FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ/KFSN) — Storyland, a beloved destination for generations of Central Valley families, is set to receive a $1 million grant aimed at revitalizing the aging attraction and improving accessibility.
City officials and community partners announced the funding Tuesday, which will come from Measure P under the youth development category. The grant will support a series of upgrades to the 63-year-old park, including ADA-compliant restroom stalls and railings for its two bathroom facilities.
“In this year’s budget, with the support of my council colleagues and Mayor Dyer, we were able to secure $1 million toward much-needed improvements here at Storyland,” said Fresno City Councilmember Tyler Maxwell.
Storyland, known for its Mother Goose-themed exhibits and literacy-focused attractions, draws about 1,500 visitors each month and hosts roughly 3,000 schoolchildren annually for field trips. Admission is $8 per child, making it an affordable option for families who may not have access to larger theme parks.
“We know in our community, a lot of our kids are not able to go out of town, are not able to go to Disneyland or various theme parks,” said Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. “This is their theme park. This is their Disneyland.”
Storyland also operates Playland, its sister park, which is undergoing state inspections this week. If approved, Playland is expected to reopen with a soft launch in August.
The renovations will preserve Storyland’s whimsical charm while ensuring it remains accessible to all visitors.
“The park was built in 1962, and that really wasn’t a concept in existence then,” said board member Joe Denham, referring to ADA standards.
Executive Director Cindy Lee emphasized that the park’s mission will remain unchanged.
“It’s always been a literary park. It’s always been themed on Mother Goose, and it will always stay that way,” she said.
Maxwell, who grew up visiting Storyland, reflected on its impact.
“It’s where I first learned about the Old Lady that lives in a shoe; it’s where I learned about Goldilocks and the Three Bears; it’s where I pretended to be a pirate.”
With the new funding, Storyland is poised to continue inspiring imagination and play for future generations.
