Neighbors To Weigh On Merced Heights Playground Improvements This Saturday

It’s time for neighbors to have a say in the long overdue makeover of the Recreation and Parks Department’s Merced Heights Playground.

Two designs for Merced Heights Playground were proposed at a public meeting in November 2019. A second public meeting will be held on Saturday, March 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at I.T. Bookman Community Center. The public is welcome to attend to give feedback on the proposed designs.

The 17,000-square-foot field, which currently accommodates dog walkers and casual sports players, will be improved to include dedicated space for seniors and a butterfly garden. Both proposed designs also include a stage, exercise equipment, picnic tables and benches. Only one of the proposed designs includes a dedicated dog play area with synthetic turf.

“The Merced Heights Playground renovation will be a wonderful rebirth for that park for a neighborhood that has been waiting years for their fair share,” District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai told The Light. “I’m excited to have been a part of making this happen.”

The park improvements are coming not a moment too soon. The Merced Heights Playground ranked among the lowest-scored parks — 159 out of 166 — in the Annual Parks Score report compiled by the Controller’s office. The state of the park’s buildings and general amenities contributed the most to its low score.

For more information, visit the RPD project website.

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