Chicano Park in Barrio Logan has just secured a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Office of Historic Preservation announced Thursday.
The designation means Chicano Park has been recognized as a national cultural resource worthy of preservation benefits and protection from adverse effects stemming from federally funded or licensed projects.
The listing will also facilitate the restoration of historic structures and grant the park certain tax advantages. In addition to placement on the National Register of Historic Places, Chicano Park was also placed on the California Register of Historical Resources.
Assemblymember Ben Hueso – who serves as an ex-officio member of the California State Parks & Recreation Commission – said Chicano Park’s historic designation is more than well-deserved.
“This is an exciting accomplishment not only for the community but the region as a whole. Chicano Park is much more than a neighborhood park; it is the cornerstone of San Diego’s Mexican-American heritage and legacy,” said Hueso.
“Chicano Park is a symbol of great pride for the community, an example of the great things that can be accomplished when a neighborhood comes together for a common cause,” he continued.
Hueso’s father was an active member of the community organization that advocated for the creation of Chicano Park under the Coronado Bridge pylons.
Annual celebrations of Chicano Park Day have been held since 1971. The official “takeover” of the park space under the Coronado Bridge pylons dates back to April 22, 1970, according to the park’s website.
