HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/26/2022CC
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Aug. 26, 2022 TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council FROM: Christian Clegg, City Manager SUBJECT: General Information
Job Fair
The City’s first-ever Job Fair proved to be a success with approximately 500 people showing up. Held at the Bakersfield Community House, job seekers filled the site,
looking to learn more about any one of the more than 200 jobs available through the
City. Staff members from all City departments were on site, taking questions, helping
setup interviews and potentially speaking to future co-workers. The event was
scheduled to kickoff at 9 a.m., but due to lines forming outside, the event actually
started early. As part of continued promotion of the event, Human Resources
Manager Shayla Collins hosted a Facebook Live from the event, helping drum up
support, answering questions and getting people to #ShowUp.
General Information Aug. 26, 2022 Page 2
Notable Items
This week the City Council’s Ad-Hoc
Committee on Homelessness took a
closer look at the Open Door Network’s Jobs Development Program. Committee members –
Vice Mayor and Committee Chair Ken Weir
(Ward 3), Eric Arias (Ward
1) and Patty Gray (Ward
7) – toured the Open Door
Jobs Center off Union Ave. The facility, operated by the Open Door Network (ODN;
formerly the Bakersfield Homeless Center), opened earlier this year after a more than
$740,000 renovation paid for by the City through grant funds. They heard from ODN
about the impacts the program is having on the City itself, as well as the positive results
its clients are benefiting from, including full-time employment and housing stability.
This week consultants for the Recreation & Parks Master Plan Update, MIG were in town to tour certain elements of expanded interest from the plan in general. On Tuesday Rec. &
Parks Director Rick Anthony, biologists
from MIG, along with community
stakeholders toured the entire Kern
River Parkway, stopping at several points of interest which included
Bakersfield Environmental Studies Area (BESA), The Uplands, San Miquel and
ended at the Panorama Vista Preserve for an extensive tour. The intent of the tour was to better understand the unique
history, challenges, native vegetation and habitat along that corridor. The ultimate goal is to educate and inform the department, identify opportunities for partnerships
and restoration, and develop a strategy for maintenance and management that is more environmentally feasible and seeks to enhance and preserve our natural areas.
Other tours were focused on updating the Downtown Tree Master Plan and future concepts for the Kaiser Permanente Sports Village.
With the new school year underway, parents will want to look for activities for their
children (or even themselves). This week Rec. & Parks launched its 2022 Fall Activities
Brochure to help those parents keep up to date on community events, activities and
parks information. The 28-page brochure can be found on the Rec. & Parks page on the City’s website.
General Information Aug. 26, 2022 Page 3
Public Works continues to make improvements in front of and near schools, as students have kicked off the new school
year. Public Works recently resurfaced Beale Avenue at
Owens Intermediate School (right), enhanced crosswalks,
narrowed travel lane markings, painted new bike lanes and
upgraded sidewalks to make them ADA compliant.
The City’s Existing Conditions
Background Report (ECBP) is now live for public review on
the General Plan Update
website, Bakersfield2045.com.
The ECBR provides a snapshot
of Bakersfield as of 2022,
describing land uses, mobility
patterns, economic conditions,
natural and cultural resources,
natural hazards, and other
physical, environmental, and
quality of life concerns. The
information in the report
provides a foundation for
understanding Bakersfield and its community. Individuals can submit comments on the ECBR through the Bakersfield2045.com website.
The General Plan Update T-shirt design contest has been extended, allowing more
artists to participate in the process. The deadline to submit designs has been
extended to 11:59 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. The winner will receive a $50 Visa gift
card, City RISE swag bag and two T-shirts featuring their original design. Designs can be submitted at the Bakersfield2045.com website.
The monthly bulky item drop-off events continue to be popular in the community, as another 17,000+ pounds of trash were collected at the August events. The two events,
held at the Kaiser Permanente Sports Village and on Panorama Drive, saw nearly 250 vehicles dropping off items, filling seven open-top dumpsters. More than 13,600
pounds of trash was collected at the Sports Village and another 3,760 pounds was collected at the Panorama site. So far in 2022, the events, made possible thanks to
the Public Safety & Vital Services Measure (Measure N), have collected more than 140,000 pounds of trash.
General Information Aug. 26, 2022 Page 4
The Bakersfield Animal Care Center is teaming up with KGET
for its annual Clear the Shelters event. Clear the Shelters is a nationwide event, coordinated by NBC. It’s scheduled to
take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, August 27 at the BACC (201 S. Mount Vernon Avenue). A handful of promos
for the event have already aired on KGET. More information on the event can be found at KGET’s website.
The City is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Keep Bakersfield Beautiful Committee following the resignation of the Ward 5 alternate, Edward Robinson. The remaining term of the seat is through November
2024.
Applications are available at the City Clerk’s Office (1600 Truxtun Ave.), or on the
City’s website, and should be returned to the City Clerk’s Office by 5 p.m.,
Wednesday, September 7. The successful candidate will be nominated by the Ward
5 Councilmember and confirmed by a majority vote of the full City Council.
The City’s Animal Control Field Services will be bringing back the popular low-cost drive-through dog vaccination clinics in September. After taking a break during the
summer due to the heat, the clinics will return Saturday, Sept. 10 at Silver Creek Park,
7011 Harris Road. Along with getting vaccinations, City residents can also get dog
licenses. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. – noon, but the line may cut off early due to
limited supplies. More information about the clinics and fees can be found on our
website.
Our very own Brianna Carrier, Assistant to the City Manager, recently celebrated her 5-year work anniversary with the City. Brianna started as a management assistant in the City
Manager’s office in August 2017 and has since worked on many projects including the
Downtown Parking Study, supporting the annual budget process, the City Council
Goals, the Kentucky Street Urban Greening Project, and most recently, Ward
Redistricting. In addition to her array of projects, Brianna is the designated ADA and
Title VI Coordinator for the City and coordinates with departments to ensure
access to City programs, services, and activities. Brianna’s leadership, wide breadth
of experience, and institutional knowledge
continue to be a valuable asset, and we are
grateful for her many contributions.
General Information Aug. 26, 2022 Page 5
Traffic Advisories
Northbound 99 nighttime lane closures
Nighttime lane closures are scheduled for all lanes of the Northbound 99 between
Ming Ave. and Hwy. 58 between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Aug. 29-Sept. 2 for the installation
of falsework. Drivers will be detoured to exit at Ming Ave., travel west to Wible Road,
go north on Wible to California Ave., head west on California and re-enter the Northbound 99 on-ramp.
Southbound 99 nighttime lane closures A nighttime closure is scheduled for all lanes of the Southbound Hwy. 99 between
California Ave. and Belle Terrace between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. on Aug 30 for the installation of falsework. Drivers will be detoured to exit at California Ave., travel east
to Oak Street, south on Oak Street to Ming Ave., west on Ming Avenue and re-enter the Southbound 99 on-ramp.
Nighttime closure of Stockdale Hwy. scheduled Stockdale Highway will be closed in both directions between McDonald Way and N.
Stine Road from Aug. 29-Sept. 2 between 8:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. for the removal of falsework. Residents can detour around the work zone by using McDonald Way or
Real Road to enter or exit the neighborhood. All other traffic will be routed around the area using Oak Street and California Avenue.
WB58 to SB99 connector closure The Westbound Hwy. 58 to Southbound Hwy. 99 connector will be closed Sept. 1 from
9 p.m. until 5 a.m. for sign installation. Westbound-to-Southbound drivers will be detoured to Northbound 99 to exit at California Avenue. At California, go west to
enter the Southbound 99 on-ramp.
