Encinitas Community Park Update

Even though Encinitas Community Park (ECP) at 425 Santa Fe Drive will not open until 2014, it already has a “mascot” of sorts: a Harris hawk that sits on a pole watching the progress (while keeping an eye out for potential dining entrees scurrying by).

Many Encinitans are also keenly observing ECP’s progress like a hawk, because this 44-acre park has been eagerly awaited and will fulfill the community’s expectations of offering something for everyone. The work can be seen from the perspective of I-5 and also through weekly progress reports, including lots of photos, online.

Construction on the 44-acre, $19.3 million park began in September 2012 and is flying along smoothly toward completion next fall, says Parks and Recreation Director, Lisa Rudloff. She states, “We were delighted to see people at a community meeting on November 19, 2013 at which we shared the status of ECP, including photos, timelines and budget information. Gauging from their attendance, questions and overall interest level, the park is going to be a very welcome amenity in Encinitas.”

One feature that kids in particular are anticipating is the 13,000-square-foot skatepark. To ensure the safety of skateboarders, the City Council is supporting an ordinance requiring users to wear a helmet, elbow pads and kneepads at the new park. (Similar regulations are already in effect at the Leucadia Oaks skate feature.) The ordinance will be adopted before the park opens.

ECP Celebrates and Respects the Great Encinitas Outdoors

Before the first shovel went into the ground, a great deal of thought and community input went into the planning of what will be a signature outdoor amenity in our city. Nature is celebrated and respected at the park, which is surrounded by a landscape buffer and includes a meandering dry creek with boulders, dense landscaping, decomposed granite pathway, alcoves with benches and paved walking paths that traverse the site.

Human comfort and convenience also come into play, with five parking lots and two restroom buildings distributed across the park for easy access. Speaking of play, in addition to the skatepark and its accompanying urban plaza, ECP will sport one soccer field and three multi-use fields as well as plenty of open turf areas that encourage unrestricted play.

Canine cavorting will reign supreme at a large dog park located in the site’s western portion. The two-acre spot features a large turf area, dense perimeter landscaping, a show circle and a separate area for shy and small dogs.

So, whether you’re a skateboarder, dog owner, sports enthusiast, jogger, walker, serenity-seeker or just someone who enjoys the great Encinitas outdoors, you are bound to find Encinitas Community Park a place that lifts your spirits and makes you feel good to be alive.

–City of Encinitas