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Palm Springs Parks & Rec launches digital PLAY guide and outlines swim center, playground and event plans
Summary
City parks staff introduced PLAY, a new quarterly digital recreation guide, and updated the commission on capital projects including Demuth Park bidding, a $742,000 swim center design task order and playground renovations funded in part by Measure J.
The Palm Springs Parks and Recreation Commission heard a department report Nov. 24 that outlined a new digital recreation guide, upcoming capital projects and a schedule of holiday events.
Staff introduced PLAY, a quarterly online recreation guide (Parks, Leisure and Activities) that will list programs, classes and events and be updated each quarter. "It's been several years since the department has had a comprehensive recreation guide," a Parks & Recreation director said, noting the guide will be digital-only for now and promoted on the department website and social media. Staff said print editions may be possible in the future if funding becomes available.
In project updates, staff said the City Council on Nov. 12 approved plan specifications and estimates to advance the Demuth Park development (small and large dog parks, a restroom building and parking improvements) to a 30-day bid period. Staff also said City Council approved a task order of $742,000 to Maria Song and Interactive Design Corporation to proceed with design work for the Palm Springs Swim Center renovation.
Staff described two Measure J-funded playground projects. Desert Highland Park will seek roughly $200,000 in additional Measure J funding to cover a shortfall, bringing the total playground renovation budget to about $1,000,000; staff told commissioners the project will go to council Dec. 10 and, if approved, construction is expected to begin in early 2026. At Ruth Hardy Park, crews encountered an old sewer manhole during construction that required remediation and led staff to request an additional $110,000 from Measure J; surfacing work and shade-structure installation are underway with an anticipated opening in December.
The director said the department helped coordinate a busy fall event season — including VillageFest Halloween, Dia de los Muertos programs, the Pride parade and a Veterans Day weekend — and assisted the Filipino festival Nov. 22. Staff also listed a full holiday calendar with tree lightings, parades, Santa events and other community programming in December; several events require RSVP or registration by specific dates.
Looking ahead, staff announced a year-long celebration for the 50th anniversary of Sunrise Park, "50 years of Sunrise, a year of play," with monthly activities and a culminating fall 2026 event. The department plans a more detailed presentation on the anniversary and the PLAY brochure at the commission's Jan. 26 meeting.
The presentation did not include formal council actions beyond those already approved; staff said items needing council approval (for example, the Demuth Park bids and playground funding adjustments) will return to council on Dec. 10.
