October 10, 2023
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
City of Long Beach
California
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file an update on the progress of the Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center Project;
Authorize the City Manager to proceed with the design, permitting , and bidding for the revised Project design “Option 1” recommended by City staff; and, Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents necessary to amend Contract No. 33388 with Harley Ellis Devereaux (HED) Corporation, Inc., of Los Angeles, CA, for design services for the Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center Project, to increase the contract amount by $ 6,000,000, for a revised contract amount not to exceed $18,664,576, and extend the term of the contract to December 31, 202 7, with an option to renew for two additional one -year per iods, at the discretion of the City Manager . (District 3)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is requested to amend Contract No. 33388 with Harley Ellis Devereaux (HED) Corporation, Inc., to continue to provide design services for the Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center Project (Project).
The City of Long Beach (City) has been engaged in the design, entitlement and permitting for the rebuild of the Belmont Pool. The original Belmont Pool opened in 1968 and served over 200,000 visitors annually before closing in 2013 due to seismic concerns. The City worked expeditiously to construct and open the existing temporary pool and support facilities to continue serving the aquatic community. Simultaneously in 2013, the City released two Requests for Proposals (RFP) for both a project manager and a design team to begin the design and entitlement process for the replacement Project.
On March 4, 2014, the City Council awarded a contract to HED as part of its adoption of RFQ CM14-020 for architectural and engineering consulting services for the design of the rebuild/revitalization Project in an amount not to exceed $7,858,731. Additionally, on November 16, 2021, the City Council approved an amend ment to Contract No. 33388 with HED to increase the contract amount by $4,805,845 for additional services to address design changes prompted by the regulatory review for a total not-to-exceed contract amount of $12,664,576 , with the option to review for two additional one -year periods, at the discretion of the City Manager.
Department of Public Works
411 West Ocean Boulevard, 5th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 (562) 570-6383
R-28
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
October 10, 2023
Over the years following the contract award, HED, the project management team, and City staff completed the concept design, environmental impact report (EIR) , and EIR Addendum and received the necessary approvals, entitlements, and local regulatory permits for the work. On February 11, 202 1, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) approved the Coastal Development Permit (CDP) subject to five standard conditions and nineteen special conditions of approval. On September 8, 2021, the CCC certified the Local Coastal Program Amendment required by the Project.
Following the CCC approvals , the project delivery team proceeded with implementing the community outreach and public access program and conducted stakeholder meetings, focus groups, and community meetings to address the Project’s CDP Special Condition 3 and continued with the development of a Sea Level Rise Monitoring and Adaptation Plan (MAP) pursuant to Special Condition 13. Concurrently with these efforts to address the CCC’s Special Conditions, the project delivery team focused on completing various design phase deliverables that would lead to the completion of 100 percent construction documents for the Project.
In anticipation of finalizing the 100 percent construction documents and completing the design phase, the City issued a Request for Proposals ( RFP) for Construction Management and Inspection Services (RFP PW22-042) and awarded a Contract to Arcadis U.S. Inc., on August 2, 2022 . The City also issued a Request for Qualifications ( RFQ) to prequalify prospective general contractors for the work (RFQ PW22-053) pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 20101. As a result of the RFQ, five General Contractors were prequalified and are eligible to Bid on the Project.
Funding Challenges
The City made two commitments related to the Project . The first was to complete the design and 100 percent Construction Documents. The second commitment was to develop a funding strategy to close the funding gap on the Project before the end of 2022 . At the conclusion of the 100 percent Construction Documents phase , what was previously expected to be a $25 million gap grew to $50 million, even with significant phasing and value engineering strategies employed. While significant, staff developed a financing plan. Although the plan was feasible, it would have required the City to make difficult decisions to comp lete the Project (See Attachment A, December 9, 2022 , Memorandum to City Council ). Furthermore, with rising energy costs and other cost escalations, the project ed annual operations and maintenance (O&M) costs for the previously designed facility also increased significantly.
On August 31, 2022, the California State Legislature passed Senate Bill (SB) 1137, which would have a significant impact on the City’s oil -related revenue, particularly in the Tidelands area. SB 1137 establishes a 3,200 -foot health and safety zone around new and reworked existing oil wells and prohibits drilling of new wells and improvements to existing wells within that radius, which affects a significant portion of the City’s oil operations in the Tidelands and Uplands areas. SB 1137 accelerates the City’s transition away from oil production, which was planned for 2035. Simply put, as a result of SB 1137 the resulting oil operations cannot support either the operating or the capital requirements of the previously approved Project without significant modifications. As such, staff worked with Project architects, engineers, and aquatics experts to reduce the Project’s costs and align it with expected revenues moving forward.
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
October 10, 2023
The new law was slated to take effect in January 2023; however, private interests qualified the bill for a veto referendum on the Statewide ballot scheduled for November 2024. Whether upheld or repeal ed, and d espite the challenges encountered, the City is steadfast and committed to delivering an inspiring facility for all age groups that will engage, instruct, and train our public aquatics users, while providing equitable access to recreational water space for the larger Long Beach community in a fiscally sustainable way.
Revised Project Design and Alternatives
The project management team and City staff have spent considerable time this year with the project architects and aquatics design professionals to develop a project plan that maintains the spirit of the aquatics complex in a fiscally sound manner. The design team prepared three design options that reduce the footprint of the future aquatics center, combine bodies of water and programming, while still maximizing the programmatic value of the facility.
The following aquatic program alternatives were developed and considered along with their anticipated capital construction and annual O&M cost. O&M costs are currently estimated to be in the range of $3. 6M to $3.8M across the three presented options. The cost range is preliminary and is subject to several variables including labor/staffing expenses and utility rates at the time of operation.
Option 1
Estimated cost $74.2M
Option 2
Estimated cost $74.4M
Option 3
Estimated cost $73.5M
50m Pool with one
bulkhead including:
50m Pool with one
bulkhead including:
70m Pool with two
bulkheads including:
Four (4) springboards
Two (2) ziplines
Two (2) climbing walls
Four (4) springboards
2-centerline dive tower
Four (4) springboards
2-centerline dive tower
Instructional Pool (within
70M pool)
Recreational / Instructional
Pool including:
Instructional Pool Only
including:
Vortex
Activity Tower
Spray Features with
Floatables and Water
Volleyball
(3) 60 ft lanes 4 ft deep
Based on program goals, fiscal constraints, Special Conditions, and public access requirements from the CCC, Staff recommends the Revised Project Design as presented in Option 1 (Attachment B, Preferred Revised Design). Option 1 features an aquatics center with two bodies of water, a 50M pool and an instructional and recreational pool . The 50M pool will be designed to depths that allow spring board diving, and will support local competitions and events. The pool will also having the ability to accommodate ziplines and climbing walls, as appropriate. Option 1 also features a joint instructional and recreational pool that will allow the
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
October 10, 2023
City to provide a variety of programming including a vortex, activity tower, floatables, spray features, and swimming instruction for pool patrons.
The delivery and completion of the preferred Revised Project Design would create a Citywide amenity within the coastal zone that can broadly and equitably serve the public and offer low- cost aquatic programming and provide recreational access to users of all skills and abilities , including seasoned and recreational lap swimmers and those just learning to swim.
The CCC’s Special Conditions require a significant amount of the Project’s water bodies to be available for general public use during operating hours (e.g., not solely for competitive events, private instruction or extensive use by clubs, or temporary events). Staff believes the preferred Revised Project Design as presented in Option 1 is more consistent with this Special Condition than Option 2 or Option 3 would provide.
The City is at capacity for funding with the estimated funding gap at around $8 million. This amount does not include other enhancements estimated at $3. 7 million which includes additional restroom capacity, permanent bleachers/seating and shade. Private support and philanthropy may be needed to fund these enhancements. While Option 1 is the preferred Revised Project Design, Staff recognizes it does not meet every user’s need. Additional work will be required to ensure the Project conforms to the previously issued Special Conditions, and Staff has begun to engage the CCC to ensure the conditions remain relevant given the proposed design changes.
Public Engagement
On June 27, 2023, the Department of Public Works held a community meeting, which was advertised Citywide, to present the status of the Project, discuss the work completed to date, and review the challenges encountered around cost growth and escalation. At the meeting, the City Manager and project team addressed all questions from the public related to the proposed changes, the need for balance between recreational and competitive uses, constraints within the Project’s regulatory framework, and discussed the resources and needs to complete the work. After the meeting, the pool’s stakeholder list and attendees were invited to submit virtual comments and feedback for the project team’s consideration.
The public engagement conducted revealed that the community broadly supports rebuilding of the BBAC facility in the proposed project location and supports completing the project as presented (Attachment C, Public Comments) . Of the over 160 respondents who provided written comments and feedbac k, approximately 84 percent supported moving the P roject forward. Approximately 16 percent of respondents opposed the project largely indicating the pool is the wrong priority or at the wrong site. Approximately 13 percent of the supporters indicated they would prefer the facility without recreational equipment, and 11 percent of the project’s supporters emphatically indicated that seating and shade are a must to support a variety of uses. Other sentiments that permeated the feedback included a desire to build quickly to avoid further project risks, delays, and cost increases.
Public comments were received that suggested Option 1 be modified to reorient the support buildings to the sout hern bound of the site and to place the 50M pool and recreational and
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
October 10, 2023
instructional pools on the northern edge of the development area (i.e. flipping the support building and pool where the buildings are placed closer to the beach and the pools would be placed closer to E Olympic Plaza) for wind protection, sand mitigation, and for shading benefits.
The following feedback was considered by the architectural design and project team, but were found to run counter to a few of the programmatic and design goals of the Project.
From an operational and design standpoint, maintaining the building at the no rthern edge of the project site al lows for the consolidat ion of entry and access points to the entire aquatics center. This enables the creation of an arrival point and formal front door, whether a patron is arriving by private automobile and parking at the adjacent lot , arriving by transit, walking or using micro-mobility solutions. In addition, reorienting the building to the south would block direct views of the ocean for pool users and guests , altering the experience while on site .
Further, the architectural team found that while reorienting the location of the building to the southern edge of the site could assist with pool shading , it would also inadvertently create barriers to cooling ocean breezes . While a southern oriented building could reduce sand, it doesn’t entirely eliminate it as blown sand would wrap around the building.
As proposed, the aquatics center would be constructed on an elevated deck or plinth, with perimeter glass fencing to assist with wind and sand control , while still being low enough to maintain cooling ocean breezes. The glass will be further studied as part of the revised design efforts. Any proposed perimeter glass would feature the appropriate environmental design mitigations to ensure protection of local species through the inclusion of bird safe glass (frit or tinted), as required by the Project’s standard permit conditions , but the tec hnical team will further explore opportunities for the perimeter glass system to assist in cooling.
Next Steps
The project delivery team has engaged the Long Beach Planning Bureau and the C CC and anticipates submitting an amendment to the existing Project approvals. The application for an amendment to the CCC will convey the Revised Project Design and document the reduction to the overall development , including the reduced site plan and footprint impacts, reduced occupancy, and square footage, and building height and massing reductions. The project team will continue with its progress on satisfying the various CCC Special Conditions for the work and update required programs and plans to reflect a reduced-sized facility.