Reports
City Council Agenda Highlights, Aug. 31, 2022
Code Enforcement weekly report, August 13 – 19, 2022
Recreation & Parks Department Rapid Response Team weekly report, August 14 – 20,
2022
Recreation & Parks MLK Park Revitalization Engagement Summary
General Information Aug. 26, 2022 Page 6
Events
Annual Clear the Shelters event, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturday, August 27 at the Bakersfield
Animal Care Center (201 S. Mount Vernon Avenue)
Animal Control low-cost drive-through vaccination clinic, Sept. 10 at Silver Creek Park (7011 Harris Road)
Event Calendar for the Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater & Convention Center
Fox Theater Cults & Classics full schedule
Fox Theater Flix Movies, 2022-2023 Fall Season schedule
AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS AUGUST 31, 2022 COUNCIL MEETING
REGULAR MEETING – 3:30 p.m.
REPORTS
Item 3b. Citywide High-Speed Internet (All Wards). City Council will receive a workshop on SiFi
Networks and their proposal to implement a no cost, citywide high speed broadband infrastructure
within the City of Bakersfield’s public right of way.
REGULAR MEETING – 5:15 p.m.
CONSENT CALENDAR - RESOLUTIONS Item 7e. Code Enforcement’s Report on Securing, Abating, and Demolishing Properties (All Wards) A list
of subject properties were in violation of Chapters 8.27 and 15.24 of the Bakersfield Municipal Code.
The property owners were notified and failed to comply with notices to abate such public nuisance.
After a hearing duly noticed and held before the Building Director, the Director issued orders requiring
the property owner to abate the public nuisance. Owners of the listed properties failed to commence
the required work as ordered by the Building Director and were abated under the direction of the
Code Enforcement Manager. The costs incurred by the City can be assessed against the property
owner as provided for in Chapter 8.80 of the Bakersfield Municipal Code. Property owners had been
given notice of their right to appear at the hearing on this matter before the City Manager designee
and to object to the correctness of the costs incurred by the City to remove the public nuisance. The
City Manager designee has approved the assessments associated with the properties. The Council will
need to confirm the approval of the City Manager designee of the costs incurred by the City for work
performed to remove the public nuisance and order that such costs be made a lien against the
property.
Items 7f. Annexation of Inhabited Territory on Corner of White Lane and S. Union Ave (Ward 1) The City
is actively identifying and annexing inhabited territories across the City. Annexing these pockets of
County islands will facilitate the delivery of public services, reduce confusion among residents, and create a better sense of community. The resolution proposes an application to Kern County Local
Agency Formation Commission (“LAFCo”) for the annexation of inhabited territory into the City of Bakersfield known as Annexation No. 709 (White Lane No. 9). The annexation encompasses
approximately 105 acres of residential, commercial, and industrial uses located on the corner of White Lane and South Union Avenue. The territory is adjacent to the City limits and is within the City’s Sphere
of Influence boundary. If the annexation is approved, the territory will be annexed into Ward 1. Item 7j. Motorola Radios for Bakersfield Fire Department (All Wards) This resolution facilitates the purchase of 17 portable radios to replace existing non-functional, unrepairable units for use by the
Bakersfield Fire Department. The portable radios being purchased will be able to function with the current radio system and at a minimum support basic communication functionality in the prospective
new digital radio system currently in the RFP stage of procurement. CONSENT CALENDAR - AGREEMENTS
Item 7n. Amendment to the Economic Opportunity Area Plan (Wards 1, 2, 3) In 2016, the City Council approved the City's Economic Opportunity Area (EOA) Plan and seven designated EOA's. The plan is
a locally initiated program that uses tax increment financing to promote economic growth within the EOA's. Staff recently modified the guidelines to respond to current operational procedures and provide
flexibility for the use of funds consistent with the Council approved Plan. During this review, it was noted that a modification of the Plan is necessary to provide the opportunity for non-profit organizations to
participate in the EOA program. The current language provides that only a 501(c)(3) nonprofit is
eligible. The recommended change to the qualified applicant section would provide that all non-
profits are eligible for participation in the EOA program.
Item 7t. $95,000 in Economic Opportunity Area Incentive Program funds for Home Rescue Development LLC (Ward 2) The City received an Economic Opportunity Area Incentive Program application from
Marco Gomez (Home Rescue Development, LLC) for their locations at 808 & 812 Baker Street within
the Old Town Kern EOA. Marco is requesting EOA funding for site improvements to cover the costs
associated with demolition of these damaged structures and asbestos, lead, and mercury testing as
required for demolition; all which are eligible costs within the EOA Program Guidelines. The proposed
project enhances aesthetics, promotes safety, and promotes business growth and development in the
community. The project will also help restore the tax base and is harmonious with the surrounding
properties and uses, and offers goods and services deemed desirable and appropriate within the Old
Town Kern EOA.
Item 7u. $93,880 in Economic Opportunity Area Incentive Program funds for The Gentleman Investments, LP (Ward 2) The City received an Economic Opportunity Area (EOA) Incentive Program application from Coby Vance (The Gentleman Investments, L.P.) for their location at 1101 18th Street
within the Downtown EOA. The applicant purchased the property to occupy and operate a private club and lease two other spaces. Mr. Vance is requesting EOA funding for site improvements to cover
the costs associated with the installation of new ADA ramps and handrails, demolition and installation of a new storefront, parking lot striping, and the demolition of asphalt in the alley and concrete fill; all
which are eligible costs within the EOA Program Guidelines. The proposed project enhances aesthetics, promotes safety, and promotes business growth and development in the community. The project will
also help restore the tax base and is harmonious with the surrounding properties and uses, and offers goods and services deemed desirable and appropriate within the Downtown EOA.
Item 7y. $75,000 to Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc. for a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Plan (All Wards)
In accordance with the City’s ongoing commitment to increasing roadway safety for all users, the City will develop a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Plan. This plan will serve as a toolbox of solutions that
may be used to respond to neighborhood requests for reductions in cut-through traffic and excessive
vehicle speeds in residential neighborhoods. The plan will include clear guidance on what solutions
are appropriate for various issues such as vehicle speeds, traffic volumes, and various other factors that
may apply to unique factors at specific locations. The consultant for the study will be the Los Angeles
office of Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc. Kimley-Horn has performed this service for other communities
and provides the City the opportunity to accelerate the start of this effort by referencing the City of
Lancaster's procurement process. It is anticipated the study will take 12 weeks to complete after
receiving notice to proceed. A presentation will be made to the City Council in effort to discuss any
elements from the study and receive input to make any desired adjustments to refine the final report
before the final draft.
Item 7z. Independent Contractors Agreements for Outreach and Mentorship Services for City’s CalVIP
Program (All Wards) In September 2020, the Board of State and Community Corrections’ (BSCC)
awarded the City of Bakersfield a three-year $1,500,000 California Violence Intervention (CalVIP)
Cohort 3 grant (Grant Award #BSCC 873-20) to implement a Focused-Deterrence Model. In July 2022,
the City of Bakersfield received a highly competitive three-year $3,114,625 grant from the Board of State and Community Corrections, California Violence Intervention and Prevention Cohort 4 Grant
Program (CalVIP) to implement a Socioecological Model focused on prevention initiatives by using a public health approach to expand on the City’s gun violence reduction efforts. The purpose of the
program is to implement a prevention initiative using a public health approach to expand on the City’s violence reduction efforts. The City aims achieve this through (1) Incident Response and (2) Individual
and Family Management Services. The City plans to enter into Independent Contractor’s Agreements
with four community-based organizations (CBOs) to provide outreach and mentorship services, and
deliver of evidence-informed practices focused on prevention initiatives. These CBOs include the
Compassion Christian Center, Stay Focused Ministries, Wendale Davis Foundation, and Mothers Against
Gang Violence.
