Why Is it Taking So Long for the Wishing Tree Park to Open?

The Wishing Tree park in Carson, which is a work in progress. Photo by Arriana Martinez

By Arriana Martinez, Editorial Intern

Residents of West Carson have been waiting for over 20 years for there to be a park in replacement of a polluted area. In 2018, residents broke ground on the park. That ceremony was the start of something new. The park has been an ongoing project for about five years now and impatient West Carson residents are weary of the city pushing the due date of completion.

“I remember hearing word saying the park was going to be open sometime in August last year, but now it’s July 2023 and we are all questioning why the city got our hopes up,” said a resident who did not want to be identified.

Most of the area is still surrounded by covered gates, but Random Lengths News was lucky enough to capture some photos through an opening area. As of June, there seemed to be more progress made — a mini skate park, a play set, a gym area — yet it all still seems to be incomplete.

In mid July, there was a noticeable amount of work which had been completed. There is now grass, flowers, canopies and a track that visitors can take advantage of. Residents are now beginning to see a difference in the structure. Although much has been done, it still appears a lot needs to be completed. But Wishing Tree Park is beginning to look promising.

“By having this park, it’ll make the neighborhood look complete,” said Grady Lara. “I just don’t understand why it’s taking long to be done. Residents including myself are really looking forward to this park.”

“I feel like the park will allow people from the neighborhood to come together and meet each other,” said Robert Marin. “But it’ll also give children a safer place to play rather than playing in the streets.”

Many residents are excited with the progress so far but some have argued the park is still taking too long to be completed. There are mixed emotions on this subject but from the outer looks of it, it appears to be moving at a faster pace now. Although no one knows when Wishing Tree Park will be completed, residents are eager for it to open so they can enjoy all the park’s activities while soaking up the sun.