Perris park is getting an upgrade

A major renovation of one Perris’ oldest parks has begun.

Foss Field Park at 138 N. Perris Blvd. is undergoing a $16 million makeover that began in January and is expected to take one year to complete, according to a statement on the city’s website.

Improvements to the 65-year-old facility will include a 4,900 square foot recreational building, skate park, futsal court, pickleball court, playground, fitness stations, shade structures and more parking.

A walking trail and a butterfly garden will be installed, and several athletic fields at the five-acre facility will be renovated.

“It’s not cheap to build a park, but parks do in fact make cities better, and they’re worth the investment,” Mayor Michael M. Vargas said during a groundbreaking ceremony held in January. “I want to thank our Parks and Recreation Committee for working diligently on this, and the staff who are involved in this project.

Funding includes $2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, $8.5 million from the state of California, and $5.36 million from industrial, development and construction fees, according to the statement.