GUSTINE, Calif. — The City of Gustine will host a public hearing on May 20 to discuss revisions to the long-awaited Pioneer Park renovation project as officials seek ways to reduce costs and keep the effort within the $1.3 million grant awarded through the Proposition 68 Statewide Parks Program.
The meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 352 Fifth Street. Community members may also attend virtually via GoToMeeting or telephone, though the city has warned that technical difficulties could limit online access. Written comments can be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office or via email at mcorrea@cityofgustine.com.
The renovation project, originally approved in 2019, aimed to transform Pioneer Park into a modern recreational space with a full-court basketball court, a splash pad, playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, and updated fencing. However, inflation and rising construction costs have driven the project's total price up by an estimated $900,000 beyond the grant funding.
After pandemic-related delays stalled the renovation, city officials sought additional funding to cover the shortfall, including federal appropriations. But changes in the presidential administration prevented additional funds from being allocated, leaving the city to consider alternative options to avoid losing the grant altogether.
At an April 1 meeting, council members directed city staff to explore cost-cutting strategies rather than allocate city funds or continue searching for outside financial assistance, which was deemed unrealistic within the given timeline.
To comply with state requirements for public outreach, the city will engage residents in discussions about which elements of the Pioneer Park project should remain and which should be scaled back. The goal is to finalize a revised scope that aligns with available funding while maintaining key recreational features for the community.
The meeting will give residents a chance to voice their opinions before any modifications to the project are made. City officials encourage all interested parties to attend and provide feedback on how the city should proceed with the renovation effort.
