BEAUMONT, CA — The City of Beaumont received clearance to move forward with a revitalization project that officials say will be one of the most significant projects for the future of the city.
City officials announced on Monday that the California State Parks Office of Grants and Local Services (OGALS) gave clearance for the Stewart Park revitalization project, making the city eligible for the $2.5 million Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) grant award for the development of the second phase Stewart Park.
Construction during phase I of the project was put on hold last year at the direction of the state and federal grant administrators to ensure compliance with environmental review requirements — which made the City eligible to receive funding for second phase.
The pause on construction of phase I was "a strategic decision designed to protect the City's grant award and reduce the need for additional local funding," officials said in a news release.
"This is tremendous news for Beaumont residents," Mayor Jessica Voigt said in a news release on Monday. "We successfully protected millions of dollars in outside funding that will help us deliver an exceptional community park."
Phase I improvements of Stewart Park include walking trails, picnic pavilions, "inclusive playground equipment," a splash pad, restrooms, enhanced lighting, and expanded parking. Phase II will add a secondary playground, skate park enhancements, new picnic shelters, and a designated area to host concerts and community events.
The City said construction work will resume "in the coming weeks."
More information about the Stewart Park revitalization project can be found at BeaumontCA.gov.
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