After 25 years of talking, Phase I work has begun on the 8.5acre Northwood neighborhood park at 3619 Avenue Verano.

Close to $1 million to be spent during Phase I will improve the land with trails, grading, grass and a sprinkler system.

The park will eventually include a playground, and volleyball and basketball courts, according to Tom Hare, park and planning administrator for Conejo Recreation and Park District.

—Nancy Needham