Board approves Coyote Point playground design‑build contract funded by Measure K

San Mateo County supervisors on March 24 approved a design‑build agreement to replace the Coyote Point playground with an inclusive, multilevel play complex funded by Measure K and federal funds.

Interim Parks Director Emma Gonzalez told the board the project has already incorporated input from more than 450 community members and will present two final design concepts for public review this spring. The new playground will include 25–30 play features, more climbing, road‑play and sensory elements, shade and seating, improved circulation and accessible surfacing. The design retains the park’s iconic dragon features while adding new inclusive elements such as a zip line and a foam synthetic safety surface with artificial turf inside the fenced play area.

Gonzalez said the county will use a design‑build approach to improve cost efficiency and schedule certainty; community engagement begins in April and staff are targeting construction completion by the end of the year, weather and permits permitting. The park serves nearly 3 million annual visitors, she said, and the county will keep most park areas open during construction with temporary adjustments to parking (approximately 66 stalls impacted). Alternative on‑site activities during construction could include a temporary pump track and a small disc‑golf course.

Supervisors praised the project and asked technical questions about design details. Supervisor Spear called Coyote Point one of the most used county parks and said the improvements were long overdue. After public comment that included support from Midcoast residents and questions about nearby Midcoast park needs, the board approved the design‑build agreement on a roll‑call vote.

The board recorded no conditions beyond standard contract requirements and community engagement milestones; staff said they will keep the public informed through multilingual notices and the county website.