Cambodia Town residents have reason to rejoice this weekend: a playground will be back in operation, with renewed luster.
Long Beach’s MacArthur Park Playground and renovated Homeland Cultural Center is set to celebrate its grand opening this Saturday, March 26 at 10:00AM, the city announced today.
Plans to revamp the facility began in 2014, when the city received $533,000 in funding from the California Department of Housing and Community Development Housing-Related Parks (HRP) for the project.
“MacArthur Park and the Homeland Cultural Center are so popular with kids and families, and these enhancements will support the community in being even more active and connected to culture and history,” said Mayor Robert Garcia.
The revamped playground hosts brand new equipment for young and older children, swings, a climber and the ability to slide and twirl. The park’s design is meant to reflect the neighborhood, even coming down to a multicolored theme, which is meant to reflect the diversity surrounding the park, according to a city release.
“I am really excited about the opening of this new playground and the revitalization of MacArthur Park. It’s a project that I have been working on since last summer,” said Councilmember Dee Andrews in a statement. “This park is at the heart of the Anaheim Corridor and a hub for many diverse cultures to gather. It is a place for kids and families to play, as well as the home to the award-winning Homeland Cultural Center, where people of all ages and backgrounds experience art and share ethnic traditions.”
The Homeland Cultural Center includes urban and traditional arts, dance and music performances and cultural celebrations, according to the release. The grant funding spearheaded implementation of new ceilings, floors, paint, equipment and lighting, as well as upgrades to restrooms, old library room, kitchen, music area and social hall.
For more information regarding the event, please call Gladys Kaiser, Manager, Community Recreation Services, at 562.570.3150.
MacArthur Park is located at 1321 Anaheim Street.