Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes Delivers $2.2 Million from the State Budget to the City of Corona

(CORONA, CA) – On Thursday, Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) presented two state grants to the City of Corona on behalf of the State of California: $2 million for continued renovations to Griffin Park and $200,000 for the City of Corona’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Both grants were secured as part of the 2022-2023 State Budget. Mayor Wes Speake, Councilmember Jacque Casillas, Corona Fire Department Chief Bryan Young, and Corona Community Services Director Dr. Anne Turner, were also present to receive the symbolic check on behalf of the City of Corona.

$2 Million for the Renovation of Griffin Park in the City of Corona

$2 million in one-time funding was allocated for the City of Corona for Phase II of the renovation of Griffin Park. For 13 years, Griffin Park had been closed before being recently reopened with limited amenities, including an ADA-compliant, lighted sidewalk; a picnic seating area; and a dog park. However, much of the 13-acre site of the park remains undeveloped.

This state investment secured by Assemblymember Cervantes will help advance that development process by providing for the construction of a new playground, additional shade structures, park benches, additional picnic areas, and the restoration of a nature walk area.

Assemblymember Cervantes: “Since being elected to the State Assembly in 2016, I have advocated for accessible parks and open spaces for our communities across the 60th District. The ongoing renovation of Griffin Park will help improve the availability of green spaces for the Inland Empire communities that I represent, especially in the City of Corona itself. This key investment of $2 million to help the City of Corona continue with the renovation of Griffin Park, providing for several improvements that will create a welcoming environment so that Corona residents, families, and our furry friends will enjoy for years to come.”

Corona Mayor Wes Speake: "Griffin Park reopened in the Summer of 2021 after nearly 13 years. Not only have we reopened that park, but thanks to this $2 million award, we will further improve the park and expand its use while incorporating its natural beauty."

Corona City Council Member Jacque Casillas: "I cannot emphasize enough how much the community has asked for this park to reopen and become an active and inviting place. Phase II of the Griffin Park renovation project will help us accomplish that. The park will feature a new playground, shade structures, and a butterfly sanctuary when complete. We could not be more excited to see this project come to fruition.”

Corona Community Services Director Dr. Anne Turner: “Our mission is to transform Griffin Park into a place boasting a peaceful atmosphere. Our goal is to host outdoor classroom learning experiences, meditation, walking and fitness opportunities, and leisure-based activities that promote a healthy lifestyle."

$200,000 for the development of the City of Corona’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan

$200,000 in one-time funding for the City of Corona to develop its Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The Inland Empire generally, and the City of Corona, in particular, have experienced their share of dangerous wildfires in recent years.

To mitigate the risk of future wildfires, the City of Corona has plans to develop a Community Wildfire Protection Plan. This would include identifying and mitigating wildfire hazards in the wildland-urban interface, the area between existing wildland and inhabited communities. The Plan would also include reinforcing collaborative relationships with federal and state agencies; hazardous fuels and structural ignitability reduction; and improving fire response capabilities.

The Development of this Plan will help put the City of Corona in a position to apply for further grant funding, as well as support the City’s desire to eventually create a Firesafe Council.

Assemblymember Cervantes: “As Californians, we are no strangers to the threat of natural disaster. The Inland Empire generally, and the City of Corona, in particular, have experienced their share of dangerous wildfires in recent years. As a strong proponent of disaster preparedness, I am proud that these funds will help the City further mitigate the risk of future wildfires threatening our communities. I am so grateful to work with our dynamic fire department. Thank you to Chief Young, Mayor Speake, and Councilmember Jacque Casillas for working with me to ensure the Community Wildfire Protection Plan comes to fruition!”

Corona Fire Department Chief Bryan Young: “Last year, the City of Corona adopted a Community Wildfire Protection Plan. This award is really going to bring the plan to life and enable us to make incredible strides in delivering wildfire preventative initiatives and mitigation projects. We are extremely grateful.”

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Sabrina Cervantes is a mother of triplets who proudly represents the 60th District of the California State Assembly, which encompasses the cities of Corona, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Norco, Riverside, and the unincorporated communities of Coronita, El Cerrito, and Home Gardens. Cervantes is Vice Chair and Chair-Elect of the California Latino Legislative Caucus and serves as Chair of the Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy.