At the October 8, 2025 Meeting of the Van Nuys Neighborhood Council, we took a stand for Van Nuys and our need for parks via two approved documents that we are submitting to Recreation and Parks as part of their Park Needs Assessment.
Van Nuys is one of the only areas of the City that is shown as being recommended for four new “prospective” parks. We appreciate this recognition of the small amount of recreational space that is available and within walking distance for residents in different areas of Van Nuys.
First, we commented on the minimal level of current park resources compared to the quantity of residents in Van Nuys. We called out opportunities for:
- Revitalizing the Civic Center and surrounding DOT parking lots as opportunities for park uses
- New pocket parks
- Community school parks at Van Nuys High School and Robert Fulton Preparatory School
- Swimming pool
- Off leash dog park
- Walking trails
View the VNNC Report on Park Needs of Van Nuys Community
The second document speaks to the findings of the Park Needs Assessment specifically with regard to Van Nuys. Among our comments:
From surveys, there was a finding that “unprogrammed green spaces, natural areas, and multi-use trails” were the most requested outdoor facilities. The VNNC agrees with others regarding the importance of these types of facilities – almost none of which currently exists in Van Nuys Recreation and Park spaces.
Regarding indoor facilities, the most important facilities were “swimming pools, exercise and fitness equipment, and walking tracks.” The VNNC would like to see such amenities available in Van Nuys. There are none of these indoor amenities available at Recreation Centers in Van Nuys.
The most important programs were “fitness and wellness programs, festivals, nature experiences or environmental education, and arts and crafts classes.” None of these programs are available at Recreation Centers in Van Nuys.
The VNNC would like to see all of these amenities made available to residents of Van Nuys.
View the Comment on Draft Park Needs Assessment from Van Nuys Neighborhood Council