Launching Calwa Park Into the Future
The Calwa Park Renovation Project
On Friday, July 18, more than 100 community members, local leaders, and partner organizations came together to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Calwa Park Renovation Project – a $6.6 million investment that will bring long-overdue improvements to one of the largest and most beloved green spaces in southeast Fresno.
Hosted by Fresno Building Healthy Communities, in partnership with Friends of Calwa and the Calwa Recreation and Park District, the event marked the official start of construction and the next phase in a years-long effort to give Calwa families access to a safer, more functional, and more welcoming public park.
“The close-knit community of Calwa has been looking forward to this groundbreaking for so long because Calwa Park is a beloved gathering place for families and other residents,” said Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula, a key supporter of the park project. “The park is a constant and spirited hub of activity and connection, whether it’s sports or special community events or a family picnic. The extensive and much-needed makeover will ensure that the park remains a popular destination for generations to come. The people of Calwa deserve no less.”
“The close-knit community of Calwa has been looking forward to this groundbreaking for so long because Calwa Park is a beloved gathering place for families and other residents,” – Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula
A Community-Led Vision, Years in the Making
This project wouldn’t exist without the leadership and input of Calwa residents. Since 2019, community members have participated in dozens of planning sessions, open houses, and design workshops to shape the renovation plan. Local families, youth, and seniors were clear about what they wanted.
- Preservation of the historic rocket
- Safe playgrounds
- Shade
- Fitness areas
- Gathering spaces
They asked for a park that reflects the pride and potential of their neighborhood.
That input formed the foundation of our Proposition 68 application. When the grant was awarded in 2020, it was because of grassroots engagement and clear community vision. This is a park built by the community, for the community.
“To date, California State Parks has directed over $2 billion to communities across the state, and nearly 8000 communities have benefited from these investments,” said California Department of Parks and Recreation Director Armando Quintero. “Parks are critical for physical health, mental health, and community building. So, I don’t think there is anything more important than what we are doing now, because we need parks.”
We are incredibly proud to be leading this effort, not just because it brings tangible improvements to public space, but because it represents what’s possible when residents are given a seat at the table.
“To date, California State Parks has directed over $2 billion to communities across the state, and nearly 8000 communities have benefited from these investments,” — Armando Quintero, California Department of Parks and Recreation Director
What’s Coming to Calwa Park
Construction officially begins in August, with completion anticipated in the Spring of 2026. The renovation includes major infrastructure upgrades and new amenities based directly on community feedback:
- Three new playgrounds for different age groups
- A walking loop around the central area of the park
- New shaded picnic and BBQ areas
- A sensory garden featuring drought-tolerant plans
- An open market plaza with art kiosks for local events
- Lighting and landscaping improvements for safety and comfort
- Exterior renovation of the existing snack bar
- Preservation and restoration of the historic rocket ship sculpture
- New drinking fountains
As Michael Osborn with our construction project partner Provost & Pritchard announced, “There are new amazing play structures that are going to rival any playground that I have seen throughout California.”
This work will focus on the central section of the park between the community center and the art wall – an area that serves as the heart of the park and the center of activity for residents.
“This project celebrates generations of park users,” said John Gibbs, Principal and Landscape Architect of WRT, which designed the park upgrades. “During the master plan, the community was clear about the importance of the iconic rocket, shared food, and exciting play. The design will position the community for a more fun and resilient future.”
“This project celebrates generations of park users,” — John Gibbs, Principal and Landscape Architect of WRT
Why This Project Matters
Calwa Park is over 19 acres and serves not only the Calwa community but also families from surrounding neighborhoods, including Sanger, Malaga, Easton, and parts of Fresno. It’s one of the few open, green spaces in the region and plays a critical role in the physical and mental wellbeing of residents.
For too long, the park went without the investment and improvements it needed. As a result, parts of it became outdated and underused. This renovation will change that.
When complete, Calwa Park will be safer, more accessible, and better equipped to support recreation and healthy lifestyles. It will be a place where families can come together, where children can play and feel safe, and where seniors and residents of all ages can connect with nature, exercise, and enjoy time with friends.
“This is part of being a vibrant, healthy community,” said Councilmember Brandon Vang. “It is a well-designed park that brings opportunity and joy to every kid – not only in Calwa, but throughout District 5.”
For us, this project is part of our broader work to create #OneHealthyFresno – where all neighborhoods, regardless of zip code, have access to quality public spaces that support healthy, joyful lives.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Friday’s groundbreaking was a moment to celebrate how far we’ve come. But we’re even more excited about what’s ahead.
By this time next year, children will be climbing on brand-new playgrounds. Families will be grilling and celebrating birthdays under shaded picnic areas. Neighbors will be walking around the park loop, enjoying art, and gathering in a safer, more welcoming environment.
We know this project is going to make a big difference in the daily lives of Calwa residents. And it’s all possible because of the dedication of the community, the commitment of our partners, and the belief that every child and every family deserves access to a high-quality public park.
Calwa Recreation and Park District board member Laura Garcia summed it up beautifully during her remarks at the groundbreaking.
“When I was out here for the opening of the futsal courts, I talked about seeds being planted in Calwa,” Garcia said. “Today, we’re seeing those seeds are blooming.”
We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Calwa Park next spring for a ribbon cutting and a celebration of what we’ve built – together.
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