Loma Linda Land-use Policy
The Loma Linda City Council
approved a policy in 2003 to allow interim/long-term uses of vacant public
property for community benefit, including community gardens and pocket parks. The intended outcomes of the policy were to
improve the quality of life in the neighborhood and enhance health and
livability for residents.
Policy Initiation
The North Central
Neighborhood (NCN) community garden began as part of local residents’ efforts to
upgrade and beautify an area of the city known for its older homes, apartments
and diverse, newly arrived immigrants. Monthly meetings between NCN residents
and city department heads identified issues and developed productive strategies
for enhancing quality of life, including the conversion of a vacant lot into a
thriving community garden.
Public Health Agency Roles
The San Bernardino County
Health Department presented at City-sponsored workshops, and provided material
on the health benefits of healthier eating and physical activity.
Major Partners
The San Bernardino County
Health Department, Loma Linda University School of Public Health, California
Healthy Cities and Communities, a program of the Center for Civic Partnerships,
the UC Extension Master Gardener Program, and the North Central Neighborhood Steering
Committee.
Official Support
The Loma Linda City Council,
City Manager, Public Works Director, and City Attorney supported this effort.
Results from the Policy
The North Central
Neighborhood community garden includes 53 gardening plots, a Tool
Lending Library, and an irrigation system.
The City also invested in other significant infrastructure improvements
including fencing, sidewalks, curbs, gutters and improved street pavement
surrounding the garden. The plots have
been fully occupied by resident gardeners, and more than 150 residents have participated
in garden activities and events since it opened in 2002. Residents’
consumption of fruits and vegetables increased by .5 servings per day as a
result of attending nutrition workshops.
Following the development of the NCN community garden,
two mobile gardening plots were installed at the City’s
Lessons Learned
Residents and local
government officials have many opportunities to initiate and support healthier
eating, physical activity and improved quality of life through programs and
policies such as redevelopment, general plan updates, and land use planning.
Submitted By
Executive Director
Center for Civic Partnerships
(916) 646-8680
(916) 646-8660 FAX