Johnny Carson Park reopens in Burbank just in time for the long Fourth of July holiday weekend. The construction fencing is down. I saw a few visitors wandering through the lush green park grounds yesterday morning and more today as the word got out.
The multi-million revitalization plan began at the 17.6 acre site back in April of 2015. Originally called Buena Vista Park, it was renamed for the late talk-show icon, Johnny Carson, in 1992. The change coincided with Carson’s retirement from “The Tonight Show.”The popular late night TV program taped across the street at what is now Burbank Studios for more than a decade.
Carson’s namesake looks amazing with numerous improvements like a new recycled watering system and more than 100 new trees and plants. Also, new outdoor furniture, exercise equipment, and playground area have been added.
Also the Tujunga Wash Creek, which runs through the park, has been revitalized. There are new or upgraded pedestrian bridges spanning the wash.
And lots of green grass and pathways throughout the park.
It’s definitely worth a visit. The park is located at 400 South Bob Hope Drive between West Alameda Avenue and Riverside Drive. It’s open from dawn to dust.