In May and June of 2021, the property owners of the 2.14-acre property located at 11280 First Avenue, adjacent to the Greenway Trail East Extension between First Avenue and Heathfield Drive, approached City staff to offer the property for sale to the City. The owners proposed that the property may be a better used as a park than a new private development. Although the long, narrow parcel (approximately 60 feet wide and 1,600 feet long) is not a traditional park space, it still provides opportunities for providing park amenities for Whittier residents and expanding Greenway Trail uses.

On June 23, 2022, the City and the Property owners executed a Letter of Intent agreeing to the sale price of $2,323,575, which was $6,425 lower than the appraised value.

On December 13, 2022, City Council authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement for the acquisition of the property.

With the completion of the Greenway Trail East Extension, the finalized purchase of the property at First Avenue, and the newly approved Parks Master Plan, the City Council has contracted with SWA to produce concept designs for the future park space. SWA is a multi-disciplined design firm providing architectural, planning, engineering, and interior design services and has previously assisted the city on the Parnell Park and Greenleaf Promenade projects. SWA has proposed providing conceptual design services to include:

• Evaluating Site Limitations
• Identifying Best Uses
• Creating a Project Vision
• Designing Two Options
• Surveying the Land
• Creating Base Maps
• Reviewing Property Titles
• Drafting Preliminary Grading Plans
• Estimating Costs
• Building a Digital 3D Model
• Creating up to 6 Visual Renderings

SWA’s prior experience with City projects provides their team an awareness of the City’s historical context, architectural styles and community needs, as well as an understanding of the City’s design approvals and construction process.

Once completed, staff and SWA will present concept design plans for the First Avenue Park Space before the City Council for consideration and further direction.

We invite you to participate in a brief survey to share your thoughts on the future park site. We are particularly interested in hearing your preferences regarding the type of park, desired amenities, and any concerns you may have.

Your input will play a critical role in shaping the design and function of this new park, ensuring it becomes a cherished part of our community for years to come.