San Diego City Wire

The County Board of Supervisors has given the green light for a new playground at Cactus County Park in Lakeside. This decision allows the process of hiring a contractor to commence, with construction expected to start in Summer 2025 and finish by Fall 2025.

The Department of Parks and Recreation oversees over 100 playgrounds across the county, focusing on promoting health and wellness among youth. They regularly assess their facilities to identify those that need replacement due to age or wear. Some existing playgrounds are more than four decades old, prompting prioritization based on age and usage.

Cactus County Park spans 59 acres and features various amenities including hiking trails, equestrian paths, softball fields, a baseball field for youth aged 12-16, an airstrip for radio-controlled planes, and a BMX track. The upcoming project will replace the current 15-year-old preschool playground with new equipment and a shade structure while adding a play area for children aged 2-5.

The planned baseball-themed playground aims to exceed ADA requirements, ensuring accessibility for children of all abilities. Additional improvements include new fencing around ballfields, restoration of dugouts, and converting the boardroom into a snack bar.

This initiative is driven by community input following support from the Lakeside Community Planning Group last month with an overwhelming vote of approval at 11 to 1 (with one abstention).

Estimated costs for the playground equipment stand at $580,000. The remaining $1.17 million allocated will cover design and construction management expenses.