GANESHA PARK

1575 N White Ave, Pomona, CA 91768

The largest park by acreage at 60 acres, Ganesha is located north of the 10 Freeway near the Pomona Fairplex, the National Hot Rod Association Museum, and directly adjacent to a Sheraton Suites Hotel and Convention Center. The park is one of two within the city with a public swimming pool and the only park with a band shell and amphitheater. Upon arrival, a large tennis court and playground area was noticeable. Researchers arrived near dusk and two players were observed on the tennis courts. There were lights available, but not on. The tennis players expressed displeasure in the lights not coming on at the right time to allow them longer play time and that the park was closing shortly. Posted hours for the park were Dawn to Dusk. Even with lights available, park use is not permitted after hours. Assessment was done by walking the paths around the park, and personal observation and use of equipment within the playground and facilities [Table 1].
Walking the pathways within the park, they are in relatively good shape. All the pathways are paved, with some cracking and occasional unevenness. The pathways along the hillside were quite uneven as it appears tree roots were beginning to cause quite a bit of fracturing. The surrounding walking paths however are not separated from the driveways throughout the park and into residential areas. The conditions were fair, but there are blind spots for drivers around curves and over hills that could present a hazard to walkers and runners throughout the park.
Water fountains, the barbecue grills, and bathrooms were all in poor shape as they were unusable and exceptionally filthy. The playground equipment was in very good shape and there were plenty options for children to play and swing. The gazebo and shelter areas were ample with plenty of seating and picnic tables scattered throughout the park and within the Gazebo. There is an exceptional amount of green space for ball throwing, or other leisure activity. However, most of the green space was not open space as there were many trees, uneven surface or other obstructions blocking open space usage. The public pool was closed at the time so an assessment could not be made.
The park was quite populated during the evening hours as there was large assemblage of transients gathered in the Gazebo area and around the park in the bushes and trees. It is noted that there were quite a few sleeping bags, bags of trash and litter, and other baskets of belongings indicative of homelessness scattered around the park. Several people were observed sleeping or laying in shaded areas away from normal walking paths. While it was not confirmed that in fact these people were homeless, it can be said with high certainty.