They fought for over a decade to get a regional park in southeast Fresno. Here’s how they did it.
By Fresnoland
Dear Friends:
Below is a link to a story recently published by FresnoLand about the struggle and hard work of many Soccer moms and dads, residents, and community organizations in making a dream of a new regional park and soccer complex come true. This story was written by Dannielle Bergstrom, who I believe did an excellent job in capturing the essence of the history of this project. There are other very good stories on this topic on GV Wire, written by David Taub. The Fresno Bee wrote a very dry story that did not acknowledge the role of the community. TV News Media did not seem to get it. (Without the community engagement, this project would not have happened.)
City leaders take part in the groundbreaking for the new park in southeast Fresno on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2024. Credit: Pablo Orihuela / Fresnoland
Here is a nice chronology of events and how things happened. The Southeast Fresno Youth Soccer League (formerly the Roosevelt Youth Soccer League), the Hispanic Adult Soccer League, Fresno Building Healthy Communities, students and staff from Roosevelt High and Sunnyside High Schools, and church groups from Fresno played a prominent role in this process, along with many other groups that brought in volunteers.
We all should celebrate. Thank you, Fresno!!!
Jose Leon-Barraza,
Candidate for Fresno City Council District 5
A proven leader with decades of experience in economic development, community advocacy, and public safety. Together, let’s create a brighter future for District 5.
A Vision for a Prosperous District 5
Why Jose Leon Barraza is the Right Choice for City Council
Meet Jose Leon Barraza, a passionate advocate and lifelong resident of Southeast Fresno, dedicated to creating a brighter, more prosperous future for District 5.
With over 34 years of government experience and 12+ years as CEO of a nonprofit focused on community/economic development, Jose has spent his career working to uplift his community. A son of Mexican immigrants, Jose’s journey from working in the fields to earning advanced degrees and leading impactful initiatives embodies the spirit of hard work and perseverance.
As a leader, Jose has always prioritized the needs of the people, whether by championing the creation of parks and green space, small businesses, increasing access to job training and housing, or advocating for public safety. His approach combines grassroots community engagement with strategic policy expertise, making him uniquely qualified to address the challenges facing District 5.
Jose Leon Barraza
› Priorities
Public Safety
Jobs and Economic Growth
Housing Development
Parks & Recreation
› Recognition Awards
› Jose’s Proven Track Record
Economic Development:
- Secured $9 million for a regional park and soccer complex.
- Created the Fresno County Enterprise Zone, benefiting small businesses and residents.
Community Service:
- Improved small business façades along Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard.
- Volunteered in pandemic food distribution and cleanup efforts.
Leadership:
- Supported the creation of the Parks Ranger classification, improving park safety.
- Recommends anually $40 million in Measure P funds for new and improved parks.