Red Ribbon Day for CRPD
Oct 20, 2026 09:18AM ● By Susan Maxwell Skinner, photos by Susan Maxwell Skinner
Carmichael Recreation and Park District staffers, legislative representatives and builders dedicate improvements at Jan Park. Ribbon slasher (center) is CRPD Advisory Board Chair Lisa Mattos.
CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - With a slash of a red ribbon, Carmichael Recreation and Park District last week celebrated a new round of facility upgrades.
Jan Park was the latest recipient of improvement. A price tag of almost $248,000 was met by Measure G funding.
Approved by voters in 2022, the bond initiative achieved almost $32 million for the impoverished Park District. Two years of projects have followed. Of 13 Carmichael Recreation and Park District properties, more than half have so far benefitted.
The district acquired Jan Park’s 13-plus acres in 1972. The remnants of a much-subdivided Winding Way farm nevertheless lay fallow until 2010.
Lacking development funds, the Park District joined more than 700 neighboring families to save this oak-shaded open space. Neighbors fundraised and the district matched public money to complete paths, a playground and a grass picnic area in 2011.
This year's upgrades include enhanced pathways, a drinking fountain, children’s swings and a shade structure with misting station. More than 30 neighbors and community representatives applauded the Oct 16 completion ceremony.
Carmichael Recreation and Park District staffers enjoy
additional playground features at Jan Park. Children's swings are part of
facility upgrades.“While these improvements might seem simple,” noted Carmichael Recreation and Park District Advisory Board Chair Lisa Mattos, “they help families, visitors with mobility needs and dog owners enjoy this space more comfortably.”
The district will next month roll out more ribbon to inaugurate revamps at Cardinal Oaks Park, near Garfield Avenue.
Planned projects for 2027 include resurfacing of rocky roads in Carmichael Park and La Sierra Community Center grounds.
Carmichael Recreation and Park District Administrator Stacey Yankee commended Carmichael residents for their Measure G votes.
“Your support reflects a shared commitment to maintain these spaces,” Yankee said. “Thank you for recognizing the importance of our parks and choosing to invest in their future…so they can continue serving our community, bringing people together and enhancing the quality of life in Carmichael.”
Learn about existing and future Measure G projects at www.carmichaelpark.com
