A new playground and fitness loop at Bixby Park has opened to the public as the first phase of planned renovations at the park.
“Bixby is one of our city’s most historic parks and the heart of the diverse communities it serves,” said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia. “The renovations and new additions are excellent improvements, and there is really something for everyone in this gem of a park.”
The Camp Bixby playground features a 2- to 5-year-old play structure and a 5- to 12-year-old play structure with climbing components and slides, sand play areas, swings, a cable climber, two universally accessible slides, and a shaded seating area.
“I know I speak for the community in saying how excited we are to be celebrating the opening of our new playground called Camp Bixby and park fitness loop,” said Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal. “Residents and stakeholders participated in an extensive planning process designed to meet the needs of our park visitors now and in the future, so these and other projects planned for Bixby Park really reflect their incredible input.”
The fitness loop, located near Junipero Avenue and Ocean Boulevard, includes a walking path with distance markers that connect six fitness equipment stations. A local fitness trainer has developed exercise routines for the fitness loop, which is designed to complement the beach pedestrian path.
A free-standing restroom is also being constructed, with an estimated completion in December 2015. It is expected to provide a safe and convenient amenity for people enjoying the playground, farmers market and performances at the historic band shell.
The playground is one part of Bixby Park’s ongoing revitalization. Recent and planned improvements include the Bixby Park Bluff project and historic lighting and benches provided by Friends of Bixby Park.
