San Mateo's rebuilt Central Park playground is about to officially reopen. The city will hold a ceremonial ribbon cutting at 50 E. Fifth Ave. at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, marking the end of an $8.9 million construction project.
What's new
The design, called Adventure Village, is by RRM Design Group and is meant to fit within the park's tree canopy. According to the city, it includes:
- A themed woodland village play area with custom play structures
- Inclusive play structures linked by a raised, accessible boardwalk
- Interactive musical and dance-chime features and a tactile sand play area
- A central plaza with shade and seating
- A new restroom building and a shaded picnic shelter, which can be reserved starting in early November
The project also added new lighting, pathway upgrades, new sod and irrigation for the central lawn, and a new site utility system. The city says it took care to protect existing heritage trees, some more than 100 years old.
How it was paid for
The $8.9 million came from previously approved Parks and Recreation budget allocations, Measure S, the General Fund and a donation from the Parks and Recreation Foundation honoring retired Parks and Recreation Director Sheila Canzian.
"Central Park is the crown jewel of our city and downtown," Mayor Adam Loraine said in the city's announcement. "We want this to continue to be a regional destination."
If you go
The ceremony includes remarks from local officials and is open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged but not required.