Item 7af. $405,000 MOU with County of Kern B (All Wards) The Bakersfield Police Department (BPD) and
Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (Kern BHRS) are using innovative strategies to partner on
handling behavioral health (BH) matters in our community. Over the past year BPD and Kern BHRS
partnered to pilot the efficacy of placing one BH clinician within a law enforcement communications
center alongside dispatchers. The one clinician diverted approximately 70% of the 600 plus assigned
calls, preventing a police officer response over 480 times to non-emergency calls. Increasing the
number of clinicians to three will provide for better shift coverage each week and should further
decrease an officer response to non-emergency BH calls. The PSVS Citizens Oversight Committee
unanimously recommended this project. The City Council approved this funding allocation through
the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget. PSVS revenue ($405,000) has been appropriated to the Police
Department’s operating budget within the Public Safety and Vital Services Fund to place three
Behavioral Health Clinicians in the BPD Communications Center and continue the Homeless Co-Response Program. CONSENT CALENDAR - MISCELLANEOUS
Item 7as. $927,974 Appropriation of federal Regional Surface Transportation Program for Pavement
Rehabilitation Project Along California Ave between Union Ave. and Washington St. (Ward 2) City staff
was successful in securing an additional $927,974 in RSTP funds for the California project. These funds
were secured after the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget was approved and have not yet been
appropriated. City staff proposes to appropriate the additional federal funding. Now that staff has
secured these additional RSTP funds, there is adequate funding available to fully fund the remainder
of the construction project without having to use local SB 1 funds, except for the local match
requirements. This frees local SB 1 funds for other local street rehabilitation projects. The California
Avenue from Union Avenue to Washington Street pavement rehabilitation project (California project)
is currently under construction with an anticipated completion date of November 23, 2022. CONSENT CALENDAR – PUBLIC SAFETY & VITAL SERVICES MEASURE
Item 7au. $3,114,625 in Matching Funds for California Violence Intervention & Prevention Program (All Wards) In September 2020, the Board of State and Community Corrections’ (BSCC) awarded the City
of Bakersfield a three-year $1,500,000 California Violence Intervention (CalVIP) Cohort 3 grant (Grant
Award #BSCC 873-20) to implement a Focused-Deterrence Model. In July 2022, the City of Bakersfield
received a highly competitive three-year $3,114,625 grant from the Board of State and Community
Corrections, California Violence Intervention and Prevention Cohort 4 Grant Program (CalVIP) to
implement a Socioecological Model focused on prevention initiatives by using a public health
approach to expand on the City’s gun violence reduction efforts. Adoption of the resolution
authorizes the City Manager to accept the terms of the grant award and execute the grant
agreement, on behalf of the Bakersfield City Council. The grant award amount of $3,114,625 covers
program expenses for the term of three years (07/01/2022 – 12/31/2025) and requires no less than
100% match from the City. The City plans to appropriate $3,114,625 in grant proceeds to the City
Manager’s Office Operating Budget within the General Fund. Prepared by: Juan Heredia, Administrative Analyst III cc: Department Heads City Manager’s File City Clerk’s File News Media File
The Rapid Response Team worked on several encampment projects this week, focusing on
Saunders Park, Martin Luther King, Junior Park, and the lots south of Berkshire Rd.
Clean-Up on the Kern River continues, with a focus on the Stockdale and Calloway area,
as well as the Western part of Chester Avenue.
The newly formed Night Shift Impact Unit continues to assist our Police Department in
clearing encampments and trash sites between the 1:30 pm and 11:30 pm. hours
Better Code RRT Outreach
# Calls for Service 161
# Calls Holding 70
# Encampments 42
# Subjects encountered 4
#Referrals to Shelter 2
Better Code RRT Clean City
# Trash Sites Cleaned 47
# Tons of Trash Removed 9.5
# Equivalent pickup loads 21
Impact Unit– BPD Call Out: 901 Mohawk Street
Better Code Enforcement
Report
Date: August 13, 2022—August 19, 2022
Clean-Up at The Kern River—West of Coffee Road (BEFORE & AFTER)
Proactive Clean-Up at 2031 White Lane (BEFORE & AFTER)
Vacant Lot Clean-Up at 7803 South H Street (BEFORE & AFTER)
This week Code Enforcement achieved voluntary compliance on 87 cases.
Inspector Summary
# Initial Inspections 149
# Re-inspections 173
# Hearing 0
# Abatement Inspection 6
# Vacant Structure Check 29
# Contract Awarded 1
# Bid Requested Abatement 9
# Warrants Executed 0
# Vehicle Abatement 11
# Business license Inspection 1
# Fire Call Response (After hours) 6
#Board-up Response (After hours) 4
Case Origin
# Citizen Complaints 75
# Councilmember Referral 1
# Proactive 49
# Fire Department 18
# Police Department 2
# City Source 2
# Internal Complaints / Treasury 0 Case Type
# Property Maintenance 82
# Housing Violation 4
# Zoning 24
# Construction/Building 20
#Parking Violation/Citations 10 RRT Back/Fill Shift 1 Code Enforcement Pending Pages 78
Voluntary compliance in the abatement of the vacant lot that included the violations
of overgrown vegetation, junk, trash, debris, vehicles parked on unpaved, and un-
permitted storage containers in a residential zone (BEFORE & AFTER)
Abatement of fire-damaged, open/vacant structure.
Recreation & Parks - RRT Weekly Report
For the week of 8/14/2022-8/20/2022
City Council and/or Public Requests
• None
City Source Requests
• None
Projects Completed by RRT
1. Sumner Street Storage Facility (Perimeter Fence Repair – Vandalism)
• The RRT reused and installed chain link fence fabric that was removed from the
MLK Park fence removal project and installed it along the north property line
adjacent to the railroad tracks due to ongoing vandalism.
2. Jastro Park – WWI Veterans Memorial (Electrical Pull Boxes)
• The RRT installed gravel drain beds inside the newly installed boxes as part of the
new WWII Veterans Memorial project.
3. MLK Park (Fence Removal)
• The RRT removed an existing bollard post and flush cut metal fence posts down
to grade along the existing concrete mow curb adjacent to the parking lot.
4. BPD Training Facility (Obstacle Course Equipment Installation)
• The RRT completed installation of the new obstacle course equipment.
5. Bike Trail (Encampment Clean-Up)
• The RRT assisted Code Enforcement with trash removal from homeless
encampments set up along the riverbed adjacent to the bike trail between
Coffee Rd. & Calloway Dr.
• Trash was placed inside roll off bins, provided by Code Enforcement.
6. Challenger Park (Storage Room Door Replacement - Vandalism)
• The RRT removed the existing vandalized storage room double-doors at the
pump room and replaced them with a new set of double-doors. In addition the
RRT also installed a new security lock and bracket to secure the doors due to
vandalism.
7. MLK Park (Encampment Clean-Up)
• The RRT assisted Code Enforcement with trash removal from homeless
encampments set up on the north side of the park.
• 3 sites were addressed.
• Trash loads were placed inside rear loader truck, provided by Code Enforcement.
8. 3737 Stockdale Hwy. (Landscape Shrub Removal)
• The RRT removed six shrubs on the west side of the building in preparation for a
future new perimeter fence installation.
9. Wayside Park (Restroom Building Repair – Vandalism)
• The RRT repaired the damaged expanded metal on the restroom building due
to vandalism.
Miscellaneous
1. Kern River (Encampment Clean-Up)
• The RRT assisted Code Enforcement with trash removal from homeless
encampments set up along the riverbank between San Miguel Grove and Oak
St.
• Trash loads were placed inside roll-off trash bins, provided by Code
Enforcement.
2. City Corp Yard (Storage Area Modification)
• The RRT installed two metal shelves inside the equipment storage area.
