Legislative representatives join Carmichael Recreation and Park District officers in breaking ground for improvements to Glancy Oaks Park.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - In a cloud of shoveled dirt, officials last week broke ground for a $500,000-plus program of improvement to Glancy Oaks Park in Carmichael.

Tucked between Gunn Road and Walnut Avenue, the four-acre reserve is the first Carmichael Recreation and Park District property to benefit from Measure G funding.

Approved by 68 percent of voters in 2022, the bond initiative achieved almost $32-million for the district. As a result, 13 area parks will be improved.  These parks include Carmichael Park, La Sierra Community Center, Cardinal Oaks Park, Jan Park, O’Donnell Heritage Park, Bird Track Park, Patriots Park and Del Campo Park.

Dubbed a “neighborhood treasure,” Glancy Oaks Park was developed from old horse pastures in the 1990s. Here, hundreds of area residents, including apartment dwellers, enjoy a canopy of mature trees and shaded walks.

Presenting proclamations, Supervisor Rich Desmond (right) and legislative representatives celebrate the Clancy Oaks project.  Lane Gonick (left) is Assemblyman Josh Hoover's rep. Josh Gumacal represents Congressman Ami Bera. Chris Ives chairs the Carmichael Recreation and Park District’s Advisory Board. Stacey Yankee is district administrator. Mika Klinsmann represents Senator Roger Niello.

Upgrades will include new play structures, paved entry ramps and paths, and a drinking fountain. The improvement project was awarded to Saenz Landscape Construction of Rancho Cordova.

Carmichael Recreation and Park District Administrator Stacey Yankee called the groundbreaking a “significant milestone” following the passage of Measure G.

“This is the beginning of what's to come: a new era of possibility for Carmichael,” she told the ceremony audience. “Improvements here will serve the community for generations to come.”

Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond considered Carmichael Park District and neighboring Mission Oaks Park District to be county leaders.

“There’s a real relationship between the health of parks and the health of communities,” Desmond said. “Carmichael is the village that comes together to make projects like this happen.”

Carmichael Park District Advisory Board Chair Chris Ives predicted that Glancy Oaks Park improvements will benefit every visitor. 

“This project reflects (the district’s) continued commitment to quality recreational opportunities for all,” Ives said. "Residents who supported Measure G made this day possible."

 Glancy Oaks Park is located at  5292 Glancy Drive. The construction program will be completed this fall.