Santa Ana City Council approves $4.5M park project at Bristol Street

The Santa Ana City Council convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a significant focus on community development and environmental initiatives. The meeting highlighted the approval of a new park project aimed at enhancing local green spaces.

The council began with a discussion on the Bristol Street park project, which will feature a long skate park, a basketball court, and benches for seniors. This initiative is seen as a vital addition to the community, providing a safe space for residents to gather and engage in recreational activities. Council members expressed their gratitude to city staff for securing funding through various grants, including the California Natural Resources Agency's Urban Greening Grant and the Federal Clean Water Protection Enterprise Fund. The total estimated cost for the project is approximately $4.5 million.

Councilmember Hernandez emphasized the importance of transforming a vacant lot into usable open space, aligning with community feedback that highlighted the lack of parks in the area. The project is expected to not only create recreational opportunities but also contribute to environmental sustainability by incorporating a stormwater reuse system.

The council unanimously approved the motion to proceed with the park project, with a vote of 6 ayes and no nays, despite the recorded absence of Councilmember Penalosa. The approval marks a significant step towards improving community infrastructure and addressing environmental concerns in Santa Ana.

As the meeting progressed, the council moved on to other business items, concluding the consent calendar. The discussions underscored the city's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through thoughtful urban planning and community engagement.