El Monte’s Mariposa Park playground has been completely overhauled with new equipment, safety surfacing and full funding from Los Angeles County’s Prop A/Measure A Maintenance & Servicing program. The Mariposa Park playground project was approved by the City Council on September 10, 2025, authorizing a $283,327 appropriation for removal of aging structures and installation of modern, ADA-compliant play features. Mariposa Park playground improvements will enhance safety, accessibility and enjoyment for families throughout the community.
Park playground funding
Funding for the park playground replacement comes from the Regional Park and Open Space District’s voter-approved tax measures, Prop A (1992, 1996) and Measure A (2016). These Maintenance & Servicing (M&S) funds cover ongoing upkeep costs for grant-funded capital projects without drawing on the City’s General Fund. In April 2025, the City executed a contract with Dave Bang Associates, Inc., setting a not-to-exceed budget of $283,327 for equipment removal and new rubberized surfacing. A county grants officer confirmed in August 2025 that hard costs for equipment and surfacing qualify under M&S guidelines, allowing Quimby Funds to be redirected to other park projects.
Playground upgrade details
The scope of work includes removal of existing play structures and installation of new play equipment designed for ages 2–12. Crews will lay an ADA-compliant rubber safety surface and reinstall swings, slides and climbing elements that meet current safety standards. All materials and installation practices comply with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Public Playground Safety Handbook. The project is slated for completion by early 2026, pending weather and supply-chain conditions.
Community impact benefits
By leveraging Prop A/Measure A M&S funding, the City ensures long-term maintenance without additional taxpayer burdens. Parents and caregivers can expect a safer play environment that meets accessibility requirements for children of all abilities. The upgraded playground also supports El Monte’s Strategic Plan Goal 4, which focuses on infrastructure improvements and sustainability. With modern equipment and surfacing, the park will better serve community events, playgroups and informal recreation.
Next steps and timeline
Construction is scheduled to begin in November 2025. During work, the playground will be closed but the park’s walking paths and picnic areas will remain open. The City Parks and Recreation Department will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony once the project is finished. Residents are encouraged to follow project updates at www.elmonteca.gov and review county grant guidelines at parks.lacounty.gov.
