The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana art exhibit is now open to the public at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.). 

The exhibition features images depicting urban life and the Chicano experience between 1969 and 2001 and consists of limited-edition digital reproductions, known as giclées, of original paintings from 26 prominent Chicano artists from the private collection of actor and comedian, Cheech Marin. Marin's collection now serves as the foundation of The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum, which opened in June 2022.

Admission to The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana exhibit is free and open to view at the Old Orange County Courthouse gallery Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning August 8 through the end of the year. Metered parking is available at the on-site lot and surrounding street parking. Additional parking is available at P8 (301 W. 5th Street). Parking fees apply. 

Guided school tours of the Old Orange County Courthouse and Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana art exhibit are available Wednesdays and Thursdays beginning at 10 a.m. Tours are free of charge and approximately one hour, and include an overview of the courthouse, its history, architectural components, historic court cases and art exhibition. To schedule a tour, please contact oldcourthouse@ocparks.com or call (714) 973-6605.  

(Santa Ana, Calif.) – Chicano history and culture intersect at The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana art exhibit. Now open to the public at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.), the collection features images depicting urban life and the Chicano experience between 1969 and 2001. 

The exhibition consists of limited-edition digital reproductions, known as giclées, of original paintings from 26 prominent Chicano artists from the private collection of actor and comedian, Cheech Marin. Marin's collection now serves as the foundation of The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum, which opened in June 2022.

The prints were created through a national art project led by Marin with the late Richard S. Duardo of Modern Multiples Fine Art Editions and Melissa Richardson Banks of CauseConnect. In addition to the giclées, a 25-minute documentary about Chicano art and linocut portraits of each artist created by Artemio Rodriguez are on display. The exhibit will be at the Courthouse exhibit gallery through the end of the year.

“Preserving the cultural heritage within our diverse and historic communities is so important, including depictions of the story and struggle of Mexican Americans and Latinos in the Southwest. I wanted to help bring this exhibit here, since many of our residents do not have the opportunity to visit the museum in Riverside and because Orange County has played a vital role in the Chicano movement. I am very proud to have this incredible art experience available for residents and visitors at the historic Old Orange County Courthouse,” said Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. “We join the community in celebrating Chicano Heritage Month by hosting The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana exhibition.”

The Chicano Movement has been shaped by notable leaders and activists such as Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta and more for several decades. Marin has been captivated by artistic expressions of the Chicano culture and has amassed his own renowned private collection over the last 40 years. The Chicano Collection was produced to advance Chicano art as a recognized school of American art, increase public accessibility to this work in cities nationwide and help audiences understand and appreciate the richness of the culture. 

Admission to The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana exhibit is free and open to view at the Old Orange County Courthouse gallery Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning August 8. Metered parking is available at the onsite lot and surrounding street parking.

For information about The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana art exhibit or the Old Orange County Courthouse, please visit /historic-sites/old-orange-county-courthouse.

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OC Parks
OC Parks manages nearly 60,000 acres of parks, historical and coastal facilities and open space for the County of Orange as part of OC Community Resources. http://www.ocparks.com

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The Mile Square Regional Park 93-acre Expansion Area will be closed to commence construction of Phase 2. New additions coming to the park to include an Amphitheater, Great Meadow, Children's Adventure Play Area, Multi-Use Field, Primary Vehicular Road, Parking and Restroom Building.

WHEN:

93-acre closure begins September 23, 2024.  Anticipated completion is spring 2027. 
Schedule is subject to change due to weather or other factors.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Jamie Cargo, OC Public Works
(714) 667-9759
jamie.cargo@pw.oc.gov

(Dana Point, Calif.) – OC Parks recently installed the first community-driven shoreline monitoring location in Orange County. Located along the Strands Beach access ramp (map included in Press Images), the CoastSnap station encourages community members to help with coastal monitoring efforts. 

