DOWNEY -- How can local parks be improved to increase accessibility? Parks officials want your opinion. 

Los Angeles County has begun a historic parks needs assessment that will shed light on access to parks across the county, and list steps the county can take to make parks more accessible. 

This needs assessment goes far beyond any studies conducted previously, using a broad set of park metrics to evaluate park space and offering both cities and residents significant input into the process. The assessment will identify need based on park acreage, park access, park use, park condition, and the number and type of park amenities available in communities.

This comprehensive assessment began over the summer by collecting input on the status of every park in Los Angeles County from all 88 cities and the unincorporated areas. More than a dozen components are being analyzed and weighed, including quantity, proximity and overall quality of parks available to residents, as well as the specific quality of individual facilities and amenities within each park.

“It’s absolutely critical that all residents across Los Angeles County have access to thriving, high quality parks. For the first time, this assessment will allow us to truly understand the park needs of every community within the county,” said Rita Robinson, Park Needs Assessment Project Director for the County Department of Parks and Recreation. “We know that access to parks is so important to the health and quality of life of all communities. And, it is so important for all LA County residents to attend these meetings and tell us what they believe the priorities for park and open space should be."

A final report with key findings and estimated costs will be presented to the Board of Supervisors in May. 

Tonight's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the TLC Family Resource Center, 13220 Bellflower Blvd.