Olga Gallardo, Corporate Communications Manager, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan 

On March 24th, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan in partnership with the Urban Collaborative Project and the City of San Diego unveiled new artwork for the Secret Stairs of Valencia Park, a series of more than 150 steps located in the residential area of Valencia Park. Four local independent artists, Herbert Delong, Shannon White, Isabel Garcia, and Shirish Villasenor, painted vibrant-colored California poppy flowers on the steps in dedication to the local folklore about the steps' origin. 

According to KPBS, the artists chose to decorate the stairwell with paintings of California poppies as an homage to local lore that says the stairs were created by a developer so his wife could go and collect her favorite wildflowers. 

“When I learned that story it made it more special to me,” said Isabel Garcia, a muralist working on the project, as told to KPBS. “We wanted to include something that is actually important to the area itself.” 

“I’m proud to see the community come together to beautify these neglected steps and bring color into a space that has needed improvements for many years,” said the City of San Diego Council President pro Tem Montgomery Steppe. “These repurposed steps have the potential to promote art and culture in the community while highlighting an avenue of exercise among our constituents.” 

The completion of this project was part of a sponsorship from Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan to have local artists help beautify and strengthen Valencia Park by fostering an inclusive space where the district’s community members can stay active outdoors in their own neighborhood. With the help of the Urban Collaborative Project, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan provided a $15,000 sponsorship to assist with supplies and funds for the local artists, who began painting the mural in January. 

“Quality of life is a significant determinant of health, and communities across San Diego need and deserve safe, pleasant public spaces to exercise, relax, and enjoy the outdoors,” said James Cruz, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan. “We are proud to support this beautiful new mural and revitalization of the Secret Stairs of Valencia Park, which has already increased local pride and connection among neighbors. We hope this project inspires a healthier, happier, and more resilient community.”    

Visit the Secret Stairs of Valencia Park at Churchward St &, Dream St, San Diego, CA 92114