The CoastSnap station includes a smartphone cradle and instructions on how to upload and submit a photo of the shoreline. Residents and visitors alike are invited to place their phones in the cradle and snap a photo. The cradle is set at a precise location and angle to ensure the public is capturing consistent images. Afterward, the public is asked to scan a QR code to then upload the photo. From there, the images are sent to OC Parks and will be used to assist with monitoring seasonal and long-term beach width. The cradle works in conjunction with surveyed control points and time stamps allowing for photos to be stitched together, accounting for tidal variations.

“I am excited to bring the first CoastSnap station to Orange County and harness the power of the community to help protect our coast,” said Supervisor Katrina Foley, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “Coastal erosion threatens our coastal communities, economy and way of life here in Orange County. This CoastSnap station serves as a valuable tool to measure how much coastal erosion impacts our beaches. By engaging residents in this important endeavor, we will gather valuable data while serving as good stewards over our beaches.”

CoastSnap, developed by researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), is a global citizen science project to help researchers better understand the coastlines and safeguard them for future generations. Currently, there are five other CoastSnap stations in California located in San Diego County. In addition to the CoastSnap station, a new interpretive sign has been installed complementing the CoastSnap station with narrative descriptions and images demonstrating seasonal and long-term changes of the shoreline.

The installation of the CoastSnap station marks the completion of the Niguel Shores Revetment Restoration Project. As part of the Coastal Development Permit issued by the California Coastal Commission for this project aimed at enhancing shoreline protection, OC Parks is responsible for complying with a Shore Zone Monitoring Plan. Seasonal transect surveys will be conducted to monitor any movement of the revetment and photos collected through the CoastSnap station will further aide in these efforts. 

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OC Parks

OC Parks manages nearly 60,000 acres of parks, historical and coastal facilities and open space for the County of Orange as part of OC Community Resources. http://www.ocparks.com

This project has been completed

Placement of up to 20,000 cubic yards of sand material from the Santa Ana River, from OC Public Works, at Capistrano Beach within the City of Dana Point. This is a joint project between OC Parks and OC Public Works. Public access may be limited during construction.

What:

•    Transport of 20,000 cubic yards of clean sand removed from flood control maintenance in the Santa Ana River.
•    Screening of sand and trucking to the beach area north of Palisades Drive.
•    Placement of sand along a 550 linear-foot stretch at the north reach of Capistrano Beach.

DETOURS AND SAFETY
Flaggers will direct both pedestrians and bicyclists to avoid the work area. Watch for additional traffic control measures including construction signage.

BACKGROUND
Additional sand serves to counter coastal erosion, protect coastal resources and enhance recreation areas. The California Coastal Commission (CCC) has approved placement of sand as an interim measure.

When:

Anticipated Construction Duration:
July 8 – September 2024

Working Days/Hours:
Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Working hours and schedule will vary due to tides, inclement weather, ocean conditions and other factors.

Where:

Capistrano Beach Park
35005 Beach Road, Dana Point, CA 92624

Contact Information:

(714) 973-6865

ocparks@ocparks.com

Crawford Canyon Park opened to the public on Nov. 19, 2025. 

In collaboration with Orange County (OC) Parks, OC Public Works will be starting construction of a new neighborhood park and public walkway improvements along Crawford Canyon Road in North Tustin.

WHAT: 

Upcoming project activities will include: 

• Clearing of the park area
• Grading and importing soil material onto the site
• Placement of amenities such as picnic tables, benches, bike racks and waste/recycle receptacles
• Installation of fencing, lighting and electrical equipment, irrigation and landscaping
• Installation of upgraded traffic signal equipment
• Replacement of road guardrail
• Construction of:
  • Retaining wall
  • Entrance driveway and parking lot in southern portion of park area (nine standard parking spaces, two Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) parking spaces)
  • Exercise stations and two youth playground areas
  • Walkways (both concrete and disintegrated granite)
  • Wood pedestrian bridge
  • ADA curb ramps
  • Stormwater catch basin, drain pipe and vegetated swale

Your safety is our top priority! 

Traffic control safety measures will be in place. There may be brief delays or stops for the public along the adjacent path for vehicles and equipment entering the work area. Please observe all project safety signs, barriers and personnel when traveling near the project area.

