By Ken Striplin
Santa Clarita City Manager
When the brand-new Canyon Country Community Center on Soledad Canyon Road and Sierra Highway opens its doors to the public later this year, it will transform and improve the daily life of residents throughout Santa Clarita. More than just a traditional community center building, the site will soon become a destination for individuals and families to enjoy cultural programming, community events, recreational opportunities and much more.
From the moment you set foot on the new Canyon Country Community Center site, you will notice a number of features and amenities. First, the nearly 28-foot-tall Communitree art installation at the southwest corner of the site welcomes visitors and represents the City’s beloved oak trees. The tree’s steel and acrylic plexiglass leaves have a kinetic effect that allows them to flutter in the breeze, recreating the movement of leaves blowing in the wind. The artist says this unique and colorful piece symbolizes the strength of the community.
Other art pieces are installed throughout the park surrounding the Community Center building, including a bicycle rack, mosaic wall and utility covers. Outside amenities also include half-court basketball, a playground for children with inclusive elements, a large grass area to run around or have a picnic and a raised stage that can host concerts and other special events. The Mercado parking lot, which is adjacent to Sierra Highway, has the ability to quickly transform into a venue for food truck festivals, farmers markets and more.
Of course, the Canyon Country Community Center building itself will be a cultural hub for Santa Clarita residents, offer one-of-a-kind classes, after-school enrichment programs, professional development opportunities and just plain fun. Children can participate in summer camp or take part in arts and crafts days. Adults can enroll in an English as a second language course, enhance their computer skills or become a culinary wizard with classes in the new teaching demonstration kitchen.
Programs that are popular within the senior community in Santa Clarita will also continue at the new facility, including social gatherings and exercise classes. One of the best parts about the new Canyon Country Community Center is that there is also plenty of room for other favorites, including Family Dodgeball Night and Salsa Dancing.
We are reaching the final stages of construction on the community center and look forward to its grand opening very soon. We can’t wait to welcome residents to a large celebration worthy of this incredible facility once it is complete so please be on the lookout for details in the coming weeks.
I can’t wait for you to explore all the new Canyon Country Community Center has to offer!
