Recommendation to Approve the Longfellow Park ADA Access Improvement Project.
(Recreation and Parks 10051400)
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Recreation and Parks Commission
From: Justin Long, Recreation and Parks Director
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Staff recommend approval of the Longfellow Park ADA Access Improvement Project, which will construct a new ADA-compliant entrance and accessible pathway connection from Haight Avenue into the park. The project implements a key accessibility improvement identified through the City's ADA Transition Plan and will enhance access, circulation, and usability for park visitors of all abilities. While the project requires the conversion of a small portion of existing turf area to accessible hardscape, it provides substantial public benefit by removing accessibility barriers, improving connectivity to park amenities, and supporting future park enhancements. The project advances the City's commitment to providing safe, equitable, and inclusive recreational facilities for the community.
BACKGROUND
Longfellow Park serves as an important neighborhood park and community gathering space for Alameda residents. As part of the City's ongoing commitment to providing equitable access to public facilities and complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City completed an ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan in 2024. The Plan identified accessibility barriers throughout City facilities, parks, and public right-of-way and established a phased approach for implementing improvements that enhance access for individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with the City's ADA Transition Plan, staff evaluated pedestrian access routes within Longfellow Park and identified opportunities to improve access to park amenities. The proposed project would remove existing barriers through pathway and infrastructure upgrades that meet current accessibility standards, enhancing safe and independent access for residents and visitors of all abilities.
The project aligns with the recommendations and priorities outlined in the ADA Transition Plan, adopted by the City Council on June 18, 2024, and supports the ongoing implementation of accessibility improvements throughout City parks and the public right-of-way. These enhancements reflect the City's commitment to accessibility, equity, and compliance with federal requirements while expanding access to recreational opportunities for the community.
DISCUSSION
The proposed project will improve accessibility at Longfellow Park by constructing a new ADA-compliant entrance and accessible pathway that provides a more direct connection between the public sidewalk and park amenities. The proposed alignment was selected following an evaluation of existing site conditions and accessibility needs and is consistent with the goals and recommendations of the City's ADA Transition Plan.
The new pathway will enhance access for individuals using wheelchairs, mobility devices, strollers, and others who benefit from accessible routes, improving the overall usability of the park for a broader range of community members. The proposed entrance location minimizes impacts to existing park features while creating a safer and more convenient route into the park.
Although the pathway construction will convert a small portion of existing lawn to hardscape, the project will preserve the park’s overall character, recreational use, and open space. The proposed accessibility improvements will provide significant public benefit by removing existing barriers and improving compliance with current ADA standards.
In addition to addressing immediate accessibility needs, the proposed improvements establish infrastructure that can support future park enhancements and expand opportunities for accessible circulation throughout the site. The project represents a proactive investment in equitable access to public facilities and advances the City's ongoing efforts to implement the ADA Transition Plan and create inclusive public spaces for all residents and visitors.
ALTERNATIVES
• Approve the proposed ADA accessibility path of travel improvements along Haight Avenue at Longfellow Park.
• Direct staff to further evaluate Longfellow for alternative ADA accessible entrance locations.
• Do not approve proposed improvements.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Funding for the project is available within the approved ADA Transition Plan implementation budget and associated Capital Improvement Program appropriations. No additional appropriations or budget amendments are required to complete the proposed improvements.
MUNICIPAL CODE/POLICY DOCUMENT CROSS REFERENCE
This action is consistent with the Alameda Municipal Code and applicable federal accessibility requirements. The project supports implementation of the City's ADA Transition Plan and aligns with Recreation and Parks Department goals and City policies that promote accessibility, equity, and inclusion. The proposed improvements further the City's commitment to ensuring that public parks and facilities are accessible and welcoming to all members of the community.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 (Repair, maintenance and/or minor alteration of an existing facility).
CLIMATE IMPACT
The proposed action has been reviewed for potential climate impacts. Implementation of this item is not expected to result in a measurable increase in greenhouse gas emissions or energy consumption. No adverse climate impacts have been identified.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation to Approve the Longfellow Park ADA Access Improvement Project.
Respectfully submitted,
Justin Long, Recreation and Parks Director