Highlights from the 2026 Noyes Park Community Survey

This spring, Friends of Noyes Park invited neighbors and park users to participate in our 2026 Community Survey. Thank you to the nearly 200 community members who took the time to share feedback, ideas, and experiences with us. The strong response to the survey reflects how deeply valued Noyes Park is.

We issued this survey to better understand how people use the park, what amenities and programming matter most to residents, and where there may be opportunities to improve and grow. The feedback will help guide future programming, stewardship, advocacy, and community engagement efforts. We’re pleased to share some takeaways from the survey with you.

A Hyperlocal Park with a Strong Family Focus

Survey responses confirmed that Noyes Park is truly serving as a neighborhood park. Most respondents live in nearby ZIP codes 20017 and 20018, and the overwhelming majority reported visiting the park with children.

The survey also showed that many community members use the park regularly. Nearly 40% of respondents reported visiting the park on a weekly basis, demonstrating that Noyes Park has is integrated in many neighbors’ routines.

The park continues to serve as an important shared community space.

How People USE the Park

Respondents reported using a wide range of park amenities and resources, including:

  • The playground (83% use it at least sometimes, 66% said they use it often")

  • The turf field and open green space (81% use it at least sometimes, 37% use it often)

  • The walking/running track (73% use it at least sometimes, 31% use it often)

  • Seating and gathering areas (85% use them at least sometimes, 39% use them often)

Based on these responses, we understand that the playground serves as a clear anchor for the community, and that the turf and track are both used by neighbors.

WHAT THE COMMUNITY WANTS

One of the clearest themes in the survey was interest in expanded programming and community activities.

Children’s programming emerged as the strongest area of interest by a wide margin, reinforcing the park’s role as a gathering space for families and young children; 4 in 5 responses indicated an interest.

At the same time, respondents expressed strong interest in:

  • Nature and educational activities (57% of responses)

  • Yoga and fitness programming (48% and 40% of responses, respectively)

  • Mindfulness and wellness events (37% of responses)

  • Community and neighborhood discussions (41% of responses)

  • Food-related gatherings (29% of responses)

We’re glad to hear there’s interest in using Noyes Park for uses beyond recreation that could include learning, wellness, and community connection.

FEEDBACK ON PARK CONDITIONS

Survey respondents shared appreciation for the role Noyes Park plays in neighborhood life, while also identifying areas where continued maintenance and stewardship remain important.

Feedback included interest in:

  • Maintaining clean and welcoming spaces

  • Continued upkeep of park amenities

  • Improvements to playground equipment

  • More opportunities for programming and activation

These responses help inform Friends of Noyes Park’s ongoing stewardship and advocacy priorities.

NEXT STEPS

Friends of Noyes Park is an all-volunteer community organization, and your feedback plays an important role in helping us prioritize activities and advocate effectively for the park. We’re excited to use these survey insights to help shape future programming, volunteer opportunities, and community initiatives.

If you’d like to learn more about Friends of Noyes Park, volunteer, share ideas, or get involved with board activities, we’d love to hear from you. You can reach out to the board through our website or connect with us at upcoming cleanups and community events.

Thank you again to everyone who participated in the survey and helps make Noyes Park such a vibrant and welcoming community space.