City of Palmdale Breaks Ground on $5.4 Million Melville J. Courson Park Revitalization

PALMDALE, CA — The City of Palmdale celebrated a major investment in one of the community’s longtime gathering spaces with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Melville J. Courson Park Revitalization Project on Wednesday, Oct. 28.

The $5.4 million revitalization project will bring new recreational opportunities accessible play areas, shaded gathering spaces and water-efficient landscaping to the park. Construction began this summer and is expected to continue through September 2027.

“Courson Park has been part of Palmdale for generations, and this project represents an exciting new chapter for a place that means so much to our community,” said Mayor Eric Ohlsen. “What makes this revitalization especially meaningful is that residents helped shape the vision from the beginning. We are taking their input and turning it into a park that families can enjoy for decades to come.”

Community input played a central role in developing the park's revitalization plan. During a comprehensive engagement process in 202, residents submitted 332 park design surveys and 61 people participated in community meetings, helping shape the final design.

Planned improvements include a new outdoor performance structure, custom shade structures, accessible play equipment for children ages 5 to 12, a challenge course for ages 13 and older, a new restroom facility and landscaping and irrigation upgrades. The existing play area for younger children will remain in place. The project will also replace approximately one-third of the existing turf with drought-tolerant landscaping to create a more water-efficient park.

“Great parks strengthen neighborhoods by creating places where people can be active, connect with one another and spend time together,” said Mayor Pro Tem Austin Bishop. “These improvements will make Courson Park more accessible, welcoming and versatile while ensuring this important community space is prepared to serve the next generation of Palmdale residents.”

Originally developed in 1963, Melville J. Courson Park is Palmdale’s first park and encompasses approximately 7.5 acres. The City acquired the park from Los Angeles County in 1988.

The revitalization is funded by state grants, including the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program and Measure AV funds. The City awarded the construction contract to Zeco, Inc.

During construction, the park will be closed to the public. Courson Pool will remain open and accessible during regular operating hours.

For more information about the Melville J. Courson Park Revitalization Project, visit www.CityOfPalmdaleCA.gov/CoursonParkRevitalization.