City of Santa Ana celebrates opening of first dog park as part of $13.4 million Centennial Park Improvements Project

Other new enhancements at Centennial Park include walking paths, restrooms, restoration of the park's lakes, and new lighting and artificial sports field turf.

SANTA ANA, Calif. - The City of Santa Ana opened its first dog park on Saturday, April 4, and celebrated the broader $13.4 million Centennial Park Improvements Project that is transforming Santa Ana's largest park.

The Santa Ana City Council, residents and community partners - along with a crowd of canines - gathered for a ribbon cutting at the dog park in a previously undeveloped 4.5-acre lot in the southwest corner of Centennial Park at 3000 W. Edinger Ave.

"The opening of Santa Ana's first dog park marks an exciting milestone for our community, as part of a major investment in one of the city's most active parks," Mayor Valerie Amezcua said. "With the addition of the new dog park, new lighting, walking paths, restrooms, and more, we're creating a space where neighbors, families and their pets can connect, stay active and enjoy the outdoors together."

The new dog park represents a major milestone for the Santa Ana community, thoughtfully designed with both pets and their owners in mind. The space features three separate off-leash areas for small, medium and large dogs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Natural turf grass, irrigated with recycled water, provides an environmentally friendly and comfortable surface for play.

Additional amenities include a canine agility course, dog-rinse station, seating areas, new restrooms, a walking path, and convenient nearby parking - positioning the park as one of Orange County's premier destinations for dog lovers. The dog park is part of a broader transformation across Centennial Park.

Enhancements throughout the park include:

• Installation of new synthetic turf fields for local athletes
• Major restoration of the park's lakes to improve water circulation and habitat health
• New picnic and gathering areas for families and community events
• Water-wise landscaping supported by reclaimed water irrigation systems
• Enhanced safety measures, including security cameras and remodeled restrooms
• New lighting for the sports fields, skate park and Dan Young Soccer Complex, further expanding recreational opportunities.

Adjacent to the park, the City has also developed a modern simulation training center for the Santa Ana Police Department, reinforcing its commitment to public safety and innovation.

Photos of the dog park opening are available here.

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