(FOX40.COM) — After sitting empty for more than a decade, Stockton’s historic Victory Park Pool has been rebuilt and is officially open once again.
Katya Evanhoe, a founding member of Friends for Victory Park, remembers the moment she knew something had to change.
“A young girl, age 4, was running up to the old Victory Park Pool gate yelling ‘Mommy, mommy! Can we swim today?’ and her mom looked at her and said, ‘Not today, hun.’ I thought, that’s just not right,” said Evanhoe.
That sentiment inspired neighbors and volunteers to form “Friends for Victory Park,” a group determined to come together with the city to secure funds and bring the community space back to life.
The $10 million renovation includes a brand-new swimming pool, splash pad, bathrooms, picnic area, basketball court, and a tennis court.
Miguel Guillen, a founder of Friends for Victory Park, says the splash pads were designed to be accessible.
“It’s just another opportunity for those in wheelchairs to have fun and cool off in Stockton,” said Guillen.
City leaders say this project brings back an important piece of Stockton history and helps families keep traditions alive.
“It’s really important that we don’t have to go out of the city to have these memories, we can have them right here at home,” said city councilmember Mario Enriquez.
Starting next summer, the pool will be offering swimming lessons for kids and adults.
“Victory Park Pool is part of our promise to invest in safe, healthy, and fun spaces for every neighborhood,” said Mayor Christina Fugazi. “We’re excited to welcome families back to a pool that reflects community input and exceeding today’s standards for safety, accessibility, and year-round enjoyment.”
Admission will be $3 dollars per person but will be free to the public from Aug 29 to Sep 1.
Josie Heart
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