Parks and Rec Plan Addresses Trails, Park Improvements

While the city of Glendora may boast a vast network of hiking and biking trails, many have complained that the acres of trails through Glendora wilderness often don’t go anywhere, lacking access to surrounding destinations and other parks and facilities.

Under a recently approved master plan, Glendora’s Parks and Recreation department will consider improving the city’s vast network of hiking and biking trails, as well as upgrading existing park facilities.

The Glendora City Council approved the master plan during Tuesday’s meeting.

Based on a community survey that went out to all residents of Glendora in September 2010, Norris Design Group drafted a parks and recreation master plan for potential projects for the next 10 years.

High on the list of recommended projects included expanding and connecting the city’s network of hiking and biking trails, especially utilizing existing corridors on flood channels.

Expanding programs for adults and baby boomers were also high on the list, such as increasing water fitness and day trip programs.

“Travel is something the baby boomers participate in quite a bit and can be a real revenue generator for the city,” said Karen Ryan of Norris Design Group.

Other recommendations included short-term goals such as adding more trees, seating area and picnic tables and shelters at Willow Springs and Finkbiner Parks.

However, not everyone was pleased with the plan as it was presented to the council Tuesday.

Gordon Rawley of the Trails Committee said he would have liked to see more emphasis and improvements on the Big Dalton Wilderness area, which he said was left out of  the plan.

“I feel like this plan was done in Colorado, “ said Rawley. “I feel like Glendora, and the Trails Committee, and I speak for myself as a member of the Trails Committee, were not part of it.”

While the council approved the plan 5-0, they instructed Parks and Recreation staff to consult with the Trails Committee further.

A draft of the master plan can be found here.