Mariposa Park

Gibson Mariposa Park, located in El Monte, California, is a neighborhood park that opened on March 10, 2012. The park's creation has a heartwarming origin story, beginning with a letter-writing campaign by a group of Shirper Elementary School fifth-graders in 2003. These students urged city officials to convert a neglected space in their neighborhood into a park, demonstrating the power of community involvement in urban development.

The park's design was a collaborative effort involving input from local residents, including children who requested a butterfly theme. This community-based approach resulted in a park that reflects the needs and desires of the surrounding neighborhood. The name "Mariposa," which means butterfly in Spanish, was chosen to honor this theme and the children's input.

Spanning 4.3 acres, Gibson Mariposa Park offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors of all ages. The park features both active and passive recreational areas, providing a balance of activities for the community. Its design incorporates elements of natural infrastructure, including native drought-tolerant plants that help conserve water and protect local biodiversity. The park also includes educational components, such as interpretive signage listing the plants, animals, and insects that can be found in the area.

One of the park's notable features is its watershed design for stormwater collection and distribution throughout the park, showcasing a commitment to sustainable urban planning. This design not only serves a practical purpose but also provides an opportunity for environmental education.