The project delivery team will advance the work to an updated schematic level for a Coastal Commission permit amendment, and anticipates proceeding with various design milestone phases, including design development, construction documentation, plan check, building permitting, and constructability review. Concurrently, as the project moves forward, the project delivery team will enlist the support of an independent cost estimation firm to perform cost analyses to track the market forces and factors to support the delivery of this large capital project.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Vanessa Ibarra on September 20, 2023, Purchasing Agent Michelle Wilson on September 22, 202 3, and by Revenue Management Officer Geraldine Alejo on September 25, 2023.
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
October 10, 2023
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on October 10, 2023, to authorize the City Manager to proceed with revised project design “Option 1” as recommended by City staff, and to amend Contract No. 33388 to ensure the contract amendment is in place expeditiously to complete design documents, permitting, and bidding of the Project.
FISCAL IMPACT
The requested action increases the contract authority with HED by $ 6,000,000, for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $18,664,576 . Sufficient funding to suppor t the contract amendment is budgeted in the Tidelands Operations Fund Group in the Public Works Department.
While sufficient funds are budgeted to support the contract amendment for project design services, additional funding will be required for project completion. The funding gap associated with Option 1 is currently estimated at $8 million. Furthermore, private and philanthropic support may be needed for other projects and programmatic enhancements estimated at $3.7 million to address users ’ needs such as seating, shade structure, and additional restroom capacity.
The Project is included in the City’s Elevate ’28 Infrastructure Investment Plan as one of three major projects to be completed prior to 2028. As the Project moves forward, staff will return to the City Council with funding strategies and requests for appropriations as funding is identified.
This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Cou ncil priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION:
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully submitted,
ERIC LOPEZ
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
ATTACHMENTS: A – DECEMBER 9, 2022 MEMO TO MAYOR & MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL B – BBAC PREFERRED REVISED DESIGN (OPTION 1)
C – 2023 PUBLIC COMMENTS AND SURVEY SUMMARY
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER
Date: Decem
ber 9, 2022
To: Mayor and M
embers of the City Council
From: Th
omas B. Modica, City Manager
Subject: Upda
te on Belmont Pool
This year
, the City of Long Beach (City) made two commitments by the end of December 2022. The f irst commitment was to achieve 100 percent project design, ready to issue for construction bidding. I’m happy to report that we have hit that mark. We accelerated the design efforts this year, brought on a construction management firm, pre-qualified contractors who have the capacity to build the project, and the project is 100 percent designed and ready to submit for construction permits.
The secon
d commitment was to create a funding strategy to close the gap on the project costs and get ready for construction. This became more difficult as project costs have escalated significantly from the overall cost of inflation, rising cost of construction, requirements from the Coastal Commission, and site requirements. What was originally hoped to be a $25 million gap grew to about a $50 million gap, even with significant phasing and value engineering. While significant, staff had put together a financing plan that would be brought to the City Council to consider in December. That plan would have required some tough choices but was feasible and could be implemented to finally complete the project.
For thi
s project, the world changed this October. The Legislature passed a bill (SB 1137) that was introduced and passed within five days that has a dramatic impact on City finances, particularly in the Tidelands area. SB 1137 places restrictions on oil operations if they are within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors, which affects a huge portion of the City’s oil operations in Tidelands and Uplands areas. This new law goes into effect in January 2023 and will have lasting repercussions on Long Beach and specifically our finances in the Tidelands area. Simply put, a reduction on oil operations as a result of SB 1137 cannot support either the operating or the capital requirements of the current project without significant modifications.
The projec
t team is looking into viable options and developing a path forward and are engaged with the project’s stakeholder group. Attached is a project update that was shared with the project’s stakeholder group that provides more detail on the challenges, the cost increase, the impact of SB 1137, and the potential solutions that will be explored to bring the cost of the project down and to align it with expected revenues moving forward. We will be sure to share significant developments on this project as they are made.
Please cont
act me if you have any questions.
ATTACHMENT – BELMONT POOL PROJECT UPDATE PRESENTATION
CC:
CHARLES PARKIN, CITY ATTORNEY
DOUGLAS P. HAUBERT, CITY PROSECUTOR
LAURA L. DOUD, CITY AUDITOR
LINDA F. TATUM, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER
TERESA CHANDLER, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
KATY NOMURA, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
APRIL WALKER, ADMINISTRATIVE DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
KEVIN LEE, CHIEF PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
MONIQUE DE LA GARZA, CITY CLERK
DEPARTMENT HEADS
Memorandum
Attachment A
Belmont Beach & Aquatics Center
Project Update
December 2022
Attachment A
AGENDA
1. Project wins since last update
2. Project Costs Summary
3. 2023 Commitments
4. Bridging the Funding Gap
5. Impacts of SB1137
6. Operating Costs Overview
7. Next Steps
2 Attachment A
3 ▪ Design is complete
▪ Construction management team is on board
▪ 5 general contractors have been pre-qualified
▪ Coastal Commission conditions of approval have been addressed ▪ Design revisions
▪ Community outreach and access program
▪ Sea level rise monitoring and adaptation plan (MAP)
▪ Sampling and analysis plan (SAP)
▪ Multiple environmental monitoring plans
▪ Grant application and plan check has been submitted to LA County Project Wins Since March 2022
Attachment A
4 ▪ Project submitted to Coastal Commission August 2018 ($145M Est) ▪ Revised project/ EIR addendum approved by City Council January 2020 ($85M Est) ▪ Coastal Commission approved the project February 2021 ($130M Est) ▪ Design complete October 2022 ($119M Est)
Recent History of Project Costs
Attachment A
5 Cost Growth from 2019 Estimate
COST GROWTH CATEGORIES AMOUNT
($ millions)
Code Required Seismic Upgrades for Existing East Pool $8.6 Escalation & Market Volatility $8.1
Coastal Commission Related Costs
(design revisions, professional services, plinth, lighting, pile removal etc.) $7.0
Geotechnical – Soil Stabilization/ Strengthening $6.0
Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) Changes $4.0
Phased Construction To Maintain Access To Water $3.9
Design Driven Changes
(Myrtha, Remote Chemical Room, HVAC in offices, Radiant heating, Angel Eye life safety system etc.) $3.7
Labor Compliance and Specialty Trade Related Costs $2.6 Existing Pool Interim Repairs $1.2
Total estimated cost growth $45.1
Attachment A
COST SUMMARY AMOUNT
($ millions)
Total Estimated Project Cost as of September 2022 $130
Savings: East Pool Upgrades as a Future Phase -$11
Additional Value Engineering Recommendations -$2
Estimated Project Cost as of September 2022 $117
Funds Appropriated as of September 2022 $61
Other Potential Funding Sources $6
Total Estimated Funding Gap $50
6 Project Cost Drivers
Attachment A
1. Complete design and be ready to bid the project
▪ ACHIEVED!
2. Present financing strategy to bridge the funding gap ▪ ACHIEVED…until SB1137
7 2023 Commitments
Attachment A
8 Bridging the Funding Gap
Sponsorship Opportunities
▪ Feasible to raise a few million dollars but not enough to close the gap Infrastructure Law/ Other Grants
▪ Competitive process
▪ Focus on transportation, climate, energy and the environment, and broadband ▪ Feasible for very limited scope of the project
Debt Service (sale of bonds)
▪ Tough but feasible until SB1137
▪ No longer a feasible option for the current project at the amount needed Attachment A
9 Before SB 1137:
▪ Potential for up to $50M debt issuance backed by Tidelands (depending upon operating costs)
▪ Reductions to operations needed in about 8 years (FY 31) ▪ Estimated that oil abandonment would be funded by 2035 ▪ Tidelands Fund maintains a positive balance with oil priced at or above $55/barrel ▪ Other priority projects can be funded with one-time dollars when oil is priced above $55/barrel
▪ Debt capacity for other projects is not possible (AES Pumps/ Convention Center/ Seawalls/ Belmont Pier etc.)
Impacts of SB 1137
Attachment A
10 After SB 1137:
▪ Would require Long Beach to bet on oil prices significantly higher than the 17-year average
▪ Tidelands Fund would be depleted in FY29, requiring large service reductions ▪ Oil abandonment funding would be exhausted in FY 29, 6 years early, requiring General Fund to pay for oil abandonment
▪ No additional one-time dollars would be available for any Tidelands projects into the foreseeable future
▪ Debt capacity for other projects is not possible (AES Pumps/ Convention Center/ Seawalls/ Belmont Pier etc.)
Impacts of SB 1137
Attachment A
11 ▪ Annual operating costs for the current facility are approximately $1M ▪ Projections for the new facility were approximately $2M ▪ Current estimates for the new facility as of September are approximately $5.5M ▪ Annual operating and programming costs need to be approximately $2M (i.e. $3.5M below current estimates) for the project to be feasible ▪ Increase driven largely by water space and the area requiring staff coverage Operating Costs Overview
Attachment A
12 ▪ $62-75 million total project budget (i.e. reduce current $119M project by approximately $50 million)
▪ Reduce and combine the bodies of water
▪ Reduce recreational and competitive components
▪ Reduce spectator seating
▪ Reduce support spaces and locker facilities
▪ Shrink overall footprint
What Does a Feasible Project Look Like?
Attachment A
13 ▪ Adapt to the latest rules and regulations
▪ Evaluate options & develop scenarios that fit within the current budget ▪ Discuss options with stakeholder group spring 2023
▪ Modify the design
▪ File for coastal development permit extension which expires February 11, 2023 ▪ Work with Coastal Commission to approve the modified project ▪ Continue to track inflation, escalation & market volatility, adjust estimates accordingly ▪ Build a great community asset!
Next Steps
Attachment A
Prior Scheme
Currently proposed preferred option
Line of Development
0 ft 80 ft
BBAC - ROOF PLAN
DEC 10 201820 40
0 ft 80 ft
BBAC - ROOF PLAN
DEC 10 201820 40
0 ft 80 ft
BBAC - ROOF PLAN
DEC 10 201820 40BELMONT BEACH AND AQUATICS CENTER
July 2023
SITE PLAN
July 20 2023
Attachment B
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Public Comments received between June and July 2023 on the Revised Design Opti on for the BBAC as Presented on June 27, 2023 by City staff.
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
1. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90814 I support rebuilding the Belmont Plaza pool my kids grew up in Long Beach and my son currently plays waterpolo at L ong Beach poly.
2. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/15/23 90803
This replacement project should have been completed years ago. It would have saved lots of money and benefitted thousands of community members. At this pace, (10years and counting) I can only hope that I will live long enough to use the facility. Instead, this is likely to become a case study in the use of bureaucratic governmental processes to reduce a project worthy of Long Beach’s swimming heritage to eventually a small wading pool if this process goes on for more years. Common sense tells me that we can do better if we really want this project to happen.
