The City of Salinas has grown so quickly since its establishment that little consideration has been paid to parks and open space within the city.  Recreational opportunities within Carr Lake Regional Park would provide activity at the heart of the city.

Although Salinas lies within easy access of these regional parks, much of the city itself lacks parks and open space for active and passive recreation..  This is especially true of the older parts of the city, southwest of the lake.  Through its history, the city has grown up around Carr Lake basin, isolating at its heart this remnant of open space with the potential to provide valuable and needed recreation opportunities for the residents of Salinas and the entire region.

Although the majority of the Hispanic community resides in the eastern portion of the city and a majority of the white community resides in the west, all areas of the city are underserved in terms of park and open space.  A park at the center of the city can begin to bridge these communities and fill the needs of all residents.