Importance of Partnerships
Partnerships are essential for the success of the Anza Recreational Retracement Trail. They bring together diverse resources, expertise, and perspectives that can amplify impact and create a sense of shared ownership for the trail. On July 24th, 2024, the City of Moreno Valley and the Anza Trail team collaborated to commemorate a new significant partnership and dedicate a new Anza Trail segment.
Photo credit: City of Moreno Valley
This partnership is vital for preserving history while promoting health, wellness, and connectivity throughout the community. As we celebrate this trail segment's opening, we invite everyone to explore the beauty and heritage that Moreno Valley and the Anza Trail have to offer. Mr. Quang Nguyen, Principal Engineer for the city’s Public Works Department, emphasized that the city has been planning for a recreational trail in this area for a very long time. He noted that securing funding was crucial in making projects like these possible, and the community is thrilled to have received the necessary support to carry out this vision. Through our collaborative efforts, we are not only enhancing recreational and educational opportunities but also ensuring the preservation of the trail’s historical and cultural significance.
Moreno Valley’s Trail Dedication Ceremony
The City of Moreno Valley, incorporated in 1984, is among the fastest growing cities in the U.S. and is located along the historic Anza expedition route in present day Southern California. The recent dedication of a new trail segment within the Anza Trail marks a significant milestone for the city and its residents. The ceremony for the 8-mile Anza Trail segment was a beautiful event held at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, attended by several local officials and community members from Moreno Valley. This event celebrated the ongoing partnership between the National Park Service and the City of Moreno Valley and the city’s diligent work toward this long-distance trail. On behalf of the Anza Trail team, we extend our congratulations to all who contributed to the success of this project and celebratory event! During the ceremony, the city was presented with an official certificate recognizing the dedication of the trail segment, along with a commemorative plaque.
NPS Photo
This achievement is part of a larger collective effort to create a contiguous recreational trail on or near the historic corridor that will benefit current and future generations. We encourage the communities along the trail to recognize the cultural resources and economic opportunities this project can bring.
“This is a community within the city... along the trail we have, I believe, seven schools. That's students using this trail to go to school instead of going onto a main street. This is safety right here that they can walk through.” - Mr. Quang Nguyen
The inclusion of diverse narratives enriches the community's understanding of its heritage and promotes a sense of ownership among residents. The trail interconnects various neighborhoods and creates opportunities for people to engage with their history in a meaningful way. This non-motorized transportation route not only enhances safety but also encourages community members to share their unique stories and experiences.
Looking Ahead: The 250th Anniversary
In 2026, we will be commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Anza expedition, an event that significantly shaped California’s history. This dedicated trail segment serves as a tribute to that journey, reminding us of its enduring influence on our communities and culture.