ParkTalk_Jan2024

Outdoor Equity Robert Williams , Bureau Chief

RivCoParks Outdoor Equity Initiative

In 2022, RivCoParks developed the Outdoor Equity Initiative which focused on removing economic barriers to regional parks, nature centers, historic sites and open spaces. This innovative program has become a beacon of inclusivity, working to dismantle nancial hurdles that have historically prevented many families from enjoying the numerous bene ts of parks. By addressing economic disparities head-on, the initiative not only fosters a sense of community well-being but also enhances the overall quality of life for residents. Through strategic partnerships, outreach efforts, and targeted assistance, the Outdoor Equity Initiative is forging a path toward equitable access to recreational spaces, ensuring that all families, regardless of their economic circumstances, can partake in the enriching experiences offered by Riverside County's diverse and beautiful outdoor landscapes. As an important component of the RivCoParks Outdoor Equity Initiative, the introduction of library passes has emerged as a groundbreaking strategy to promote and facilitate increased park engagement among Riverside County residents. Recognizing the pivotal role of economic barriers in restricting access to outdoor spaces, the initiative strategically leverages local libraries to distribute passes that afford youth the opportunity to explore and connect with nature. By forging this symbiotic relationship between libraries and parks, the program not only fosters a sense of community interconnectedness but also encourages our youth to embrace the enriching experiences and educational opportunities that these natural environments provide. Through the distribution of library passes, the initiative is successfully breaking down nancial barriers, ensuring that every child has the chance to enjoy the physical, mental, and social bene ts derived from interacting with the outdoors within Riverside County.

District Fleet Highlight

Amid the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Park District faced challenges in acquiring new vehicles due to supply chain disruptions and chip shortages. The situation was particularly tough since one-third of the District's eet consisted of vehicles over a decade old, resulting in soaring maintenance costs. Once the supply chain and chip shortages subsided the Park District promptly submitted requests for a much-needed eet. However, anyone familiar with the process of ordering vehicles for a government agency understands that the process is time-consuming. The challenge was intensi ed with many government agencies simultaneously placing orders for trucks, making it just as dif cult to obtain vehicles ordered a year in advance as it was during the shortages. In the interim, the Park District incurred high maintenance costs, prompting the purchase of utility off-road vehicles to enable staff to patrol challenging terrains. However, the breakthrough came when the District received exciting news about an agency backing out of a combined order for trucks. The recent addition to the eet included twelve off-road-capable trucks, comprising F-150s and F-250s. This well-timed acquisition lessened the strain on the District's operations. Trucks have been deployed throughout the District and are getting the job done.

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