Connections 2024: CA Parks & Recreation Society Conference & Expo
The California Parks & Recreation Society Conference & Expo will provide the latest information and services for the park, recreation and leisure services profession.
CCLR will be participating at the conference as an presenters on February 28 and February 29. Make sure to connect with Sheryl Gonzales, Ignacio Dayrit, and Sarah Fingerhood and attend the panels: Brownfields Into Green Dreams – Leveraging Funding and Resources for Vibrant Parks and Recreation and Open-space Equity Starts Here!
Brownfields Into Green Dreams – Leveraging Funding and Resources for Vibrant Parks and Recreation | February 28, 3:45 – 4:45 p.m. PST
Join us for an inspiring session that delves into transforming brownfield sites into vibrant recreational facilities, parks, and open spaces showcasing sites from Northern, Central, and Southern California. These remarkable facilities will showcase their successful redevelopment and illustrate their beneficial impact on equity, environmental justice, and inclusion.
Discover firsthand accounts of brownfield redevelopment efforts in diverse California communities, offering valuable insights into overcoming challenges and revitalizing once- neglected spaces. Explore how these projects prioritize equity and environmental justice, ensuring communities have equitable access to these revitalized environments. Learn about the crucial role of community involvement and inclusion in the planning and design processes, ensuring that the projects align with the unique needs and aspirations of residents.
A primary focus of this session will be on the funding opportunities and resources available through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support brownfield redevelopment and how these resources were instrumental in the showcased projects. We will also explore the Center for Creative Land Recycling (CCLR) tools and strategies that played a pivotal role in project success, offering guidance and resources for similar initiatives in your community. This session celebrates the power of innovation, community collaboration, and resourceful brownfield redevelopment. Those interested in transforming underutilized, vacant, contaminated land into vibrant community spaces, will gain invaluable knowledge and tools in this session which offers practical insights and inspiration. Join us to learn how to revitalize brownfields, fostering inclusive, sustainable, and enjoyable spaces for your community residents to live, work, and play – turning brownfields into green dreams together.
Open-Space Equity Starts Here! | February 29, 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. PST
Park-poor neighborhoods tend to be low-income, communities of color, with a disproportionate share of underutilized, vacant and potentially contaminated land. Brownfields grants and free technical assistance from the US Environmental Protection Agency and CalEPA Department of Toxic Substances Control have catalyzed hundreds of efforts, leveraged other funds and improved the quality of life in many environmental justice neighborhoods. These include playgrounds, trails, culturally and historically associated facilities, mixed-use parks of all sizes. It’s not that difficult – but not child’s play either, and communities need to do their homework. Attend this session to learn how brownfield grants have propelled park projects throughout California, and find out how to apply for and receive free technical assistance to be competitive for these grants.
