Summary

Hilltop Park, located at Hilltop Drive and Telegraph Canyon Road, is undergoing extensive renovation to stabilize the slopes along its concrete drainage channel, which runs the length of the park. This work is essential because the park, dedicated in 1974, was designed to serve two functions: 1) to operate as an active flood control system during rain events, and 2) to provide recreational space for the community during dry weather. Because occasional flooding is expected at the park as part of its design, this slope stabilization project will help prevent erosion and soil loss while protecting the drainage system from damage.

The primary focus of the renovation is the installation of a turf‑reinforcing mat on the slopes along both sides of the concrete drainage channel. The project does not include work on the channel itself, except for replacing the section that washed out during recent storms.

The renovation is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, pending the absence of unforeseen delays. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue moving this important project forward. The next project update will be provided in early August.

September 2026 Update

Slope Stabilization Completed Activities

• Installed turf-reinforcing mat and sod on three quarters of the project site. 
• The contractor placed large rocks (known as riprap) along the entire concrete drainage channel on both the north and south sides. Installed as a temporary measure to slow and reduce the force of flowing water during winter storms, most of this riprap has been removed and will be reused by the City’s Public Works department at other drainage channels throughout the City, including Rohr Park, pictured on the right. The rest of the rip rap will be removed once permanent improvements are completed. 
• Planted 28 new trees to replace diseased trees at Hilltop Park. An additional 28 new trees were purchased and provided to Public Works to plant across the City.
• Installed new irrigation system.
• Permanent riprap has been installed at the western  (downstream) end of the project, near the pedestrian bridge, along with a four‑foot‑tall chain‑link fence to prevent access to the area.
• A pre‑construction raptor and migratory bird survey was completed before work began. Construction activities were then restricted to avoid disturbing breeding behavior and to allow nesting birds to successfully fledge.
• The parking lot’s damaged sidewalk and pavement were repaired.
• Parks crews removed trees at the western end of Hilltop Park which were damaging sidewalk panels and blocking visibility on walking paths causing safety issues. 

Slope Stabilization Upcoming Activities

Now that the rainy season is officially over, construction work resumed in May. Work started at the western end of the project near the pedestrian bridge. Not all components of the project will be completed at the same time. Construction is progressing in 100-foot segments from west to east. The following work is currently underway:

• Removal of remaining portions of the temporarily placed riprap
• Final grading and incorporation of soil amendments into the soil to improve soil structure, enhance nutrient availability and support healthy vegetation growth
• Replacement of the concrete drainage channel where it washed out now that we've received our environmental permit. 
• Installation of additional trees at the western end of the park. 
• Installation of the remainder of the turn reinforcing mat and sod. 

The construction fence will be in place until all work is completed.

Project Location: Hilltop Park 780 Hilltop Drive

Additional Project Details

The City is working not only to reduce erosion, but also to protect waterways and plant new trees to keep the park healthy and green. Some aging or unhealthy trees will be removed; however, they will be replaced to support long-term safety and sustainability.

Additional work will include installation of a new irrigation system and construction of a concrete structure with cobble stones to slow the water and reduce erosion at the western (downstream) end of the project.

The walking path and bridges will remain open for most of the renovation, with occasional closures for construction activities. These closures are expected to last only a couple of days at a time. Advance notice will be provided whenever possible.

The playground and dog park will remain unaffected and accessible throughout the duration of the project; however, the gazebos will remain closed until the project is complete.

We Appreciate Your Patience!

Given the park’s dual purpose as both an active flood control system and a recreational space, work in this environment is complex and highly dependent on weather conditions. We understand that extended construction timelines can be inconvenient, and we apologize for the disruption. However, public safety and the long-term stability of the channel slopes remain our top priorities. All work must be carefully coordinated and adjusted based on site conditions to meet environmental and safety requirements.

We want to hear from you!

Thank you for your patience as we improve Hilltop Park for the future.