3. 1600 Truxtun Ave (Office Furniture)
• The RRT temporarily relocated office furniture on the 3rd floor, as part of the
office remodel project.
Weekly Data:
Assignment Locations Job Description Date Man Hours Equip/Hours Misc. Cost Weight Approx. lbs.
Sumner St. Storage Facility Fence Replacement 8/14/2022 50 50 $210.14 0 Jastro Park WWII Memorial Electrical Pull Boxes 8/15/2022 10 5 $46.27 0
MLK Park Fence Removal 8/15/2022 4 2 $316.25 0
BPD Training
Facility Obstacle Equipment Installation 8/17/2022 19.5 6.5 $41.26 0
Bike Trail along Kern River Encampment Clean-Up 8/17/2022 20 20 0 0 8/19/2022 20 20 0 0
Challenger Park Storage Room Door Replacement 8/17/2022 31.5 14 $68.00 0
8/18/2022 10 5 $8.83 0
MLK Park Encampment Clean-Up 8/18/2022 24 12 0 0
3737 Stockdale Landscape Shrub Removal 8/18/2022 6 4 0 0
City Corp Yard Storage Modification 8/19/2022 30 20 $717.81 0
8/20/2022 23 12 0 0
1600 Truxtun Ave Office Furniture Relocation 8/20/2022 12 8 0 0
Ongoing Projects
1. Greystone Park (Trash Enclosure Modification)
• The RRT will schedule fabrication and installation of a new cover on the
existing trash enclosure.
Next Week
City Source Request
• None
City Council and/or Public Request
• None
Priority Projects
• RRT will continue to work with Code Enforcement regarding any illegal
homeless encampment sites within City Parks, Streetscapes, and/or City
buildings.
Training
• Traffic Control Training – 8/25/22
See Attached Photos
Wayside Park Restroom Building Repair 8/20/2022 10 5 $68.00 0
Bike Trail @
Coffee Rd. &
Calloway Dr.
Encampment Clean-Up 8/19/22 10 10 0 0
Totals: Projects Completed: 12 280 193.5 $1476.56 0
Sumner Storage Facility (Fence Replacement)
Jastro Park (Electrical Pull Box)
Challenger Park (Storage Room Door Replacement)
MLK Park (Encampment Clean-Up)
3737 Stockdale Hwy (Landscape Removal)
Wayside Park (Restroom Building Repair)
City Corp Yard (Storage Modification)
MLK PARK MASTER PLAN | 1-1
MLK PARK
ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
The City of Bakersfield’s Recreation and Parks
Master Plan includes the revitalization of Martin Luther King Jr. Park. To inform and guide the
assessment and the design alternatives of MLK Park, MLK Community Center, and Aquatic Facility, the
Project Team conducted community outreach and engagement. This engagement is summarized in three categories including:
• Part 1 - Major Themes: A summary of the major reoccurring themes and feedback the
Project Team heard from the community.
• Part 2 - Community Engagement Activities: A summary of the different community events
and surveys conducted.
• Part 3 - Appendix of All Responses and Comments: A comprehensive
summary of all responses, comments, and ideas received from the community.
The combined community feedback summarized in this document will be used by the Project Team to develop three park concepts, which will be presented to the
community during a subsequent round of engagement in fall 2022.
APPENDICES
A. Pop-up posters
B. My Wish for MLK Park Campaign Drawings
C. Council Interviews
D. Community Connections
E. Survey
MLK PARK PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
1- 2 | MLK PARK MASTER PLAN
PART 1: MAJOR THEMES
The following is a summary of the major themes and feedback provided by the community during all the engagement events related to the revitalization of MLK Park. This includes discussions with the MLK Park Advisory Team, comments made during
an in-person pop-up event, priorities and perspectives shared during the discussion sessions with community groups (Community Connections) and City Council
interviews, and online and paper survey.
SAFETY The paramount issue for park revitalization was a need to stabilize and normalize the park to overcome real and perceived notions of lacking personal safety. Some key
ideas and solutions mentioned included:
Partnerships – Partnerships with community organizations will be foundational
for finding effective solutions to crime, gang violence, and homelessness at
MLK Park. These partners should be engaged in a coordinated and wholistic community effort that includes the new Park Rangers program, Owens
Elementary School, nonprofit groups that can be responsive to the needs of unhoused residents, and potentially community members with lived
experience employed as park ambassadors.
Park Ranger Station – Having Park Ranger presence will create an atmosphere that MLK Park is a safe community space for all residents, where
unsafe, unhealthy, and illicit activities will be discouraged.
Thoughtful Planning – Strategic placement of amenities and facilities to create
safe and open spaces that encourage use by a variety of community groups. This should be accompanied by safety features including improved lighting
and security cameras.
Safe Access – Traffic calming, improved pedestrian crossings and gateways, bike access and infrastructure, ADA accommodations and incorporation of
local transit to the park will help ensure MLK Park is accessible and is seen as a safe destination.
IDENTITY MLK Park has been a cornerstone of the community for generations, and it was suggested that the redesign include features that bolster the identity and history of
the surrounding neighborhood.
Iconic Features – MLK Park should have iconic facilities and amenities such as a state-of-the-art community center or outdoor amphitheater that anchor the
park with a sense of identity and uplift the surrounding community.
Honoring Community History – MLK Park has a rich history as a gathering
place for Bakersfield’s African American community. This history should be
commemorated through public art and design features.
Culturally Significant Public Art – Incorporating community murals and public
art that are culturally significant and representative of the community will be essential in giving MLK Park an identity and beautifying the space.
Professional local artists can be hired to sketch out pieces and the community can take part in painting these murals.
MLK PARK PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
MLK PARK MASTER PLAN | 1-3
Inclusive Facilities – Spaces should be formalized for community members who currently spend time at MLK Park. This should include game tables for
chess and dominos, a designated space for food trucks and vendors to
encourage and support local entrepreneurship, and bike facilities for existing bike programming at MLK Park.
ACTIVATION Critical to improve safety and to bolster the identity of MLK park will be the emergence of a revitalized energy that comes through activation and programming.
Connected Amenities – MLK Park occupies a large plot of land and to ensure activation throughout it will be important that park features feel connected
through a network of walking paths around and through the park. Park
amenities should be strategically placed and spaced, including exercise
equipment, community gardens, floral and native gardens, community center,
playground, picnic areas, game tables, and sports facilities.
Signage and Wayfinding – Signage at access points to the park and
wayfinding throughout the park are necessary to help create welcoming entrances and promote all the amenities that MLK Park has to offer the
community.
Diverse Programming – Diverse and innovative programming that interests a variety of age groups – children, teens, adults, seniors – will be vital for
activating the park throughout the day. This programming will require thoughtful partnership with community organizations and could include sports
league opportunities, a senior walking group, gardening courses, youth
afterschool and summer camps, food vendor events and local performances.
PART 2: COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES & FEEDBACK
Community engagement for MLK Park included four different options for members of
the community to participate and provide feedback: the MLK Advisory Group, pop-up events, interviews with City Council and group discussions community stakeholders
and community groups, and an online survey.
MLK PARK ADVISORY TEAM MEETING
Several stakeholders, City representatives, and community leaders met informally at the project kickoff meeting and toured the park, and were later convened on February
2, 2022 via Zoom for the first formal meeting of the MLK Park Advisory Team
(MLKPT). The team discussed timeline, roles and responsibilities, and initial assessment of the condition of the Martin Luther King Jr. Park (MLK). This Advisory
Team meeting was the first of several meetings in which the group will review the concept development and provide direction related to the re-design and renovation
of the MLK Park and Community Center.
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The meeting discussion was facilitated by MIG staff who introduced the following questions to the group members:
What is your vision for MLK park?
