COLUSA, CA (MPG) – A monumental-sized American flag was unfurled atop the levee at Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area on July 3, marking a striking new symbol of civic pride and patriotism.
Rising 130 feet into the sky, the flagpole now stands as one of the tallest in the region, making it a powerful visual landmark for travelers as they enter the city.
“I wanted something that set us apart from other towns in Northern California,” said Colusa Mayor Ryan Codorniz, who spearheaded the project. “I feel like we’re pretty patriotic and love-of-the-country type people.”
Old Glory’s placement atop the levee serves a dual purpose: the giant American Flag not only draws attention to the scenic state park but also honors local veterans.
“At first, I thought about putting it at Veterans Park, but there were too many trees,” Codorniz explained. “So, we placed it on the levee, looking down at the park as a reminder of the sacrifices given.”
The project was funded through California’s Proposition 68, the Parks, Environment, and Water Bond Act, approved by voters on June 5, 2018, to fund a wide range of projects related to parks, natural resources, water infrastructure, and climate resilience.
Colusa was awarded $642,950 in 2024 to rehabilitate the septic system, dump stations, automatic pay machine and turf renovation, and to replace the damaged boarding float, picnic table, fending, and campground features.
Codorniz said City Manager Jesse Cain was instrumental in securing the grant, and contractor Dos Rios, Inc. helped identify cost savings within the project that made the addition of the flagpole possible.
Colusa Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 2441 raised the flag at the formal dedication ceremony, which was well attended by local officials and community members.
The flag fluttered in a breeze for a short time the previous week as a trial run, but was taken down for the two illuminating solar lights to be installed.
The 30X60 flag is constructed to withstand winds up to 120 mph but will be taken down in inclement weather, Cain said.
Codorniz said he hopes the flag will spark curiosity and bring people to the state park to see what Colusa has to offer in the way of camping and fishing.
Officials said tourism dollars are especially vital to Colusa because they provide a powerful boost to the local economy, support small businesses, and help preserve the community’s unique character.