FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 30, 2025
City of Exeter Unveils $15 Million Parks Master Plan in Partnership with QK
EXETER, CA—The City of Exeter has introduced a comprehensive $15 million Parks Master Plan to revitalize its aging park system. The Master Plan follows a year-long planning process led by QK, a California-based engineering, planning, and environmental consulting firm. It was formally presented during the July 22 City Council meeting.
The Master Plan focuses on restoring and enhancing Exeter’s 12 existing parks and responds directly to widespread community feedback collected through surveys, public workshops, and stakeholder interviews. Nearly 400 residents participated in the survey, 96% of whom live within city limits, offering valuable insight into park usage, concerns, and priorities.
“This Master Plan represents a collective vision for the future of Exeter’s parks,” said Steve Brandt of QK. “Our goal was to unite the community’s input into a clear roadmap that brings long-term value to these shared public spaces.”
Key findings from the public engagement process revealed strong support for improving current facilities over building new ones. Residents emphasized the need for better maintenance, restrooms, shade, and inclusive amenities such as splash pads, amphitheaters, and ADA-accessible trails.
Highlights of the Master Plan include:
– $3.4 million investment in City Park, including the restoration of the historic wading pool, a new amphitheater to replace the existing gazebo, and upgraded restroom facilities.
– An $8.7 million overhaul of Dobson Field, which will feature reconfigured sports fields, ADA-compliant pathways, a centralized concession area, improved parking, and upgraded irrigation and electrical systems.
– Targeted improvements to smaller parks across the city, addressing irrigation, signage, accessibility, landscaping, and lighting.
Currently, Exeter maintains 31.8 acres of parkland, which equates to 3.1 acres per 1,000 residents. The Master Plan sets a long-term goal of increasing this to 5.0 acres per 1,000 residents by 2040, aligning with projected population growth.
City Manager Jason Ridenour emphasized that the Master Plan will remain a living document, guided by community involvement. “We’re focused on how we move forward together. This is about making sure the process is transparent, inclusive, and action-oriented.”
The draft Master Plan is available on the City’s website and will be returned to council for a public hearing and potential adoption on September 9, 2025.
Community involvement remains at the heart of the effort. Councilmember Vicki Riddle credited residents like Emily Brown, who mobilized support through a grassroots Facebook group, and Andrew Rodriguez of the Lions Club, who pledged $10,000 toward Dobson Field enhancements.
“This Master Plan is a testament to the power of community,” said Christine Chavez of QK. “It’s a rare and inspiring thing to see residents come together so passionately around their parks.”
For more information or to review the full Parks Master Plan, visit the City of Exeter Website.
Media Contact:
Anne Walker, CPSM
Business Development Manager, QK
(559) 343-6440
anne.walker@qkinc.com