WHEN: 

May 2024 - May 2025

Schedule is subject to change due to weather or other factors.

Working Days/Hours:
Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: 

The west corner of the intersection of Newport Avenue and Crawford Canyon Road in North Tustin.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Adam Ramos, OC Public Works
(714) 667-1631
ProjectInfo@ocpw.ocgov.com 

Additional park details and project updates.

(Silverado, Calif.) – Hike atop colorful sandstone and cobble bluffs and enjoy breathtaking views of the Santa Ana Mountains and beyond at Red Rock Wilderness.  

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, the approximately 1,500-acre area features more than 8 miles of new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding along with a scenic overlook that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.  

“Red Rock Wilderness is the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure,” said Chairman Donald P. Wagner, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “I am thrilled to continue expanding outdoor recreation opportunities in Orange County and introducing even more residents to these beautiful spaces. I look forward to exploring this area and standing atop the red rock formations found here.”                                                                                          

Situated on top of the 20 to 40-million-year-old Sespe formation, Red Rock Wilderness was once home to early rhinos and crocodiles that roamed the area. The red rocks developed their striking color and jagged appearance over time as the sediment oxidized and eroded, along with the gradual uplift of the Santa Ana Mountains. The area offers a protected and preserved natural habitat for a variety of plants and animals, including bobcats, mule deer, grey fox and a variety of bird species. Colorful California poppies, lupine and other wildflowers can be enjoyed here during the spring months while coast live oaks, prickly pear cactus, coastal sage scrub and native grasses are visible year-round. 

Red Rock Wilderness features six new multi-use trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders to explore ranging from easy to difficult. A new scenic overlook offers sweeping views of the nearby red rocks, Black Star Canyon Wilderness, the surrounding canyons and beyond. Visitors will have the opportunity to provide voluntary feedback about Red Rock Wilderness through on-site participation surveys and offer naming suggestions for several unnamed trails. 

In 2023, OC Parks opened Saddleback Wilderness and Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, adding nearly 10 miles of multi-use trails for public use in the Irvine Ranch Open Space. Red Rock Wilderness is the newest area to open to the public and supports OC Parks’ continued mission to preserve and enhance natural and cultural resources for recreation, education and exploration throughout Orange County. The land is part of 25,000 acres donated from the Irvine Company to the County of Orange for preservation and recreation. 

Red Rock Wilderness is accessible through scheduled guided and self-guided programs with advance registration. Select programs at Red Rock Wilderness will also provide access to 3 miles of multi-use trails within Loma Ridge Nature Preserve, also part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. OC Parks balances environmental stewardship with public access to ensure the area is preserved and enjoyed. Public usage and feedback, along with further monitoring of native habitat and wildlife populations are taken into consideration as future access opportunities and availability are determined. Free public access opportunities will begin Saturday, May 18.  

May and June 2024 Activities and Programs at Red Rock Wilderness

Advance registration required for all activities and programs. Visit OCParks.com/irvine-ranch-open-space for more information and to sign up. Inclement weather may cancel activities and programs.  

May 18 – Wilderness Access Day: Red Rock Wilderness  
8 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

May 22 – Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Red Rock Wilderness   
8 – 10 a.m. 

May 23 – The Lure and Lull of Red Rock Wilderness Equestrian Ride   
10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 

May 24 – Morning Hike at Red Rock Wilderness     
8 – 10:30 a.m. 

May 30 – Nature Hike at Red Rock Wilderness   
9 – 11:30 a.m. 

June 7 – Red Rock to Limestone Distance Hike
6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

June 13 – Thursday Morning Trek in Red Rock Wilderness     
7:30 – 11 a.m. 

June 14 – Morning Hike at Red Rock Wilderness   
8 – 10:30 a.m. 

June 15 – Wilderness Access Day: Red Rock Wilderness 
8 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

June 16 – Moderate-Paced Mountain Bike Ride in Red Rock Wilderness and Loma Ridge   
8 – 11 a.m. 

