Yuba City has finally unveiled its new water tower plaza on Plumas Street. The project faced many setbacks due to rising costs and inflation, but with the help of contractors, the challenges were overcome.
On Wednesday, the city hosted a community ribbon-cutting ceremony and first annual Christmas tree lighting.
“Let me be the first to welcome you to Yuba City’s brand new Tower Plaza,” said Mayor Dave Shaw.
The nearly $3 million project was built through a grant from Caltrans. It features a play structure, murals, a Christmas tree and an outdoor amphitheater.
Shaw said the hope is that the new Tower Plaza will attract more people downtown. The city hopes the park will also boost surrounding businesses.
One of the special features of the new square is a mural that connects the past with the future.
“You'll see we have a postcard theme here, 'Greetings from Yuba City,'” said Josh Wolffe, Yuba City public works director. “Next, a rooster, because in Yuba City you have to have chickens.”
The original Yuba City fire station, once located below the plaza's water tower, is now a permanent part of the new park's wall.
And while it's not quite there yet, the Christmas tree is expected to grow up to 80 feet tall.
“This will be our focal point, not just for the center of the park here, but for the holiday spirit here in downtown Yuba City,” Shaw said.