On Thursday, September 11, City of Rancho Cucamonga, Police, and Fire District staff, community members, and dignitaries gathered for the grand opening of the Spagnolo 9/11 Memorial Park with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, followed by the City’s annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
The park, located at 10597 Town Center Drive near Terra Vista Parkway, sits in the heart of the city serving as a space for reflection and connection.
The 1.3-acre memorial features steel from the World Trade Center, fragments from Flight 93, and material from the Pentagon. The remnants are positioned to reflect the geographic relationship of the three sites at a scale of 1/4000. They are connected by a walking path and a central gathering area designed for remembrance and community events. The park also features a monument honoring Rancho Cucamonga’s Gold Star Service Members who have lost their lives since September 11, 2001.
During the ceremony, Fire Chief Mike McCliman reflected on the park’s long journey to today, which began in 2002 when steel from the World Trade Center was first brought to Rancho Cucamonga for public viewing. He credited the leadership of the City Council, past and present, for keeping the vision alive through years of planning and development.
Police Captain Mike Smith spoke about the park’s tribute to Gold Star families, emphasizing that “every name etched into these monuments is a story of courage, family, community, and sacrifice.”
Mayor Dennis Michael expressed gratitude to Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes for securing $3.2 million in state funding to make the park a reality. He also honored the late Councilmember Sam Spagnolo, whose dedication and advocacy played a pivotal role in bringing the memorial to life.
“This park will stand for generations as a place of remembrance, unity, and hope,” Mayor Michael said. “It is a tribute to those we lost, those who served, and those who continue to protect our freedoms.”
The Spagnolo 9/11 Memorial Park is now open to the public and the community is encouraged to visit.
