City leaders and community members celebrated the opening of Irvine’s 268th park in March.
The 12-acre Los Olivos Community Park adds to the city’s park and open space network that ranks in the top 10 nationally, according to the Trust for Public Land’s ParkScore.
A full one-third of the city — 16,500 acres — is dedicated to parkland and open space, offering profound public benefit. Irvine’s Master Plan set out a vision for balancing development among business and retail centers, parks and open space, and residential villages. This vision of balance continues in the new community of Los Olivos.
A city in balance
“Park openings are a pleasure for me to participate in,” says Irvine Mayor Pro Tem Christina Shea.
“With each dedication, the foresight and success of our Master Plan comes into ever greater focus. A community like Los Olivos shows the balance that is at the heart of our community.”
The new park features multiple lighted athletic fields and courts dedicated to soccer, softball, tennis and basketball. In addition to a tot lot for children, there is a 6,700-square-foot community center that includes a multipurpose room, kitchen and patio space. It will offer a variety of community programs, including art classes, camps for children, exercise classes and more. The center also is available to rent for parties and special occasions.
A short walk
“It’s amazing to have this park nearby,” said neighbor Jovanna Gulick, a mother of three. “My friend and I walked with our children in just a few minutes. The kids love the playground equipment and love running on the open soccer field.”
At a glance
Los Olivos Community Park, at 101 Alfonso Drive, includes:
- Musical instrument inspired children’s play area
- A lighted softball/baseball field
- A lighted multipurpose soccer and recreation field
- Four lighted tennis courts
- Lighted basketball court
- A multipurpose community building
