Resolutions celebrate upgrades to O’Donnell Heritage Park in Carmichael. Supervisor Rich Desmond and Senator Roger Niello join CRPD Administrator Stacey Yankee and Park District Advisory Board Chair Lisa Mattos. Josh Gumacal and Natalya Sachuk represent Congressman Ami Bera 

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - With new amenities provided by Measure G funding, O’Donnell Heritage Park neighbors are witnessing their tax dollars at work

Approved by voters in 2022, the Measure G bond initiative achieved almost $32 million for Carmichael Recreation and Park District. Many improvements in area reserves have resulted.

O’Donnell Heritage Park upgrades include concrete walkways, a re-vamped basketball court, picnic tables, shade canopies and playground additions. A butterfly garden blooms at the park entrance. CRPD's August 14 ribbon-cutting celebrated these projects, completed for more than $260,000.

Located near Winding Way, the land is richly connected to Carmichael history. 

Nine-acre O’Donnell Park is what remains of a 160-acre farm once known as Shelterwood. Irish pioneer Edward O’Donnell began growing wheat here in 1898. His holding accommodated the tiny San Juan School – foundation of what eventually became the sprawling San Juan School District.

After realtor Dan Carmichael launched his namesake town in 1909, the San Juan schoolhouse was commandeered and moved to serve as the colony's first school. Area farm kids joined settler children to continue their learning on Sutter Avenue, Carmichael.

O'Donnell descendants eventually subdivided their Shelterwood property. Much was sold during the post-WW II housing boom.

In the 1960s, San Juan School District purchased less than ten remaining acres. These were later acquired by Carmichael Park District but left fallow for more than 30 years.

To fund much-needed development in 2008, CRPD proposed selling part of the property.  Residents loved their Rappahannock Way wilderness and neighborhood resistance to the plan ensued.  The suggested subdivision also threatened a legendary oak that had survived a 1960s lightning strike. Horizontal but still growing, 'the dynamite tree' was a beloved landmark and natural jungle gym for children.

Neighbors rallied to save their field of dreams. Supported by CRPD, their fundraisers included yard sales and commemorative brick purchases.  The residents’ $235,000 piggybank was matched by County funds.

With recent Measure G input, 2026 improvements are icing on the cake.

“Carmichael Park District and the community have done a fantastic job,” County Supervisor Rich Desmond told the ribbon-cutting audience. “O’Donnell Park is a great example of investing in neighborhoods. So many people decide where they’re going to live because of available amenities. Parks are a huge part of this.”

CRPD Administrator Stacey Yankee predicted ongoing benefits from voter-approved funding. “Measure G allows thoughtful investments, based on safety, accessibility, recreation and long-term sustainability,” Stacey said. “While we celebrate improvements at this park, the work continues (in parks) throughout the community.”

Learn about Measure G improvements at www.carmichaelpark.com.