SPORTS FACILITIES IN POMONA'S PARKS

Of all 101 surveys conducted in the Pomona parks studied, the transient presence in the parks seemed to be the most prevalent concern to both Pomona residents and people visiting the parks for the first time.  Regardless of the rating of the parks and its facilities, the overlying worry circled back to the homeless population that resided in the parks.  The majority of surveyors were significantly troubled and hesitant to stay at the park past a certain hour or allow their children to roam freely without questioning their safety.  The park attended by surveyors was highly dependent on the reason for their visit.  As researchers surveyed and observed the parks, it was apparent that abundance of sports facilities was the primary reason for which surveyors went to the park.  Throughout this study the sports facilities observed were: baseball/softball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and swimming pools.  Visits and surveys were conducted during various times of the day and different days of the week to encompass all demographics as well as reasons for their visit.  Studies showed that   there in fact was a correlation between park usage and presence/lack of presence of adequate sports facilities.  Albeit the ample complaints of surveyors about the transient presence in parks, it had minimal effect on park usage with suitable sports facilities that were being used throughout the week for practice and/or weekends for games.