The Fullerton Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with KABOOM, held a Design Day on June 16 at the Fullerton Community Center, inviting residents to contribute to the future of Union Pacific Park. The event kicked off with a Kids’ Workshop from 4 to 5 PM, organized in partnership with the Center for Healthy Neighborhoods. Following this, an adult workshop took place from 5 to 6:30 PM, where participants shared their visions for the park.

KABOOM! is dedicated to developing play spaces in communities where access has been historically limited, according to their data. The organization focuses on ensuring that each play space meets the unique needs, desires, cultures, and strengths of the community it aims to serve.

Union Pacific Park, which first opened its doors in 2003, has remained closed since initial renovations began in response to identified soil contamination issues flagged by the Department of Toxic Substance Control. These concerns persisted until they were resolved in 2014. Despite the closure, reports of unauthorized activities in the park have surfaced, indicating a community eager for revitalization.

The proposed design for the 1.7-acre park includes a range of new amenities such as pickleball and basketball courts, outdoor exercise stations, walking paths, swings, a community garden, and a new playground. Construction costs are estimated between $2.5 million and $3.5 million.

In a bid to improve access to recreational space in South Fullerton, plans for a park renovation are underway, specifically designed to address long-standing inequities in the area. The initiative, which seeks to reinvigorate the family-oriented neighborhood, has been in the works since discussions about the park’s redesign began in 2019.

In 2021, an ad hoc committee was formed to gather community input, reflecting the strong desire among residents for change. After extensive consultation, the proposed design received a narrow endorsement from the Parks and Recreation Commission in October 2023, passing with a 3-2 vote.

Community anticipation for the project is high. District 5 representative, Council Member Dr. Ahmad Zahra expressed his support at the City Council Meeting in October 2023, highlighting the project’s importance: “Many residents in that area have seen an entire generation of children grow up without access to a park. This is not just the right thing to do; it’s a crucial part of enhancing our neighborhoods.”

As the project moves forward, residents are hopeful that the improvements will provide much-needed recreational opportunities for families in South Fullerton.

Union Pacific Park 2023