Mojave Narrows Equestrian Center Opens in Victorville After ARPA-Funded Revitalization
Victorville, California (High Desert News Online) – Mojave Narrows Regional Park in Victorville opens a renovated equestrian center April 30, featuring a new barn, corrals, arena and spectator seating after a $1.6–$1.9 million ARPA-funded revitalization aimed at expanding local equestrian recreation and programming.
- Ribbon-cutting: Thursday, April 30, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.; free park admission 10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
- Funding: ARPA-funded project with a county budget listed at $1.9 million; costs described in the $1.6–$1.9 million range.
- Upgrades: New prefabricated barn with stalls, corrals, arena with seating, lighting and PA system, plus utilities.
- Contact: Heather Placencia, 909-387-2340; heather.placencia@parks.sbcounty.gov
Event at a glance
What: Ribbon-cutting for the new Mojave Narrows Equestrian Center (barn, corrals, arena).
When: Thursday, April 30, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.; free park admission 10 a.m.–6:30 p.m. for visitors celebrating and touring the facilities.
Where: Mojave Narrows Regional Park, 18000 Yates Road, Victorville, CA 92392. Phone: 760-245-2226.
Cost and funding: Project carried out with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds; county documents list a project budget of $1.9 million and press notices reference costs in the $1.6–$1.9 million range. The Board awarded a $1.1 million construction contract in October 2024.
Organizer contact: Heather Placencia, 909-387-2340; heather.placencia@parks.sbcounty.gov.
Project background and funding
The equestrian revitalization broke ground in January 2025 as part of a county effort to repair and expand horse facilities that were damaged or outdated. County project documents from October 2024 set a total budget at $1.9 million and show the Board of Supervisors awarded a $1.1 million construction contract to KNC Construction in October 2024. Recent county communications around the April 2026 ribbon-cutting describe the project cost in a range from about $1.6 million to $1.9 million. County officials say the work was made possible with ARPA funding aimed at public-recreation improvements.
See the county project update and budget/contract details (Oct. 2024) and the county press release: Mojave Narrows ribbon-cutting (April 23, 2026).
Facility upgrades and features
- A prefabricated barn with horse stalls and a storage room for tack and feed.
- Corrals with new water troughs and hitching posts.
- An arena area fitted with spectator seating, lighting and a Public Address (PA) system.
- Installed water and electrical conduits to support operations and events.
County recreation officials say the updates replace and improve two previously demolished corrals and add four horse stalls to better serve riders, campers and other park visitors. The facility complements existing equestrian trails at Mojave Narrows and aims to broaden program offerings for riders. (See the parks event page and details.)
Officials’ statements and goals
“I am excited about this new amenity, and the department is looking forward to increased programs and activities for the equestrian community,” said Regional Parks Director Beahta Davis in the county release.
Board of Supervisors Chair Dawn Rowe said the renovations “are a vital step in meeting the needs of our diverse and growing visitor base” and aim to make parks welcoming to everyone, “from seasoned riders to families.” Chief of Project Management Sarah Riley added the work seeks to honor Mojave Narrows’ legacy while preparing the park for future use.
Event details and visitor information
Schedule: Ribbon-cutting opens at 11 a.m. on April 30 and should last about an hour. Visitors may enter the park for free from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. to join the celebration and tour the new barn, corrals and arena. Light refreshments will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Closing notice: Organizers advise the park will have a full closure for a separate special event from May 1–3, so plan visits accordingly.
For media or public questions, contact Heather Placencia at 909-387-2340 or heather.placencia@parks.sbcounty.gov. Park phone: 760-245-2226.
Investigative look: cost, oversight and local benefit
The project raises questions about procurement and the use of ARPA funds for capital upgrades. County records show the Board approved a $1.1 million construction contract in October 2024 and set a project budget at $1.9 million. More recent county announcements describe final costs in a narrower range—roughly $1.6–$1.9 million—which can reflect multi-phase project elements including planning, demolition, prefabrication, utilities and finish work.
Documentation indicates Project and Facilities Management led the work with public procurement processes followed for the construction contract. For taxpayers, transparency and measurable community returns (attendance, program growth, maintenance costs, and local economic impact) will be key metrics to assess value.
How the center fits broader county plans
County officials say the project aligns with the Countywide Vision to connect and beautify communities through shared open spaces. The equestrian improvements are part of a wider parks effort that has included other ribbon-cuttings and upgrades across San Bernardino County, plus splash-pad expansions and events like Equine Education Day.
Related parks projects and events include the Prado ribbon-cutting and additional improvements noted in county communications.
Implications for The High Desert, California
Economic impact. The new center can attract riders, families and small events to Victorville and the High Desert, potentially increasing spending at gas stations, restaurants, lodging and equine-related businesses. Tracking weekend attendance and event bookings will show whether the investment yields sustained local returns.
Political and fiscal consequences. For fiscally minded residents, questions about stewardship of taxpayer and federal ARPA dollars are central. County documentation shows procurement and budgeting steps, but ongoing transparency—post-project reports on attendance, programs and maintenance—will help the public evaluate outcomes.
Social and community effects. The equestrian center broadens recreation choices, supports youth programs and riding clubs, and may help preserve rural and equestrian traditions in the High Desert. Hosting educational events and competitions could foster local pride and engagement.
Practical impacts for residents. Note the free admission window on April 30 (10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.), the ribbon-cutting at 11 a.m., and the park closure May 1–3. Equestrians gain improved day-use and overnight options with new stalls, corrals and hitching posts; related businesses may see increased demand.
Where to get more information
- County press release: Mojave Narrows ribbon-cutting (April 23, 2026)
- Parks event page and details
- Project update and budget/contract details (Oct. 2024)
For media or public questions about the ribbon-cutting, contact Heather Placencia at 909-387-2340 or heather.placencia@parks.sbcounty.gov. For general park information, visit parks.sbcounty.gov.
