Eucalyptus Park in Chula Vista is preparing for changes before its 100th birthday. The ~20-acre space was recently approved for an $8.7 million renovation project that will upgrade its existing amenities and welcome new ways to use the park.

Why now?

Locals have been visiting Eucalyptus Park since 1927 — making it one of the oldest community parks in San Diego County. While it offers many amenities, Chula Vista Mayor John McCann said current offerings were "piece-mealed" and need repair. In 2022, the city received state grant funding and will put that toward improving the park.

Eucalyptus Park will be a great spot to skate. | Rendering via City of Chula Vista

The new Eucalyptus Park

The city held community workshops to gather feedback, understand what locals want, and inform the redevelopment plan. Earlier this year, Chula Vista City Council approved a master plan that includes:

A plaza for skating, biking, and scooters
Four pickleball courts
Splash pads
ADA-compliant paths and lighting
A second playground and fitness equipment
A second dog park
An artificial turf field with lighting
New fencing, landscaping, and storm basins
Improvements to the existing playground, bathrooms, picnicking areas, basketball and tennis courts, and baseball fields

In the winter, the park's namesake eucalyptus trees tend to attract migrating monarch butterflies. The insects will be incorporated into design elements within new structures like the splash pads.

Cool off at this butterfly-themed splash pad. | Rendering via City of Chula Vista

What's next?

While the master plan has already been approved, the final design drawings are scheduled to be completed this November. Construction is expected to begin in 2024, with completion in March 2025. You can follow Chula Vista's project page for more information including updates and park closures during construction.