City of Riverside logoMajor improvements are coming to Patterson Park in the city’s Eastside neighborhood as the result of a recent $7.15 million grant from California State Parks.

The grant will help pay for a new jogging/walking loop, two soccer fields, a full basketball court, six fitness nodes, a splash pad, a community plaza, a restroom/storage building, two playgrounds with shade, public art, a formal promenade, a decorative block wall, a perimeter fence, a pathway with lighting, a community plaza, and a fruit tree grove. The parking lot also will be renovated.

“Enhancing the quality of life for our residents is a priority and these upgrades will create an incredible environment for residents who are interested in getting some exercise in one of our parks,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “Many thanks to State Parks for awarding these funds to our community.”

Competition was intense for funding through the “Outdoors for All” initiative. About $2.42 billion in requests were received for 468 proposed projects across the state. The final round of funding included $548.3 million in grants for 112 projects, including 50 new parks and 62 expansions or renovations.

The grants, awarded through the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Grant Program, represent the single-largest investment in state history in expanding access to parks in underserved communities. The program was designed to fund parks in every region of California.

“Patterson Park is a beloved open space that is frequently used by residents of the surrounding neighborhood. It is rewarding that we will be able to dramatically improve the community’s experience there,” said City Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes, who represents the area. “All our residents deserve a chance to go outside and immerse in a nurturing quality park with a healthy environment.” 

More information about the grants can be found at www.parks.ca.gov/spp.

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