WITH MOSAICS, TILES, PARK A WORK OF ART.

Byline: Angie Valencia-Martinez Staff Writer

SIMI VALLEY - The Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District will unveil Vista del Arroyo Park this week, a 3.3-acre neighborhood park alongside the Arroyo Simi.

The $1 million park, adjacent to the flood-control channel that runs the length of Simi Valley, is at 3451 Chicory Leaf Place and has been in the planning stages for three years.

Echoing a river theme, the park integrates animals, plants and nature found in the Arroyo Simi into its public art.

``It's so unique. It fits in the landscape completely,'' said James Meredith, a park district board member. ``It's one of a kind.''

The artistic element includes professional mosaic panels and hundreds of hand-painted tiles created by neighborhood children, including the two children of City Councilwoman Michelle Foster.

``They had a great time,'' said the mother of a 17-year-old daughter and 14-year-old son. ``They understand that by painting the tile, they are becoming part of their neighborhood park.

``The whole neighborhood is very excited. This one is going to be unique and special.''

Douglas Duran, project manager and park district landscape designer, hand drew the items on the white tiles, installed along the sides of low walls in the park.

``It's been hard labor but rewarding,'' he said. ``It gives them ownership. Who knows, 10 to 15 years from now they'll tell their husband or wife, 'I did this.'''

The park's other amenities include a playground, basketball court and picnic area.

The district now turns its attention to other projects, including a girls' softball complex and an off-leash dog park, said Colleen Janssen, park district spokeswoman.

Angie Valencia-Martinez, [phone]

angie.valencia(at)dailynews.com

IF YOU GO

The Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District will unveil its latest park on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon at 3451 Chicory Leaf Place.

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IF YOU GO (see text)