If Gridley is awarded the grant, the community can expect some extremely exciting additions

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – After much preparation, planning and multiple study sessions, the Gridley Parks & Recreation Department and City Engineer brought the proposed Revitalization Masterplan for Vierra to Gridley’s City Council.

The deadline for applicants to submit their proposals for the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program that falls under the umbrella of Prop 68 is March 12^th, 2021. Thus, explains Gridley’s haste to conduct study sessions with the community and finalize the project design in the last 3 months’ order to meet the application deadline. This is the final round of funding available under Prop 68 and due to its grant amount range, $200,000-$8,500,00, Gridley is setting its request at the sweet spot of $4,500,000.

Gridley’s City Engineer, Dave Harden, says, “This is our dream” as he presented the master plan for the park alongside Gridley Parks and Recreation Director, Trina Leishman. Of course, the dream is somewhat constrained by the space available at the park.

If awarded the grant for renovations, the future Vierra Park would see the installation of a pedestrian/bike path around and through the park of .55 miles, the addition of a centralized amphitheater, snack bar, renovated tennis courts into multi-sports courts, additional bathrooms that are safely located, an expanded water play area, along with new play equipment for both play areas. More inclusive play structures and ADA compliant facilities would invite persons of all abilities to enjoy the park. Additional picnic tables, park benches, seating and BBQ pits are also on the docket. All new amenities take into account the current landscaping of the park and work with the hill playground area, along with preserving open green-space and the shade canopy throughout the park.

The council voted to approve the application. The Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program has about a 25 percent award rate. If Gridley is awarded the grant, the community can expect some extremely exciting additions that will succeed in making Vierra Park a destination for families throughout our area.

To view the PowerPoint presentation brought to City Council along with a clear version of the proposed Master Plan Map for the Vierra Parks Grant Application, please go to Gridley.ca.us and download the agenda.