HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-09-15; Parks & Recreation Commission; 02; Parks & Recreation Department Report
Meeting Date: Sept. 15, 2025
To: Parks & Recreation Commission
From: Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director Staff Contact: Ashlee Benson, Recreation Services Manager
ashlee.benson@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-5778
Subject: Parks & Recreation Department Report
Recommended Action
Receive an informational Parks & Recreation Department Report.
Executive Summary
The Parks & Recreation Department Report (Exhibit 1) provides information on recently
completed and upcoming department events, activities, programs and projects, as well as any
donations or other relevant topics of interest.
Fiscal Analysis
This action has no fiscal impact.
Environmental Evaluation
This action does not require environmental review because it does not constitute a project
within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act under Public Resources Code
Section 21065 in that it has no potential to cause a direct physical change or a reasonably
foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
Exhibits
1. Department report
Exhibit 1
PARKS & RECREATION
DEPARTMENT REPORT
Sept. 15, 2025
GENERAL & RECREATION
Parks & Recreation Partners with Library & Cultural Arts to Promote Water Safety
On June 17, 2025, Parks & Recreation aquatics staff joined forces with Library & Cultural Arts staff at
Georgina Cole Library for a special session of the Tuesday Afternoon Adventures Program. Lifeguards led
a short, engaging water safety presentation that highlighted the importance of swimming only when
supervised. Children took part in interactive dryland activities designed to reinforce important water
safety techniques, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to enjoy a safe summer around
the water.
Celebrating Parks & Recreation Month
In honor of Parks & Recreation Month (July), staff partnered with Communications & Engagement staff to
showcase a variety of department initiatives, programs, staff, and daily operations that inspire the
community to get outdoors, play together, and build meaningful connections. Later in the month, the
department will host its second annual Part-Time Employee Appreciation Event, celebrating the
milestones of dedicated part-time team members who play a vital role in the success of our programs
and services.
Aquatic Center Staff Kudos
In July, a community member showed their appreciation for our Aquatic Center staff by surprising them
with flowers and a heartfelt card that read: “Thank you for everything you all do to provide a warm
welcome, keep the pool running smoothly, and addressing issues as they arise. It brings such peace of
mind knowing that you're all here to help ensure everything operates efficiently, effectively, and reliably.
We truly appreciate your time, talents, and tenacity.” This thoughtful gesture is another great example of
how our Parks & Recreation team makes waves every day.
Second Annual Ping Pong Olympics at the Senior Center
On June 25, 2025, the Senior Center hosted its second annual Ping Pong Olympics and International
Potluck. Twelve mixed-doubles teams competed in a friendly table tennis tournament, with winners
receiving handcrafted medals generously donated by the Ceramics Club. Following the competition,
participants and guests enjoyed a diverse selection of dishes from around the world, contributed by
members of the community.
Classic Cars and Local History at Leo Carrillo Ranch
On July 12, 2025, about 400 people attended a classic Packard car show at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic
Park. Guests enjoyed vintage cars provided by the San Diego Packard Club, walking tours, and scenic
views, while club members shared their expertise. Highlights included a talk on Leo and His Cars, a coffee
truck, and fun activities like classic car temporary tattoos, all celebrating the historic setting and Leo
Carrillo’s own 1931 Packard Deluxe Eight 840.
Alga Norte Aquatic Center Aloha Plunge
On July 19, 2025, the Alga Norte Aquatic Center transformed into a tropical escape for the Aloha Plunge,
drawing over 500 attendees. Guests enjoyed beach-themed games, inflatable water obstacles, splash pad
fun, and lawn games. Families took photos at a festive aloha backdrop, and the evening ended with a
lively Polynesian dance show, creating a fun and memorable night for all ages.
Snores & S’mores Campout Serves Up Food-Themed Fun
On Aug. 9–10, 2025, Aviara Community Park hosted the annual Snores & S’mores overnight campout,
drawing more than 400 campers for a food-themed adventure. Guests enjoyed creative games like the
Giant Food Relay, Jell-O Dome, and Ice Cream Scoop Challenge, along with a themed photo booth
inspired by Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. The evening featured a catered dinner, campfire s’mores,
and an outdoor movie screening, while the following morning wrapped up with breakfast and a group
hike. Thanks to staff and over 50 volunteers, the event was a memorable success.
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Supports Healthy Living
On Aug. 13, 2025, the Senior Center distributed 90 benefit cards through the Senior Farmers’ Market
Nutrition Program. The program connects low-income older adults with fresh, locally grown produce
while promoting healthy eating and access to seasonal fruits and vegetables, all in a welcoming
community setting.
Fall Registration Opened for Community Classes
Registration for fall recreation classes opened on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, with programs beginning on
Sept. 2, 2025. The Fall Community Services Guide was also made available online and featured a wide
range of programs for all ages, including a variety of programs such ballet, yoga, karate, swim lessons,
painting, and organized leagues.
End of Summer Bash Brings Music and Fun to Pine Park
On Aug. 22, 2025, the second annual End of Summer Bash hosted by the Carlsbad Senior Center brings
music, treats, and energy to Pine Avenue Community Park. Guests enjoyed live music, sweet snacks,
opportunities to learn about upcoming classes, and good company. Hosted in the morning to beat the
late summer heat, the event offered a fun and comfortable way to close out the summer season.
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park Film Festival
On Aug. 22, 2025, the 19th annual Film Festival at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park kicked off to a sold-out
crowd, with guests enjoying the film Road Agent under the stars at Carrillo’s adobe ranch house. The
festival continued with The Winning Ticket (1935) on Aug. 29, 2025, and wrapped up with The Electric
Horseman (1979) on Sept. 5, 2025. Attendees were encouraged to arrive early to tour the ranch, sample
gourmet concessions, and socialize with friends in this unique community setting.
Pinechella at Pine Avenue Community Center
The Pine Avenue Community Center hosted its signature youth music festival, Pinechella, on Sept. 6,
2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The event highlights local talent with live performances from high
school bands and solo artists, creating a safe and vibrant space for teens to showcase their creativity. In
addition to music, the evening features interactive games, contests, and food, making it a popular new
school year celebration for the youth in our community.
Family Movie Night at Stagecoach Community Park
Stagecoach Community Park hosted Family Movie Night on Sept. 13, 2025, beginning at 5:00 p.m., as part
of the San Diego Summer Movies in the Park series. Families and friends brought blankets or low-back
chairs and enjoyed a Moana Sing-along under the stars. Guests participated in a themed fun zone
featuring a bounce house, slide, crafts, and games. Food and beverages were available for purchase, and
many attendees brought their own picnic for the family-friendly evening.
Upcoming Events
Superhero Obstacle Race at Alga Norte Community Park
Runners can unleash their inner hero at the Superhero Obstacle Race on Oct. 5, 2025, at Alga Norte
Community Park. From 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., participants will dash through a 2K superhero-themed
obstacle course filled with fun challenges for all ages. Every hero who completes the race will receive a
cape, bib number, and a finisher’s medal to celebrate their victory. It will be an unforgettable, action-
packed community event.
Pumpkin Plunge at Alga Norte Aquatic Center
On Oct. 18, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Alga Norte Aquatic Center will host the annual
Pumpkin Plunge. The event will feature themed pool activities, games with prizes, floating obstacles, use
of the splash pad, and a floating pumpkin patch where participants can lasso and take home a pumpkin.
The program provides a seasonal recreation opportunity for families in a safe and festive setting.
PARKS
Monroe Street Pool Renovation/Replacement Project
The contractor’s request for information process and the materials submittal process for the Monroe
Street Pool Renovation/Replacement Project is continuing. The contractor is overseeing plumbing,
electrical and framing work on the existing administration/locker room building, and has commenced a
remediation plan from the design team to address the roof. The demolition of the mechanical building
and re-grading of the site for the new mechanical/restroom building has been completed, and utility and
foundation tasks have been performed. The contractor has completed the following work on the
enlarged pool: excavation, installation of plumbing and electrical conduit, and placement of the concrete
base and walls. The facility closure is currently scheduled through mid-summer 2026.
