A historic downtown Stockton park is ready to welcome families, neighbors and children back to a refreshed community space built for the future.
The City of Stockton is inviting the community to celebrate the reopening of Columbus Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 3 p.m. The 2.3-acre park, located at the intersection of Lincoln and Worth streets, has reopened following a major $3.35 million renovation.
Columbus Park, one of Stockton’s original historic parks in the downtown area, closed in July 2025 for construction. The comprehensive renovation was funded through a Proposition 68 grant from the California Department of Parks and Recreation and focused on creating a safer, more welcoming and more active space for residents and families in South Stockton.
The completed project includes a new picnic shelter, new play equipment, a modern restroom facility, a basketball court with updated lighting, improved landscaping and irrigation, an adult fitness area, a community garden and enhanced lighting throughout the park.
City leaders said the project reflects the needs and priorities shared by residents during the public outreach process.
“I was on Council when we started this much-needed project, and I am proud to be here to see it through to completion,” Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi said. “Columbus Park belongs to the families of South Stockton, and reopening this park is a promise kept. This is a space where our children can play, our neighbors can gather, and this community can grow together for generations to come.”
District 5 Councilmember Brando Villapudua also celebrated the reopening as an important moment for the neighborhood.
“This is the day South Stockton has been waiting for,” Villapudua said. “When I see this park reopen, I see kids who finally have a safe place to play, families who have a place to gather, and a neighborhood that knows its city has shown up for them.”
Villapudua added that Columbus Park represents more than a construction project.
“It is a promise to this community, and today we are keeping it,” he said. “I could not be prouder to welcome our residents home to a park built for generations to come.”
The renovation was completed through a partnership between the City’s Community Services Department, Public Works Department, design consultant Callander Associates and contractor Stockbridge General Contracting, Inc. of Clovis.
The reopening celebration is open to all members of the community.
Event Details
What: Columbus Park Renovation Ribbon Cutting and Reopening Celebration
When: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 3 p.m.
Where: Columbus Park, Lincoln and Worth streets, Stockton
For more information about the Columbus Park renovation project, contact the City of Stockton Public Information Officer’s office at (209) 937-8827 or visit stocktonca.gov.