June 28 – Morning Mountain Bike Ride at Red Rock Wilderness   
8 – 10:30 a.m.

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OC Parks
OC Parks manages nearly 60,000 acres of parks, historical and coastal facilities and open space for the County of Orange as part of OC Community Resources. http://www.ocparks.com

Project Summary: 

Moulton Niguel Water District's (MNWD) Regional Force Main Replacement Project will replace nearly 2 miles of pipelines within Laguna Niguel Regional Park. The existing pipelines carry wastewater from MNWD's pump station to the Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant. The new pipelines will help to ensure continued safe and reliable service. 

Learn more about MNWD's Regional Force Main Replacement Project.

PHASED CONSTRUCTION
Construction will occur in phases to minimize the impact on park visitors. Until construction is completed, park visitors may see necessary trail closures and reduced park access to ensure the public’s safety. Construction will utilize trenchless construction methods, where needed, to safeguard environmentally sensitive areas and minimize the effects on local wildlife. 

TRAIL CLOSURES
Trails will be closed in phases to preserve the public’s access to walking paths and bike trails in the park as much as possible. Be alert for any trail closures and possible rerouting of your normal path. 

NO RESERVATIONS OR PERMITS 
All park shelters will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and advance reservations will not be permitted throughout the duration of the project. Special events and vendor permits will not be issued during this time.

REDUCED PARK ACCESS
Sections of the park and associated amenities may be closed, as needed, to ensure a safe construction site. Parking spaces may also be limited during construction work.

INCREASED CONSTRUCTION TRAFFIC 
Visitors may experience delays or detours due to increased construction traffic throughout the park for the duration of the project.

WHEN: 

Anticipated Construction Duration:
Summer 2024 – Spring 2027 

Working Days/Hours:
Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Work will not be performed on weekends, holidays or during inclement weather.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Moulton Niguel Water District 
(949) 425-3501
forcemain@mnwd.com

This project has been completed. 

Project Summary: 

The Harriett M. Wieder Regional Park Playground Replacement Project will revitalize an existing playground area by removing old playground equipment and installing new play equipment and impact surfaces to ensure safety and functionality for children of all ages. The project scope also includes minor site enhancements. 

When: 

Fall 2024 – Summer 2025

The construction schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Working Days/Hours:
Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Contact Information:
OC Parks
(949) 923-2250

(Lake Forest, Calif.) - Immerse yourself in the rich history of Orange County’s rancho era at the annual Rancho Days Fiesta on Saturday, May 4 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Heritage Hill Historical Park. This event commemorates the unique history of rancho and Native American cultures through interactive activities, live music, dance performances and more in a family-friendly setting.

Free to attend and fun for all ages, Rancho Days Fiesta features a variety of activities including engaging exhibits, cultural performances, craft workshops, piñata breaking and more. Attendees will enjoy vibrant Folklórico and Native American dances, witness educational Charro horseback riding and roping demonstrations and explore the historic buildings at Heritage Hill Historical Park with guided tours provided by Amigos de la Colina docents. Pets are welcome in outdoor areas only and must remain on a leash no longer than six feet. 

“Rancho Days Fiesta is the perfect way for visitors of all ages to glimpse into Orange County’s storied past,” said Chairman Donald P. Wagner, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “This annual event is a testament to our community’s history and to the dedication of the County of Orange in preserving and sharing this important legacy with future generations.”

Heritage Hill Historical Park spans 4.1 acres and includes four fully restored and furnished historic buildings that span the early history of the Saddleback Valley and El Toro area from the Mexican Rancho era to the founding of the town of El Toro through the citrus farming days of the early 20th century. Join OC Parks at Rancho Days Fiesta to experience the charm and excitement of the rancho era.  

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May 4 - Rancho Days Fiesta 
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Admission: Free  
Parking: Free 
Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park, 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630  
Contact: (949) 923-2230

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OC Parks

OC Parks manages nearly 60,000 acres of parks, historical and coastal facilities and open space for the County of Orange as part of OC Community Resources. http://www.ocparks.com