Veterans Memorial Park Project
On June 24, 2025, the City Council approved and resolution for the execution of a declaration of
restrictive covenants for the hardline habitat preserve areas within the Veterans Memorial Park project.
Staff have worked with the consultant team to make final plan revisions associated with the Grading,
Landscape and Building permit submittal packages. Staff have docketed an item for the City Council
Meeting of Sept. 23, 2025, seeking adoption of the project’s plans, specifications and contract
documents, and authorization to advertise it for bids. Staff anticipate returning to the City Council in the
fall for the award of a construction contract.
Outdoor Pickleball Court Project
Once designed, four courts each are to be constructed at Calavera Hills Stagecoach Community Parks.
The addition of these new outdoor pickleball courts is responsive to the public’s current demand for this
amenity and will substantially broaden the service area coverage. Staff reviewed and provided comments
on the 70% construction plans in June 2025. Staff anticipate receiving the 90% construction plans by late
September 2025 and receiving 100% construction plans for permit submittal by late October 2025. Staff
anticipate requesting the City Council’s approval of the project’s plans, specification and contract
documents and authorization to advertise the project for public bids later this year.
Fire Mitigation Tree Canopy Pruning
Last fiscal year, City contractors completed $300,000 of fire mitigation related tree canopy pruning,
ground fuel reduction, and tree removal in Hosp Grove, Woodbine Banks and Batiquitos Drive. Another
$300,000 was approved by the City Council for fire mitigation related work in the FY 2025-26 Budget.
Natural Grass Athletic Field Renovations
The department’s grounds contractor completed bi-annual renovations of natural turf athletic fields to
enhance the overall conditions at the end of July 2025. Cultural/renovation practices include thatch
removal, aerification, and resodding of bare areas.
Natural Grass Replacements at Poinsettia Dog Park
The department’s grounds contactor has completed natural grass replacements in the dog park at
Poinsettia Community Park. The scope of work for this project included tilling and amending the existing
topsoil, improving the drainage, and sodding with Bermudagrass. The large dog area re-opened on July 7,
2025, and the small dog area re-opened on Aug. 4, 2025.
Carlsbad High School Tennis Court Resurfacing Project
On July 29, 2025, the City Council adopted the project’s plans, specifications, contract documents, and
executed a maintenance services agreement with CH Court Tech, Inc., for the tennis courts resurfacing
project. The maintenance of the tennis courts is part of the city’s responsibilities within the joint use and
community recreation agreement between the Carlsbad Unified School District and the City of Carlsbad.
The notice to proceed was issued on Aug. 18, 2025. The project is anticipated to be completed by mid-
September. The high school’s tennis practices and matches are being accommodated at the Poinsettia
Community Park courts during the project period.
Poinsettia Community Park Synthetic Turf Replacement Project
The existing synthetic turf on the multi-use sports field at Poinsettia Community Park needs replacement.
Staff have worked with the design team to develop the plans, specifications and contract documents for
the Poinsettia Community Park Synthetic Turf Replacement Project.
The proposed project will replace the existing synthetic field surface and rubber infill with a new, high
performance synthetic turf system. Staff completed a review of the preliminary construction plans and
provided comments back to the design consultant on Aug. 27, 2025. Staff received 90% construction
plans and specifications on Sept. 1, 2025. Staff anticipate receiving 100% plans and specifications in mid-
September. Staff have docketed an item for a City Council Meeting on Oct. 7, 2025, for approval of plans
and specifications and authorization to advertise the project for bids. Staff anticipate returning to the City
Council in the fall for the award of a construction contract.
Recent Trails Volunteers Event
On Aug. 2, 2025, staff hosted a trail maintenance event for volunteers from North Coast Calvary Church, at the
Solar Walk trailhead adjacent to Sage Creek High School. The event included over 100 volunteers from the North
Coast Calvary Church and Parks & Recreation staff. Volunteers received a briefing on safety and trail maintenance
plans for the morning. Volunteers worked to fill ruts on the trail surface, rebuild water bars, improve trail drainage,
and trim vegetation.
