Santa Maria, Calif. – The City of Santa Maria announced a major win for local families and youth sports. Councilmember Gloria Soto, working with State Senator Monique Limón, secured $1.2 million in state funding to upgrade Simas Park and make the historic Barbettini Field accessible to all residents.
Funding targets accessibility and safety
The grant will be used for a suite of improvements, including new ADA‑compliant sidewalks, ramps, street repairs and bike lanes throughout the park. These upgrades are designed to remove barriers for athletes, coaches, families and community members of every ability.
Barbettini Field set to reopen after two‑year closure
Barbettini Field, nestled between the Elks Field and the Santa Maria Courthouse, has been the home of Santa Maria Southside Little League for decades. The field’s two‑year shutdown forced the league to play at Robin Ventura Field, more than three miles away, creating hardship for young players and their families. With the new improvements, the park is expected to welcome Little League teams again, restoring a cherished community gathering place.
Local leaders praise the investment
“Santa Maria deserves leaders who are willing to work together, build strong partnerships, and get things done for our community,” Soto said in a release. “I am proud to have worked with Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón to bring these state dollars home to Santa Maria. Her leadership and commitment to our community have helped make this investment possible, and I am grateful for her partnership. Simas Park belongs to all of Santa Maria, and every resident should be able to fully access and enjoy it, regardless of ability.”
Limón echoed the sentiment, noting the broader impact of the project. “I am proud to secure this $1.2 million state investment to help ensure Simas Park can expand and reach more community members. With new sidewalks, ramps and bike lanes, this Santa Maria park can be the inviting space it was always meant to be,” she said.
Fiscal responsibility amid budget pressures
The timing of the grant is significant. Santa Maria is currently navigating substantial budget pressures, and the infusion of state money allows the city to move forward with the park improvements without adding strain to the local General Fund or Community Development Block Grant resources. By leveraging outside funding, the city can address critical infrastructure needs while preserving fiscal stability.
What’s next?
While the funding is now secured, the city has not set a specific timetable for when construction will begin or be completed. Officials say the project will move forward as design and contracting processes are finalized.
For families, coaches and longtime fans of Southside Little League, the announcement signals a hopeful return to a beloved local tradition. The upgrades promise not only a safer, more accessible park but also a renewed sense of community pride as Santa Maria’s youth baseball heritage is revived for future generations.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