3. BBAC Website 6/28/23
Hello. As a parent of two children under 4 in the area, I love this idea. However it baffles me that incorporating more shade into the design is not a priority. The sun is very direct, with our uv index hitting 10 most summer days. It's frustrating to see sun protection as an afterthought as in the local parks and the new beach concession stand and now here in this design.
4. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90814
I support rebuilding the Belmont Pool. Long Beach is known around the world as an aquatics powerhouse across all aquatics sports, and countless Olympians call Long Beach home and are raising their families here. Also, did you know that the Team USA Women's water polo team chose Lo ng Beach as their home? The athletes all rented apartments here and are living in Long Beach to train together. They are using LBCC's pool, and so are other groups from these olympians to learn-to-swim nonprofits. Thank you for keeping this project going and to the finish line! Our community will benefit greatly!
5. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 “I support rebuilding the Belmont Plaza Pool.”
6. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90803
Anything is better than nothing. 174 parks and only 3 pools. Not very equitable in the eyes of aquatics. The northside has no pool. The high schools are not offering swim lessons to the most vulnerable youth in our city. We are not providing adequate pool space for our entire city. [separate email (?) with subject header]: Please add all pool staff to your emails. We knew nothing about your meeting
7. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 92845 I am completely onboard with the recommended pool ( #1 proposal) . I love the kid-friendly rec pool, and plenty of lanes for us recreational lap swimmers.
Public Comments Page 1 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
8. BBAC Website 6/29/23 90803
I live within walking distance of the Belmont Pier and the pool. It's unfortunate that the City Council decided to scrap the old Belmont Olympic Pool rather than pay for seismic retrofitting. But that's water under the bridge.
Floated along with the destruction of the historic Olympic Pool, the plan to rebuild a community pool in a wealthy beach neighborhood seems utterly wasteful and unfair to the majority of Long Beach residents who live miles away from the water.
This is not to mention the likelihood that the designated pool area will be regularly flooded by high tides during the coming decades. Already, the city of Long Beach is spends hundreds of thousands of dollars each year constructing and reconstructing sand berms to prevent flooding along the shoreline.
There's already a well-used above ground pool by Belmont Pier. If the City Council wants a new pool that’s accessible for all Long Beach folk, then it should be centrally located and close to bus and light rail lines.
9. BBAC Website 6/28/02 90803
Sorry to have missed the meeting. I definitely believe we need grandstands so friends, parents, whoever, can watch the matches. Secondly, skip the climbing wall (there are so many at other facilities) and the zip lines. (where did they come from?). Let's build a pool for the entire LB community, and maybe, maybe for the 2028 Olympics!
10. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90732 I support the Belmont Rebuild Project.
11. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the rebuilding of a pool on or near the site of the old Belmont pool.
12. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90803 I would prefer the 75 meter pool option and they could provide play structures on the sand, or have a separate splash pad from the main pool. Add secure bike parking outside in view of the reception.
13. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90815
Our community needs a permanent pool just as we were told we would get. Long Beach is the “Aquatic Capital” and needs to be represented as such with the correct facilities for our community to access to. Numerous residents rely on this facility for their health as well as high school aquatic sports. This is a must for our city.
14. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803 It needs more lap lanes. There is always a shortage of lap lanes at every pool.
15. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90740
1. Sustainability: Sea level rise, and climate change are real and happening faster than predicted. Why build on sand near the ocean when it will be swept away by 2026 or sooner?
2. Equity: a few priviledged, selfish swimmers and divers who have multiple options to train, including our beautiful ocean, have hijacked the planners and LB City Council to build this pool near their expensive homes. I urge you to move the location of this PUBLIC pool to the underserved central and north Long Beach region where thousands of children and adults can learn to swim and recreate. Busing folks down to the beach is not a viable or sustainable option and is truly a slap in the face of the residents of central and north Long Beach.
16. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90803 Our family fully supports the rebuild of the Belmont pool! Our community needs this! This pool has been a part of over half of my life, as a lifeguard/swim instructor in high school to a club swimmer now! This pool has influenced generations of LB residents! My kids swim here now! Public Comments Page 2 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
17. BBAC Website 7/14/23 90803
Version Three is the only option. The Olympic Pool is a rebuild. Any reduction to the integrity and significance to the location and swim/dive competitions that can be once again hosted in this location is a travesty. Sacrificing amenities to add recreation elements when the budget has been dramatically cut is unacceptable. There are miles of beach adjacent to location that is heavily used for recreation, and it's free. Zip-lines and climbing walls are offered at many other locations/venues and quite frankly are outdated. I have raised three very active/athletic kids in the 40 years I have been in the Shore and never were they without a multitude of activities in the beach area. The Olympic pool is an iconic destination and everything should be done to carry the legacy on to the next generation.
18. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90803 I fully support the rebuilding of the Belmont Pool. The “temporary” pool has been used extensively since the old pool was torn down. Option no 1 is feasible.
19. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90803
In the Aquatic Capital of America with a legacy of a premier swimming and diving venue from 1968 through 2013, the city of Long Beach needs to be aspirational and rebuild the Belmont Pool. With a premier beachfront location and an international reputation, this is the time to create a destination location for residents and international visitors. Everyone understands that finances and governmental issues are a challenge, but with vision and energy and leadership and maybe even a public/private partnership this city has the opportunity to create a legacy for generations to come. Option 1 is a satisfactory minimum goal, with all due respect to well-known realities of financing and permitting to satisfy state requirements for coastal access. Perhaps Option 1 could also be viewed as Phase 1 of an ongoing multigenerational project, but this pool just simply needs to be rebuilt where it existed and thrived for decades. Smaller countries and smaller communities have managed to create larger and more inclusive aquatics centers across the world for far less money for far greater amenities in New Zealand (see https://www.gowaipa.com/perry-aquatic-centre/) and every coastal town and village in Croatia. Long Beach, California, USA should not settle for anything less.
20. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803
The preferred site plan is a reasonable plan and much better than existing temporary pool that has lasted much longer than intended. Get it built please! Shade areas would be appreciated.
This is an important facility for the Long Beach community!!
21. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/29/23 90803 How do I see it.
22. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90814
Please please please! We need our Bmont pool back. It doesn’t have to be a grand extravaganza but a 50 meter pool for swim teams and a recreation pool would be fabulous. Of course locker rooms are a necessity. Jobs could even be generated with the addition of a snack bar or vendors. But as a swimmer and coach and Long Beach native, please, rebuild Belmont!!
23. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90808
My vote would be for Option 4: No Project. Do what is necessary to keep the temporary pool repaired. Provide free bus transportation and free swim time for those who can not aford to pay. Use Tidelands funds to repair the Belmont Pier and other coastal needs, such as preparing for coming sea level rise. If a new pool design is chosen, I believe a new EIR and CDP would be required.
24. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/10/23 90815
LB Belmont Pool Coordinator
I am at a complete loss to understand why the estimated Belmont Pool construction costs are in excess of $50M., when the recently constructed pool at Los Alamitos High School (a project of arguably similar scope) was completed for approximately $10M.? Can someone please explain why this is? There is no justifiable reason, let alone public demand to include climbing walls, zip lines or water volleyball in the project scope. Use the money saved by not doing so to construct proper grandstands with awnings.
Public Comments Page 3 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
25. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/6/23 90815
It’s been well over ten years since the Belmont Pool has closed, and tragically, the only tangible that the City of Long Beach has to show for it's efforts are three sets of plans and a trail of well spun press releases. To put this poorly managed replacement project in perspective, the Gerald Desmond Bridge was completely rebuilt and the old bridge demolished and hauled away before the City of Long Beach is even close to breaking ground on a suitable replacement pool. The Desmond Bridge with the Bixby Bike Path was completed years before we'll see a photo op of smiling city officials shoving golden shovels in the sand in the Gazette.
The original Belmont Pool was a world class facility that hosted multiple national and international championship events over it's lifespan. This third evolution (v3) of Belmont pool plans has no more physical presence or aesthetic appeal than a public high school pool parked deep in Orange County. We've gone from iconic architecture (v1) to aspirational (v2) to meh (v3). Granted that the initial pool proposed by RoTo Architecture might have been overly ambitious, but the restrained and architecturally appealing second option tabled felt like a facility that would service the cities aquatic needs and, was an elegant structure that all of Long Beach could use, and be proud of. As for v3 it's just a pool and barely more than that.
And for my feed back on the v3 proposals presented last week, here are some thoughts:
1) There is no compelling reason to include zip lines or climbing walls in this facility, this is a pool, and should remain as such, there is plenty of space at Big Rec and the Bay for those activities
2) I can see no reason or need to include water volleyball or spray features in this rebuild, there's no public demand. 3) Option 3 is most appealing as an aquatic facility, it is the option comes closest to replacing the aquatics facility that the original Belmont provided. 4) Whatever gets built needs to be built with grand stands and shade, that is a bottom line must have. 5) Keep the temporary pool, the latest plan drawings do not show it. 6) Build the replacement in a timely and efficient manner, with no missed timeline, lack of oversight delays or redo's with the Coastal Commission. 7) Hire architects, contractors and project managers with pool building experience. Vendors like Myrtha Pools not RoTo. 8) Factor in the prevailing wind direction (AKA, the PV Wind Eddy) and how it could be managed. 9) Don't let this become another nine million dollar, three years plus behind schedule, hot dog stand that still isn't open (AKA, Alamitos Beach Concession Stand)
10) Update the belmontpool.com web site to reflect current images and content My fingers are crossed that our City Manager can manage to get this project done and done right.-
26. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/17/23 90815
Please look at the following link then explain to the citizens Long Beach why Mount Sac Junior College was able to build a "state of the art", 110,000 square foot athletic and aquatics facility in six years, while Long Beach has yet to break ground on a project that is over 11 years old. https://www.aquaticsintl.com/awards/mt-san-antonio-college-aquatic-center-earns-dream-designs-honor_o
27. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90804
Thank you staff for your hard work on this presentation and the thoughtful options. l appreciate that the trees will not be removed any longer, there are transgender bathrooms, it will be equitable and having a recreational area for children. Has it been discussed or looked into if the current pool could be significantly upgraded so we can stay in budget possibly? Seems fiscally irresponsible to use so much of tidelands funds and still not have enough. This new option definitely is giving residents hope that it may happen but still seems unrealistic with time and money not being on our side. Is there any other location throughout the city for an aquatic center that meets the aquatic community standards and is in a better location citywide or we are reliant on the tidelands funds for this? It is disappointing that Belmont Shore residents and the city would prioritize the tideland funds for a pool that will stay above water when Belmont Shore is under instead of investing that money in ways to save Belmont Shore from being under water in the first place.
28. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Pool.
Public Comments Page 4 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
29. Email (3)
7/17/23
7/18/23
7/22/23
[first comment]:
Dear Dani and Dino, Can either of you please email me the Citywide and Underserved Programming to Enhance Access to the Proposed Facility proposal? This was submitted to the CCC by the City of Long Beach in 2018 as part of the Coastal Commission's required Public Access policy for the Belmont Beach and Aquatic Center. I can't find it online and I would like read it asap. The deadline for public comment on the "Revised Options" is tomorrow, 6/18. [second comment]:
see separate 3-page pdf with detailed comments; summary poitns provided below - site not in safe (floods, storm events, SLR) nor equitable (wealthiest, whitest section of LB) location [third comment]:
For the public record.
