Majority of current park projects delayed due to Covid-19

Christina Roberto, the public services superintendent, explained the park projects to the Norwalk City Council during their meeting on Tuesday.

NORWALK - City Council unanimously approved the strategic plan for the year and received updates on the projects to renovate a dozen parks in Norwalk during their meeting on Tuesday.

The council approved funding for 12 parks in the city to receive multiple renovations and improvements including the installation of playgrounds, pergolas, lighting upgrades and the remodeling of restrooms and snack bars.

While 12 park projects are completed, 45 projects are still on-going. Christina Roberto, the public services superintendent, explained the delay of the projects is because of the manufacturer’s backlog.

“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our manufacturing deadlines were quite substantial,” Roberto said. “Right now the manufacturer has assured us that it looks like they’re getting up to speed and getting caught up so we’re hoping to have an update in September.”

Among the projects in development is the dog park fencing at Bob White Park, which is expected to be installed in coming weeks. A restroom will also be installed later this year as part of the Proposition 68 Per Capita grant from the California State Parks.

Roberto also expressed that multiple renovations are needed at Norwalk Park. As staff are working on the details for a new playground, they are also looking into the expansion of the Skate Park.

Councilmember Jennifer Perez also expressed interest in maintaining the historical preservation of the Sproul museum during any renovation.

“That’s a whole entire area that is being looked at and reviewed and there’s a historical portion of that particular area that needs to be historically renovated. The roof is severely damaged,” Perez said.

The councilmember was reassured the museum would retain its historical accuracy.

City manager Jesus Gomez continued to explain the 2023 Strategic Plan for the city. The plan focuses on public safety, economic development and infrastructure.

“Our goal is to work in partnership with our community to achieve safe and livable neighborhoods,” Gomez said. “We’ll reinvest in existing and aging infrastructure and update citywide asset risk for streets, flood control devices, traffic control devices and city parks and buildings.”

The city manager also expressed the goal for the city to have zero emission buses by 2030, and for the city to move towards renewable energy.

“We would develop a city Climate Action Plan and streamline installation of rooftop solar for residents and businesses,” Gomez said. “We expand the supply of electric vehicle charging stations and expand to zero emission buses and related charging infrastructure for full electrification by 2030.”