What neighborhood and community needs should be addressed?
What concerns and constraints should we be aware of and what solutions
should we consider?
The questions posed to the team sought to identify key needs, opportunities, and
overarching themes that would then be used to steer future park revitalization efforts and considerations.
VISION To the first question, several members of the advisory team emphasized the notion
that MLK park serves as a community hub, where critical engagement and
interactions take place; with some members describing the site as a “community
backyard.” The team highlighted the importance of utilizing the park as a location to
host a variety of unique, free, and strategic programming efforts that address various community values and needs (such as bike safety programs, crime prevention
programs, and sports/athletic programs). Other members of the team, wished to see a park that further solidifies a community identity and presence within the City, one that
incorporates history and culture in a way that promotes positive mobility and pride
among the surrounding neighborhoods.
COMMUNITY NEEDS For the second question regarding community needs, members of the advisory team
identified the significance of creating a re-envisioned park that caters to more than
one specific group. The future MLK park must be a place that is dynamic and diverse in its resources and facilities, to encompass a variety of potential uses, both near and
future term. Along with the importance of creating a multi-use and adaptable space, members of the advisory group emphasized the community need of making the park
safe and accessible, so that members of the community feel comfortable visiting the
park.
CONCERNS AND CONSTRAINTS The final question introduced a discussion related to several societal challenges, as
well as lessons learned from the current park layout and its design. Advisory team
members brought up issues related to accessibility and safety that are further exacerbated by the current design of the park, that should be strongly considered
and avoided in the future park designing efforts. One example of this being visibility as it relates to the safety of park users; members expressed the challenges posed
from having a playground that is situated within an enclosed space that enables
criminal activity due to its poor public visibility. Others identified the barriers associated with the presence of unhoused individuals within the park grounds, as well
as the presence of drug paraphernalia and litter.
Meeting #2 is scheduled to take place virtually on Wednesday, August 3rd from 5:30-
7:30pm
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POP-UP EVENT: SPRINGTIME “EGGSTRAVAGANZA” AT MLK
PARK – APRIL 15, 2022
The Project Team hosted a pop-up tent during the City’s annual Springtime
Eggstravaganza at MLK Park to help promote the project and solicit feedback on
possible design alternatives. This pop-up event provided an important opportunity to bring awareness and visibility of the MLK Park Revitalization project to the broader
community. The discussions that took place during these events were informal and staff directed people to the City’s webpage and online survey for the Recreation and
Parks Master Plan to learn more, stay engaged, and provide additional comments and
feedback.
Residents in attendance to the event provided lots of valuable and constructive
feedback related to park design and reconfiguration of the space to ensure maximum safety, accessibility, and overall enjoyment. Some key components derived from
conversations with various community members highlighted park elements such as health and wellness, community identity, and safety/access. For one resident it was
critical that the new design of the park be a space that allows for a variety of physical
activities and programs, such as different sport courts/fields, exercise equipment, and programing that was inclusive of senior/elderly residents. Others wanted to ensure
that the park was representative of the community, and that it incorporated the history and cultural significance of the park through design elements and amenities. The final
topic as it relates to safety, focused primarily on elements such as lighting, park
maintenance, ADA accessibility, and gathering spaces. These features ensure enjoyable experiences and park usage for current and future users of MLK park.
COMMUNITY PREFERRENCES The pop-up included a series of display posters and bilingual materials showcasing
precedent images of a variety of activities and features from other existing parks from other locations outside Bakersfield. The following are the top selected options of the
precedent images boards presented to members of the community at the Eggstravaganza event at MLK Park, as well as a brief overview on the rationale from
some of the residents as to why there was a stronger preference for the image
selected:
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Sports and Outdoor Activities
The image with the strongest preference among the Sports and Outdoor Activities board was the image that included a swimming pool. Given that the community is prone to experiencing intense heat during the summer months, recreational swim and water activities provide the opportunity for residents to stay active and cool off. Residents also expressed the crucial need for basketball and soccer facilities, as well as exercise lessons and activities
Community Gathering Spaces
Among the various Community Gathering Spaces images presented, residents at the event indicated a
strong preference for the image including a “Movies in
the Park” event. Residents expressed that interactive programming such as this helps to further establish a
sense of community and unity.
Play Features
The play features board provided a wide range of colorful and theme-oriented pieces with different materials and equipment. The one image that resonated most with residents who participated in the activity showcased plenty of colors, ample shading, and accessible play features for children of all abilities.
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Community Character
The Community Character image that resonated the most with participants illustrates an image of a man
painting a mural. The interpretation by several residents emphasized the importance of including
local artistry and creating murals that further establish
community identity and representation.
Natural and Green Spaces
Three different Natural and Green Space images
received equal amounts of preference among members of the community. These preferences
conveyed an interest in a balance of landscaping that
conserves water and is drought tolerant, as well as landscaping that provides spaces for comfortable
leisure with natural shading and lawn. The final image of a walking path was chosen by several community
members who wish to have a dedicated walking path
that circulates the entire park, so that residents of all ages can engage in multiple levels of physical activity.
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COLLAGE OF POP-UP EVENT
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MY WISH FOR MLK PARK CAMPAIGN
At the pop-up event, the Project Team engaged youth by asking them to draw their
wish for MLK Park with colored markers. As seen in the pictures from the pop-up, this activity interested a wide-range of ages and helped incorporate youth voice into the
overall recommendations and vision for the project. A total of 27 drawings were collected.
The word cloud below displays the themes and items mentioned in these drawings.
Pools and swings were depicted or mentioned most frequently (7-9 times). Benches, spraygrounds, fishponds, monkey bars, football, and slides were depicted with
medium frequency (3-4 times). The data collected for these drawings is listed in the Appendix.
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CITY COUNCIL INTERVIEWS
The Project Team met individually with City Council and the Mayor to better
understand their priorities for the Recreation and Parks Master Plan, as well as specific priorities related to the revitalization of MLK Park.
No. Interview Date and Time
1 Councilmember Bruce Freeman, Ward 5
Tues. December 14th,
10 – 10:45 am
2 Councilmember Andrae Gonzales, Ward 2
Tues. December 14th,
4 – 4:45 pm
3 Councilmember Eric Arias, Ward 1 Wed. December 15th,
10:30 – 11:15 am
4 Councilmember Bob Smith, Ward 4 Fri. December 17th,
9 – 9:45 am
5 Vice Mayor Ken Weir, Ward 3 Thurs. January 6th, 12 – 1 pm
6 Mayor Karen Goh Wed. January 12th, 4 – 5 pm
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Many Councilmembers noted that successful revitalization of MLK Park will require
the participation of key stakeholders and the surrounding community. The importance of honoring the history and culture of the neighborhood and park was mentioned,
including the opportunity to memorialize African American Veterans who were once
served at a historic building on-site.
NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION Council recognizes that this has the potential to encourage new investment and
development in the area which could bring broader economic and neighborhood
revitalization. There was interest from several Councilmembers to ensure that this renovation is especially impressive and thus may require a full-scale refresh, including
demolition and construction of new facilities such as a new community center and open-air amphitheater to improve park use and functionality.
SAFETY AND ACTIVATION Addressing safety concerns and access will be essential for effectively activating MLK
Park. Sports league use, programmed senior events, game tables, and activity hubs were among the suggestions shared by Council to ensure ongoing and regular
community use. It was also noted that traffic calming and improving pedestrian
crossings and bike access are important considerations for the transformation of the park and surrounding area.
Notes from these interviews are organized by category in the Appendix.
