City of Los Angeles Councilmember Nury Martinez was joined Monday, June 24, by the Los Angeles Rams, the LAPD Van Nuys Division and the Department of Recreation and Parks to officially open the newly revitalized Van Nuys Recreation Center.
The $1 million project to improve the center paid for rubber flooring in the children’s universal access playground, synthetic field lighting, synthetic fields, a futsal court, refurbished basketball court (made possible with the support from the Los Angeles Clippers), a fitness circuit, and a picnic area.
The Rams hosted a football clinic and facilitated a discussion with local kids about the importance of staying active, and the qualities of good character both on and off the field.
The Department of Recreation and Parks General Manager Michael Shull said he hoped residents would use the center and park like their own backyard, “The opportunity to collaborate with Councilwoman Martinez, the LA Rams, and Los Angeles Police Officers to celebrate park improvements is an exciting way to welcome the Van Nuys community into a recreational space,”
“It’s all part of my commitment to improve the Valley’s parks and make them a great place for kids to play and thrive. We must continue the important work of bringing these much-needed resources here to the San Fernando Valley,” said Martinez.
Former Department of Recreation and Parks Assistant General Manager Ramon Barajas, who grew up across the street from Delano Park said the center’s transformation will make a big difference. “From sports to picnics, the advantages one park can play in a neighborhood are exponential and that’s why parks play a vital role in resident’s quality of life.”
As a lifelong resident of the Valley and someone who worked on obtaining the various improvements for the Van Nuys Recreation Center, the transformation celebrated today will make a major impact on the lives of many,” Barajas said
Sylvia Patsaouras, president of Recreation and Parks Board of Commissioners said the park improvements is an example of advocacy. “Identifying and addressing the need to close disparities through park renovations is a long-term investment that will positively improve the well-being of residents for years to come.”
“Opportunities lead to open doors,” said Cap. Orlando Chandler, Commanding Officer, LAPD Van Nuys Division. “I look forward to working together with community members and Councilwoman Martinez to ensure that this space remains as welcoming as it is today.”
“Van Nuys residents deserve the best and the families in our community now have a safe park that they are proud of,” said Michael Browning, member of the Van Nuys Neighborhood Council.