County advocates for park improvements in Chino Agricultural Preserve

San Bernardino County Update. SBCounty.gov

A group of five people, all wearing red life jackets, are sitting together on a white and blue paddle boat floating on a calm lake at Prado Regional Park.

Visitors enjoy riding on a paddle boat on the lake at Prado Regional Park.

San Bernardino County is partnering with Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) on Senate Bill 360, which would conserve open space and expand park and recreation opportunities in the Chino Agricultural Preserve. Strongly supported by San Bernardino County and Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman, the bill would unlock long-restricted Proposition 70 funds for park, cultural and open space improvements, including much-needed upgrades to the County’s Prado Regional Park.

“This bill will bring critical enhancements to our parks, recreational facilities, and cultural spaces within the Chino Agricultural Preserve, enriching the quality of life for residents and strengthening community connections,” said Supervisor Hagman. “These improvements will also boost local tourism and economic growth, and we appreciate Senator Rubio’s leadership in advancing this important initiative for San Bernardino County.”

“I know firsthand the importance of local parks and open space that can serve our children and communities for a lifetime,” said Senator Rubio. “San Bernardino County families have a critical need for open park space, and I am proud to work together with the County Board of Supervisors on this bill, including Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman, who has championed this issue.”

Proposition 70, approved by voters in 1988, allocated $20 million for land acquisition and conservation in the Chino Agricultural Preserve. While some funds have been used to expand public lands, existing restrictions have prevented full investment in park and recreation improvements. SB 360 seeks to clarify state law to ensure these resources can be directed toward long-overdue enhancements to public spaces and recreational facilities.

San Bernardino County has long prioritized investments in regional parks to preserve open space and enhance outdoor recreation. The county continues to make significant improvements to its parks, including at Prado Regional Park, where recent projects have upgraded recreational facilities and improved access to trails and open spaces, ensuring residents have safe, well-maintained parks to enjoy. The 2019 Prado Master Plan identified strong community support for additional amenities, such as expanded trails, cultural and nature centers, and enhanced green spaces—all of which would benefit from the proposed funding flexibility.

San Bernardino County remains committed to expanding recreational opportunities and enhancing public spaces through smart investments. The county will continue working with Senator Rubio and state officials to secure these funds and ensure the Chino Agricultural Preserve and Prado Regional Park remain vital community assets for generations to come.

For more information on San Bernardino County park projects, visit parks.sbcounty.gov.

Additional County Update News – Feb. 20, 2025