Cypress Arnold Park is coming home with a state award.

The California Park and Recreation Society announced the park as the recipient of its 2025 Park Planning Award of Excellence, honoring projects that demonstrate innovative design and lasting community impact. The city confirmed the recognition this week.

The 14.5-acre park at 8611 Watson Street has been around since 1949, but most of what visitors see today did not exist two years ago. Construction began in December 2023. By May 9, 2025, the gates opened on a facility that looks almost nothing like what generations of Cypress residents grew up with.

The renovation cost roughly $40 million — $33.5 million in construction costs plus about $7 million in financing — all covered by the city’s recreation district without tapping the general fund. The project finished on time and on budget.

What it bought: four softball fields (one on natural grass, three on synthetic turf), eight lighted pickleball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, a half-mile walking path, a fitness zone, a shaded playground, a concession stand, 294 parking spaces including 12 EV charging spots, and four picnic pavilions.

About 800 people showed up to the grand opening despite the heat. Mayor David Burke cut the ribbon. City Manager Peter Grant called it the city’s "crown jewel."

Former council member Rob Johnson, who pushed for the project over the better part of a decade, was there in a matching jersey along with other former officials who had kept the effort alive through multiple budget cycles.

The CPRS Award of Excellence for Park Planning recognizes projects that demonstrate strong community planning, creative use of space, and measurable outcomes for residents. The organization represents park and recreation professionals throughout California.

The city credited its Public Works and Recreation teams and project partners for the project’s completion and recognition.