County Budget Prompting Closure in hopes of reopening on weekends in spring
Due to continuing struggles with loss of state and local taxes, Gibson Ranch County Park will be closed to the public from November 23 through the end of February 2010. By shutting down all operations during the slow winter months, Regional Parks hopes to open the park on a partial basis in the spring when park attendance increases.
“Reductions to both our budget and staff have made this closure an unfortunate necessity,” said Regional Parks Director Janet Baker. “We will continue to work with the community and the Rio Linda/Elverta Recreation and Park District and the Dry Creek Parkway Advisory Committee to explore solutions and possible partnerships for the future.”
The equestrian facility, operated by L & M Concession, LLC, will remain open during the winter months. Horse boarding, trail rides, horseback lessons and other services provided by the concessionaire to the public are still available. Those boarding horses at Gibson Ranch will continue to have access to the equestrian facilities operated by the concessionaire.
Gibson Ranch County Park is located near the Dry Creek Parkway in the communities of Elverta and Rio Linda. At over 345 acres, Gibson Ranch County Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including an equestrian center, fishing, two playground areas and a number of picnic reservation sites.
“Gibson Ranch County Park is a one-of-a-kind park and a tremendous value to the community. It is extremely difficult that we have to take this step right now,” said Baker. "The department had intended to keep the Park open for four days a week, but with the latest round of reductions since July 1, we find ourselves about $200,000 short of necessary funds to pay for maintenance and ranger protection. We have looked at a number of ways to try to keep the park open during the winter, and we have concluded that it is just not feasible at this time.”
For additional information, please visit www.sacparks.net.