Eucalyptus Park Redevelopment: Major Upgrades Coming to Chula Vista’s Oldest Park
It’s finally happening, Chula Vista! After years of planning, the long-awaited redevelopment of Eucalyptus Park is officially moving forward. This long-standing community space is about to get a massive makeover, bringing modern amenities and much-needed upgrades.
On Friday, March 21st, at 1:30 PM, the City of Chula Vista will hold a groundbreaking ceremony, marking the beginning of the project. Residents are encouraged to attend and say their goodbyes to the outdated structures before the park closes for construction. The transformation won’t be quick—the estimated completion date is summer 2026—but the wait will be worth it.
What’s coming to Eucalyptus Park? Exciting Upgrades Ahead
Once completed, Eucalyptus Park will feature:
- Interactive splash pad
- Skate and scooter plaza
- Bike skills area with jump section
- Multi-purpose field with lighting
- Four pickleball courts with lighting
- Perimeter walking path with fitness equipment
- New accessible ramp from Menzel Field
- Modern playground equipment and surfacing
- Expanded dog park areas
- New park monument and fencing
- Stormwater improvements
- Additional parking at the softball field
Why This Revamp Matters to the Community
For years, Eucalyptus Park has been in decline. With broken equipment, limited accessibility, and aging facilities, it was clear that an upgrade was necessary. The park opened in 1926 and is a vital green space in northwest Chula Vista, especially for families living in nearby apartments and condos.
I remember when the rock band P.O.D. helped a local group put in a new playground and clean up the park. That was a big deal to the community. I wish I could find the photos from the event.
Many residents, like Alejandro, a longtime park visitor, are eager for the changes. “The park is loved and is always busy on the weekends,” he shared. “You will always see so many families out here having a party or just getting out and enjoying the day.” While the extended closure will be inconvenient, the enhancements will make the wait worthwhile.
Funding and Timeline
The $7.1 million project is being funded through state grants, with $1.9 million allocated for design and $5.95 million for construction. The city has also secured funding to repurpose the former YMCA building next to the park into an intergenerational art gallery, Casa Casillas, honoring former Mayor Mary Casillas Salas’s mother. I have been watching the progress of this building for a long time.
City consultant KTUA is leading the redevelopment, which incorporated community feedback into the design. The goal is to improve accessibility, safety, and recreational opportunities for all visitors.
What’s Next? Stay Connected!
Are you excited about the new Eucalyptus Park? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please share your comments on our Facebook page and let us know which other Chula Vista Parks could use a refresh. We’ll keep you posted with updates, photos, and videos as construction progresses. Stay tuned!
Drone photo provided by the City of Chula Vista