If possible the Long Beach Area Peace Network would appreciate your replacing our comment on the BBAC that was submitte don 7/18/23 with this corrected version (attached). We found a number of grammatical and spelling errors and have now corrected them.
Also, you may want to read this CNN article published today. As the City of Long Beach moves forward with plans to build the BBAC on the beach in Belmont Shore, the Long Beach Area Peace Network will continue to oppose this inequitable and unsustainable project. We demand that the City build recreational/instructional pools in less affluent neighborhoods. The city is obligated to focus on the health and safety of residents. We are not responsible for providing a venue for private instruction and competitive sports training and competition and cannot afford to do so.
30. BBAC Website 6/28/22 90803
How sad... I learned to swim there in 1976... enjoyed the pool for many years but it's so sad that to replace the old pool with a new one... the greed to hold... people didn't want it who had an interest in the new ocean view that made them fight it... "the gym" how sad.. it use to be about community but now it's about excess... I'm sorry, just my opinion.. I have three years left until retirement and I'm out of here... so.. enjoy the greed..
31. BBAC Website 7/14/23 90803
Thank you for allowing comments. After review of the small foot print to be built on the sand, I cannot in good conscience support the recent project.
It remains costly to build and maintain.
As we know the Tidelands Funds will not ensure main streamline revenue as it once did. Stop and wake up to reality. Why spend the money and get the City of Long Beach in further debt.
It is unconscionable. Stop the project and spend the money to clean up the City. IE instead of pot hole repairs, paved the streets. The City has many streets that are in dire need of replacement work not pot hole repairs.
Stop the project and kindly redirect the money to improve the whole and not limited to a small project on the sand.
32. Email to City (Tidelands
& CA) 7/4/23
90803
I'm pleased that the BBAC has been downsized and that Olympic Plaza Park will be preserved.
However given the dwindling Tidelands Operating and Capital Improvement Funds, and the eexpectation that future Tidelands Income will be minimal - Long Beac should not be spending $75 million on a new Blemont Pool with $3.5 million yearly O&M costs. Once Tidelands Funds shrink futher, the General Fund Parks and Recreation Budget will need to pay for this expensive upkeep and water usage. The Temporary Belmont Pool will need to be replaced at some point, but a much less expensive pool will serve the community appropriately.
Tidelands CIP Funds are needed to build a new Belmont Pier, as promised to the LA28 Olympics for Olympic Sailing and open water swimming off Belmont Shore. (We are likely to lose Olympic sailing and swimming events to other locations such as Redondo Beach if we don't have a handsomely renovated or newly constructed Belmont Pier.) And the City has made additional promises to the Olympics Committee that need to be fulfilled. The Naples Sea Walls are crumbling, we're told, and four more phases still need to be built. Abandoned oil wells need to be shut down properly. The City appears to have committed ongoing protection of the Peninsula from tide events, and all of our Shoreline needs Sea Level Rise and Climate Change Protection. And the Queen Mary is in need of expensive repairs.
We hope City Management and the Council will pay close attention to needs in the Tidelands, and budget precious resources accordingly.
Public Comments Page 5 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
33. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90802 I support rebuilding the Belmont plaza pool. It's a cultural landmark for the city that must stay.
34. BBAC Website 7/6/23 90802 Yes, I want the pool built!
35. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90813 It seems absurd to build a pool facility on the beach, where locals could easily walk to the shore to swim, instead of in a more central location in the city, where working class residents with less access to the beach could benefit from it.
36. BBAC Website 7/6/23 90803 n/a
37. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90814 Just get this done… forget the climbing wall and zip line… this is for aquatics, not a fun zone. I use the pool regularly and love it! Please don’t let this project die!
38. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90712 I fully support the rebuild of Belmont Pool
39. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803 I swim at Belmont 5-6x/week…& take classes - the pool has changed my life - both physically & mentally & I know it has done the same for many many others!! Supporting Long Beach Aquatics is crucial - we were slated to have the Olympics here & had to give up all that $$ & global recognition over all the delays & politics & in as much as I understand that there are serious considerations - it's not impossible to get this project done.
40. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90807
I hope this is the final time I need to send in comments opposing this frivolous project! It's too much money, pool should be located elsewhere (elephant lot), it's a folloy to build it on the sand as well as defying SLR. We can do so much better. We can be so much smarter! Deminishing TIdel ands funds are needed for so many other projects along the coast.
I choose option 4. No project.
41. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90808 The pool is too pricey right now and it is too near the shrinking coastline. Please use that money some where else.
42. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/29/23 90814
I think it is important to maintain the open space and choose the smallest footprint possible. It would be ideal to see native planting and dune restoration around the pool site. I think this project should also consider that a sizeable homeless population is in the beach area and will likely want to utilize public bathrooms and showering facilities, and how that will be handled.
43. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90803
Option 2 is my first choice followed by Option 3. Option 1 has too many non-swimming things that really should be dropped to avoid spending money on something that may only get use during summer months or on weekends. The pool is packed with people swimming laps or playing water polo everyday.
I do think more lanes would be the only addition I would make. Often times the temporary pool reaches max capacity.
44. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90806
The approx. 75 million to build this pool while parks in central and west Long Beach do not have a public restroom is ridiculous. Scherer Park and Willow Springs Park do not have restrooms. Maintenance of the Silverado pool. Last year it took three months to have the algae removed from the bottom of the pool and shower curtains installed. Once again, park funds are distributed inequitably with the West side losing again.
45. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90731 I support the Belmont rebuild pool project. Thank you
46. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90731 I support the rebuild project at Belmont Plaza pool Public Comments Page 6 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
47. BBAC Website
City Virtual Comment
Form
6/28/23
7/15/23 90814
[first comment - via BBAC website]:
Long Beach has transformed its downtown area into a high rent, high taxation residential and commercial district. Where is all the tax revenue going? Apparently, not to improvements in the Belmont Pool project. There is a banner at the pool declaring LB as the aquatic capital of the world. Shame on the council for not appropriating the tax revenues needed to make the new facility a reality years ago. Also, why are we allowing non residents to use our Belmont Pool when it is frequently over capacity. Our tax dollars should not be wasted on non residents who have their own community pools. [second comment - via City Virtual Comment Form]:
For Long Beach to claim it is the Aquatics Capital it must be able to host national and international competitions. Diving platforms are essential for this purpose.
Zip lines are not! Also, why is Long Beach allowing non residents to use our facilities at the same cost as residents? With all the development happening downtown, surely a deal could be struck with wealthy developers to provide the additional funding. If they want a piece of the Long Beach pie, PAY UP, I say.
Or don't build! Surely, some arm twisting is in order. Also, consider a tourism fee. A slight increase in the order of .01% could go a long way to pay for maintenance costs.
48. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90808 I support the building if the new Belmont Pool.
49. BBAC Website 7/8/23 90808
Long Beach has been a producer of great aquatic athletes. Several olympians and cllege level high performing. The Belmont pool should pair with the outstanding performance and dedication for this community. Building a lesser quality pool will greatly impact this community. THere are several organizations and businesses that mya contribute to the construction of a state of the art Olympic Facility. We as community have been waiting for too long for this project.
50. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90814 Need to get this pool built. I swim at the pool 3d per week and having a permanent pool will be an asset to our community and coastal area.
51. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90803 I would very much like for the Belmont pool to be rebuilt
52. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/17/23 90813
The pool should be built in downtown where it is accessible to all public transit riders. He said it is being proposed in an affluent majority white sections of the city that does not have the public infrastructure that downtown does. Downtown is built around hosting large events and hosting guests. Belmont Shore is a small exclusive wealthy and white community.
Project shows no regard for the diversity of the city and did not ask for any public input from community members outside of the affluent white Belmont community.
53. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/29/23 90803
My husband and I oppose the climbing wall, recreational facility component. We as a City should have a pool for competitive meets that bring people into the City to spend money. Climbing walls and swings will not do so. So where will “Olympic meets”, international competitions and SoCal high school/league meets be? Why is LB willing to give up that revenue and spend it on now creating another plan?? We need a pool that fills those needs, not a “rec complex”!!!
54. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90814
Morking parking is needed for the pool area and the location of parking with Street locations shown and other adjacent details should be clearly designated.
There is very limited parking now and some of this looks like it will be paid parking. Area parking should be free for 1 hr. There should be ample parking for Chucks Cofee Shop.
55. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90814 I support rebuilding the Belmont Plaza Pool! Public Comments Page 7 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
56. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90814
With the building of this pool, I feel strongly that the city be involved in bringing in an Olympic Head Coach. This would not only bring in the top-quality swimmers needed to have a big-time swim program but could also bring in Professional swimmers. By doing this the program would be able to retain the local talent and keep them swimming in this city. As it has been for the past 10 years or so all the top swimmers have had to go outside the city into orange county to swim in order to keep up with their competition. Without a commitment from the city of Long Beach to have and build a championship program that this city was once known for in Phillips 66 Long Beach, it will remain status quo with over 8 different teams swimming in this pool alone.
Long Beach needs and deserves a championship program and there is so much talent here that it could once again become the Aquatic Capital of the World! This new pool would be able to attract an Olympic head coach and be able to rebuild what once was THE best swimming program in the USA. Let's make Long Beach the true Aquatic Capital once again. It will take a strong commitment from the city management to do so.
57. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90814
58. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/30/23 90803
I am SO PLEASED that the Belmont Pool progress has been stalled.
A residential area is NO PLACE for such a grandiose public facility! Putting Long Beach on the map as the “Swim Capital of the World” needs to happen in a large commercial district with access to public transport, lodging and copious food venues.
I recognize that nostalgia is causing many in the swim community to hang on tight to the idea of a larger facility in the original location, but this idea has been a bane to the existence of local residents since its inception. My family moved away from our Oceanaire townhome across the street from the Belmont because of the noise caused by the temporary outdoor pool.
I implore you and the City to relocate this project Downtown, or to some other area suitable for large-scale commercial developments. Doing so will all but guarantee that this project will finally break away from the delays and setbacks which accompany ill-placed ventures.
59. BBAC Website 7/14/23 90740
I have extensive knowledge about pools in Long Beach beginning at Wilson in 1954, Instruction, Competition, International. for so many years all over the world. Refereed in 4 Olympics Games, 4 World Championships, for a beginning. Worked with Women/Men. Helped Klaus at Wilson w hen he was having "problems." Most special time/moments. Well, I am def initely older but??????????? mahalo and keep paddling, ol' tom Your thoughts!
60. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90806
I agree with others that have written to you regarding this imperiled, excessively costly project. I strongly encourage and endorse option 4: Do not do the project.
Climate change is real and already threatens our coastline in so many ways. The costs of building this facility are easily 8 times what a regular pool facility, built in a more appropriate location, could cost. Since the destruction of the prior pool facility, we have seen news reports of bulldozers working (mostly in vain) during storms to try and stop the erosion caused by sea level rise. These videos will easily arise once again to demonstrate the foolishness of building such a facility, should the city proceed.
