City outlines phased improvements for Bedrock Park; seeks funding and design direction

City staff presented a phased concept report March 4 for improvements at Bedrock Park, a riverside park with upper and lower areas and a lagoon, and asked the council for direction on design priorities and funding approaches.

Staff outlined two primary phases: Phase 1 would restore basic park functionality with a new irrigation system, renovated turf, shade trees, code‑compliant stair and railing repairs, repair or adaptive re‑use of an existing structure (options included a kiosk or restroom), solar security lights and cleanup of the river island. Phase 2 would address accessibility upgrades, trail surfacing, lagoon access (including potential permitting and dredging requirements), new picnic sites, additional planting with native species, and a new playground on the upper level.

Staff noted the lagoon is in a floodplain and that any major soil work would require permitting; they also described past discussions with the Department of Water Resources (DWR) about lagoon restoration and said DWR interest remains but funding and contracting issues slowed earlier efforts. Councilmembers suggested additional features—improved levee connections, vehicle‑access decisions, permanent barriers to discourage overnight camping and lighting, and potential amenities to support floating classroom landings and kayak/canoe access.

Council asked staff to proceed with design and cost estimates, to coordinate with DWR and other agencies on lagoon restoration opportunities, and to include potential levee access and anti‑loitering measures in further planning. Staff said they will return with updated designs, a funding plan and a prioritized implementation list.