LA VERNE, CA – The City of La Verne is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of the Las Flores Park playground, now offering improved safety, accessibility, and modernized features for families to enjoy. A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, December 9, 2024, celebrated the completion of this revitalized community space, marking a new chapter for one of La Verne's most cherished parks.
The playground renovation addressed critical updates to ensure safety and serviceability. Enhancements include a new, higher-performing surface material that replaces the previous sand base, providing better impact attenuation and improving overall safety. A new shade structure now covers the playground equipment, offering comfort and protection for children and families. Additionally, the playground features ramped access to portions of the equipment, creating an inclusive environment where children of all abilities can play together.
The project was made possible through the collective efforts of multiple funding partners. A portion of a $1.5 million state appropriation championed by Assemblymember Chris Holden, combined with contributions from the Bonita Unified School District and a grant through the 2023 Perk Your Park Project—a partnership between Niagara Cares, the philanthropy arm of Niagara Bottling, and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)—helped make this vital community improvement possible.
Mayor Tim Hepburn emphasized the importance of these upgrades, saying, “This revitalized playground represents more than just new equipment; it’s a safe and inclusive space for our children to grow, explore, and connect with one another. These improvements reflect our City’s dedication to providing high-quality amenities for all families in La Verne.”
The ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Hepburn, Greg Boucher of Niagara Bottling, and Assemblymember John Harabedian, who each highlighted the value of partnerships in achieving community goals. Following the ribbon-cutting, families eagerly explored the new playground, which now meets modern standards for safety, accessibility, and enjoyment.
The playground is now open to the public, inviting families and residents to experience the upgraded amenities and celebrate the revitalized heart of the community.
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