The hissing of spray cans and slaps of paint filled the air as volunteers, city workers and the area’s councilmember worked together on a Saturday to restore the horseshoe pit at Grupe Park in central Stockton.
The work on the horseshoe pit was one of several improvements initiated by the Stockton Beautification Project, a volunteer-led program within the Clean City Initiative, launched in 2021 to advance new and existing programs aimed at reducing trash accumulation and illegal dumping.
“The whole purpose is to give us a nice, clean city, so getting the involvement of the public and volunteers is crucial,” said District 3 City Councilmember Michael Blower. “To get that additional manpower and people to help, it is really great.”
With guidance from city workers, volunteers grabbed paintbrushes and spray cans and rotated through stations. They painted the wood surrounding the horseshoe pit, the foundation of the pergolas, the gates, and the cement chess tables.
Among the volunteers was Biore’ McGee, who said “I am volunteering here with my friend Leslie. We are here from the Key Club at Stagg High School.”
Born and raised in Stockton, McGee reflected on how much the city has changed over the years.
“Growing up I’ve seen Stockton look beautiful, and over time I saw it get worse and worse,” she said. “Now, getting older, I can see they are finally trying to clean it up and make it look better again. I feel motivated to continue helping and bring more of my friends along too.”
Nearby, longtime Stockton resident Vern Williamson sat beneath a grove of trees, watching the activity unfold.
“I ride my bike here from downtown because it’s peaceful,” Williamson said. “I’ve been out here watching them paint that area over there, and I just have to say this is some beautiful work they are doing. I truly appreciate all the hard work they are putting into this park — I truly do.”
The next Beautification Project will take place on Saturday, Oct. 11, at Nelson Park.
