On Saturday, a significant event took place as Riverside County joined forces with the Desert Recreation District. This marked the start of the construction of the Thermal Community Park, which holds a special place as the first park in Thermal. The county's contribution of land and Supervisor v. Manuel Perez's generous donation of $4.5 million played a crucial role in moving this future park forward. The 10-acre park will be located at 87-229 Church Street, Thermal, CA 92274, on the corner of Church Street and Olive Street.

Park Features and Amenities

This park is set to be a hub of activity, offering a wide range of facilities. It will include ball fields, where sports enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite games. Sports courts will provide a space for various court-based activities. Walking paths will allow for leisurely strolls and exercise. Playgrounds will bring joy to children, with swings, slides, and other fun elements. Picnic areas will be perfect for family outings and gatherings. Shade structures will offer respite from the sun, ensuring a comfortable experience. A splash pad will add a splash of fun during the hot summer months. An amphitheater will be a great venue for community events and performances. And a kiosko will serve as a useful information center for park visitors.

The project is expected to be completed in about 15 months, and it was planned with the active input of the community. This ensures that the park will meet the needs and desires of the local residents.

According to Kevin Kalman, the General Manager of the Desert Recreation District, the park has been in the making for years. He expressed excitement about breaking ground on Saturday, stating, "This is an exciting step toward delivering a vibrant and much-needed space for the residents of Thermal. This park will serve as a cornerstone for community connection, recreation, and enrichment, and we're proud to be part of bringing this vision to life."

Park Development Timeline

In 2017, Riverside County took the first step by donating a 4.38-acre parcel to the Desert Recreation District for a future community park. This laid the foundation for what is now the Thermal Community Park. In 2021, the district received a significant grant of $4.5 million from the State of California, which greatly contributed to the park's development. In 2023, an additional five acres were purchased, making the park a 10-acre space.

In April, Supervisor Perez and the Riverside County Board of Supervisors allocated $4.5 million in Fourth District American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to complete the funding needed for the park. These funds also covered extra amenities such as the kiosko, enhancing the park's offerings for the community.

The total budget for the park is $10.3 million. Other funding sources include a $847,285 Proposition 1 grant from the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy and a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) grant of $100,000 from Riverside County. Additionally, $234,000 comes from developer fees and $164,000 from the Thermal Club, which provided a contribution towards a future park in Thermal in 2015.

Addressing Park Access in Thermal

Thermal residents have long desired and deserved a park of their own. Currently, the nearest parks are in the City of Coachella or six miles southeast in Mecca. The establishment of the Thermal Community Park will provide much-needed green spaces and recreational opportunities right in the heart of the community.

With its diverse range of facilities and convenient location, the Thermal Community Park is set to become a focal point for community activities and a gathering place for residents of all ages.