What was once a vacant lot in Shafter has been transformed into a vibrant community space with the grand opening of La Colonia Park, celebrated on Friday.
The new park, located at 30714 Martinez Street, was developed by Kern County’s General Services Division in partnership with local residents and organizations.
The project represents a $1 million investment funded through the American Rescue Plan Act and reflects the county’s ongoing commitment to revitalizing underserved neighborhoods.
Deputy Chief of General Services Isaac Preston said the project was years in the making.
Planning began in 2020, but before construction could start, the county had to acquire the land, which was originally divided among multiple property owners.
“We didn’t own the property at first; it was split between a bunch of different owners who had to sign off so the county could build on it. Once that was done, we cleared the vegetation, took down an old structure, and leveled the site to prepare it for construction,” Preston said.
Preston said county staff met with residents in homes and local restaurants to gather input on the park’s design and amenities.
“We wanted to hear directly from the people who would use the park,” he said. “Residents helped shape what features mattered most to families in the neighborhood.”
La Colonia Park features a full high school–sized basketball court, nautical- and shipwreck-themed playgrounds for children, shaded picnic areas, benches, solar lighting, ADA-compliant walking paths, and new landscaping supported by a water-efficient drip irrigation system.
The park also includes an air pollution monitoring station, installed in partnership with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.
The project involved multiple county departments, including General Services and Public Works, as well as local contractor Derrick Enterprise. Kern County Supervisor David Couch supported the project’s development throughout its five-year process.
La Colonia Park is the county’s second “pocket park,” following the recent opening of Fuller Acres Park near Lamont.
Both projects were designed to provide safe and accessible green spaces within walking distance of local homes.
Although there are no immediate plans for additional parks in the area, Preston said the success of La Colonia and Fuller Acres demonstrates the county’s dedication to creating healthy, inclusive public spaces.
“This park has truly been a community effort,” Preston said. “It’s a small park, but it means a lot to the families who live here.”
Photo Gallery: La Colonia Park in Shafter. The park officially opened to the public on Nov. 7, 2025 (Photo courtesy of Erin Briscoe-Clarke, Chief Communications Officer)