Tidelands funds are not "free" as some politicos would have you believe; waste is still waste, no matter where the money comes from. Far more appropriate uses are (and will be) defense of the low-lying Belmont Shore businesses and residences against impending sea-level-rise and ever more frequent flooding from climate change. Also, keeping the existing 'temporary' pool in good repair would make far more sense.
Again, as others have pointed out, I will agree that the nostalgic and fantasy perceptions involved are truly demented and demonstrate the apparently thoughtless spendthrift ways that some politicos continue to endorse offhandedly. People with money to invest or donate to worthy causes will see this and it will not work in anyone's favor.
Again, Please, Do not do this project.
61. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803 It's a swimming pool, not Disneyland! Leave out zipline, climbing wall. Kids love swimming and diving - they can get other excitement lots of other places.
Choose an option without those features and you have money for spectator seating, hiring enough staff, O&M into the future. Bring back diving well.
Public Comments Page 8 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
62. Email 7/14/23
I was wondering about your organization because I received a suspicious email from someon named Dee Yeh claiming I had been to a meeting about our loal community pool…I had not attended any such meetign and this makes me bellieve that this Yeh person is a hacker. Can you sine an y light on this for me.
Thank you for your time.
63. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90807 I fully support the City in building a new Belmont Pool. I liked the original design better, but understand that funding is tight. Not having the 10 meter platforms will limit our ability to host high level diving meets. Please do build the project though.
64. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90755 Please get it built! Be creative with fundraising. I’ll happily make donations as a frequent user of the temporary Belmont pool. The current state is of the temp pool is not sustainable - especially the bathrooms / shower rooms. I’ve injured myself exiting the shower trailers.
65. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90815
Thanks to City Manager Tom Modica, and all members of the project team for the presentation tonight (June 27). Based on the mat erial presented and the discussion that ensued, Option #1 is my preferred option. I'm hoping this will be the consensus, and that the project team will do its best to move the project forward to completion on an expedited timeline.
66. BBAC Website 7/5/23 90802 We need Belmont pool to be rebuilt as promised years ago. It's embarrassing a city the size of Long Beach does not have a stellar aquatic center (which was what the previous Belmont pool was) attracting PAC and other teams and serving the broader community. Cities a fraction of the size of Long Beach have outstanding aquatic centers - Pasadena has the Rose Bowl. West Hollywood renovated their pool a few years back.
67. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803
I support Option 2 or 3 and oppose Option 1 for a simple reason: There must be diving boards.
You simply can't have an Aquatic Center without diving boards. Diving is a huge part of aquatic sports, including in high schools and other organizations in which dive teams and swim teams often travel together. We need to emphasize what matters: Aquatic education and sport. There is no need for a "recreation area" with ziplines and climbing walls. Kids need to learn how to swim; not splash about.
The old Belmont pool was an inspiration; a cathedral to aquatic excellence. You've torn it down and--after failing for more than a decade of failing--proposed a playground.
68. BBAC Website 7/14/23 90803 The "pragmatic" pool concept is much improved. It would be great to also have a smaller heated pool for rehab/physical therapy for the community. Focus needs to be on the community at large not just the aquatic community. Everyone deserves pool access.
69. BBAC Website 7/15/23 92646 I support rebuilding the Belmont Pool Public Comments Page 9 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
70. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90808
I attended the 6/27/23 presentation by Mr. Modica and staff. I was both disappointed and impressed by their report on the Belmont Beach Aquatics Center. As a LB resident who is deeply familiar with the community-wide benefits of the competitive swimming club system sanctioned by USA Swimming, I retain hope despite my disappointment. I’m hopeful these words will matter to decision makers as the project proceeds because I know I’m one of many who share these thoughts.
I understand the opportunity no longer exists to create a Long Beach aquatics complex that could have surpassed Irvine’s William Woollett Jr. Aquatic Center or Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Aquatics Center.
I know our city simply can’t build a complex that would have met the community’s general needs while also serving as the region’s best new infrastructure for an ongoing calendar of serious, economy-boosting competitive aquatics events.
Mr. Modica mentioned that swimming pools don’t make money. He’s correct. But aquatics centers do serve as hubs of opportunity that can create economic value in ways that are not visible in an aquatic center’s annual report.
So we know what can’t be built. We now know that Option 1 is the next best thing. Let’s get it done. June 27 presented the hard facts about the realties of concrete and glass, of zip lines and springboards. The city staff made references to competitive swimming, but it was apparent they believe that since Option 1 can’t accommodate national, international, or regional NCAA events, the notion of this pool being integral to competitive swimming is dead.
It’s not. Option 1 can still work very well for age group competitions featuring USA Swimming-member club teams. It can host age group championships. It can even host USA Swimming Sectionals competitions. Why? Because the Option 1 pool will be good enough. We do need the money for bleachers and a scoreboard though! And it’s better if the shallow end is 4 1/2 - 5 ft, not 4 ft.
So yes, option 1 is adequate because water is just one part of a special-event caliber facility. Build the pool with on deck competition-friendly amenities such as bleachers, scoreboard, and enough deck space and exterior hard scape plans that let the center scale on-demand for special events. Plus, let’s have a separate conversation about how to integrate the remaining operational years of the temporary pool with the new aquatics center. Strangely, that was completely absent from the 6/27 discussion. But there are many ways to deliver programmatic multiplier effects if we think of the old and new pools as a synergistic complex.
Many words can be said to expand on what the Belmont Beach Aquatic Center can do for families and businesses in our city. Dear reader, this won’t be the place for that. I’ve already taken enough of your time. But I’ll close with these points:
(continuned)
1. Ever
y great swimming city has a municipal pool partnered with a USA Swimming member club team that functions as the aquatic center’s programmatic hub.
G
enerations of families are served by these private-public arrangements and great things happen to people because of it. This can’t be understated.
2. Don’t tak
e the kids for granted: 18&Under age group swimming events bring real money to the community. Hotel rooms, restaurant sales, local shopping.
T
he city places great value on headline events such as the Grand Prix and conventions. Bring 700-1,000 swimmers and their families into the area for events that last 3-5 days and you’re putting smaller scale convention-economics into play.
3. F
or years, especially since the old Belmont was torn down, Long Beach’s best swimming talent leaves the city to find homes at clubs based in other cities.
T
hey leave because Long Beach lacks a good aquatics center that can support a top-tier swim club that LB kids can proudly call home. Let’s build this center with a mindset that will support the rebirth of competitive age-group swimming for Long Beach families.
71. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803 I am concerned about traffic flow. The 4 way stop sign to enter the parking lot. Many times I have been crossing Ocean Blvd and cars do not stop. A signal light will be needed. Traffic flow and noise on Livingston need to be addressed. Thank you.
72. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/30/23 90815
I like the overall designs and would love to see the project break ground, it has been a long time. My strong preference would be to focus on making the facility conducive to swim, waterpolo, and diving, and less on pure recreation. Zip lines and climbing walls have no place here. The Belmont is literally known worldwide, and has fostered aquatic skills in thousands of residents for decades. The city has great facilities and resources for recreation, including parks, the aquarium, ocean and bay. We do not currently have adequate swim, waterpolo and diving facilities. Every resident, young and old, could benefit from such a facility.
Thank you !
73. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/13/23 90804 It is vital that the city find funds for seating. Rec swimmers who use the temporary pool need a spot off the deck to set their stuff. Also, parents and guests need to have a place to sit while their children are taking swim classes or using the water play areas.
74. City Virtual Comment
Fo
rm 7/18/23 90713 I support the Belmont Pool Coalition’ s goal to Rebuild The Belmont Plaza Pool.
Public Comments Page 10 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
75. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/6/23 90814 One of the reasons I live in Long Beach is access to all water sports. A beautiful new pool will be an anchor for the community and is desperately needed.
Without this resource I will definitely look to move to a different community that can offer an aquatic center to my family.
76. BBAC Website 7/6/23 90802 I want the pool at Belmont!
77. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90803 The Belmont pool has been an incredibly important part of my family's life. Both my children through Rocketfish and myself in master's swimming through Swim Long Beach. The pool is such an asset to the community and serves as the center for our aquatic activities. I hope to make use of it for many years to come.
78. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 94945
I support the city’s plan to rebuild the indoor pool at Belmont Shores.
I qualified for the National swim
Championships there in 1973. I coached swimming in Marin County for 40 years (Marin Pirates and College of Marin) And went to dozens of competitions at the previous facility. The entire state of CA would benefit as millions of dollars are now spent to travel To indoor pools out of state.
79. BBAC Website 7/1/23
I attended your community update meeting at Rodgers on June 27th. Beautiful pool and quite an undertaking. I swim 4 miles a week at the temporary pool and am looking forward to the new pool.
I can't help feeling underwhelmed though. I've thought all these years that Long Beach was going to reach for a world class aquatics facility, able to attract NCAA and Olympics cevents; a place where the McCormick divers could show off, etc. I am sad to hear the team leaning towards rock climbing an zip lining and another San Dimas water park. We will certianly not be an aquatics leader pursuing this path.
80. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the Belmont Pool Coalition’ s goal to Rebuild The Belmont Plaza Pool.
81. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90806
In regards to the original proposal it strikes me as an obscene waste of City funds to spend in excess of 100 million dollars on a facility that probably less than 1% of the residents will use at a time when our streets are substandard and we face an unprecedented homeless crisis, as well as a shameful lack of public open space on the west and north sides of the City.
82. BBAC Website 6/28/22 90814 As a parent of three kids who participate on rocketfish swim team and 908 waterpolo club, option 2 or 3 are the only feasible choices. Ideally the pool should have the instructional pool included. A zip line and climbing wall at an aquatic facility makes zero sense and is not appropriate use of this space(not to mention that additional staffing and safety issue in a era where it is hard to find enough lifeguards to watch the water).
83. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool on the beach in Belmont Shore. Thank you, Nathan Lavid
84. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support rebuilding the Belmont Plaza Pool.
85. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90808
My vote would be Option 4: No project.
Sea level rise predictions make it unreasonable to spend public money on a site that will suffer early effects of rising waters.
There is already a pool at that site. Maintain that pool and make free transportation and access available to those that are in lower income bracket. Use Tidelands funds to repair the Belmont Pier, lifeguard stations and other coastal needs, such as preparing for coming sea level rise in Naples and Belmont Shore.
86. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90806 Please build this pool as it would greatly impact the community positively.
87. BBAC Website 6/28/22 90804
I think the idea of a kid fun pool is great!
Would the current outdoor pool still be there? My son currently attend the Belmont Jr Beach Camp and Im concerned that removing the existing outdoor pool would affect summer camps.
Public Comments Page 11 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
88. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90803
I believe, after ten years of planning and work on the Aquatic Center, including nearly all its final approvals, that it is too soon to make any final decisions to reduce the project to nothing more than a municipal pool. I do not believe the city has made adequate efforts to find supplemental funding -- if it is needed, since we will not know for certain whether the voters will approve the referendum on SB 1137 until, at the earliest, reliable polling is available sometime in the summer of 2024. I would respectfully urge more consideration of federal and state options for funding, as well as exploring the possibility of additional private funding.
89. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90808
If a band-aid project is necessary due to budget restraints (appreciated) why build it at all? Can the money be funneled to repairing our crumbling infrastructure? The vast majority of So-Cal residents will not utilize the facility with the elimination of the competition component. The revised project does not replace the Belmont Plaza facility with it's recognized competition capabilities and rental income potential. Also, the Zip-Line/Rock Wall components are lame. Let's fix our massive infrastructure embarrassment and not add another White Elephant to our shoreline.
90. City Virtual Comment
Form (2)
7/7/23
7/18/23 90813
[first comment];
Rebuild the pool! Whatever it takes. The pool is my refuge and my community. [second comment]:
Personally, I support the City’s updated plan and I am 100% on board with the Belmont Pool Coalition’s goal to focus the aquatic community’s support to make sure we rebuild the pool.
91. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90802
92. BBAC Website 6/28/23 90804 Just make a pool. No one comes for zip lining or rock climbing. It's supposed to be a pool area. The libality and the cost of having an attendant at all times for those two things could pay for a life guard for the pool. Just build a pool
93. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90815 While I understand those who feel we should just move forward to get the project done, they need to understand that building something close to what the original plans described would bring the 2028 Olympics to Long Beach, which would mean additional revenue for the city.
94. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/16/23 90802 I would like to express my support for option 2, especially after reading about the 9 McCormick divers going to the nationals. Like the Grand Prix a 1st class facility, will bring 1st class events !!
95. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90815 Long Beach already has several swimming pools so I don’t see any reason to rush putting in another small pool complex. I do not agree that “something” is better than nothing. I would prefer wait and continue to pursue the larger full aquatics center.
96. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90802
I am disappointed that project cannot proceed according to original plan, but I understand the financial and other considerations. I vote to move forward with Option 1 to provide athletic and recreational opportunities for everyone in Long Beach. Everyone in the “aquatics capital” should have the opportunity to learn to swim to safely enjoy pools, ocean, boating, etc.
97. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90732 Please start the project as presented in tonight’s meeting ASAP, the longer we wait, the chances of cost increases may be cost prohibitive. We need this pool.
98. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803 Support Option 1. Go fast! Recreational elements are ni ce. Seating would be good but not essential. Priority 1 should be to get it done.
99. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90807
The greatest opportunity for the Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center Project is to host major competitions such as Olympic Trials, National Championships, World Championships, or even the Olympics themselves in the future. T hese events bring thousands of interested spectators who will contribute to local businesses and the reputation of Long Beach. To do so, the facility needs two 50m pools located closely together to compete with the offerings of facilities elsewhere. Moreover, while the site immediately on the beautiful Belmont Shore beach is ideal to showcase what Long Beach has to offer, it will expose spectators and competitors to significant wind from the ocean. To take advantage of competitions that happen in colder months, such as Winter Nationals or the NCAA Championships, at least one of the competition pools, the dive well and tower, and the spectator seating should be protected from the wind, if not entirely inside. If nothing else, this will also make the facility more appealing and useful on an ordinary basis with all-weather capabilities.
Public Comments Page 12 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
100. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90807 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool on the beach in Belmont Shore. 101. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90807
I support the speedy rebuilding of the Belmont Plaza pool complex. I would suggest the grandstands be on the south(beach) side facing north for two primary reasons: 1) the spectators will not be facing into the sun or the glare from the sun off the pool surface 2) the grandstands structure will provide some wind break for the pool. Also another independent point - please provide enough room on the non-grandstand so substantial temporary grandstands can be built for large scale events. Lastly it is a mistake not to build 2 50 meter pools. We should retain the existing temporary pool in order to host such large scale US swimming , USA water polo or collegiate events. The City of Irvine Woollett center has 2 50 meter pools and is considering a 3rd. 102. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90732 Love the temporary pool, but it has been long enough. I support the Belmont Pool Rebuild Project. Let’s get it done already!! 103. BBAC Website 7/16/23 90732 I support the building of a new aquatics center 104. BBAC Website 6/27/23 90802 Why are we adding a zip line and a rock climbing wall to a community pool? This sounds a lot like scope creep. Keep it to what it is…a community pool facility! Viewer stands with shade are far more critical than a zip line and a rock climbing wall. Please, focus on the core function of what this should be!! 105. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90803 TBA. Will return to this page for comments after the meeting. 106. BBAC Website 6/28/23 Our family will be able to use option 1 for the new pool. 107. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803
I approve the current design and am fully supportive of the effort to rebuild the facility and keep the “temporary” pool operating. I would make only one comment on the design…move the spectator structure such that the back of the structure blocks the prevailing westerly winds, blowing sand and afternoon glare from the competition pool. Although an ocean view would be lost, the benefits to competitors, spectators and general maintenance would more than compensate. 108. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool on the beach in Belmont Shore. 109. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803
1. O
ption #3 w/ the 75m pool is the best choice. The water playground is a supervision issue, the ocean next door is a suitable play area, perhaps a playground on the s
and between the building and shore would be a better choice & open to the public. Option 1 is....acceptable but a full pool is better.
2. Sec
ure bike parking inside the fenced area! so bikes don't get stolen.
3. It w
ould be nice if the seating structure roof could match the other two buildings slope / PV etc. could be a later phase.
4. Los
e the diving platforms, they are/were very under utilized and public is not allowed to use, usually club only. Also, 12' deep is plenty for SCUBA diving tr
aining. LA County UILL (?) uses Belvedere in East LA.
110. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90813 I am in support of the Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center Project 111. BBAC Website 7/7/23 92647 Just build the pool. NO ROCK WALL. NO ZIP LINE. It's an aquatic center. Build an aquatic center, toilets, showers, bleachers, and some shade covers.
THANK YOU!
112. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/14/23 90815 I am in full support of rebuilding the Belmont Aquatics Center. I grew up going to the old Belmont Plaza for swim meets. The location has the ability to not only bring in revenue for the City of Long Beach, but provides public pool access for the entire city. 113. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 Bleachers or shade awnings requested. Prioritize the year-round users not just the children business during summer season. Thanks! Public Comments Page 13 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
114. BBAC Website 7/8/23 90803
Please make sure to build an aquatics pool for competitive swimming, waterpolo and diving. There is no need for climbing walls or play equipment outside of the pool. Also it would be a huge mistake to disregard a snack/meal viewing area of the pool. A nice place for folks to gather after a workout or even wait while others swim or practice could help balance costs and serve as a community gathering space for swim teams, schools and families in the area. 115. BBAC Website 7/15/23 I support rebuilding the Belmont Pool!! 116. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90814 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool on the beach in Belmont Shore. 117. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/1/23 90815
Belmont Pool design must be aligned with Olympic standards so our community can participate in the World Competition. Option 2 or 3 could serve that purpose. Swimming skills is an important safety skill to cultivate. Let's invest in our youth. I know for a fact rope climbing facilities are further down the beach path. Kids can go there to practice climbing.
Do Not waste funds on rock wall climbing and zip lines with this complex. We need spectator seating and Shade structure. 118. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/1/23 90815 Option 2 or 3 Facilities more oriented to competitive swimming and diving. I hope our community is poised to take advantage of Olympic Events.
I Do not prefer option one I think rock climbing and zipline activities can be accomplished elsewhere. 119. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90803 We are very disappointed in the current pool design after anticipating a design of equal or greater civic value than the original. We would encourage the city to seek alternate funding to enhance the current design.
120. BBAC Website 6/28/23 90803 Go ahead and build it already! 121. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the City of Long Beach and the Belmont Pool Coa lition in their efforts to Rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool facility. 122. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 As a Long Beach resident and a Long Beach business owner, I support building the Belmont Pool on the beach. I believe the most recent City plans are excellent.
123. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/1/23 92807 Test
124. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support rebuilding the Belmont pool plaza! 125. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803
Getting rid of the diving well impacts the ability of the city to use this facility to rent to military deep water training and scuba training that were common uses when the original pool was open. Plus, a separate diving well allows for competition and regular training to go on unimpeded rather than blocking off usable portions of the pool to accommodate these uses.
Plus we are missing out on a lot of community income for restaurants, hotels, Queen Mary, by not making it big enough for major competitions.
Public Comments Page 14 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
126. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803
The Belmont pool should be a destination for competitive aquatics. As someone who competed in CIF playoffs and Moore Leage Finals at the old pool, and who watched Pac-10 meets and other major competitions there, I sincerely hope the focus of this project will be to make the pool a destination for hosting competitive events. In that light, I believe the pool should have the most space possible for swim/water polo competitions. It should have not only spring boards, but also a dive tower to hold all manner of dive competitions. It should have a full set of bleachers for spectators, and it should be a place for people to experience the best aquatic competitions in Southern California.
If we are to include in this project a zipline, climbing wall, "activity tower," and vortex, I truly hope it is not at the expense of providing the best possible competition facilities, for both participants and spectators alike.
What I was most proud of with the old pool being a destination for these events was that it provided an opportunity to show off our community to people from across the state and from all over the country. It was not simply a local pool, but rather a source of pride and an historical landmark where generations of competitors made lasting memories. My hope is that the new pool can be a place for the next generation of competitors to make s imilar memories, as well as be a source of pride for our community to show off to those from all over the world who come here to compete.
I implore you to consider and prioritize making this pool the premier destination for holding competitive aquatic events in our region so that future generations of Long Beach residents can compete on their home turf. Let's not concede these premier events to those pool complexes in Orange C ounty or elsewhere in Los Angeles. Let's bring them back to Long Beach with a destination pool that we can be proud of. 127. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/29/23 90803
I’m happy that the city has decided to scale down the project to include the preservation of the adjacent park space and old growth trees. My hope is that in the final design the city makes every effort to continue to make this a priority. The destruction of one of the only green spaces in the area should have never been considered, and was something I was very surprised to see in the original plan. Our community loves that park.
That said, I still don’t support the project given the expense and location. With so many competing priorities for such a large sum of money, it is my belief the city should look at projects that would benefit more residents than just swimmers and Belmont Shore residents. If the demograph ic of the meeting on Tuesday evening was indicative of whose interests are a priority this project, it is very clear who the city is trying to appease. 128. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90802
This pool project is another waste of money. With Tidelands funds DEPLETING and the ocean swells INCREASING, this is no time to build next to the ocean.
The pool will likely be underwater within the decade and the city will look like fools. That's nothing new, of course.
What we should use the Tidelands funds for is to keep the temp pool in good working order, and keep infrastructure repairs ongo ing, like fixing the Belmont Pier and preparing for the inevitable sea level rise.
OPTION 4 IS THE BEST OPTION - NO STUPID POOL. It would require an EIR because it's in the coastal zone and it really isn't a necessity, except to salve politicians' egos.
129. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90807
The city of Long Beach should have a state of the art aquatics center. There is no need for a climbing wall or zip line. Save the money at put it into building a robust facility. Having a show case aquatics center is good for all citizens of long beach. One where all can learn to swim and be safe around and in water.