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MLK PARK COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
The Project Team scheduled Community Connections, interviews, with key
stakeholders and organizations in the community to hear their perspective regarding MLK Park. Some of these connections were held with the leader or executive director
of the organization, while others included volunteers and were facilitated more like a focus group. Comments specifically regarding MLK Park from the Recreation and
Parks Master Plan Community Connections are also represented here.
No. Organization Participants Date and
Time
1
Bakersfield City
School District, Owens Primary School
Myron Williams Mon. June 6th,
8 – 9 am
2 Bike Bakersfield Cindy Parra, Ricardo Perez, Glenn Hammet, Louis Bravos Wed. June 8th, 2 – 3 PM
3 Southeast Neighborhood
Partnership
Representatives from Collaborative: Clinica Sierra Vista (CSV), First 5 Kern,
Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAP-K), CSUB, Bakersfield Police
Department, Health Collaborative, Kern Behavior Health & Recovery, Kern Public Health, DHS, Dignity Health, Safe
Surrender Coalition, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, Bakersfield City Parks
and Recreation, Kern High School District
Thurs. June
30th,
10:30 – 11:30am
4 Garden
Pathways
Manuel Ramirez, Lazarus Garcia, Jesse
Molina, and four high school interns
Fri. July 8th,
2 – 3 pm
5 MLK commUNITY Initiative Arleana Waller Thurs. July 14th,
9 – 9:30 am
PATTERN OF NEGLECT Many participants in these Community Connections mentioned that MLK Park has been neglected for decades and were fearful that this revitalization plan might be
“shelved” along with other past improvement projects that were not properly budgeted for. Participants asked questions regarding why MLK Park appears to
receive less investment than other Bakersfield parks, how this renovation and redesign will be funded, and the timeline. Community groups requested follow-up on
these questions as well as follow-up once the park concepts are finalized, stressing
the importance of continued community engagement and transparency.
SAFETY CONCERNS Safety was the primary concern that emerged across these discussions. Crime and
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gang-related activities and homeless encampments were cited as deterrents for visitors to the park. Rental facilities and activities, especially for programs that may
run late afterschool and into the evening are especially difficult to coordinate. In
addition to security cameras, improved lighting, and the presence of Park Rangers, participants recommended a park ambassador program employing former gang
members and housing a nonprofit partner to provide services and support to unhoused residents. Street safety enhancements such as pedestrian crossings, bike
infrastructure and access, and integration of public transit were mentioned as key for improving park access.
DESIGN SUGGESTIONS Participants shared extensive input regarding the park design, facilities, and
amenities, most notably:
Relocating the playground to a more visible open space in the park
Constructing a multifunctional amphitheater
Constructing a walking path or trail around and throughout the park
Incorporating culturally significant art and community murals
Relocating community garden away from sports facilities
Constructing flexible and reconfigurable sports facilities
Placing main attractions in sight of California Ave
It was emphasized how important it will be for facilities and programming to cater to
the communities already using MLK Park. These recommendations included game and chess tables, outlets for community use, a designated space and City-program for
food trucks and vendors, and facilities for bike programs.
Some participants were unaware of existing amenities at MLK Park such as the swimming pool and tennis courts and therefore encouraged improved promotion of
the recreation and parks facilities available to residents.
Notes from these interviews are organized by category in the Appendix.
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SURVEY
The Project Team developed an Online Survey available in English and Spanish that
provided an additional opportunity for people to provide feedback on their experiences with Bakersfield Recreation and Parks and what they would like to see
included in the Mater Plan update. A total of 1,019 people filled out the Online Survey or a paper version of the survey distributed by City staff at community events.
Although this survey was a general Recreation and Parks survey, MLK Park was
specifically mentioned by people in the following open-response questions.
Question Responses Mentioning MLK Park
Describe your wish for parks in Bakersfield 4
Which park is closest to your home? 13
Which parks, trails, or facilities feel unsafe to you? What would you suggest to improve safety there? 56
Who needs more parks, trails, or recreation
opportunities? Where would you focus? 4
Final Thoughts 1
The original responses are listed in Part 3. Across responses, people shared how they would like to see MLK Park beautiful, thriving, and family friendly. Currently people
view MLK Park as unsafe, prone to criminal activities and violence, and overwhelmed by homeless encampments. There were several requests for enforcement of park
hours and rules and support for security measures, Park Ranger presence, and supportive services.
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PART 3: APPENDIX
The following is an appendix of all community comments and feedback received in the engagement events summarized in Part 1. While the results should not be considered statistically valid for the entire Bakersfield population, the findings are
from a broad enough sample that they can help identify common themes and concerns when combined with the various community input activities conducted for
the Bakersfield MLK Park Revitalization project.
The Appendix includes data and compiled comments for the following engagement
activities:
Pop-Up posters
My Wish for MLK Park Campaign drawings
Council Interviews
Community Connections
Survey
A meeting summary for MLK Park Advisory Team Meeting #1 was prepared separately
and is also included here for reference.
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Pop-Up posters:
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My Wish for MLK Park Campaign drawings: The themes and items depicted in drawings are grouped below by how frequently they were illustrated or mentioned.
Highest Frequency
Pool (mentioned 9 times)
Swings (mentioned 7 times)
Medium Frequency (mentioned 3-4 times)
Benches
Water Play Features
Pond with fish
Monkey Bars
Football
Slide
Love
Lower Frequency (mentioned 1-2 times)
Snack Shack / Ice Cream
Flowers
Basketball
Drinking Fountain
Tables
Tent
Sand
Grass
Dog Friendly
Seesaws
Fence
Trees
Bridge
Happy
Gather
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Council Interviews: Comments are compiled from individual meetings and are organized by category.
Broader Revitalization
o Park redevelopment must include a “wow factor” to inspire redevelopment in surrounding areas. “Create something that blows
people away.”
o Leverage the renovated park as an economic anchor for the area to attract new investment and new development. The renovated site should be an asset for nearby residents and the commercial village. o MLK Park is near the boundaries of Wards 1 and 2; park renovation would benefit both wards. o 90% of the MLK Park is City-owned, and the City of Bakersfield has made a purchase offer to the County for the remaining area. The revitalization of the park and this corner is considered a linchpin for broader economic and neighborhood revitalization. o New housing infill is expected along MLK Blvd
Engaging Community and Honoring History o Key to the revitalization of MLK Park is to ensure participation of the right stakeholders. The Lakeview neighborhood has a lot of pride. It is a historically African American community that is now transitioning into a largely Latino immigrant community. The leadership of the community is largely Black elders but lacking in Latino leaders. The neighborhood is not desirable and as such remains affordable to poor immigrants that are in transition. o Needs of the adjacent school should be considered, either in terms of coordinated programs or collaboration in improvements. o The County-owned property has a historic building originally used to serve African American Veterans. It is now leased to a church for use. There are many ideas about what should be done there, including renovating the building or demolishing it. Some have suggested it be turned in to a community serving amenity, like a clinic. If demolished, there should be some type of memorial or recognition of African American veterans from the area, possibly including a statute, wall, etc. Sections of the park could be named after notable veterans.
Facility Improvements o A large open-air pavilion that can serve as a community center and community gathering space. o The old community center is a “hideous building” that should be remodeled or rehabilitated considering roof lines, building height, and improved visibility. o Gymnasium improvements to increase use and exercise
Activation
o MLK Park is somewhat isolated. Ways to improve it include activation and improving access. Added bike lanes (buffered and protected) and bike access may help. o Activities/community events for all ages o Games tables/activity hubs for groups o Options for seniors
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o There could be opportunities for expansion of programming at MLK Community Center and Silver Creek Community Center, but the need must be determined.
o At MLK Community Center, programming is underutilized. Why is this? o Improved information/promotion of activities
Safety o MLK Park needs more than improvements. “You can build a fancy park, but if people are getting shot or drugs and homelessness persist, mothers will not send their kids there.” o Public safety is a major concern for MLK Park. Cameras were recently installed, which decreased negative behaviors. Using night lights, the softball team resumed practice there – the first sports league use of the park in years. o Traffic Safety
Traffic and access are key issues to consider for the transformation of the park. Improved crossings to restaurants and businesses across the street are needed. Traffic calming/slowing measures and a narrow street width at crossings may help attract businesses and improve resident access.
