VISALIA, CA — The Visalia City Council unanimously approved construction plans for the new Elliott Park during its meeting on Thursday, Jan. 22.
The 4-acre neighborhood park will be built southwest of the intersection of Walnut Avenue and Roeben Street. According to city officials, the project is estimated to cost nearly $4.8 million. Visalia Parks and Recreation Director Jason Glick noted that the city has already set aside $5.2 million, which will cover the entire cost of the development.
The approved design includes several features, such as a small soccer court known as a mini-pitch, a "pump track" looping trail for bikes and scooters, a fitness course, and a lighted walking path. The park will also feature traditional playgrounds and open grassy areas for relaxing.
While many residents expressed interest in pickleball courts, the council decided not to include them because each court would cost about $250,000 to install.
Wood Architecture designed the park, and San Joaquin Valley Homes will prepare the site and install utilities for the project. Construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2026 and take 12 to 16 months, with the park likely opening to the public by late 2027 or early 2028.
Pearl Wood Park Decision Postponed
The council delayed a decision on building Pearl Wood Park to give city staff more time to research the cost of changing the park's features. Specifically, officials want to know how much it would cost to replace a planned botanical garden and artwork with a small soccer court.
The proposed Pearl Wood Park covers 5.5 acres located about a quarter-mile southeast of Cherry Avenue and McAuliff Street.
