By City Manager Ken Striplin
Santa Clarita’s parks system continues to grow alongside our thriving and active community. What began decades ago as a commitment to preserving open space and creating places for recreation has evolved into a dynamic, interconnected network of parks, trails and gathering spaces that serves residents of all ages. With 40 parks and hundreds of miles of trails, our City offers countless opportunities for families to play, neighbors to connect and residents to enjoy the outdoors. Across Santa Clarita, progress is underway on several major park projects that will bring new amenities and enhanced experiences to residents throughout the community.
At David March Park (28310 North Via Joyce Drive), a significant expansion is taking shape that will bring new energy and opportunity to this popular neighborhood park. Upon completion, the expanded park will feature a new baseball field, terraced spectator seating with shade and a picnic pavilion ideal for gatherings and game days. A lighted basketball court will extend play into the evening hours, while upgraded playground shade and new exercise equipment will enhance recreation for all ages. In addition, the City’s second exercise staircase, featuring 116 steps and scenic views, will provide a unique fitness challenge for residents. Two new parking lots will improve access and convenience, while an eye-catching public art installation, incorporating Dalle de Verre glass elements, will capture and reflect sunlight to create a striking visual centerpiece. The City looks forward to celebrating the grand reopening in late spring.
The City recently broke ground for the new Via Princessa Park (19201 Via Princessa), an innovative new park that will expand recreational opportunities in Canyon Country. On the horizon, this park will feature four multi-sport fields with lighting, four pickleball courts and a shaded, nature-themed playground, inspired by the adjacent Santa Clara River. A unique pedestrian tunnel beneath the Metrolink tracks will safely connect visitors. Via Princessa Park will also incorporate a stormwater infiltration system designed to capture and treat runoff on-site, supporting groundwater recharge and protecting water quality. With a central gathering plaza and welcoming design elements integrated throughout, Via Princessa Park will serve as a key destination for sports, play and gathering.
The Meditation Garden at Duane R. Harte Park (26401 Riverrock Way), a serene and intentionally designed space dedicated to reflection and well-being, is now open to the public. Located in a secluded area of the park, the garden features decomposed granite paths, natural stone, drought-tolerant landscaping and seating areas that encourage visitors to pause and recharge. A subtle, solar-powered boulder fountain and thoughtfully placed viewpoints create a calming environment set against the backdrop of our picturesque hillsides and mature oak trees.
Together, these projects enhance recreation, create new gathering spaces and continue to make Santa Clarita a place where residents can connect, stay active and enjoy the outdoors. For more information, please visit SantaClarita.gov/Parks.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
