Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden got its beauty back.
Well, it never really lost it. The community jewel, however, is glistening after a $260,000 upgrade designed to improve accessibility and safety at the park, 1600 Santa Barbara St.
The project was funded by a federal Community Development Block Grant.
The changes included removal of uneven pathways that cause trip hazards, and narrow travel routes. Crews also improved pathways, installed new handrails, updated signage and created companion seating, which allows for a wheelchair to be next to existing benches.
The project also includes the restoration of plants. Jazmin LeBlanc, assistant parks and recreation director, said the Parks Department has been putting a lot more focused effort into revitalizing this park, which is now about 45 years old.
The Parks Department plans to restore some of the garden’s original plantings and add new varieties. It has partnered with the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to create one garden bed that is planted exclusively with native plants, according to the city.
“Things are aging out, things are changing in the park, and we are making that effort to keep the park looking at its best,” said LeBlanc at Wednesday’s meeting.
A new accessible area was created near the pond allowing wheelchair users to safely approach and enjoy the park pond. Park benches, light poles, and perimeter fencing were repaired and refreshed with new paint to restore their original condition, according to the city.
The city plans to hold Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden Volunteer Appreciation Day
On Saturday, Sept. 6, to celebrate the work of local volunteers, with snacks and light refreshments.
The volunteer program, which operates from Wednesday through Friday and on the first
Saturday of each month, has seven active volunteers with several more drop-in volunteers
throughout.
The program has contributed to a significant improvement in park conditions, according to the city.
