Encinitas, CA, May 29, 2025 – The City of Encinitas is proud to announce the grand opening of the newly renovated playground at Scott Valley Park, with a ribbon cutting celebration scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. This special event marks a milestone in the City’s ongoing commitment to inclusive and equitable access to play.

The updated playground has been thoughtfully redesigned to welcome children of all abilities in an engaging space where kids can play, explore, and connect, side by side, regardless of physical or sensory differences. The multi-abled design includes features that promote movement, interaction, and discovery, reinforcing the essential role of outdoor play in a child’s physical, social, and cognitive development.

“This playground is more than a renovation – it’s a reflection of our values as a community,” said Dave Knopp, City of Encinitas Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts. “We are creating places where every child is seen, included, and supported.”

This transformative project was made possible through a combination of grants, City funds, and generous donations led by the family of Sophie Jones. Sophie, who experienced an anoxic brain injury early in life and passed away at age 11, was inspired by Utah’s All Together Playground and dreamed of bringing a similar inclusive experience to San Diego County. In her memory, the Jones family launched a heartfelt campaign to help turn that dream into a reality – culminating in one of San Diego County’s few public playgrounds designed specifically for inclusive, multi-abled play.

As a lasting tribute, Sophie’s loved ones and community volunteers collaborated to create a beautiful mosaic installation at the park. Composed of custom-engraved coins, the mosaic honors the many individuals and organizations whose support made this project possible.

Join us on May 31^st to celebrate this remarkable achievement, honor Sophie’s legacy, and officially open a space where all children can thrive.

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Located along six miles of Pacific Ocean coastline in northern San Diego County, Encinitas has an approximate population of 62,000 and is characterized by coastal beaches, flat-topped coastal areas, steep mesa bluffs and rolling hills. The city was incorporated in 1986, drawing together the communities of New Encinitas, Old Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Olivenhain and Leucadia. For more information about the City of Encinitas, visit encinitasca.gov.