New all-inclusive Treasure Cove project in Capitola meets major funding needs
CAPITOLA, Calif. (KION-TV) -- The new Treasure Cove at Jade Street Park is underway after County Park Friends announced over $1 million has been raised for the project, much of the funding coming from private funding.
Since September 2023, efforts by the City of Capitola and County Park Friends have tried to make the city’s first-fully inclusive playground a reality.
"This project, specifically designed to be welcoming to all, will truly be a Capitola treasure for generations to come,” said Capitola Mayor Kristen Brown.
The completion of the private fundraising campaign is allowing the city to create a place all children can play together without the disabilities barriers at most playgrounds.
“Our members are delighted to be part of Treasure Cove, a place where the community can come together and have fun,” said Lowry Fenton, Capitola-Aptos Rotary 2024 President.
In addition to private funding, the project was met with support from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, who held a $250,000 matching grant challenge, as well as 18-month fundraising efforts by the Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club’s 2024 Dinner and Auction; Kentucky Derby Party, and Pickleball tournament; the Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club’s annual bike ride; the 2024 Boardwalk Chili Cook Off; the Surf City Kiwanis annual crab feed; Santa Cruz Gives 2023; and a fundraising dinner at Britannia Arms in Capitola.
“County Park Friends is humbled by the breadth of support from our community to create Treasure Cove. This is the type of community building project our organization loves to do and it's only possible because everyone steps up to play their part and make it happen,” said Mariah Roberts, Executive Director of County Park Friends.
The City of Capitola is planning to to secure any other necessary funding by early spring, 2025. After this, the city says that it will bid the project that fall.
They hope to see groundbreaking as soon as winter 2025.
