March 27, 2026
Mountain View City Council
500 Castro Street
Mountain View, CA 94041
RE: Public Comment - Support for GreenSpacesMV’s Recommendations on the Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan
Dear Honorable Mayor and City Council Members,
The Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter, Mothers Out Front Silicon Valley, and the Community for Natural Play Surfaces are writing to express our strong support for the recommendations submitted by GreenSpacesMV regarding the Mountain View Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. Our organizations share the goal of ensuring that Mountain View’s parks prioritize ecological health, biodiversity, and the well-being of all residents.
We specifically urge the Council to incorporate the following enhancements into the final plan.
Prioritize Natural Park Design: We support the call to include specific examples of "natural parks" in Section 6.2. Current illustrations focus heavily on man-made amenities like playgrounds and courts. Shifting this focus to make natural spaces the primary attraction better aligns with community feedback and biodiversity goals.
Transition Away from Artificial Surfaces: The plan should explicitly commit to reducing reliance on artificial turf and poured-in-place rubber (PIP) surfaces. These materials contribute to urban heat islands, eliminate wildlife habitat, and release harmful chemicals. We strongly endorse the proposal for a PIP-free pilot playground as a safe way to transition toward natural, non-toxic play surfaces.
Commitment to Locally Native Species: While the plan mentions biodiversity, it must explicitly prioritize locally native species appropriate to the Santa Clara Valley. These plants are essential for supporting the insects and birds that form the foundation of our local ecosystem.
Sustainable Maintenance Practices: We support the transition to toxin-free pest and weed management. Furthermore, reducing the removal of fallen leaves is a simple yet effective way to protect the life cycles of beneficial insects and birds.
Prioritize Trees Instead of Shade Structures: Feedback from residents consistently shows a preference for trees over artificial shade structures. Trees provide essential benefits that structures cannot, such as carbon sequestration, air filtration, and natural cooling through evapotranspiration. The plan should be amended to prioritize protecting heritage trees and planting new ones instead of play and seating areas.
By adopting these recommendations, Mountain View can create a truly forward-looking parks system that protects our environment while serving the needs of all community members. Thank you for your consideration of these vital improvements.
Sincerely,
The Conservation Committee
Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter
Andrea Wald,Co-founder
Community for Natural Play Surfaces
Linda Hutchins-Knowles, Co-founder
Mothers Out Front Silicon Valley