Low income and unrepresented minorities disproportionately do not learn how to swim. Having a civic parks and recreation department that can provide numerous opportunities for residents to learn how to swim and feel safe in and near the water is a great civic asset. 130. Email 7/17/23 92614
I hope all is well with you. I wanted to circle back on this project and see based on this email I was on if this is ready to go again? Bernards would really like to be apart of this project and hoping to stay engaged as this project moves forward. The renderings of the project look great! Please let me know if you have any additional information on this project and if we could provide any information to stay in touch on this project.
Public Comments Page 15 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
131. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803
1. Som
e major health insurance companies provide free access to gyms & pools. Would it be possible to recruit funds from Kaiser, Blue Cross, Molina, HealthNet, etc
. to build this pool? (Sr. Advantage, Silver & Fit, Silver Sneakers, etc.)
2. Pleas e be sure to include lap lanes that are deep & continue to offer exercise & youth programs.
3. Lif e guards really do need a raise!! The pool is closed on Sundays because they have trouble keeping staff.
4. Many
of us who use the pool on a regular basis, especially seniors, really missed the pool when it was closed & have improved flexibility & health in general w
hen we are able to swim. How can we help make this happen? Thank you! 132. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90807 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool. It’s a pool and location that is famous in the aquatics community and can be a big draw for aquatics events if rebuilt.
133. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803
I vote for option 1.
This option is the most likely to be approved by the coastal commission and the Long Beach community stakeholders.
It ain’t perfect, but is significantly better than the temporary pool we have now. 134. BBAC Website 7/17/23 90740 I enthusiastically support rebuilding the Belmont Pool! 135. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/30/23 90803
The City will face hundreds of millions of dollars of expenses in the coming decades to adapt to rising sea levels. Spending in the range of $80 million of limited tidelands funds to build this project is wildly imprudent. I have seen no cost-benefit analysis comparing the use of this amount of money for a new pool, itself more costly to armor it against sea-level rise, as opposed to reserving the money to address the substantial costs of adaptation to rising sea levels. Future generations will ask how we could have been so short-sighted as to invest this money in a pool. 136. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/30/23 90803
I can’t understand why “replacing” a pool can have turned into such a fiasco. Are we still calling ourselves the aquatic capital? As beat as the Belmont pool was it was a landmark that made our community great. I’m so insulted that 90803 has become nothing but the revenue source for sometimes insanely wasteful projects for the rest of the city. We should secede.
137. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90803 REBUILD BELMONT POOL!
138. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90814
Although I think the revised plans are adequate, I believe the original plans for the facility should be preferred. I understand that there will less revenue from oil to the City of Long Beach in the case that SB 1137 is passed. However, scaling back the facility is counterintuitive -- Long Beach should be investing in infrastructure and facilities that will help the city be resilient to a shrinking oil revenues. By that I mean the original plan would make Long Beach one of the premier facilities in the region for hosting competitive swim and diving competition. The impact to our economy would be substantial -- I believe it would be a significant driver of tourism in our city. I believe Mayor Richardson has made comments about needing to strengthen non-oil sectors of our economy, and I think this is a great opportunity to do just that.
While there is a funding gap, it's predicated on being SB 1137 passed, which seems premature. In the meantime, the city can think about alternatives to securing the funding for the full project, such as:
-
Slight addition to pool us
e fee for non-Long Beach residents.
- Sec
uring facility use contracts for events post-construction - Cons
ider something like Measure A, but with a focus on new projects (for this project and others across the city) Thanks
139. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 91724 Rebuild the iconic pool! It holds so many memories and important swimming history. Keep the SoCal swimming legacy g oing. 140. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90893
I would flip the layout 180 degrees to make it more practical. Have the pool side facing North (and the buildings on the Ocean side. This will help block the wind (similar to the existing facility). During swim meets the swimmers can sit out on the grass rather than in the wind and on the sand, while waiting for their next race.
141. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803 Build an option to add additional seating but agree / just get it built!!! Public Comments Page 16 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
142. BBAC Website 7/15/23 I support the Belmont pool rebuild project. I live in San Pedro and we have a group of dedicated older swimmers who come down and use the pool several times a week. After our swims we like to have coffee and or breakfast somewhere on 2nd street. Looking forward to a new permane nt facility. 143. Email 6/28/23 90803
Tom & Eric:
Just read this article and was very surprised that as a stakeholder I was never noticed about last nights meeting especially since I’m one of the most impacted by this project. I would like the opportunity to discuss this new design that is under-whelming at best. In addition, my view is now blocked and this is something that should be discussed. Please let me know a time that we can discuss this project. I’m available after Wednesday next week. 144. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/17/23 90802
Option 4: No project. Please quit beating a dead horse. Yes,it is a beautiful design. But it is so expensive and no funds should be expended for this location.
This is because it wastes money rather than serves as an investment; it makes no financial or social sense to remove the old covered pool for earthquake fears then build a new mega expensive uncovered pool(s) smack in the area for sea level rise, does it? Use Tidelands funds for other coastal needs, including preparation for upcoming sea level rise. Keep the temporary pool repaired. Provide free bus transportation and free swim time for those who cannot pay. If a new pool design is chosen, it should be covered to be useable all year round, respectful of the neighborhood, in a location far from sea level rise, and be truly a replacement for the former covered pool. Thank you!
145. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/11/23 90713
The name says it all ‘Aquatic Center’.
LB doesn’t pay the lifeguards as lifeguards but as ‘recreation specialists’, so how can LB afford the pay for specialized employees in zip lining and rock climbing, not to mention the liability concerns…bad idea 146. BBAC Website 7/16/23 90803
Great presentation and explanation of the many variables on this project to date.
After studying each of the three options, I feel strongly that option #3 provides the most benefits and versatility to the city's aquatic user community - which is also the most viable community to fund raise to secure seating - which would provide benefit to the aquatic spectator community.
A couple of thoughts on the less traditional features included in option #1 (zip lines, climbing wall, etc.) While I'm sure these will be popular during the summer months, the majority of the year likely see these features underutilized if at all. Both the bay and downtown have these types of seasonal attractions - and in conjunction with the use of those - I believe using the new pool to provide as many swim lessons as can be provided would be a much better use for everyone and perhaps get more youth out on those Wibits! Option #3 offers that additional 'practical' aquatics capability.
I applaud and support the commitment to maintaining the existing 'temporary' pool - adding to the overall foot print of an aquatics center - much of which was scaled down during the sequence of events outlined in the presentation. So also incorporating that existing resource is, in my view, a good investment - even if across the parking lot from the new facility.
One more thought; I agree that this project should not wait for the outcome of next fall's ballot, however in the event that SB1137 does NOT pass, perhaps the design could include some options and a delta for additional features (like seating, support space and locker facilities)? 147. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/9/23 90804
Please rebuild the pool. It is such an asset to the community as a whole. We have a responsibility to ensure that all people learn to swim and the plan that you showed at the meeting seems to encompass many diverse experiences and levels in the water. Thank you for your continued support for making this project happen. I hope with the design as it was shown at the meeting, there will be room for adding amenities if there is money later on, like shade and bleachers.
Public Comments Page 17 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
148. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/6/23 90803
I was not sent any notice about the recent public meeting despite being a regular swimmer on the pool mailing list, so this is concerning to me. I read about the 3 options in the local paper but don't see anything about them here, so it's all rather confusing. Do we "vote" for the one we want"? If so, my vote is for the second option, it should focus on swimming and swimming only. After all, it's a pool. Long Beach should build a separate community center to address other needs. Does this count as my having input as a regular swimmer? Please let me know. thanks. 149. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803 Prefer project only be for swimming and diving. And smaller rather than larger. 150. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803
There has to be more reality regarding the beach process. Tom says the beach is stable - no beach width sand is. Examine pictures a few years ago - Claremoat launch ramp subsidence from oil drilling is a huge problem. This pool section of beach is protected by sand from east. If we block sand as desired to protect the houses erosion will be much accelerated.
There are multiple needs for funds Bay Beach, Ocean Beach, Low Jetty. Many thousands of homes are protected by the sand. Sand is a fluid entity and will require resources.
It is essential to have $ for repressurizing after drilling stops. The peninsula boardwalk is almost 100 years old and in poor shape. Bayshore Beach is disappearing. Is this the best use of irreplaceable funds? 151. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/7/23 90813 Would really like the diving pool. But if there was a way to compromise and build racing pool with a depth for diving, I would be okay for the recreational area for the kids. Thanks
152. BBAC Website 6/26/23
it is very understandable that everyone wants to cut down the costs in building the pool, BUT reducing the stands for spectators to come & watch is absolutely NNNOOOTTT the right concept. After all, since all of the aquatic elements will be held in Long Beach, during the 2028 Olympics, you will have a gargantuan amount of people wanting to see the events, people who will be paying to see the events.
Since i am still on the subjectof the main pool, THAT is absolutely in need of having a roof. i am sure that NOONE wants to have any issues during those events due to weather sending off sand, debris & God knows what else during qualifcations & main events.
To speak now about the high jump section of the pool, THAT will definitely also need a roof, but also spectator stands. Do NNOOTT loose the potential of making MILLIONS throw off the pool.
153. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803
I started swimming in the temporary pool in about 2013…laps and water exercise. I used to pay $6.00 per exercise class or could buy a 10 pass for $4100. Now it is free for all seniors - even those people not living in Long Beach. While I applaud this (and of course I like to save money), I do wonder if we should return to participants paying for the service.
Thank you for always working so hard for this project.
154. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/30/23 90803
I think this is a big mistake to consider a scaled-back design for a potentially premier pool facility. The City of Long Beach has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be able to build a premier beach-front pool facility. I don't know of any other city that has this chance. Long Beach is known as the Aquatic Capital of the world, yet we are considering to build a measly pool facility on our shoreline? Think of the potential revenue that could be made with a world-class facility. Swim events, competitions, the Olympics 2028. This would only benefit the City of Long Beach. The City has already spent how many millions of dollars and time on consulting fees trying to design a world-class facility? If we knew that this scaled back design would be the eventual result, why hasn't this facility been built already? Issue a bond and I'm sure the city residents would appreciate a thoughtful, well-designed, revenue earning facility that could potentially pay for itself.
Public Comments Page 18 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
155. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90815
The presentation today was very informative and explained why it has taken so long to get the pool designed and built. I understand why there needs to be something for everyone in the community. I like the fact that you will be using solar to heat the pool and facilities. It is a shame you can't support a 10 & 3m diving tower as part of the plan. As the Aquatics Capital of the US, it would be difficult to keep that moniker if you don't have an Olympic swimming & diving facility. The splash zone activities are also important. As long as you rebuild a 50 meter pool I think that is good. What about lane lines, pool covers, meets, etc.? Timing systems, scoreboard. That's good.
156. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90803 - What is the goal for next three months? - is existing funding at risk of being repurposed? If so, then What is the competing project? 157.
