The City of Long Beach invites all to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the nautically-themed Ramona Park Signature Playground Saturday, Oct. 25 at 10 a.m.

This community ceremony at Ramona Park (3301 E. 65th St.) will include comments from Mayor Rex Richardson, Ninth District Councilmember Dr. Joni Ricks-Oddie and representatives from the Departments of Public Works and Parks, Recreation and Marine. Attendees will then be encouraged to explore the new facilities.

Construction for the Ramona Park Signature Playground began in February and finished this month. Prior to this, the park’s playground was last renovated in 1997. 

“The Ramona Park Signature Playground is more than a beautiful new play space—it’s a symbol of renewal for this wonderful community my family and I proudly call home, and one that represents the kind of accessible city we’re building,” said Mayor Richardson in a public statement. “Every upgrade was thoughtfully designed to be inclusive, welcoming and engaging for families and children of all abilities. I’m thankful for the collaboration that made this transformation possible and looking forward to seeing how it will inspire and strengthen the neighborhood for years to come.”

The new playground includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant amenities such as accessible play equipment, pathways, parking stall striping, ADA signage and a curb ramp. There are also a handful of safety upgrades, as well as enhancements to stimulate children’s social-emotional, sensory, cognitive and communication needs. 

Additional improvements, such as an Under the Sea theme design, new shade structures and mister cooling tools, were included to ensure the Ramona Park Signature Playground was fit for children of all ages and abilities.    

“Ramona Park is a cornerstone of District 9 and an active community gathering place in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood,” said Councilmember Dr. Ricks-Oddie in a public statement. “Our community has anticipated this updated, inclusive playground that welcomes children of all ages and abilities, and that’s exactly what this new Signature Playground delivers. With accessible play features, imaginative underwater themes, shaded seating and enhanced shared spaces, the new playground at Ramona Park will serve as a vital space in North Long Beach where families can grow, play and build lasting memories. As a mom, I’m especially excited to bring my own children here to enjoy its unique new features!”

This project received a $1.5 million grant from California State Parks, $550,000 Community Development Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and $650,000 in Measure A funds. 

This project is part of the City’s Elevate ‘28 initiative aimed at revitalizing transportation and community spaces in Long Beach ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.   

To learn more about the Ramona Park Signature Playground Project, check out longbeach.gov/ramonaplaygroundproject.