McKinley East Sacramento Neighborhood Association (MENA)

MCKINLEY PARK IMPROVEMENTS DISCUSSED

Jan 15, 2004

Following many discussions with Council member Steve Cohn regarding MENA ideas about the park, Mr. Cohn reconvened the McKinley Park Advisory Committee. His goals for this meeting included inspecting the new fence around the Clunie pool and discussing other possible park improvements.

The inspection and discussion generated many ideas. Among them were to: Eliminate the chain-link fence that separates the wading pool from the large pool and replace it with a seat wall, increasing seating and observation area. Replace the cement area that used to support the pool bleachers with grass and shade trees, providing seating that views both the pool area and the playground area. Move the storage sheds and making room for a snack bar and restrooms near the pool. Pave the paths formed by the flow of pedestrians. The city architect will provide some estimates for these options.

MENA?’s representative, Cecily Hastings, noted the lack of artwork in the park, inconsistent use of style and materials, and concern about piece-meal improvements. She offered MENA as a vehicle for soliciting neighborhood comment towards drafting a long-term ?“vision?” for the park.

MENA?’s also hopes to use this and other forums to discuss ways the community and volunteers can assist in maintaining as well as improving East Sac?’s largest park.