Upcoming Trails Volunteers Events
The 2025 Trails Volunteers Annual Calendar includes Saturday and Wednesday events that are held from
8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. as follows:
• Saturday, Sept. 27 - National Public Lands Day at Lake Calavera
• Saturday, Oct. 25 - Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park Trail
• Wednesday, Dec. 3 - Old Rancho Sante Fe Trail
More information is available on the department’s trails webpage.
Department Report
Ashlee Benson, Recreation Services Manager
Todd Reese, Parks Services Manager
Parks & Recreation Department
Sept. 15, 2025
1
SPLASH OF SAFETY
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On June 17, 2025, Aquatics staff partnered
with Cole Library’s Tuesday Afternoon
Adventures to teach children water safety
through a lifeguard-led presentation and
interactive activities.
CELEBRATING PARKS & RECREATION MONTH
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
3
In honor of Parks & Recreation Month in July, staff highlighted
programs and initiatives with a video to inspire the community.
AQUATIC ALL-STAFF TRAINING
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
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AQUATIC CENTER STAFF KUDOS
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
“Thank you for everything you all do to provide
a warm welcome, keep the pool running
smoothly, and address issues as they arise. It
brings such peace of mind knowing that you're
all here to help ensure everything operates
efficiently, effectively, and reliably. We truly
appreciate your time, talents, and tenacity.”
2ND ANNUAL
PING PONG OLYMPICS
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On June 25, 2025, the Senior Center held its
second annual Ping Pong Olympics and
International Potluck, with teams competing
for handcrafted medals and guests enjoying
global dishes.
CLASSIC CARS AT THE RANCH
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On July 12, 2025, about 400 guests attended
a Packard car show at Leo Carrillo Ranch
Historic Park, enjoying vintage cars, tours, a
“Leo and His Cars” talk, and fun activities like
temporary tattoos.
ALOHA PLUNGE
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On July 19, 2025, over 500 guests attended
the Aloha Plunge at Alga Norte Aquatic
Center, enjoying beach-themed games,
water obstacles, a splash pad, lawn games, a
festive photo backdrop, and a Polynesian
dance show.
SNORES & S’MORES
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On Aug. 9–10, 2025, over 400 campers
attended the Snores & S’mores campout at
Aviara Community Park, enjoying food-
themed games, a photo booth, campfire
s’mores, an outdoor movie, and a group hike.
SENIOR FARMERS’ MARKET
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On Aug. 13, 2025, the Senior Center
distributed 90 SFMNP cards, helping low-
income older adults access fresh, local
produce and promote healthy eating.
FALL PROGRAMS KICK OFF
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
11
The city’s fall recreation season began on Sept. 2, 2025, offering
activities for all ages including ballet, yoga, karate, swim lessons,
painting, and organized leagues.
END OF SUMMER BASH
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On Aug. 22, 2025, the Carlsbad Senior
Center hosted its second annual End of
Summer Bash at Pine Park, featuring live
music, treats, class info, and a fun morning
gathering to celebrate the season.
LEO CARRILLO FILM FESTIVAL
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
The 19th annual Film Festival at Leo Carrillo
Ranch Historic Park ran Aug. 22 – Sept. 5,
featuring classic films, ranch tours, and
concessions.
PINECHELLA
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On Sept. 6, 2025, Pine Avenue Community
Center hosted Pinechella, a youth music
festival featuring high school bands, solo
performances, interactive games, contests,
and food, providing a fun, safe celebration
for teens.
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
On Sept. 13, 2025, Stagecoach Community
Park hosted Family Movie Night, featuring a
Moana sing-along, themed fun zone with
games and crafts, and food options for a
family-friendly evening under the stars.
UPCOMING EVENTS
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
16
Superhero Obstacle Race – Alga Norte Community Park
Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, from 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Pumpkin Plunge – Alga Norte Aquatic Center
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Monroe Street Pool
Renovation/Replacement Project
17
PROJECT MILESTONES
•Jan. 14, 2025 - City Council awarded construction
contract & construction management agreement
•March 31, 2025 – Facility closed for construction
•Summer 2025 – Pool and buildings enlarged
•Summer 2026 – Anticipated facility re-opening18
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
HIGHLIGHTS OF COMPLETED WORK
•Demolished mechanical building and re-graded for
new mechanical/family restroom building.
