Construction has started at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park in west Modesto, launching a project that will add a splash pad, gymnasium, and basketball court to the community space. A ceremony on Thursday brought together local officials, law enforcement, and residents to mark the beginning of the work.
Plans for the park include improvements such as a walking path, upgraded restrooms and parking, game tables, a baseball field, and an outdoor stage. The new gymnasium will be an extension of the neighboring King-Kennedy Memorial Center. The site, formerly known as Mellis Park, was renamed in 2021 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Mayor Sue Zwahlen addressed attendees, stating, “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously proclaimed his dream for a nation where his children would be judged by the content of their character, not the color of their skin. We honor Dr. King’s enduring message with this park for all members of our community to enjoy.”
Although the city had previously estimated completion by fall 2024, delays have pushed the opening to early 2027. The city cited “increased costs for goods and services in a post-pandemic environment as well as coordinating several large construction projects for the City” as reasons for the delay.
Jeremy Rogers, director of the city Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department, explained that the project originated in 2019 after a series of community meetings. A splash pad was among the top requests from residents.
The city sought and received $8.5 million in California State Parks grant funding for improvements at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Cesar E. Chavez, and Mancini parks through a state program supporting recreation projects in underserved areas. Modesto’s first $8.5 million grant was awarded in February 2020 for Chavez Park renovations, which included an aquatic center and other amenities. Afterward, the city secured additional funding for MLK Jr. Park by the end of 2021.
Additional resources for the MLK Jr. Park project came from $350,000 in community development block grants awarded in 2020 and revenue from Measure H, a 1% sales tax increase approved by voters in 2022.
Chavez Park’s renovation has also experienced delays, with reopening now expected by summer following its closure in November 2024. Some funding originally intended for MLK Jr. Park and other projects was reallocated to help finish work at Chavez Park.
Rogers previously told the City Council that the MLK Jr. Park project would be fully funded once construction began in June 2025, though work started four months later than anticipated. Rogers said, “Countless amazing improvements and new amenities are on the horizon, all designed to bring families, neighbors and the community together as a whole.”
Perfecto Muñoz, chief executive officer of the West Modesto Community Collaborative, commented on the impact of the upgrades: “The residents need to feel that this is something that they own.” Muñoz also noted that improvements could help enhance safety, reduce crime, and promote recreation and economic development.
Councilmember Eric Alvarez, who lives near the park, said, “I own a home around the corner of the street, so I understand how impactful this space is to families.”
Councilmember Jeremiah Williams said, “This is a beautiful thing,” as he looked forward to his grandchildren and other local children enjoying the new amenities.
Wendy Byrd, president of the local NAACP and a member of the Community Police Review Board, expressed hope that the park would support the board’s goal of reducing youth arrests by offering more activities and spaces for young people.
