About The Project
History
Located in the heart of the Riverside area along Willowbranch Creek, Willowbranch Park is a historic gem with roots dating back to 1916. The park was established under the leadership of former City Councilman John J. Griffin, with additional acreage acquired between 1921 and 1925. A significant enhancement came around 1924 when Dr. Harold Hume donated 1700 azalea bushes, adding to the park's beauty. The Willowbranch Library opened within the park in 1930, and in 1934, the creek was straightened and bulkheaded to improve its flow and stability.
Over the decades, four smaller city parks and gardens were developed from the original park property, with two located south and north of St. Johns Avenue and two along Park Street in the 1950s. Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP), established in 1974, along with the Willowbranch Park Improvement Committee formed in 1999, has been dedicated to preserving and enhancing this picturesque park
Project Scope
The Willowbranch Canal Stabilization Project seeks to restore and stabilize the canal to maintain and enhance the park's ecological health and aesthetic appeal. We are considering various design alternatives, including natural stabilization techniques and reinforced embankments, using sustainable materials like native plants and natural stone. Community involvement is a cornerstone of our project, with feedback collected through meetings and polls to ensure the chosen solutions reflect local preferences.
The project will also bring improvements to park features, such as new seating areas, improved pathways, and enhanced green spaces, making the park even more enjoyable for visitors. Additionally, we will introduce safe pedestrian crossings to improve connectivity and accessibility. The project is scheduled to commence in Fall 2024 and is expected to be completed by Spring 2026, focusing on sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and the community.