The City of Santa Clarita is now accepting names to be added to the 2020 Youth Grove memorial at Central Park where the new names are set to be added in September, officials said Tuesday. 

The City of Santa Clarita is once again accepting names to be included as part of the 2020 addition to the Youth Grove memorial in Central Park, located at 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road. 

The Youth Grove, which currently includes 114 names, is dedicated to Santa Clarita youth aged 24 and younger who have lost their lives in traffic-related incidents, according to City officials.

“The Youth Grove is a grassroots effort supported by the City of Santa Clarita,” officials said. 

The memorial is comprised of tree stumps adorned with plaques, as well as a central stone platform, according to organizers.

“This touching memorial is a way for the Santa Clarita community to remember and honor the young lives that have been lost, and also to reflect upon the tragic consequences that can result from drinking and driving, as well as reckless and distracted driving,” officials said.

By providing a place for commemoration and reflection, the Youth Grove raises awareness about the importance of safe driving and encourages Santa Clarita youth and residents to be mindful and responsible when getting behind the wheel, according to officials.

“Each year, the City hosts an annual Evening of Remembrance event at the Youth Grove for the public,” City officials said. “City staff is currently developing alternative plans for the Evening of Remembrance should the need arise to adjust the traditional community gathering in September.” 

Names submitted for inclusion in 2020 will be added to the Youth Grove even if the event needs to take on a virtual format, according to officials. 

Full details on the Evening of Remembrance event is expected to be announced when finalized. 

Anyone wanting to submit a name can do so by filling out a release form, which must be returned to the City by Friday, July 3, in order to be included in this year’s additions.

For more information about adding a name to the Youth Grove, and to access the release form, click here.

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