Pajaro Valley’s First Natural Play Area Natural play areas use elements from nature—logs, rocks, and plants—to create spaces where children can climb, explore, and spark their imagination. The Mesa Village playground expansion features a wooden mountain of floating peaks and valleys, a playful leaf climber, a jumble of hand‑sanded logs, and a discovery table for social and imaginative play. Herb and pollinator gardens add a hands-on sensory experience and a chance to connect with nature. A Community Effort: Public-Private Partnership - BREAKING NEWS!! We are immensely proud that our grant application for Measure Q funding has been approved. The first year of this grant opportunity was extremely competitive and our application for Mesa Village Natural Play scored 4th of 24 applications in our Tier, showing the clear need for and value of this project. The MQ grant leverages previously secured funds and brings us closer to constriction and ultimately to PLAY. Additional funds raised will complete the playground area, enhance complimentary features such as shaded gathering areas, accessibility and more.
Over the last year, Santa Cruz County Parks and County Park Friends surveyed the community and learned that a Natural Play Area was the top priority for families. Together with Santa Cruz County Parks, County District 4, Watsonville Wetlands Watch and other community partners, our campaign will fund and build this wonderful feature! Contact [email protected] to learn more and get involved.
