# Recreation & Parks Commission 08.20.2026

The City of Merced Recreation & Parks Commission held a special study session on the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Master Plan, titled August 20, 2026 (meeting metadata is dated August 21 UTC). Staff reviewed the plan’s assessment of more than 43 parks and open spaces totaling over 300 acres, community feedback, and a 5–10-year action plan organized around infrastructure and maintenance, community connection, safety and inclusivity, and resources and stewardship. Discussion emphasized aging facilities, maintenance needs, park-access gaps, and the balance between developing new amenities and funding upkeep. A resident also raised safety and maintenance concerns about Joe Herb Park’s softball fields; staff said they would follow up and provide the Commission an update in September.

Commissioners proposed revisions and additions, including clarifying the City’s role in bike and trail connections, considering facility rentals and a dog park, improving park information and feedback through signage or QR codes, and expanding community events. The Commission moved and seconded a motion to adopt Option 3, with staff to incorporate the suggested revisions for the Commission’s further consideration. The discussion also identified future funding work, including evaluating developer impact fees, pursuing funding for unfinished Regional Sports Complex improvements, and developing financial sustainability and cost-recovery practices. No contract awards, bids, RFPs, vendor selections, or specific purchasing approvals were identified; the only specific cost estimate discussed was roughly $800–$1,000 to purchase and install a changing table, depending on the contractor.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** August 21, 2026

### Sources
- [Recreation & Parks Commission 08.20.2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUUhK0J3R8Q) - City Of Merced