Promised New Parks Still In Limbo A Decade After Money Approved
WEST SACRAMENTO (CBS13) – Construction of new parks across the state is still in limbo years after voters approved grant money to pay for them. $400 million dollars was set aside to build and repair parks in low-income areas but several parks in California have seen delays in construction.
"We just ran across it and the kids went 'hey look at the park!'" said Marcus Munsee, recalling passing by Joey Lopes park the day before.
Just off West Capitol Avenue, the park features a massive jungle gym, a twisted latter, and even a smaller area for the little ones. For Marcus Munsee's kids, discovering the park was like winning the lottery.
"Me and my wife work two different shifts and it gives the kids something to do when we're waiting to switch shifts," Munsee said.
Ten years ago, California voters passed Proposition 84, which allocated $400 million to build parks in neighborhoods without them. The goal was to build more parks in higher populated areas where kids have gone without. But in 2016, fewer than half of the 126 parks that received money have been built, including Walnut Park in Winters and Esparto Community Park and Aquatic Center in Yolo County. CBS 13 wanted to know: what's the hold up?
"I think lately, a lot of jurisdictions are really trying to build the correct park and fit for the community," said Regina Espinoza, County Service Area Manager for Yolo County.
Even though the money has been distributed, the grant allows recreation departments several years to actually spend the money. Between planning and design, Espinoza said that time adds up.
"We're not only talking about constructing the park, but we're also talking about maintaining the park for the future," Espinoza said.
Yolo County has spent months raising additional funding for park operations. In the City of Winters, Walnut Park has been delayed for years to sort out environmental issues. And the City of West Sacramento had to deal with rerouting underground utilities before Joey Lopes Park could be finished.
But for mom Desiree Munsee, the park construction delays are okay, as long as the parks are built the right way.
"I think it's very important for the kids that they are safe," Munsee said.