Edison Community Park

History and Background

Edison Community Park is a 39.69-acre public recreational area located in Huntington Beach, California. The park was dedicated on April 8, 1974, after being developed earlier that year. It was named after the adjacent Edison High School, which is part of the Huntington Beach Union High School District.

The park's history is noteworthy, as it was transformed from a former landfill site into a serene recreational area. The Cannery Street Former Refuse Disposal Station, also known as the Cannery Street Landfill, operated at this location between 1957 and 1969.

After the waste placement activities ceased, the former owner (Orange County) dedicated the site to the City of Huntington Beach, which then developed it into the public park it is today.

Facilities and Amenities

The park features a mix of indoor and outdoor facilities to cater to diverse recreational needs. It includes an activities building, lighted sports fields, and various courts for different activities.

The Edison Community Center within the park contains four meeting rooms, a kitchen, a lounge, and a game room equipped with pool tables, ping-pong, and other table games. The center hosts various community events and functions as a local voting place.

Outdoor amenities include baseball diamonds, basketball courts, pickleball courts, handball courts, and a skate park. The park also features extensive grassy areas, walking paths, and numerous benches for relaxation.

Playground Areas

Edison Park offers three distinct playground areas designed for different age groups. The playground section consists of a large sand area with rubber matting at the landings of the newer playground units.

Two playground structures are intended for ages 2-5 and 5-12 years old, featuring slides and stairs. The 5-12 structure includes climbing ladders, monkey bars, slides, an off-center spiral pole, and a fireman pole.

The playground area includes both infant and full-sized swings. While some equipment shows signs of age, the facilities remain safe for use and provide a variety of play options for children.

Programs and Activities

Edison Community Center offers over 200 quality recreation classes and activities for various age groups, including adults, teens, youth, and preschool-aged children.

The center provides a wide range of programs such as Zumba, tennis, karate, fitness classes, boot camps, ballet, gymnastics, pilates, guitar lessons, yoga, baby classes, dog training, tot classes, tai chi, cooking classes, preschool programs, surfing lessons, and various sports activities.

Outdoor Recreation

The park is a popular spot for various outdoor activities. Basketball courts regularly host pickup games, particularly on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. The seven newly added pickleball courts attract players of all skill levels, though some users note the pavement surface may be rough.

The park is also a favorite among dog walkers, with ample space for pets to exercise. Walking paths meander throughout the grounds, providing a pleasant route for exercise and recreation.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Despite its urban setting, Edison Community Park is home to some local wildlife. Visitors may spot Great Blue Herons, owls, and tree squirrels that live in the pine trees throughout the park.

Numerous trees provide welcome shade across the grounds, creating comfortable spots for picnics and relaxation.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the park has faced some challenges due to its landfill history. Settlement issues have caused damage to some facilities, resulting in the closure of tennis courts and the removal of certain park amenities.

As of 2021, the City of Huntington Beach has been working on a geotechnical survey and analysis to evaluate the site and determine potential locations for new park amenities. This effort, combined with community input, aims to develop a revised master plan for the rehabilitation of Edison Community Park.

The park has seen some recent upgrades, including the addition of pickleball courts, though visitors note varying conditions across different facilities.