Park Playground Construction Begins

Slowly but surely, Agoura Hills’ new city park is taking shape.

Construction began Monday on a playground and barbecue area, officials said. The work is expected to be completed by the end of April.

“It’s going wonderful,” said Audrey Brown, the city’s director of community services.

“It’s been a real positive thing for the community.”

The 10-acre Old Agoura Park, at 5301 Chesebro Road, replaces a smaller park nearby. Its centerpiece is a state-of-the-art equestrian center, which connects with the Zuma Ridge trail running through the region.

Last June, the city held a grand opening for the equestrian center, which is open free to the public.

The playground and barbecue area cost $88,000, said City Manager Dave Adams, $68,000 of which came from county park bond funds, while $20,000 came from the city’s general fund.

The city estimates it will cost $315,000 to complete the remaining portion, which will include a third horse ring for the equestrian facility, a basketball court, a recreation building, a sign and gates for the facility, and restrooms.

The entire project is expected to cost more than $1.5 million, officials said, $600,000 of which came from a grant from the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.