non‑motorized craft such as kayaks and paddleboards to avoid conflicts with larger motorized boats. Jans suggested signage and flag requirements and suggested coordination with existing clubs and port rules to minimize safety risks. Jans also suggested exploring life‑vest rental or loaner programs and involving fire department partners in water‑safety programming.

Commissioner Ahmad recommended a gated or enclosed play area for small children near the water to reduce the risk of children running into the canal and emphasized the need for seating for older residents along trails. Staff said the plan is conceptual and acquisition is the immediate step; if awarded the grant the city would begin extensive outreach and more detailed planning.

Ayala said the adjacent parcel currently is owned by the Port of West Sacramento and that the larger park footprint and dedication as open space would be tied to grant funding and land purchase agreements. She also noted the Stone Lock/Army Corps property and the Central Park concept are separate efforts but could eventually connect with this waterfront park if rights and ownership allowed.

No formal decision was required at the workshop; commissioners provided feedback for staff to consider as the city pursues acquisition and grant opportunities.