Making William Land Park Safer for Everyone
By Roman Ambroselli
Board Member, Land Park Community Association
Chair, Traffic Safety Committee
For more than a century, William Land Park has been one of Sacramento’s most treasured public spaces. Spanning more than 200 acres, it is where families gather, children learn to ride bikes, youth teams compete, and neighbors come together for recreation and community events. But as Sacramento grows, the park’s infrastructure and policies must evolve too.
That is why the proposal introduced by Councilmember Rick Jennings and co-sponsored by Councilmembers Eric Guerra and Phil Pluckebaum deserves strong community support. The William Land Park Public Safety, Bike and Pedestrian Safety, and Review of Current and Future Uses proposal offers a thoughtful path forward to ensure the park remains safe, accessible, and welcoming for all.
The proposal begins with a simple recognition: William Land Park was designed in a different era. When it was developed in the early 20th century, Sacramento was smaller and cars were fewer and slower. Today, the park’s internal roadways often function as cut-through routes for drivers rather than quiet parkways. As a result, pedestrians and cyclists frequently share space with fast-moving traffic—an environment that can feel unsafe for families and park visitors.
This challenge is especially evident in the Panhandle area, which functions as the neighborhood park within the larger park. With its splash pad, playground, picnic tables, and open space, it serves families from Land Park, Upper Land Park, and South Land Park. Yet vehicles routinely pass through nearby streets at speeds that were never envisioned when the park was designed.
Creating safer green spaces for people—not just cars—should be a priority
One of the most promising elements of the proposal is a 24-month pilot program that would create a car-free corridor along 12th Avenue between Riverside Boulevard and 13th Street. Temporarily removing vehicle traffic from this segment would provide a safe space for walking, biking, and recreation while allowing the City to evaluate the benefits through real-world data.
For families with young children, the benefits are clear. A car-free area offers a place where kids can bike, skate, and play without the constant concern of passing traffic. For pedestrians and cyclists, it creates a more comfortable and accessible park experience. And for the park itself, it helps restore the environment people expect when visiting a public green space.
The proposal also recognizes that safety requires a comprehensive approach. A Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) review conducted by the Sacramento Police Department would help identify improvements in lighting, technology, and park security. These steps can help address longstanding concerns about illicit activity and ensure the park remains safe throughout the day and evening.
Equally important is the proposal’s emphasis on collaboration. A working group including representatives from the Sacramento Zoo, Fairytale Town, Funderland Amusement Park, youth sports organizations, neighborhood groups, and park advocates will ensure that future decisions reflect the needs of the many communities who rely on William Land Park.
William Land Park remains one of Sacramento’s greatest public assets. Protecting that asset requires thoughtful planning and a willingness to adapt. By prioritizing safety, improving pedestrian access, and engaging the community, this proposal moves us in the right direction.
If you are ready to support this plan, sign the letter of support here: https://form.jotform.com/260695552372059