Hillsboro El Rio Park
Hillsboro El Rio is a small park in Boca Raton that’s located on Southwest 18th Street near Dixie Highway. Hillsboro El Rio contains a baseball diamond that’s typically used for the “older” little leaguer’s and a soccer / lacrosse field. Both have lighting and get a significant amount of use.
Unbeknownst to many, the park which was built in 2002 included plans for a second phase. Although progress stalled, it’s now received approval. Phase two includes a boat launch for un-motorized watercraft. There will also be a beach, picnic area, fitness / nature trail, restrooms, a playground and pavilion.
One of the concerns about the 2nd part of Hillsboro El Rio Park was lighting that would disturb residents as well as interrupt the wildlife that are indigenous to the area. The city accommodated, announcing that the park hours (on the new part) would be from dawn till dusk.
There is also talk about a fishing pier and possibly tennis courts; basketball courts and volleyball. The target date for opening is the summer of 2019. The cost is anticipated to be $6.5 million.
There is still more on the table for discussion such as the safety of children with the railroad tracks being so close. There are also concerns about certain amenities being attractive to negative elements; however, these are being assessed by the city with the understanding that the park patrol will be patrolled regularly. Overall, the feeling is that the growth of Hillsboro El Rio Park is a step in the right direction for Boca Raton.