Dear Community Recreation Group Members,
I am writing to formally propose the addition of both a dog park and a skate park at Martin Luther King Jr. Park and Recreation Center in San Diego.
MLK Park is a vital hub for families, youth, and community members in our area. While it offers valuable amenities, adding a designated dog park and skate park would expand its impact, increase park activation, and better meet the evolving recreational needs of our community.
A dedicated dog park would provide a safe, enclosed space for dogs to exercise and socialize off-leash while encouraging owners to spend more time outdoors. Dog parks are widely recognized as amenities that promote physical activity, increase park usage, and foster community connection. They create natural gathering spaces where neighbors build relationships and strengthen social ties. With pet ownership remaining high nationwide, the demand for safe, designated spaces for dogs continues to grow.
A skate park would offer youth and young adults a structured, safe environment to skateboard and develop their skills. Research and public health organizations have long supported skate parks as a way to provide safer alternatives to skating in streets and parking lots. In addition to promoting physical fitness, balance, and coordination, skate parks foster mentorship, creativity, and a sense of belonging among young people. These spaces can serve as inclusive community hubs that engage youth in positive recreation.
Together, these amenities would:
• Increase daily park utilization
• Promote physical health and outdoor activity
• Provide safe, designated recreation spaces
• Strengthen neighborhood connection and community pride
• Support youth engagement and positive social development
I respectfully request that the Community Recreation Group consider supporting a feasibility inquiry with the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department to explore site suitability, design considerations, and potential funding pathways for both amenities. I also encourage the formation of a small working group to gather community input and help shape next steps.
Enhancing MLK Park with a dog park and skate park represents an opportunity to invest in health, safety, and connection for residents of all ages. I look forward to discussing this proposal further and collaborating on a path forward.
Respectfully,
Rickena Y. Mills
San Diego Resident and Community Advocate