County accepting bids for new park at La Colonia

Kern County Public Works is accepting bids for a new park in Shafter, according to a statement from Public Works Director Joshua Champlin.

The park will be the first such project in the La Colonia area of Shafter, formerly known as the Mexican Colony.

The area is steeped in tradition, with residents going back generations. For years, residents have been wanting improvements or revitalization done in the southern part of Shafter.

Thanks to funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, $330,000 was given to fund creation of the La Colonia Community Park. Engineering and design phases for the county project are complete.

The project will include amenities such as basketball courts, picnic tables, water fountains and landscaping. If additional funds are available, exercise equipment may be included.

Michelle Burns-Lusich, senior manager for construction services with Kern County General Services, said that the park project is going to beautify the area and give the residents a park that is more accessible to them in the neighborhood and will be a great addition to the community. “We hope to have the project completed by February 2025,” she said.

The park will be a welcome sight for residents who have been wanting one for years.

“This is going to be great,” said Monica Hernandez, who lives in the area with her mother and two children. “We can’t wait to be able to use the park, so close to home ,and will be beautiful from what everyone is saying.”

The location of the park will be near Burbank and Mannel Streets and will also include lighting and a sidewalk path.