New Belonging Framework sets direction for improving public access, experiences in Sonoma County parks

Sonoma County Regional Parks has created a “Belonging Framework,” a long-term roadmap to ensure parks are welcoming and accessible to all visitors regardless of their backgrounds or physical abilities.

Shaped by community voices, this framework will guide Regional Parks in developing hands-on projects and services to improve how people experience parks in years to come.  

Priorities include improving the usability of trails, programs, and facilities for people with disabilities; expanding culturally relevant information and programming; strengthening partnerships with community organizations; using community data to better target resources; investing in staff training; and creating regular opportunities for both the public and employees to provide feedback.

Together, the efforts are intended to remove barriers to access and participation and build an inclusive parks culture.

“We want everyone to feel welcome, whether they’re enjoying the outdoors, joining an outing or working here,” said Regional Parks Director Bert Whitaker. “Belonging means that people feel safe and respected, that everyone can use the parks and that people see themselves reflected in park programs and design.”

Regional Parks developed its Belonging Framework with input from a community advisory team whose members shared their experiences of living with disabilities and facing social barriers. Their insight, along with information gathered through surveys, focus groups and interviews, helped set priorities for identifying disparities and improving visitors’ experiences across the parks system.  

The framework supports the County of Sonoma’s broader goals around equity and community engagement and will guide Regional Parks as it puts those values into practice across the department’s day-to-day work. 

“The parks belong to everyone,” Whitaker said. “This framework will help us be more intentional about how parks are designed and operated, how programs are offered and how visitors and employees are engaged and supported.”

Regional Parks next will develop a phased plan for implementing the actions outlined in the Belonging Framework. The framework can be viewed at SoCoParks.org/BelongingFramework.

The development of the framework and Regional Parks’ equity and accessibility work is supported in part by Parks for All — Measure M, the voter-approved sales tax that funds park maintenance, stewardship and access improvements across Sonoma County.

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Media Contact:  
Tina Luster, Marketing Specialist 
Sonoma County Regional Parks 
Tina.Luster@sonoma-county.org  
707-565-3803

Sonoma County Regional Parks provides essential opportunities for people to connect with nature. We contribute to the vibrancy and well-being of our community by expanding access to recreation experiences, serving as responsible stewards of cultural and natural resources, and ensuring that our parks are clean, safe and welcoming.  Learn more at SonomaCountyParks.org.