Safe crossings at California Avenue, which is a barrier to residents
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Community Connections: Comments are compiled and condensed from individual meetings and are organized by category.
Perspectives and Feedback
o MLK Park in particular is concerning because it is very neglected and has been for decades. Why is Silver Creek Park so much better
invested in than MLK? There are disparities in how funding is allocated.
o The work at MLK park can serve as a template for more improvements in the urban core o There have been decades of neglect to MLK Park, decades of lack of cultural respect
o Concern with City government that this plan will get shelved, where is the funding coming from? This has happened historically. What is the timeline? o Importance of intentional messaging and inclusion. Ideas from
community are often taken from the Southeast community and moved along without their involvement
o Importance of community partnership and ownership to make the MLK Park revitalization successful
Safety:
o Concerns
Crime (gang-related activity) occurs near the current location of
the baseball fields, where there is poor vigilance.
There are safety breaches into the Owens school campus,
where homeless individuals break into the school through the park fence.
Due to the crime at MLK Park, community partners are hesitant to rent facilities especially for programs that run late after school when it gets dark.
o Security Recommendations
Use Veteran's area to expand parking and remove parking from
other side of the park, could deter late night loitering along King St
Place a ranger station on the open turf on California Ave. and King St. would have definite impacts on the gang and crime
activity in the area, as there will be more visibility.
Management (Ranger Station) should partner with local services and programs to provide aid to homeless population.
Social services hub should be considered at the park site.
Human capacity building budget, City needs to think bigger – hiring former/ex gang members to be an ambassador of the park, bringing those who are trusted members in the community, put a budget in place to provide salaries for work
Community policing
Better lighting and cameras to ensure security
Better lighting throughout the park and at basketball courts o Street Safety
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Adding more pedestrian safety features for crossing into the park, such as crossing signage, etc.
Crossing California/King/Owens to MLK can be difficult
Enhanced crosswalks and bulb-outs - Kings St and Owens crosswalks across California Ave
Create more sidewalk space on the north end of Owens St
o Transit
Integrating public transit access and safety components for transit-users into the park.
Improving access points and making them safer by incorporating traffic calming mechanisms (work with City).
Bus stops at MLK are heavily used, the bus is just pulling over in the regular flow of traffic. Recommend that a pull out/curb out be installed to get the bus out of the flow of traffic. There are a few examples in Bakersfield following design guidelines. Having shade structure/ trees for bus users waiting
Making MLK bike friendly with bike lockers for safe long-term storage, plenty of bike racks (City approved U racks), do not install the back tire ones, decorative bike locks are okay, the ones at MLK CC currently are not good
Park Design:
o Place main attractions in-sight of California so cars driving by can see
o More greenery, landscaping, trees o Preserving Current Community Uses
Incorporating chess tables into the design, as a means to prevent exclusion from current park users.
Have shaded sitting areas where people can play games
Create a space for food trucks and vendors - partnership between City and businesses/small entrepreneurs
Spread out the picnic areas with at least 1 BBQ for every 3 areas
Outlets in the park for jump houses, lights, so you don’t need a generator (system to call-in to parks a day prior to reserve and
for permission to unlock outlets)
o Playground Location
The current placement of the playgrounds (behind the community center) creates an overwhelming sense of lack of
safety, given how hidden the space is, and not being enough public vigilance
Not too close to the street, maybe in center of open turf area in
plain view or near Splashpad
The community center needs to be facing Owens Street and
face the playground.
Playgrounds should be placed within close proximity to the
picnic areas, for proper vigilance.
Making playgrounds available for kids with disabilities. Features that can actually be utilized.
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o Amphitheater
Creating an amphitheater space that resembles a lawn for easy
and multiple uses; a space that helps build a community.
Having a multifunctional amphitheater at MLK Park with contemporary design would be a great addition o Walking path
Perhaps adopting a walking loop that allows residents to
actively walk around the park to exercise.
Use walking trail to connect different parts of park
• Around entire park
• Spiderweb approach to connect everything.
• A walking path with interpretive elements that bring knowledge to the cultural and historical context of the City/community.
• Incorporating outdoor exercise equipment, in a circuit-style walk path.
Wayfinding and directional signage, for example at MLK Park internal wayfinding on walking path having a sign indicating there’s a community center ahead
o Art and Cultural Appreciation
The park needs to have cultural visuals. Art is critically important, have a piece that represents everyone in the area (Black, Latino, Punjabi, white)
Waterworks – have sidewalk with motivational quotes and language to inspire children and remind them how great they are
Southern fence along Owen’s Primary is a chain link fence – possible to install brick wall with space for community murals? Murals by professionals to outline and involve community to paint in
o Community Garden
Garden should not be placed between tennis/basketball courts.
Place community garden next to the picnic areas or the new community center, but consider issue of bees
Being strategic with the placing of the Community Garden, and placing it in a location with lots of visibility.
Incorporating landscaping and seating features at the
gardening site, to promote community engagement and nutrition education programming, consider partners such as
“CalFresh: Fresh from the Garden”.
Garden can feature a library of seeds available, with a “Take
one, give one” honor system.
o Sports Facilities
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Implementing mixed use ball fields, that include soccer features.
Baseball/softball fields and soccer fields – quality needs to be improved, reservation system
Sports facilities all being in one central area on the current backside of the Community Center.
Sports programs, such as Tennis and Pickleball classes should be offered to the community.
Tennis space should be reconfigurable to be able to combine spaces to be used for tournaments/leagues and pickleball. o Owens Elementary anticipate more enrollment, therefore the students
will need more space to recreate and enjoy sports training (currently, students are driven off site for practice).
o Bike Amenities
Having dedicated outdoor space for residents learning and applying basic skills for biking, skating, etc.
MLK Community Center expanded for bike program/bike shop, a BMX park, dirt pump tracks.
• Interest in pump track (hills for BMX bikes) since there is
not a public/free pump track in Bakersfield but not sure if placement at MLK is most appropriate
o Other Suggestions
Solar panels shade structures in parking lot
Partnerships and Programming o Consider utilizing the Veterans building as an indoor recreational facility that offers shaded and cool spaces for children in the summer months.
o Wellness hub
Using the same agencies who have not done well before, how do we expect them to do better now
It’s important to hire partners from the Southeast area because they are trusted messengers
You have to have a specific language and message to engage the Southeast community, otherwise community is unaware of resources o Partnership between City and businesses/small entrepreneurs (food trucks, vendors) to help ensure they have the proper permits and support to grow their business o Events and Activities
Suggest that the principal of Owens Elementary School be a part of the MLK Committee.
Coordination walking classes/ walking groups for the older population.
Hosting active events such as 5K runs/walks, etc.
Bring back crafts for kids o Creating a bike safety program, as an educational resource for community members (youth and adults).
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o Bakersfield Magic (semi-pro team) is interested in hosting basketball camps at MLK CC o Improved promotion of existing amenities at MLK Park -community members do not know certain amenities exist including the swimming pool or tennis courts
• Images that stood out from Pop-Up posters:
o Shade structures
o ADA slide/ramp in playground
o Movies in the park
Provide screen set up
Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs, snacks
o Venue for music and play performances – local groups
o Add some greenery and plants
o Walking path for walkers, runners, bikers
o Domino and chess tables
o Outside gymnasium for gymnastics
o Could spread out fitness equipment along walking path
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Survey: The original survey responses are organized by question.
