Manager’s Message Upland Parks: A Vision for the Future

Hello Upland Community,

My name is Jessica Escoto, and I am proud to serve as the City of Upland’s Recreation and Community Services Manager. Over the past five years, our team has worked hard to deliver exciting programs, memorable community events, and meaningful improvements to our parks and facilities. As we look ahead, I can confidently say—the best is yet to come.

Beginning in 2026, the City of Upland will launch a comprehensive community needs assessment to evaluate all aspects of parks, open space, recreation, and community services. This effort will lead to the development of Upland’s first-ever Parks and Open Space Master Plan, a long-term roadmap that will guide decision-making and investment over the next 5 to 10 years. This plan is grounded in our commitment to excellence and our desire to create spaces and services that truly reflect our community’s values and evolving needs.

To support this important work, the City is partnering with RHA Landscape Architects-Planners, Inc., along with Next Practice Partners, bringing together proven luck expertise in park planning, design, and inclusive community engagement.

At the heart of Upland Parks: A Vision for the Future is community voice. An inclusive and meaningful outreach process will be central to shaping this plan, as we seek to understand what matters most to the people who live, work, and play in Upland. Through community workshops, pop-up events, and an online survey, we aim to capture diverse perspectives and ensure this plan reflects the full breadth of our community.

When you see us out in the community, I encourage you to stop by, say hello, and share your ideas. Whether you’re passionate about pickleball, interested in more concerts in the park, or hoping for greater walkability and access to open space, your input will help shape a more inclusive and vibrant future for Upland.

Thank you for being an essential part of this process. We look forward to working together to build parks and community services that serve today’s needs and inspire future generations.
Warm regards,

Jessica Escoto Recreation & Community Services Manager
City of Upland