The city of Pacoima, CA is going ahead with a new program that transforms foreclosed homes into pocket parks. Vacant lots are being considered in addition to 10 foreclosed sites.
"The city bought the house last year from Wells Fargo for $116,000. The department wants to tailor each park to the community desires, so staffers gave neighbors questionnaires on what amenities they'd like to have. That could mean adding gym equipment or a playground, said Michael Shull, superintendent of planning, construction and maintenance at the Department of Recreation and Parks.
In a handful of cases, the communities asked the city to rebuild the residence rather than replace it with a park, usually because the foreclosed home was located in the middle of the block."
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