The Parks Commission heard a detailed progress report on capital work affecting several San Bernardino parks and special events planning at its October 2025 meeting. Parks Department staff said the Seco/Second Lake renovation has grown in scope after a land-swap and related additions, bringing the project budget to about $19.7 million from an earlier figure near $13.3 million.

Why it matters: The expanded Second Lake project covers playground installation, shade structures, walking paths, landscaping, two bridges and other elements that staff said are intended to improve recreation access and program capacity in the area. The projects larger price tag and expanded land footprint affect future programming, maintenance and any related development discussions.

Director (Parks Department) told the commission the city is working through construction milestones and coordination with contractors, planning and engineering. "We're laying down the footing for the playground and the shade structure," the director said, and added staff are holding weekly calls with contractors to keep the schedule on track. The director reported both bridges for the lake were expected to be completed near the end of the month and much of the landscaping and walking paths are underway.

Staff clarified the expanded scope covers roughly 32 acres of parkland and that a separate 12-acre parcel previously discussed for housing remains undeveloped and outside the current project. Commissioners asked whether the project would include new dog-park space; the director said a dog-park exists within the 32-acre footprint and is included in improvements.

Beyond Second Lake, the director reported other park investments: upgrades at Spiker Park that include finished skate-park work, new restrooms, concession stands and added lighting; interior renovations for the Lyle Creek Park community center (flooring, lighting and kitchen); and completion work at Nicholson Park pending final irrigation and seeding. The parks report also noted the city had to terminate and re-award a gym-floor contract at Hernandez gym and hopes to complete that work by December.

The department said some energy-efficiency measures are being explored—primarily LED fixture retrofits for athletic field poles rather than wholesale pole replacements—to balance upfront costs and lifecycle savings. Staff noted procurement and contractor transitions in several projects but said most projects are moving forward according to schedule.

Event planning: The director also briefed the commission on Route 66 Centennial activity for June 2026. The Great Race committee has approached the city about including San Bernardino as an eighth-day stop on a nine-day cross-country run. "We're looking at Mount Vernon Street itself," the director said, and staff described options for Route 66 signage tied to park renovations on the corridor.

What comes next: Staff will carry on construction oversight for Second Lake and other renovation projects and return with routine progress updates. The Route 66 event is at the planning stage; the department said it is coordinating logistics and locations and will bring more detailed plans to the commission as they mature.

Funding and process notes: The director said the project increases followed a land-swap and additional scope discussions; staff reiterated that any major budget or contract awards will be presented to City Council as required.