In an effort to improve recreational spaces throughout the City of San Diego, Mayor Todd Gloria and Council President Pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe today joined City staff and community members for a groundbreaking event to kick off a number of major improvements and upgrades at John F. Kennedy Park in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  

The $4.8 million project is being funded by Community Development Block Grant funds and development impact fees and will add or upgrade numerous amenities to the 52-year-old park. 

“We’re working to make sure every neighborhood has access to quality parks,” Mayor Todd Gloria said. “Lincoln Park and other historically underserved communities deserve nice parks where residents can enjoy being outside with friends, family and neighbors. This is just one of 18 parks across San Diego getting improvements this fiscal year, and we will keep doing this work until every San Diegan has a thriving public park in their neighborhood.”   

Planned improvements include new a restroom facility, picnic shelter and play structures, and the installation of fitness equipment, site furnishings such as benches, trash and recycling receptacles, a drinking fountain, new security lighting, planting and irrigation upgrades, and on-street ADA parking. Improvements are expected to be completed by fall 2024. 

“The investment of 4.8 million dollars in the planning of Kennedy Park shows that we are intentionally promoting safety and livability through environmental design,” said Council President pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe. “We must be intentional in our efforts to address the long-standing neglect of our quality-of-life issues. I look forward to seeing residents and people across District Four enjoy the park renovations and embrace this development as a win.” 

Kennedy Park was originally constructed in 1971 and security lighting was added to it in 1978. Since that time, there have been no major renovations to the park. The City's Sustainability Department added 10 new upgraded light fixtures in 2018. During the community input process, additional security lighting was identified as the primary concern for residents. 

This park is one of 18 parks that are expected to be improved in fiscal year 2024, while three new parks are expected to be opened to the public. 

The City’s Parks and Recreation Department manages more than 40,000 acres of park assets, including more than 400 parks, 26 miles of shoreline, 60 recreation centers, 14 pools, seven skate parks and three golf courses. For additional information regarding the City’s park system, visit sandiego.gov/parks-and-recreation.