Park Proposed Near Betsy Ross Elementary

A neighborhood park is proposed to be built next to Betsy Ross Elementary School at the intersection of Santa Ana Street and Manchester Avenue.

Rob Zur Schmiede, redevelopment manager, said the city has identified a deficiency of neighborhood parks in the area. The park site, nearly six acres, would be used by the city and the Anaheim City School District.

The City Council today will consider buying the land at a cost of about $1.6 million for the proposed Ross park. Federal grant money would be used to buy the property from Southern Pacific Transportation Co.

Richard Mayer, park planner, said the city hopes to secure a federal loan to pay for the park’s development, which could cost about $900,000. But Mayer added that no final cost has been determined.

The estimated development cost would only pay for basic park amenities such as play and picnic areas, restrooms and sports fields.

But Mayer said development costs will depend on what amenities are actually built.

He added that upcoming meetings with residents and school district officials will be held to determine what exactly the neighborhood and school wants.

Mayer said the planning and design processes will take at least six months or more and construction would not begin for at least a year.

Escrow on the property is expected to close by Dec. 15, Zur Schmiede said.

The meeting begins at 5 p.m. in the council chambers, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Information: (714) 254-5166.