On Tuesday, May 23, at 10 a.m., the City of Irvine embarked on an exciting new chapter at the Great Park with a groundbreaking ceremony to commence construction on the next phase of development — the Great Park Framework Plan. The ceremony signified the commencement of a highly anticipated project and included the demolition of a former MCAS El Toro building and the launch of the new Great Park brand and website.

This milestone event brought together local officials, community leaders, project stakeholders, and residents to celebrate the park's evolution and the beginning of this transformative project. Attendees heard from Great Park Chairman Mike Carroll, Mayor Farrah N. Khan, Great Park Vice Chairman Larry Agran, and City Manager Oliver Chi about the history of the Great Park and its vision for the future.

“The groundbreaking of the next phase of development at the Great Park is just the beginning,” said Great Park Chairman Mike Carroll. “The next phase not only brings 300 acres of incredible amenities and services for Irvine, Orange County, California, and beyond, it takes the City of Irvine to the next level. I am ecstatic to lead this unique and innovative charge and I believe that the Great Park will be one of the best metropolitan parks in the world.”

“As Mayor of Irvine, it is very fulfilling to see a long-time promise come to fruition through today’s groundbreaking ceremony,” said Mayor Farrah N. Khan. “The community has helped guide the park’s development since 2005, and I am pleased to be able to bring that vision to life.”

The groundbreaking also debuted the new Great Park logo and website. Attendees were able to view the new park branding and learn more about the exciting development and its key features. More information can be found at greatparkframework.org.

The Great Park Framework Plan brings over 300 acres of innovative and unique public space to the park, including lakes, gardens, live music, museums, wide open meadows, and space to honor those who served. Grounded in history and driven by community, the new phase of the Great Park will bring an expanding array of recreational and cultural opportunities to Irvine and the region as a park for all.

At 1,300 acres, the Great Park will be one of the biggest municipal parks in the world. Framed by forest, defined by open space and a wide variety of community-serving uses, it brings nature, exploration, and wonder to Irvine’s doorstep. Both big and great, large municipal parks bring beneficial aspects of nature into the built environment, improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our communities, and provide an antidote to the stress of daily life. The Great Park is a celebration of Irvine’s rich heritage and diverse community — and a multifaceted investment in our collective future. It’s a place of joy, wellness, and wonder that will gracefully evolve and enrich the lives of future generations.

For more information about the Great Park Framework Plan, please visit the new Great Park Development website.

See a video of the groundbreaking here. See photos from the ceremony here.