WOODLAND, CA (MPG) – In a significant step towards fulfilling a longstanding aspiration of the residents of Knights Landing, the construction of the Knights Landing Community Park is set to commence, with a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for April 9. Led by the dedicated efforts of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors and driven by the determination of the community, this project signifies the culmination of years of grassroots efforts and collaborative partnerships.

Beginning in 2018, Yolo County initiated a thorough community-based planning process with the intention of fulfilling the aspirations of Knights Landing residents. Although the project faced early funding challenges, the passionate advocacy of community members such as Maria Martinez and Catalina Ruiz endured. After partnering with Yolo County Supervisor Angel Barajas in 2020, advocates for this initiative embarked on a path of steady advancement, laying the groundwork for the progress we are witnessing today.

"This new park and recreation area will be such a valuable asset to the Knights Landing community," said Lucas Frerichs, Chair of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors. "I'm grateful to the many staff members in Yolo County and partner agencies who helped us reach this exciting milestone."

Situated on a vacant lot centrally located in Knights Landing, adjacent to the Sci-Tech Academy and spanning over 7 acres, the park space is strategically positioned along Highway 113. Supervisor Barajas, recognizing the need for accessible recreational spaces, worked tirelessly with his Board colleagues to ensure funding would be allocated for the construction of a new park. From 2021 to 2023, Yolo County Supervisors approved a substantial amount of funding totaling $5.7 million for the Knights Landing Community Park project while obtaining the property through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Woodland Joint Unified School District.

The partnership between Yolo County and the Woodland Joint Unified School District (WJUSD) approved a 30-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to dedicate the land that has been lying dormant for over two decades to Yolo County, underscoring the commitment to transforming this space into a vibrant community hub.

Expressing pride in the collaborative partnership, Woodland School Board President Rogelio Villagrana remarked, "I'm proud of the partnership forged with Yolo County for the Knights Landing Community Park. This project isn't just about recreation; it's about investing in our youth."

Designed to cater to the diverse needs of residents, the County Park will feature a variety of amenities, including a new soccer field, a little league/softball field, a basketball court, a children's playground, a walking/jogging path, a picnic and BBQ area, and more. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals of all ages and interests will enjoy the park's offerings.

Supervisor Barajas, representing the community of Knights Landing, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its significance beyond just a recreational space. "The Knights Landing Community deserves a park that will bring everyone together, in particular youth and seniors. Through collaborative efforts and perseverance, we have secured the necessary funding and planning to begin this transformational project. Yolo County residents deserve the best."

With the construction contract awarded to R&R Pacific Construction and a significant boost from a California State Parks grant of $814,649, the project is set to move forward this spring. Together with the state grant, the total funding for the project amounts to approximately $6.5 million.

A ceremonial groundbreaking for the Knights Landing Community Park will take place on Tuesday, April 9th, at 4:00 p.m., at the site formerly known as the Robert Sanders Soccer Field. Community members are invited to join in the celebration of this significant milestone, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Knights Landing.