Westminster residents like Torii Square Park just the way it is, thank you.

They gave that message to staff of the Westminster Parks and Recreation Department during a community meeting Aug. 21 to discuss the park’s future.

The park, built in 1975 at 7596 Lowell Blvd., is one of the oldest parks in the city. It was dedicated by the Rotary Club of Westminster to a Japanese exchange student who spent a year in Westminster through the club’s exchange program.

“The park has basically stayed the same since it was built in 1975, and that is why it’s been in the department’s plan to update it, “said Don Tripp, Westminster Parks, Recreation and Libraries director. “It’s important for us to make some updates, but it’s also important for us to hear from the community to learn what people want from the park.”

Currently the 1-acre park features mature trees, rocks, plenty of grass, a small pavilion and a couple benches. The park has no recreation facilities, such as a playground,, and Tripp said its size and the fact that it’s in a fairly passive area mean there won’t be enough space for a new active area.

Residents attending the meeting said that’s just fine.

Lillian Ruiz has lived near the park most of her life. Her parents still live in the area, and she frequently visits the park. After hearing about the community meeting, she was excited to attend because of her love for the park. She said what makes the park so nice is the fact that it isn’t recreational.

“This park is an oasis for people,” she said. “It’s a nice little gem that’s not tainted by the recreational activities that so many parks are.”

Ruiz and other members of the public told city staff it is important to keep the park’s calm, quiet personality. Suggestions included adding tables and benches, and another outdoor shelter for community events.

Tripp said staff will take the suggestions into account during the planning process. After a new irrigation system is installed, the redesign of the park will begin in spring 2013 and completed by summer.

For more information or to offer thoughts and suggestions, contact city landscape architect Kathy Piper at 303-658-2227 or at kpiper@cityofwestminster.us.