GALT, CA (MPG) - A group of Galt residents gave their thoughts on city parks on Aug. 27 as part of the first public workshop on the city’s Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan.

With Galt City Council already in the thick of decisions about how to spend new parks and recreation funds from the Measure Q sales tax, the master plan is intended to create a picture of the community’s priorities for parks and rec.

“This is the first step in our exercise and to basically do a road map for our City Council to see what they want. … So it allows them to hear your voice,” Parks and Recreation Director Armando Solis said.

About 30 residents, including some children, gathered at the Littleton Community Center to listen to a presentation from RHAA, the consulting firm developing the master plan, on the current state of Galt’s parks.

Then breaking into small groups, they wrote down answers to three questions: What do you like about Galt parks, open space and facilities? What improvements would you suggest? What recreation features, facilities or programs would you like to see added?

The number and diversity of parks was a common point of praise. Several groups appreciated Gora Aquatic Center and the cleanliness of parks.

“My daughter says that each park is different and great because they are all good, equitable facilities and you can have equal fun at every one,” one attendee said.

Attendees agreed on several ways to improve the parks and open spaces, with notable support for expanding bike and pedestrian trails to create more connection between the east and west sides of Galt. Another priority was to make parks more engaging for teenagers, with suggestions including outdoor fitness facilities, a bike park similar to the feature at Elk Grove Regional Park and a city-run teen center.

Multiple participants requested more shade structures and water features at parks, as well as a performing arts venue. An attendee said that the city currently holds its Concerts in the Park series at Veterans Soccer Field.

“I think an amphitheater would actually be really good, too,” the attendee said. “It would be a good gathering space for people.”

Additionally, some participants asked for playground designs that include those with disabilities. An attendees said she has trouble finding a park where her son, who has special needs, can play safely.

RHAA Senior Associate John Martin led the workshop. He noted this request in an interview with the Herald.

“Some of the things that we heard reiterated by a number of community members is the idea of inclusive playgrounds, understanding that parks are used by children and people of all abilities, making sure that our parks are designed to accommodate them and provide everyone an opportunity to have fun and enjoy the spaces,” Martin said.

The project will evaluate the bike and pedestrian trails and the potential to better connect the city, according to Martin.

“We’ve understood that there are also outside communities that come into the city of Galt on those trails and access your school system on those trails,” Martin said, “so we want to make sure that they’re safe for everyone to use and just a really healthy and sustainable way to get across the city.”

The Aug. 27 workshop is the first in plans to gather input from the community. Solis said presentations will be given at future Parks and Recreation Commission and Galt City Council meetings. He emphasized the importance of community members’ participation, which helps ensure that city plans reflect residents’ priorities.

An online survey on Galt parks and open spaces is available at surveymonkey.com/r/h7c2z7x.

Those who use city parks are encouraged to share their opinions and desires for the facilities.