$1M secured for inclusive playground in Redlands

REDLANDS, Calif. — A planned overhaul of Texonia Park will focus on accessibility and inclusive design after U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar secured $1 million in federal funding for the project, officials announced Monday.

The funding, secured through the congressional Community Project Funding process, will support a range of upgrades, including new parking, playground improvements and expanded amenities.

City officials said planned renovations include construction of an off-street parking lot, an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities, new restroom facilities, improved lighting, walking paths, sports fields and updated picnic and group gathering areas.

“Whether it’s on the playground, the soccer field, or the jogging path, Inland Empire families need a safe and fun place to spend time outdoors and enjoy our beautiful state,” Aguilar said. “I’m proud to deliver this funding for Redlands to upgrade Texonia Park’s amenities and ensure that people in our community can enjoy them for years to come.”

Redlands Mayor Mario Saucedo said the funding will help advance a long-standing priority for the city, including development of an accessible playground.

“The addition of $1 million from the congressional Community Project Funding, thanks to the efforts of Congressman Aguilar’s office, will go towards the development of a new inclusive playground, that will provide a space designed for children of all abilities, including those with physical, sensory or intellectual disabilities, to play, explore and interact,” Saucedo said.

Saucedo noted the project was originally championed by Aguilar during his tenure on the Redlands City Council from 2006 to 2014.

Aguilar, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, secured a total of $19.7 million for 15 projects across California’s 33rd Congressional District in fiscal year 2026, according to his office.