•Performed utility and foundation tasks on buildings.
•Excavated and formed enlarged pool shell.
•Installed plumbing/electrical conduit under shell.
•Placed concrete along the base and walls of pool.
19
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
Shade
More parking
Family restrooms
Service truck access
Mechanical equipment
Exteriorentrance
Natural
drainage basin
Locker rooms, office spaceSolar water heating
Sports lighting
20
21
Veterans Memorial
Park Project
25
VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
•Anticipate receiving final resubmittal of the
plans from consultant in mid-September.
•Sept. 23, 2025 – City Council to adopt plans/
specs and authorize advertisement for bids.
• Staff anticipate returning to City Council in
fall for the award of a construction contract.
OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL COURTS PROJECT
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
27
•Project expected to take until Summer 2026 to
design, permit, bid and construct four courts each at
Calavera Hills and Stagecoach Community Parks
•On Feb. 26, 2025, Consistency Determination Letters
were received from Planning Division for both sites
OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL COURTS PROJECT
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
28
•Staff to receive the 90% construction plans in
September and 100% construction plans in October.
•Intend to return to City Council this year for approval
of plans/specs and authorization to advertise for bids
29CALAVERA HILLS COMMUNITY PARK
30CALAVERA HILLS COMMUNITY PARK
31STAGECOACH COMMUNITY PARK
32STAGECOACH COMMUNITY PARK
33
SITE AMENITIES
FIRE MITIGATION TREE CANOPY PRUNING
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
•Completed $300,000 of fire mitigation tree
pruning, tree removal and ground fuel
reduction at Hosp Grove, Woodbine Banks
and Batiquitos Drive.
•$300,000 of additional funding is included in
the approved Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget.
34
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
35
NATURAL GRASS ATHLETIC FIELD RENOVATIONS
•Completed turf renovation at select sites by end of July 2025.
•Aerated, de-thatched, resodded worn areas, and fertilized/irrigated.
NATURAL GRASS REPLACEMENT
AT POINSETTIA DOG PARK
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
•Tilling and amending
topsoil, improving
drainage and sodding
with Bermudagrass
•Large dog area
reopened July 7, 2025
•Small dog area
reopened Aug. 4, 2025 36
CARLSBAD HIGH SCHOOL TENNIS COURT RESURFACING
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
•July 29, 2025 - City Council executed a
maintenance services agreement for resurfacing
of 9 courts, new net-post & nets and windscreens
•15 player benches being renovated by city staff
•Tennis courts will reopen in mid-September
•High school practices and matches have been
accommodated at Poinsettia Park tennis courts
37
POINSETTIA COMMUNITY PARK
SYNTHETIC TURF REPLACEMENT PROJECT
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
•The existing synthetic turf, multi-
use sports field has met its useful
•Staff have worked with consultant
to develop plans, specifications
and contract documents
38
POINSETTIA COMMUNITY PARK
SYNTHETIC TURF REPLACEMENT PROJECT
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
•Oct. 7, 2025 – City Council item for
approval of plans/specs and
authorization to advertise for bids.
•Staff anticipates returning to the
City Council in the fall for the
award of a construction contract.
39
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
40
Solar Walk Trailhead
•Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
•100 volunteers from North Coast Calvary Church
joined staff to fill ruts, rebuild waterbars,
improve trail drainage and trim vegetation
RECENT TRAILS VOLUNTEERS EVENT
ITEM NO. 2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
41
Includes Saturday & Wednesday events, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
•Saturday, Sept. 27, National Public Lands Day - Lake Calavera
•Saturday, Oct. 25 - Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park Trail
•Wednesday, Dec. 3 - Old Rancho Sante Fe Trail
More information available on department’s trails webpage
2025 TRAILS VOLUNTEERS EVENTS
QUESTIONS/COMMENTS
Thank you
ITEM NO.2 - DEPARTMENT REPORT
42