The first of two planned Public Meetings in Escalon focusing on park upgrades was hosted on Tuesday, Jan. 9. The second is on the schedule for Tuesday, Jan. 16.

“These are public information-suggestion gathering meetings, but have agendas so that members of council can attend,” explained Escalon City Manager Dominique Romo.

The first session was hosted at noon Tuesday at Main Street Park, an on-site discussion.

“The City has proposed improvements to Main Street Park which include bike and pedestrian improvements,” Romo added.

Among the improvements under discussion are sidewalks, bike lanes, and a multi-use trail.

Also, said Romo, the potential enhancements could include additional parking, a restroom, and a dedicated area for lawn games such as cornhole, bocce, and pickleball.

“We are holding the public meetings to discuss the project and seek feedback on the proposed plans and improvements,” she said.

Council members, at their final session in December, agreed to solicit the input from residents. After the on-site session, all those interested are encouraged to turn out at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 16 at City Hall on McHenry Avenue for further discussion.

All city offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 15 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, so the regular third Monday of the month meeting for the council has been pushed to Tuesday, Jan. 16, following the Main Street Park discussion.

The first meeting of the month, which fell on Monday, Jan. 1 was canceled due to the holiday so this will be the first session of the Escalon City Council for 2024.