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Carlsbad staff update commission on Monroe Street pool, Poinsettia turf, pickleball courts and other projects
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Summary
Staff reported a 2026 reopening target for the Monroe Street Pool renovation, progress on Poinsettia turf replacement and plans for new outdoor pickleball courts; Veterans Memorial Park construction is expected to move to contract award later in February.
City staff gave commissioners a progress report on a series of parks projects during the Feb. 9 meeting, including the Monroe Street Pool renovation, a synthetic turf replacement at Poinsettia Community Park, new outdoor pickleball courts and the Veterans Memorial Park master plan.
Todd Reese, presenting project milestones for the Monroe Street Pool, said the city council awarded a construction contract on Jan. 14, 2025; the old facility closed on March 31, 2025, and contractors mobilized. Reese said crews have excavated and formed an enlarged pool shell, installed plumbing and conduit under the pool and placed concrete base and walls; staff anticipate the renovated pool will reopen in 2026 with additional lanes and a larger pool area.
On the Poinsettia synthetic turf replacement, Reese said the city moved away from crumb-rubber infill toward an attenuation pad and a mineral "cool top" granular surface intended to keep the turf cooler and provide a more natural ballast. Contractors mobilized on Jan. 12 to remove the old turf; staff described scarifying and laser grading the existing gravel base prior to installing the new surface.
Reese also reviewed plans for four outdoor pickleball courts each at Calavera Hills and Stagecoach Community Parks, noting consistency determinations were received from planning staff and 100% construction plans were submitted for permit review; staff expect community development’s first review comments back soon and plan to seek council authorization to bid in 2026.
Regarding Veterans Memorial Park, Reese displayed the approved master plan concept that includes terraced walls, accessible playgrounds, a family bike park, public art and a Veterans Memorial Plaza; staff expect to award a construction contract for that project around Feb. 24, 2026 after bids open.
Staff noted maintenance funding: the council previously extended $300,000 of additional funding last fiscal year and provided another $300,000 this year for selective tree removal and thinning in urban-interface areas. The department also previewed an eight-location volunteer trails calendar for 2026 and upcoming community events, including the Pirate Plunge at Alga Norte set for March 21 (admission $15; children 3 and younger free).
Commissioners asked technical questions: Commissioner Sander confirmed pool depths (shallow about 4.5 feet; deep about 14 feet) and asked whether children would be allowed; staff confirmed children will be allowed and that the new facility will include chair lifts for accessibility and space for lessons and sanctioned water polo. On turf maintenance, staff explained inspections for wear, debris removal (including magnetic sweeps for metal) and periodic disinfectant treatments (about twice a year).
Heritage Pool Supply was identified as the vendor for the pool chemical supply and delivery agreement recently authorized by the City Council to service Alga Norte and the renovated Monroe Street Pool.
Staff closed by thanking volunteers and reminding commissioners of a volunteer appreciation brunch scheduled for April 11 at The Crossings at Carlsbad.
