The Park at Rispin Mansion

Location:  2000 Wharf Road
 

Description:
The Rispin Park is a 5.7-acre parcel that is situated along the western bank of Soquel Creek in the City of Capitola.  It is the site of the historic Rispin Mansion built by Henry Allen Rispin in 1921, and the entire property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991 (#91000286).  Much of the property is covered in with mature trees and riparian habitat along the creek.  The site is accessed either from Wharf Road to the west, or via a pedestrian/bicycle bridge to the east.  The City has owned the property since the 1980s and made unsuccessful efforts to develop the site for a commercial hotel.  In 2009 the mansion was damaged by a fire, and in 2011 the City entombed the building by reconstructing the fire damaged roof and flooring, and closing all openings to prevent further vandalism.  

Current: 
Construction of the park grounds commenced in late April and is scheduled to conclude by mid-October, this marks a significant milestone in the park's evolution. There are currently no plans for the renovation of the building. The City has now committed to turning the property into a city park, and planning includes completing ADA ramps to the mansion level, restoring the fountain and stairway, regrading pathways, and restoring the historic landscaping.  The City of Capitola received partial funding from Prop 68 State of California Parks & Water Bond.