In January 2025, the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department (Department) engaged Keen Independent Research to assess how well its programs, services and facilities are meeting the needs of the diverse communities it serves in response to the Performance Audit of Equity in Recreational Programs that was released in November 2021. The study team will conduct market analyses and community engagement that meets people where they are, including outreach to historically under-resourced communities in San Diego.
Keen Independent will gather public input from:
Throughout this study, Keen Independent will provide multiple opportunities for public input.
The Department needs assessment will be completed by spring of 2026.
Keen Independent, Phoenix-based market research and consulting firm is leading this study. Keen Independent has performed similar work for Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation, Dane County Parks and Zoo, City of Corona, Salt Lake City, City and County of Denver and other public entities nationwide. Alex Keen, Keen Independent Managing Principal, and Annette Humm Keen, Advising Principal, are directing this assignment. Dr. Nicole Yates, Senior Consultant, is serving as the day-to-day contact for the study.
Local firm SVPR Communications will assist Keen Independent on this assignment.
Research supporting communities and advancing creative solutions
