Avangrid Foundation Celebrates Opening of Alameda Community Schoolyard in Oregon

The Foundation's support for Trust for Public Land transforms school grounds into a community hub for outdoor learning, recreation, and connection

ONTARIO, Oregon, August 28, 2026--The Avangrid Foundation, the philanthropic arm of leading energy company Avangrid Inc., a member of the Iberdrola Group, in partnership with Trust for Public Land, celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the Alameda Community Schoolyard in Ontario, Oregon on August 27th, marking the completion of a transformational project designed to expand access to outdoor recreation for students and residents across Malheur County. The project was made possible through funding from the Avangrid Foundation.

"Through the Avangrid Foundation's support of Trust for Public Land, we are helping create opportunities that strengthen communities and expand access to safe, inclusive outdoor spaces," said Avangrid CEO Jose Antonio Miranda. "The Alameda Community Schoolyard will provide students with a dynamic environment for learning and play while serving as a valuable gathering place for residents across the region."

"Community spaces like this create opportunities for children and families to learn, play, connect, and thrive," said Pablo Colón, Director of Corporate Citizenship and Executive Director of the Avangrid Foundation. "The Alameda Community Schoolyard reflects what is possible when organizations come together around a shared vision for healthier, more vibrant communities."

The project transformed an aging playground and underutilized outdoor area into a dynamic, multi-use community asset featuring an all-weather covered pavilion, inclusive playground equipment, improved gathering spaces, walking paths, shade trees, and enhanced landscaping. The schoolyard will serve approximately 350 Alameda students while providing recreational access to more than 30,500 residents throughout the region.

"From the beginning, the heart of this project has been functionality and creating space for the growth and development of our kids," said Alameda Principal Andrea Buchholz. "Providing inclusive play structures, shade, and outside instructional areas will attract and serve our entire community for years to come."

"The opening of the Alameda Community Schoolyard is a testament to what's possible when a community unites to prioritize health and connection," said Mitsu Iwasaki, Trust for Public Land Associate Vice President and Northwest Director. "This space belongs to the students, families, and neighbors who helped shape it, and it will have a ripple effect as a gathering place, boosting social cohesion for years to come."