SACRAMENTO, CA – Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) has partnered with San Bernardino County to introduce Senate Bill 360 (SB 360), which will conserve open space and expand park and recreation opportunities for San Bernardino County residents.

“I know firsthand the importance of local parks and open space that can serve our children and communities for a lifetime,” said Senator Rubio. “San Bernardino County families have a critical need for open park space, and I am proud to work together with the County Board of Supervisors on this bill, including Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman, who has championed this issue. SB 360 will unlock long-standing Proposition 70 funds for park, cultural space, and open space improvements, including much-needed upgrades to Prado Regional Park.”

“This bill will bring critical enhancements to our parks, recreational facilities, and cultural spaces within the Chino Agricultural Preserve, enriching the quality of life for residents and strengthening community connections,” said Supervisor Hagman. “These improvements will also boost local tourism and economic growth, and we appreciate Senator Rubio’s leadership in advancing this important initiative for San Bernardino County.”

Passed by voters in 1988, Proposition 70 allocated $20 million to San Bernardino County for land acquisition and conservation in the Chino Agricultural Preserve. While some of these funds have expanded public lands, current restrictions have prevented full investment in park and recreation improvements. SB 360 will clarify existing law to ensure these resources can be used for long-overdue enhancements to public spaces.

San Bernardino County has already committed more than $20 million in the 2024-25 fiscal year for regional park improvements. Prado Regional Park, located along the 71 Freeway, serves as a key recreational destination for Southern California residents. A 2019 master planning process highlighted strong community support for expanded amenities, including trails, open space, cultural and nature centers, and upgraded recreational facilities.

Senator Rubio has been a community champion for open space conservation and expanded park and recreation amenities in Senate District 22, including a successful push to secure $12 million for the San Gabriel Mountains Regional Conservancy and addressing the need for green spaces and community gathering places in the City of Baldwin Park by working with local leaders to open the Susan Rubio Zocalo Park & Civic Center Plaza.

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