The city of Turlock will hold a community update for Montana Park on Thursday at 5 p.m. at Montana Park, located at Montana Avenue and Freitas Street.
The city is inviting the public to come out and learn about the proposed improvements planned for the park’s second phase.
City staff will highlight and share more about the upcoming enhancements and residents will have an opportunity to ask questions as the project moves closer to construction.
Montana Park Phase 2 will more than double the size of the existing park and introduce expanded recreational amenities designed to serve residents of all ages.
“The park serves families right here in this district,” said District 2 Councilmember Rebecka Monez, who grew up near the park. “The expansion reflects what neighbors have asked for: more recreation space, improved accessibility, and more opportunities for youth and families to gather. I encourage residents to attend the forum and help us shake the future of Montana Park.”
Proposed improvements include ADA-accessible playground with cushioned rubber safety surfacing, outdoor fitness area, nine pickleball courts, two full-sized basketball courts, four half-sized basketball courts, two multi-sport courts, covered picnic areas, expanded parking, and sustainable bioswale landscaping for stormwater filtration.
The expansion builds upon community input gathered through multiple neighborhood meetings held during the project’s early planning stages.
The Montana Park Phase 2 project carries an estimated cost of approximately $4.6 million and is supported through a combination of state, regional, and local grant funding. That funding includes $2.4 million from the 2018 Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Grant Program, $435,000 secured through the Office of state Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson), $150,000 secured through Stanislaus County District 2 Supervisor Vito Chiesa, and a $58,845 grant award from Turlock Irrigation District.
Municipal Services Director Christopher Fisher emphasized the significance of the project for the community.
“This project represents a meaningful investment in community recreation,” Fisher said. “Phase 2 will significantly expand amenities while improving accessibility and long-term durability. With the project design nearing completion, we look forward to sharing the proposed improvements with residents and highlighting the new amenities the community can expect to enjoy.”
The project is anticipated to reach final design completion in the coming weeks, with bidding expected this spring and construction potentially beginning later this year.
