Greenfield looks ahead to 10-acre recreation and community center.

The City of Greenfield is moving forward with plans for a 10-acre recreation center and park, a long-awaited project in the last four years that could also double as a climate resiliency center for the community.

The City has already purchased the land using recreation impact fees — money specifically set aside to expand recreational services — and has secured major state support. Greenfield received $8.5 million from California State Parks and another $6 million from a California land and water conservation fund, with a potential $10 million grant now in the works if the project is expanded to include heat-resilience features.

“We’re looking at adding shade structures, trees, a splash pad and other improvements to make it more heat resilient,” says City Manager Paul Wood. “If we can combine recreation with resiliency, that opens up more grant opportunities and makes the project stronger for the long term.”

If all funding comes through, the total project budget would reach about $24.5 million. The current design — including a new gymnasium, a fitness and weight room, locker rooms with showers, and outdoor amenities including a multi-use sports field, a picnic area and botanical garden and playground — is estimated around $22 million, with additional elements added if the resiliency concept moves ahead.

The site is just east of Arroyo Seco Academy, at the corner of 12th St. and Apple Avenue, intentionally placed within walking distance of several schools.

Wood acknowledges that residents are growing impatient. Planning has been underway since 2021, and construction will be done in phases, likely taking several more years.

“People say, ‘you got the grant years ago, why can’t you just build it now?,’” Wood adds. “We understand the frustration. But we’re trying to build something better than what we have now — a true anchor for recreation that will serve Greenfield for decades, not just a quick fix.”