Baldwin Park residents invited to shape the future of Ana Montenegro Park

The City of Baldwin Park is seeking public input on the future design and offerings at Ana Montenegro Park. A new mini park slated to go on vacant land at the corner of Maine Avenue and Joanbridge Street, Ana Montenegro Park will be the first new park established in the city since its incorporation in 1956.

All residents are invited to attend the first of two in-person community engagement meetings on Wednesday, April 24, from 6 to 7 p.m., at Esther Snyder Community Center (4100 Baldwin Park Blvd., Baldwin Park). The event will feature multiple design stations for residents to showcase their ideas and share feedback on their preferred recreational amenities for the park. Those unable to attend are also invited to share their input via an online survey.

“We are thrilled to kick off the public engagement process for Ana Montenegro Park,” said Baldwin Park Mayor Emmanuel J. Estrada. “This special space will be transformative for our community, providing invaluable new greenspace and park amenities for all to enjoy. I strongly encourage my fellow community members to make their voices heard during this process, as we strive to build a park that is reflective of our residents’ needs and desires.”

The city purchased the 8,342-square-foot property in 2022, with the intent of building a mini-park and addressing issues of equity and environmental justice in the northern quadrant of the city. The park’s name pays tribute to Ana Montenegro, former Baldwin Park city treasurer, who was one of the first Latinas elected to public office in California and a local teacher.

Currently in its design phase, Ana Montenegro Park is expected to start construction in early 2025 and open to the public later that year. The park is anticipated to feature amenities such as outdoor fitness equipment, picnic areas, a playground and sustainable landscaping. It will also feature artistic installations designed to showcase Baldwin Park’s unique culture and history.

The city has received $761,672 in grant funding to develop the park from the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy. The city will contribute $359,874 in matching funds, which are derived from Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District’s Measure A and Technical Assistance Program and the City’s Community Enhancement Fund. The total estimated cost for the park is $1.1 million.

For more information about Ana Montenegro Park and the upcoming public engagement opportunities, visit BaldwinPark.com/Ana-Montenegro-Park.

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