Santa Paula, CA - In a momentous occasion this morning, Senator Monique Limón and Assemblymember Steve Bennett presented $1 million dollars of support on behalf of the State of California to bolster the development of the Santa Paula Sports Park. This 37-acre regional sports and entertainment complex is poised to more than double Santa Paula's existing park space.
Mayor Andy Sobel expressed profound gratitude, stating, "On behalf of our City and greater community, we extend our deepest thanks to Senator Limón and Assemblymember Bennett for their unwavering support of the Santa Paula Sports Park. This generous funding will facilitate crucial Phase I enhancements, including sports lighting and an additional restroom, ensuring a significant expansion of recreational and entertainment opportunities for all our residents."
Presently, Santa Paula lags behind the National Recreation and Park Association Median with only 1.2 acres of park space per one thousand residents, highlighting a pressing need for increased recreational options. The Santa Paula Sports Park aims to bridge this gap, providing an unparalleled recreational landscape for the city.
Strategically located on the east side of town amidst the picturesque citrus and avocado orchards, and adjacent to the new Limoneira housing development, the Santa Paula Sports Park is set to make a major impact to recreation, sports activities and entertainment for the community. Phase I completion is anticipated in Spring 2024 and will mark the beginning of an expansive vision, featuring an amphitheater, multiple sports fields, a community garden, an inclusive playground, BBQ pavilions, and various recreation options.
Senator Limón emphasized the significance of green spaces, stating, "Parks are essential to the emotional and physical well-being of all Californians. Santa Paula Creek Sports Park will offer children a space to play, families a place to build lasting memories, and everyone an opportunity to connect with nature. I am grateful to have secured this critical funding in our state budget, in partnership with Assemblymember Bennett, to provide Santa Paula with the park they deserve."
Vanessa Olmos, Chair of the Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Commission, expressed excitement, stating, "It's truly exhilarating to witness Senator Limón and Assemblymember Bennett championing the well-being of Santa Paula residents and our youth. Their dedicated advocacy, backed by substantial funding, is set to elevate the quality of life by actively contributing to the successful completion of Phase I of the Sports Park."
A sneak peek event in January 2023 drew hundreds of residents and youth and provided the community with a glimpse of the transformative potential ahead. While the City of Santa Paula will operate the park, the Santa Paula Sports Park Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring long-term maintenance and enhancement of the facilities. To find out more about the foundation and how you can assist, please visit go to www.spsportspark.org.
For further information on developments related to the park itself, visit www.spcity.org or contact the City of Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department at (805) 933-4226.
Read the full bilingual press release...