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Turlock is inviting neighbors to John Lazar Park for a free ribbon cutting on Tuesday, October 27, at 1 p.m. The park at 3650 Bethpage Street adds playgrounds, picnic space and a walking connection in northeast Turlock.
The Turlock Chamber of Commerce’s announcement, shared on our Facebook page October 13, put the celebration on the calendar. The city’s October 16 press release confirms the location and time, with remarks from city leaders and John Lazar, plus light refreshments.
What Is Planned for the Park
The city describes 3.5 acres with two playgrounds serving different age groups, shaded picnic areas, barbecues and open lawn. A landscaped walkway connects nearby neighborhoods. It is a neighborhood recreation space, with room for a picnic and everyday play.
The construction-stage plans also called for perimeter sidewalks, benches, a drinking fountain, landscaping and safety lighting.
The Project Began Before the Ribbon Cutting
The council approved the John Lazar name in February 2022, following a nomination by Mayor Amy Bublak. The decision continued a local tradition: parks carry the names of past mayors, including Dale Pinkney, Brad Bates and Curt Andre.
The Journal’s October 2025 construction report explained the next substantial step. TBS Contractors of Merced won the $1.47 million construction bid. Including project management, inspections, staff time and contingencies, the project estimate was just over $1.9 million.
That report identified the Park Development Tax Fund as the funding source and said no General Fund money would be used. These are the figures reported when the construction contract was awarded, not a final audited cost for the completed park.
The park was planned as the centerpiece of the 65-home Legends 3 subdivision. The site sits between Haverford Drive, Merion Drive, Bethpage Street and Tate Street. Dale Pinkney Park was the other neighborhood park identified in the northeast plan.
Why the Park Is Named for John Lazar
John Lazar served on Turlock City Council from 1992 through 2006, followed by two terms as mayor from 2006 through 2014. Together, that is 22 years in city government. He had also served as vice mayor before becoming mayor.
His time in office included decisions over water, industrial development and the future of a growing city. Our John Lazar profile follows those subjects and his earlier work around state and national government. The park puts his name in a different setting, where residents will encounter it on a sign and a playground visit.
John grew up locally, attending Keyes Elementary, Brown Junior High, Turlock High and Stanislaus State, according to the 2025 Journal report. He told the paper he hoped the park would become a gathering place. The October celebration is an opportunity to see how that idea has taken shape.
Going to the October 27 Celebration
- When: Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 1 p.m.
- Where: John Lazar Park, 3650 Bethpage Street.
- Admission: free and open to the public.
- Program: ribbon cutting, remarks and light refreshments, according to the city.
- Directions: use the Bethpage Street address for the park entrance, rather than navigating only by the subdivision name.
Will You Visit John Lazar Park?
What are you most interested in seeing at the new park? Join the discussion under the original opening announcement.
Keep Reading
John Lazar’s Life and Years at City Hall | Compare Turlock’s Parks
