Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park

Renewal in Progress

Situated on S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Modesto, California, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park is in the midst of a major transformation. This is a comprehensive renovation that aims to improve recreational spaces for locals and visitors.

What's making this possible? The park scored an $8.5 million grant in 2021 through California's Proposition 68 (formally known as the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018). This represents significant funding for community improvement.

What's Available Now

Despite the construction work, you can still enjoy the park daily from 6AM to 8PM on weekdays and Sundays, with a nice extension until 10PM on Saturdays. Convenient for evening visits, especially during summer.

Kids can burn off energy at the playground, complete with climbing structures and swings over a soft wood chip surface that's suitable for various age groups.

Sports more your thing? The park offers baseball fields, basketball courts with proper hoops, and open soccer fields for friendly matches. There's also fitness equipment scattered throughout and an accessible walking trail if you're looking to get your steps in or enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Gather & Feast

What's a park without places to gather? The covered pavilion features concrete tables and benches, making it ideal for family reunions or community meet-ups, rain or shine. If you prefer open-air dining, uncovered picnic tables dot the grassy areas throughout the park.

Fancy a cookout? Grilling areas are ready for your barbecue skills. The park even serves a deeper community purpose every Thursday, transforming into a food distribution center for neighbors in need.

Practical Stuff & Perks

The King-Kennedy Memorial Center stands within the park boundaries, offering indoor community space. And yes, there are public restrooms available whenever the park is open - always a crucial detail!

Bringing your four-legged friend? The park welcomes dogs on leashes and even features a special dog drinking fountain centrally located between the playground and picnic area. How thoughtful is that?

On hot Modesto days, the splash pad becomes an instant hit for cooling down, while the paved paths winding through the grounds provide comfortable walking routes for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

What's Coming Next

The renovation plans include several new features. The King-Kennedy Memorial Center will expand to include a new gymnasium. Sports enthusiasts can look forward to a youth baseball field complete with lighting for evening games. There's also an events plaza with a stage in the works, plus an accessible exercise path designed for all mobility levels.

These improvements aim to enhance both the landscape and functionality of this Modesto park.