Parks commission advances Boyle Park master plan; residents press council for pump track feasibility study

The Parks and Recreation Commission told the council it is nearing completion of a Boyle Park master plan that emphasizes preserving the park’s character while updating priority amenities. Naomi Jane Gray (speaker 12), the commission chair, said the draft plan focuses on maintaining and improving existing elements rather than introducing dramatic new amenities.

“We are super excited to be nearing completion of the plan,” Gray said, describing 13 priority areas — improvements to tennis courts, ball fields, restrooms, children's play areas, circulation and more — and noting the commission will present its recommendations to council if the commission approves the draft. Director Ashley Howe (speaker 25) said staff has collected preliminary feasibility estimates and proposed a modest budget line for a formal bike-amenity study in the draft capital improvement plan.

That presentation preceded a sustained public comment block in which many residents and children asked the council to fund a feasibility study and ultimately build a pump track or bike jumps. Patrick Lenahan (speaker 31) told the council, “There’s a sustained, organized demand for a pump track and jumps in Mill Valley,” and dozens of young speakers and parents described petitions, signed letters and practical benefits for youth skill-building and social connection. A pediatrician and parent highlighted mental- and physical-health benefits: “A pump track is exactly that kind of space... it promotes vigorous physical activity in ways that feel like play, not exercise,” said Dr. Elizabeth Linehan (speaker 34).

Council discussion touched on cost and process. Some commissioners and the city manager questioned using a large measure-funded study budget up front and suggested a more targeted approach: identify likely sites first, tap community expertise for design, and fund environmental review only where required. The city manager suggested working with the commission and community groups to find a feasible location and use Measure A/commission resources carefully rather than spend the full amount on a standalone study immediately.

Next steps: the Parks & Rec Commission will consider the Boyle Park draft at a special meeting; the council will weigh whether to fund a formal feasibility study or a more focused site-finding and environmental-review approach.