News

City officials and community members gathered at San Miguel Park on Wednesday, April 23 to celebrate the grand opening of Newport Beach’s first universally accessible playground, with ADA features designed for children of all abilities.

The upgraded and refurbished San Miguel Park playground now includes more than 20 accessible, ground-level play features, elevated components reachable by transfer platforms, ADA-compliant pathways, and upgraded parking. R.E. Schultz Construction recently completed the work under a contract awarded in October 2024.

“This is much more than a new playground — it’s a symbol of how a single voice can spark meaningful change,” said Mayor Joe Stapleton during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. “In 2019, a young resident named Alexis Portillo asked the City to install an ADA swing so her sister could enjoy the park. That thoughtful request led to something even greater: Newport Beach’s first universally accessible playground, right here in San Miguel Park.”

The project cost of about $900,000 was paid through federal Community Development Block Grant allocations and City funds.

“Today’s grand opening is a celebration of community collaboration, vision, and the guiding principle that every child deserves a place to play,” said Sean Levin, Director of Recreation and Senior Services. “We are proud to open this space and set a new standard for inclusive play.”

San Miguel Park is located at 2200 San Miguel Drive. The playground is now open to the public.

For more information about City parks and recreational programs, visit www.newportbeachca.gov/recreation.