Curious about how a former street department yard transformed into a community hub? Today, we are standing at Orizaba Park. This park offers much more than meets the eye. Orizaba Park’s story began in 1923. The City of Long Beach purchased 1.21 acres. It served as a Street Department Yard.
Fast forward to 1938. The yard was abandoned. The Park Department took over. Students from Robert E. Lee Elementary School gave Orizaba Park its name. In the mid-1980s, the Pacific Electric Railway shut down. A developer bought the land next to the park. Instead of paying park fees, the developer expanded Orizaba Park. This added over an acre to the park in 1990. The expansion included basketball courts, a mural, and landscaping. A playground was also added.
In 1998, a trailer became the park’s office. This helped supervise the increased activity. January 23, 2007, was a day of celebration. KaBoom and Jet Blue installed new playground equipment. New swings brought joy to the children. The Long Beach Redevelopment Agency purchased more land in 2008. This extended Orizaba Park south to 14th Street. By 2012, the park covered 3.72 acres.
The park’s expansion included many new features. There was new landscaping, irrigation, and sidewalks. A skate park, a soccer field, and a basketball court were built. Outdoor exercise equipment was also added. Orizaba Park is also home to a unique art piece. “The Train Has Left the Station” memorializes the city’s train history. Local artist Patrick Vogel designed it. The 12-foot by 10-foot stainless steel Red Car replica stands proudly. It sits on the former Pacific Electric Right-of-Way.
August 2, 2014, marked another milestone. The new Orizaba Park Community Center opened. This completed the second phase of the park’s renovation. The former Long Beach Redevelopment Agency invested millions. They acquired blighted industrial properties. This added 1.1 acres to the park. The building was designed for LEED Gold certification. It reduces water and electricity consumption.
Today, Orizaba Park is a vibrant space. It features open areas, a playground, and picnic spots. You can also find basketball courts, restrooms, and fitness zones here. The skate park is popular. Walking paths invite you to explore. Orizaba Park has transformed over the years. From a simple street yard to a thriving community center. It stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to green spaces. Take a moment to appreciate the history around you. This park is a place for recreation and community.