Chino Rancho Park Pickleball Courts Opening: Residents gathered on March 29 to celebrate the grand opening of Chino Rancho Park, the city’s first new park in 20 years. Located at 5325 Phillips Blvd., the 1.18-acre park features Chino’s first inclusive playground and newly built lighted pickleball courts.
A Long-Awaited Opening
Mayor Eunice Ulloa led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a major milestone for the city. Families rushed to explore the farm-themed playground, which includes barn-style roofs, corn decorations, and an interactive animal sound board.
Children with and without disabilities played together on features like ramps, a wheelchair-friendly glider and spinner, swings, and sensory panels.
Resident Kalissa Ochoa praised the playground’s design. She said the sensory areas were great for her nephew, who has autism. When asked about the playground, he responded, “a million out of a million.”
Pickleball and More
The west side of the park features the city’s much-requested lighted pickleball courts. They quickly filled with players after opening.
“You cannot believe how often we are asked for pickleball courts,” . “I’m sure there will be a waiting line.”(Mayor Ulloa)
Other park features include walking trails, fitness stations, open space, a picnic shelter, and restrooms. The restroom building includes bricks from historic Chino buildings. The park also has historical markers and a city monument near the entrance.
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Growing Popularity and Parking Concerns
A free shuttle ran between Victory Outreach Church and the park to help visitors avoid parking issues. The site has only nine parking spaces and five accessible stalls.
Resident Carlos Resendiz-Villanueva said the parking area may need to grow. The next day, the lot was full, and some visitors parked in a dirt area nearby.
Funding and Future Use
Chino Rancho Park cost $5.4 million to build. A $2.8 million grant from California’s Prop 68 helped fund it, along with $1 million in federal funds from Supervisor Curt Hagman’s office.
Mayor Ulloa noted it’s the first park built by the city in two decades. With its inclusive design and high demand for pickleball courts, the park is expected to be a popular spot for families, athletes, and the community at large.
News in Brief: Chino Rancho Park Pickleball Courts Opening
Chino Rancho Park opened on March 29 with inclusive play areas and new lighted pickleball courts. The city’s first park in 20 years, it includes features for children with disabilities and cost $5.4 million. Residents praised the design, though parking is limited and may need to be expanded.
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