Dwight Murphy Field Renovation Reaches 25% Completion

The 100-year-old Dwight Murphy Field is undergoing a major renovation to become Santa Barbara’s first all-abilities playground. The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department announced on October 30, 2025, that the project reached 25% completion.

The renovation of the Dwight Murphy Field was started in June across the 10-acre site. Since then, several key milestones have been completed.

All existing park structures have been demolished, and rough grading throughout the site has been completed. Crews have also begun installing the underground water retention system and field drainpipe to manage stormwater.

The foundation for the new Magical Treehouse in Gwendolyn’s Playground is partially installed.

Early construction included soil remediation and additional stabilization measures after crews encountered higher-than-anticipated groundwater levels.

In the coming months, crews will continue to focus on underground utilities, drainage systems, and foundation work before moving into vertical construction.

Santa Barbara’s First All-Abilities Playground

The Parks and Recreation Department and the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation have collaborated to develop the playground. Some of its highlights are:

• Multi-story treehouse
• Hill slides
• Musical play elements
• Swings, accommodating wheelchairs and mobility aids
• Calming pods
• Multi-sport field for soccer, rugby, and lacrosse
• Outdoor fitness area
• Shaded group picnic area
• Restrooms
• Walking paths
• A large turf area for drop-in activities
• Increased parking

The playground’s design ensures accessibility for people of all ages and abilities. They have also removed the traditional barriers and created a space for children with disabilities. 

Project Timeline

• May 2018 – August 2021

Community outreach began in 2018, gathering public input that led to the development of the Dwight Murphy Master Plan. 

• August 2021

After years of planning and collaborating, the Planning Commission approved the project.

• September 2021-December 2023

Final design and construction documents were completed.

• 2024-2025

After finalizing bids and permits, the Santa Barbara City Council approved Ohno Construction as the project contractor.

• June 2025

The construction officially began.

• Spring 2027

Dwight Murphy Field to be reopened.

Project Funding

The $32 million project is funded through a combination of public and private contributions, including $6 million from the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation, a $5 million pledge from Ty Warner, $19.5 million in City funds, and $1.5 million in federal Community Project Funding secured by Congressman Salud Carbajal.