Pleasanton Parks and Recreation Master Plan

1-8 Pleasanton Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section One ‐ Introduction 2014 Trends and Implications Analysis A recreational trends analysis was conducted for the City of Pleasanton, wherein research was conducted on state and national social and recreational trends and patterns that may have the potential to impact the City. These overall trends provide valuable context within which specific Pleasanton needs should be considered. Findings include:  Growing ethnic and cultural diversity will result in different recreation preferences. Events and programs in public facilities can help build a strong community  The number of retirement‐eligible Americans is increasing at record rates, causing higher recreation participation rates compared to previous senior groups, resulting in different recreation use patterns and facility expectations. Intergenerational facilities and activities will be increasingly more important in future years  Recreation will continue to be a way for growing communities to address issues related to youth social development and community connectedness  Recreation facilities and program offerings can continue to play an important role in embracing technology for youth, boomers, and older adults  Outdoor recreation will continue to play an important role in Pleasanton residents’ enjoyment of activities. City and nearby recreation facilities represent significant opportunity to address outdoor recreation needs  Fitness and obesity are increasingly important issues that should continue to be addressed by facility and program offerings  Scarcity of time is a factor in evaluating effectiveness of program and facility offerings  An interest in the arts remains very high in the city generally and can be addressed in facilities and in programming  A growing body of research suggests that access to and understanding of the natural world, especially for children, improves physical and psychological health 1.4 Relationship to Other Documents As described previously, the Master Plan is drawn directly from the comprehensive set of objectives and policies within the approved General Plan. In addition to the General Plan, there are a number of other existing documents and plans that relate to the Master Plan and influence its direction. Each of these documents and plans are briefly discussed below, along with a description of its relationship to the Master Plan. Philosophy of Recreation in Pleasanton The Pleasanton Community Services Department strives to enhance the com‐ munity's quality of life, well‐ being, and economy by providing high quality program opportunities that encourage healthy lifestyles and celebrate the com‐ munity's diversity. With a focus on customer service and innovation, the department, along with its community partners, is responsible to manage and operate the City's parks, recreation facilities, and activities in a manner that satisfies the recreation, social, and cultural needs of the Pleasanton community.