Question Responses Mentioning MLK
Describe your wish for parks in Bakersfield 4
Which park is closest to your home? 13
Which parks, trails, or facilities feel unsafe to
you? What would you suggest to improve safety there? 56
Who needs more parks, trails, or recreation
opportunities? Where would you focus? 4
Final Thoughts 1
Describe your wish for parks in Bakersfield
To be a drug violence crime free place. MLK park I particularly would like to see improvement. The equipment has been burned so that the homeless population can use as make shift sleeping area that children don't have access to or care to access. I was a person that at one point was in the park, the difference is we didn't allow the trashing of the park and tents weren't pitched all day. It seems that both MLK and Mule Creek have been used to throw away the mentally ill and drug addicts. Weapons are displayed bats machetes and knives. Without incentives camping and overnight stay should not take place.
MLK Sanders Jefferson
I would like to see Martin Luther King park a thriving beautiful family park again. Where families can enjoy each other and feel safe.
More indoor sports facilities that are similar to MLK and NOR facilities.
Which park is closest to your home?
MLK Park
Mlk park off California
MLK
MLK
Mlk
Dr martin luther king
MLK
MLK Park
MLK Park
Dr Mather Luther King Park
MLK
Martin Luther King Park
Martin Luther King
Which parks, trails, or facilities feel unsafe to you? What would you suggest to improve safety there?
MLK Park needs more help and it needs more protection
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Bernard, Martin Luther King
MLK
Bernard Park and Martin Luther King
(1) Security (2) Police officers coming thru more often - MLK, Jefferson
MLK
Martha Luther King Park
All in east Bakersfield and definitely MLK
I find it difficult to rate the safety of parks and trails if I so infrequently visit so few of them. I pass by MLK park everyday and it appears unsafe. I see homeless people who’ve set up “camp” there and several of adult men who gather there. I don’t know what I would suggest because I also feel terrible for the amount of homeless people in town and limited space in shelters.
Martin Luther King, less homeless
MLK park
Martin Luther King Park Beach Park
MLK Park, Beach Park
MLK Park
MLK Park, Way Side Park, Patriots Park,
Mlk. Planz. Wayside.
many of the parks in the hood like Jefferson, riverview park, heritage park or martin Luther park.. also san miquel grove and uplands i think more community involvement and helping house more houseless people would help allot maybe even dedicating land for creating a tiny house village for them could help the problem allot and give people more purpose and security in life
mlk park and virginia park
MLK
Martin Luther king
Belle Terrace Park, Dr. Martin Luther King park, Jefferson Park I would suggest: More night lighting, clean green areas, clean and unbroken playgrounds (I’ve seen used needles at some of Bakersfield parks), clean restrooms, enforcement of rules, provide homeless with resources/ shelters so they don’t shelter in the parks, safe walking paths and more accessibility for people with disabilities
Casa Loma, better lighting MLK updates on playground
Parks in dangerous neighborhoods such as MLK or Lowell. There's probably no way to improve safety due to the neighborhoods they are in.
Mlk alot of homeless
All downtown parks, saunders, mlk.
MLK,Jr. - abundance of homeless encampments and people under the influence of alcohol (mostly). Increased park patrols, remove encampments. Silvercreek - far SW corner is dark. Increased lighting in that specific area.
MLK Park, Lowell park, silver Creek Park
MLK Park, Grissom Park, Patriots Park, Mill Creek Park
Downtown areas and East side (ex: MLK Park) due to homelessness. Continued spending and efforts on addressing homelessness will help and is appreciated.
Bike trail, MLK park, Jefferson park, Saunders, mill creek
Jastro and MLK.
1. Saunders Park/ Homeless Encampment 2. Yokuts Park/Homeless near river bed & bike path feels unsafe there. 3. Lowell Park/ violence & drugs 4. MLK / violence & drugs 5. Plans, Wilson & Patriots are also getting a little scary.
MLK PARK PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
1- 30 | MLK PARK MASTER PLAN
There has to be an increase in safety for your citizens. From the homeless encampments where fires are started, bathrooms are filthy , drug use is prevalent & violence is rampant. Park Rangers seem to be a step in the right direction
MLK, Lowell, Jefferson and Beale park. A Park Ranger program would help.
Bike trails, MLK Park. Security patrols, continued Code Enforcement patrols to remove encampments. Bike trails should be cleared of overgrown brush and occasionally checked for dangerous wildlife.
MLK Park Jefferson Park Beale Park. All need parks hours enforced and keep the homeless from destroying the parks
MLK and Mill Creek Parks.
Martin Luther king park
MLK, Wayside, Saunders, Beale, Planz park all need better Law Enforcement Presence around the clock. Graffiti, Cars and Motorcycles driving on the lawn makes it dangerous for families utilizing them.
Sometimes Hart Park. Sometimes the Bike Trail. MLK Park. Sometimes Centennial.
Lowell park, Jefferson park, MLK park, casa Loma park.
Lowell, Beale, Jastro, the trail at River Walk, Martin Luther King Park. You know what parks are unsafe. And you know what trails sex traffickers prey on. Stop sending security patrols out once per night to get rid of kids smoking and do something about the tweakers and criminals that actually make these parks unsafe.
Grissom, Patriots, Hughes Lane, MLK. Patrolling, limiting loitering, planned programs
Kern River Pkwy, MLK, Jefferson Yokutz and San Miguel Grove
Yokuts, MLK, Sanders just to name a few. Lots of drug and/or gang activity and homosexuals creeping around during the evening particularly at Yokuts.
The parkway. MLK
Pioneer, Jefferson, MLK, after about 4pm or before 10 am you have a mix of gun violence, drugs, homeless people. Police presence and positive interactions would help so that we feel they'd actually come out in the event something happens.
Standard Park, Beardsley Park, Riverview Park, McCray Park, Sears Park, North Highlands Park, Yokuts Park, Beach Park, Jastro Park, Jefferson Park, Heritage Park, Martin Luther King Jr Park, Mill Creek Park, Planz Park, Riverwalk Park, Quailwood Park, Truxtun Park. More cleanup of trash and hazardous waste like syringe needles, outreach teams and support for the homeless camping in parks so they can move indoors, reduce and prevent gang activity, stop sexual predators, better pest control and removal of dangerous pests such as Black Widow spiders and mosquitoes, more street lights and lights within the Park, removal of sink holes that have formed due to broken pipes and poor water drainage, gated children's play areas.
MLK park
Pioneer park, Beal park, Wilson park, MLK. Remove homeless or have rangers available that can be called to help support keeping them off.
Martin Luther king
MLK
Central Park and Dr Martin Luther King Park Monitor the drug addicts.
MLK Park. The crime is too much of a deterrent. Maybe park rangers patrolling would help.
Virginia, planz, mlk, Rexland. Stiern
MLK PARK PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
MLK PARK MASTER PLAN | 1-31
San Miguel Grove, Patriots Planz, MLKJ, Weill, Jefferson, & Kern Uplands. More security in the parks to deter vandalism and homeless encampments.
Who needs more parks, trails, or recreation opportunities? Where would you
focus?
mlk park and virginia park
Martin Luther king park
Lowell, Beale, Jastro, the trail at River Walk, Martin Luther King Park. You know what parks are unsafe. And you know what trails sex traffickers prey on. Stop sending security patrols out once per night to get rid of kids smoking and do something about the tweakers and criminals that actually make these parks unsafe.
Martin Luther king
Final Thoughts
Thank you for trying to make Bakersfield better for the community. I have less than 2 years here and I didn’t even know mlk had a pool. More information about the local parks and activities would be nice.
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