Escondido council approves $2.36 million contract to build first city splash pad at Grove Park

The Escondido City Council voted 4-0 July 23 to award a $2,356,264 public improvement agreement to Western State Builders Inc. for the construction of the city’s first splash pad at Grove Park and authorized staff to process change orders.

City project manager Ed Vasquez told the council the Grove Park splash pad was selected because existing restrooms there provide access to sewer, water and electrical connections needed for the facility, and noted the community selected the final design through an online vote that drew 2,069 responses. “We are here tonight seeking council approval to award the construction contract,” Vasquez said during his presentation.

The splash pad design includes accessible features, a large automated “sky soaker” element and shaded picnic structures. Staff told the council the parking lot and restrooms at Grove Park will be closed for construction, which is expected to take about six months; portable restrooms will be provided. Playgrounds, walking paths and the basketball court will remain open with limited impacts to adjacent open space.

Why it matters: Grove Park sits within walking distance of several schools, and staff…