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The physical and cultural centerpiece of the neighborhood, the Park is bordered by the 73 Siberian elm trees planted about 70 years ago, during the administration of Mayor Clyde Tingley. The overhanging tree canopy is one of only three places in the city with this type of planting; the others are in the country club area and west of the university.
Although not as stately as its cousin the American elm, the tree's hardiness is well-suited to our high desert environment... and over time proved it resistant to Dutch elm disease, the blight which forever devastated the urban landscapes of New England and the Midwest a half century ago.
The aesthetic appeal of the canopy compensates for these trees' prodigious output of pollen, seeds and suckers. Potentially more important is their tendency to suddenly shed large branches during unsettled weather: avoid walking under the canopy when there are strong gusts.
Sadly the elms are near the end of their natural lifespan, and the City has embarked on a 10 to 15 year program of thinning and replacement.
Altura Park was granted to the City in the 1950s by the Keleher and Coe families. It’s approximately 7 acres in size and 0.48 miles around its exterior boundaries. Because of the family interest in tennis, the deed specifies the city would build and maintain the tennis courts. If they fail to do so, the land would revert to the original grantors. Interestingly, the first homes were built along Hannett before the streets were paved or the park landscaped. The playground was built during the administration of former mayor Jim Baca in the 1990s. Memorial trees to honor passed friends and relatives are an important component of the landscape, but this practice has been restricted due to excessive demand. Altura Park has consistently been one of the highest use parks in the city, frequently hosting organized soccer, volleyball, YAFL practices, picnics and similar activities.
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