Willow Glen Resident

News

Oliverio encourages residents to be part of Greenprint plan

By Emilie Crofton

San Jose is one step closer to improving its park and community programs after holding a public discussion to hear residents' ideas.

Residents from District 6 gathered at Galarza Elementary School on Sept. 22 for a discussion of park maintenance, facilities, the Adopt-A-Park/Trail programs and an overview of the 20-year Greenprint plan for San Jose parks.

"I was happy to see the neighborhood so well represented," said District 6 Councilman Pierluigi Oliverio. "I'm excited from the turnout. This is such an important issue to me."

The Greenprint plan's goal is to increase parks and open space, expand trail connections to parks--such as the Willow Glen Spur Trail--and recreation facilities, promote volunteerism, expand fiscal resources and partnerships, and promote economic development.

Oliverio stressed the importance of hearing the community's input and prioritizing residents' ideas to further develop future plans.

Some people have been upset with the limited funding for park services, but Willow Glen resident Richard Zappelli said everything can't be blamed on limited budgets.

"It's important to realize that a lot of little things can be accomplished without funds," he said. "These meetings will help, but we have to get behind the city and push them."

Community residents went through the problems at every park in District 6. The issues brought up for Lincoln Glen, Palm Haven Plaza, River Glen, Wallenberg, Wilcox, Fuller and Bramhall parks focused on improving overall maintenance, and more frequent visits from groundskeepers.

Residents were told they could assist in park maintenance through the Adopt-A-Park and Adopt-A-Trail programs, which are citywide volunteer programs. Residents aid in the general care of neighborhood parks and trails by picking up litter, removing graffiti, planting native plants and reporting problems.

At the end of the forum, residents were asked to vote on issues they believe should be prioritized, including trails, potential acquisitions in the district, recreational programs offered at community centers and park features. Updates and results will be provided to residents at a future meeting.

"I was glad to see such a large community interest in park issues and services," said Larry Ames, president of the Willow Glen Neighborhood Association. "It's important for the city to provide adequate parks and be able to maintain the ones we currently have." Ames also said one of his main priorities for the city included making sure the Willow Glen Spur trail becomes a reality.

For more information on the Adopt-A-Park or Adopt-A-Trail program, visit www.sjadoptapark.org, call 408.793.4190 or e-mail adoptapark@sanjoseca.gov.