City Virtual Comment
Form
Email
7/18/23
7/18/23
90814
[first comment - submitted via City Virtual Comment Form]:
I attended the recent community meeting regards the three options for the Belmont Olympic Pool rebuild. That is “rebuild”, not a new pool.
I feel that Option 3 provides more flexibility by providing swimming, exercise and lessons. I believe a pool facility should be providing all these things and not a water park.
Water Park = zipline, rock wall, vortex, sprayer, activity tower, floatables & other features.
By focusing on water park features for the kids that would only use them 3 months out of the year seems to be a misplaced priority; especially when the pool will have no covering. As it stands now, the pool is primarily being used by adults year round. Water park features would most likely increase the liability insurance costs. And the need for additional lifeguard staff, which is currently a problem. There is not enough staffing to have the pool offerings today; such as, Sunday lap swimming and water aerobics. Can you imagine kids climbing the rock wall with wet hands and feet falling on unsuspecting kids below? I don’t know how much the water park features cost, but is seems to me that that money could be put to better use towards bleachers/seating & awning/shade.
By not having water park features, it should reduce the Overhead Maintenace (OM) recurring costs.
You are really missing the boat by not providing bleachers and shade. How can you expect this facility to be used for competitions. If you came to the pool during swimming lessons, you would note that seating is necessary.
I feel that a glass wall enclosure is overkill. People are using the pool for swim activities, not the view. Besides where would folks put their gear? On the pool deck? It would get all wet. And the pool tarps and lane line reels would most likely obstruct any view provided by glass walls. I would guess that there would have to be some kind of fencing to keep people out and protect the pool from intruders and the wind blown sand.
Not sure in the designs where water aerobics would happen. During the summer months the classes have anywhere between 80 to 100 people per class. This is a vital service that many people take advantage of for their health, me among them. And I participate year round.
Not sure in the plans the actual sizes of the restrooms/locker rooms. The current trailers at the temporary pool are really inadequate. Too small to move around it and filthy with mold and mildew.
I hope there is a handicap ramp and other handicap lifts in the plan. [second comment - submitted via Email]:
same text as CIty Virtual Comment Form
Public Comments Page 19 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
158.
City Virtual Comment
Form
BBAC Website
6/29/23
7/14/23 90803
[first comment - submitted via City Virtual Comment Form]:
Solid presentation from the City Manager. I'm not sure that the something-is-better-than-nothing approach makes the most sense. If we knew there was significant additional funding 8 or so months from now, I think it would be worth waiting. A 2nd pool would be best. We've waited this long... best to do it right.
As a senior who takes the Aqua Aerobics classes, I have a real concern that we need properly trained (and compensated) instructors. Too many of the lifeguards are inappropriate instructors. I would be happy to serve on a committee to enhance the senior classes. [second comment - submitted via BBAC website]:
Until the lifeguards are trained to lead fitness classes, allow experiened instructors to lead classes even though they are not certified lifeguards. There are always other lifeguards on duty.
159. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90803
I appreciate you all taking the time to create a revised plan and vision for the pool, one that could be built in a more timely manner and on a more realistic budget. Like the city, I do think the first option provides the most bang for your buck. As a resident who owns a home within eyesight of this project (our condo is at the corner of Livingston and Mira Mar), I do have invested interest in this project and some suggestions for it.
Suggestions:
1. Aes
thetics- the current design of the locker room and pool equipment buildings on the northwest and northeast corners of the project, as shown in the pr
esentation, are very basic and utilitarian looking. This is disappointing for a beachside project that’ll be a significant center of our community that has been in the w
orks for as long as it has, especially when compared to the plans for the new Belmont Pier that sits right adjacent to this project. My suggestion would be to add s
ome decorative features to the architecture that either pay homage to the history of Long Beach (think something kind of mid-century modern like the Bay
shore Library, CSULB, the Ranchos, or the various case study houses on Naples) or tie into the more modern aesthetic of the gym Iconix, right across the s
treet from this project (the architect of Iconix also recently did the lauded Alder & Sage on Retro Row). It does not have to be elaborate, but something more than a blank
wall and lifeless shade overhang.
2. Native lands
caping- one thing I noticed in the presentation was that a parcel of sand was left between the pool project and the beach path. I think this is a gr
eat opportunity to use that land as a way to restore some of our local ecosystem as it is an area of sand/beach pretty much never used by beach patrons (they all go closer to the water, south of the beach path). Planting native coastal dune plants would help to restore some of our local ecosystem, beautify that stretch of sand between the project and the beach path, and offer a buffer to hold sand and prevent a large influx of sand from going into the pool area when the afternoon sea breeze blows towards the pool (I saw there is a glass wall to also help with this). I’m know there are tons of native plant organizations and whatnot that could provide funding/donations towards this and getting the community involved to help plant the area would be super fun (I know my husband and I would be there in a heartbeat).
3. Ic
onix- as a longtime Iconix member, I think the pool partnering with them makes sense from a fitness and community standpoint. With direct access across f
rom one another, partnering with Iconix could have them adding a membership tier that includes access to the pool. Those additional funds could go directly towards the operation of the pool. Also, , is an incredibly involved member of our community (he is on the Belmont Shore Bus
iness Association that has really helped inject energy into The Shore, helping it to have a kind of renaissance right now), so reaching out to him to help with this
project, both from a community and fiscal standpoint, would be something that I would strongly encourage.
Thank you for all your time and effort with this project. I know you cannot please everybody, but I feel my suggestions are things that would positive for all involved par
ties.
160. BBAC Website 7/15/23 90814 n/a
161. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90803 This pool is one of the best activities for all in Long Beach. It's time to build the new pool and us back on the map. Kids, adults, seniors use this pool daily and deserve a good facility.
162. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90814 Please consider the predicted rise of sea level due to climate change. I feel that the current plan is too close to the rising shorelne.
Public Comments Page 20 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
163. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/27/23 90814 I fully support the rebuilding of the Belmont Plaza P ool. The Belmont Plaza Pool will be a significant aquatic asset for the City of Long Beach. 164. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/29/23 90898
It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be functional and should be built SOON. And beyond that you’re going to have to do some thing better to protect the pools from the sand. The way it is planned now, it’s going to be full of sand all the time … so you really need to study and correct that aspect. It frequently gets very windy down there, and there’s no way that a short wall will keep sand out of the pool. Maintenance to remove sand could become very expensive. If swimmers want sand, they can swim in the ocean or bay just a few feet away. Also, you absolutely need at least a small amount of bleachers seating — with shade.
The pool will need a permanent shade covering of some sort, even if it’s fabric. I’m a little confused as to why we tore down an enclosed pool and we’re now making an open, unshaded pool right next to the beach (where you can be in the water in the open sun if desired.) People swim in a closed pool specifically because they want to be in an enclosed environment with year-round usability. It doesn’t make sense to build an open, unshaded pool right next to a giant, open, unshaded swimming area (the ocean.) We already have all that in the temporary pool.
Just hurry up and build it. The old pool should never have been closed until the new pool was built. 165. BBAC Website 7/18/23 90807
The cited three options for a new aquatic complex are needlessly costly, thanks to needlessly poor choice of site. Another Tidelands site, Convention Center Elephant Lot, avoids needless extra construction costs and flood risks, and to boot provides far superior access for the great majority of Long Beach residents - AND for prospective tourists and visitors to the pool complex's aquatic events. In fact, a temporary Olympics trials pool at that site is planned as part of the 2028 Olympics!! A permanent aquatic complex there would be compatible with, and could be integrated with, other proposed uses of that site, including museums, stadiums, etc etc.
For the Belmont aquatic center project, as presently conceived, the most useful and best bang-for-buck component is keeping the existing 'temporary' pool in good repair. The bulk of Tidelands funds - which are finite - are needed to meet for more urgent current and future needs, notably defense of low-lying Belmont Shore businesses and residences against impending sea-level-rise and ever more frequent flooding.
In recent years a similar Olympic pool complex was built not far from Long Beach in Torrance, for a more typical cost (among recently built USA complexes) - not $130 million but $15 million. The enormously ballooned added cost of the Belmont boondoggle owes to City Hall's fanatic spendthrift determination to build only on a or near a single specific site. Behind this determination are two financially idiotic notions, one based on nostalgia, the other on fantasy.
The nostalgia insists that just because a pool built in the 1960s used to be at the site, a ‘replacement’ pool can be ONLY there. The fantasy perceives Tidelands funds as coming so free and easy that it’s worth spending an extra $5 of Tidelands funds in order to avoid spending an extra $1 of tax revenues.
The fantasy perception is demented too. $5 of Tidelands funds is worth $5 of tax revenues. Tidelands funds are finite, and moreover now and in future they will be ever more needed for urgent defense of Belmont Shore businesses and residences from increasing climate change effects: storm flooding and sea-level -
rise.
Private and institutional sources who prudently provide philanthropy will continue to be unimpressed by the notion that they should part with their money in order to enable spendthrift foolishness. After all, for a relatively modest amount - $15 or $20 million or thereabouts - these parties could instead fully fund an entire new and better-sited community pool complex, at one or another of various Long Beach sites. (An approach City Hall itself continues to reject.) 166. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I support the City’s plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaza Pool on the beach in Belmont Shore Public Comments Page 21 of 22
Belmont Beach and Aquatics Center
Comment Type Date
Received Zip Code Issue / Comment Detail
167. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90807 Please use the current plan to rebuild the Belmont Plaz a Pool on the beach in Belmont Shore. And please rebuild it soon--the temporary pool is falling apart. 168. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 92604 I support Belmont being built!
169. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/1/23 90803
I agree with the city planners that Option 1 is the best choice to try to meet the wide-ranging needs of our community. I have two questions/recommendations:
(1) I swim laps at the temporary pool regularly. I would like it if the new pool allowed for more lap swimming time. With two 50m pools, as was originally proposed, more lap swimming time was assured. I understand the budget does not allow for 2 50m pools at this time. However, I would like to know if it will still be the case that the pool is used exclusively by Wilson HS and other private groups during the afternoons or if it will also be available for general public use, for example between 2-6pm. If the main pool is still to be used by Wilson HS and private groups during these hours, I suggest that the instructional lanes in the smaller pool be open to the public, perhaps using the online, pre-registration system that was required during COVID. (2) While I think the climbing wall and zip lines are cool, I think these more adventurous items are unnecessary for two reasons. First, I think the two inflatable water playgrounds that Long Beach operates in the summer satisfy this need for something super fun for teens and young adults. Second, the temporary pool is currently closed on Sundays because of staffing shortages. I imagine that the zip line and climbing wall would require even more staffing than the lap/recreational pool and activity zone for younger children because of the intensity/risk of injury with those two components. I think it would be better to save the money on these two items and devote them to bleachers instead. The bleachers are used all the time, year-round, whereas I think the climbing wall and zip line would be limited to summer use by a smaller subset of the overall community. Thank you for continuing to work on this important project. I hope it will get started soon! 170. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/12/23 90808
I only support the 70-meter pool with springboards, dive tower, and instructional areas. The least amount of money spent is the best option. The city needs to spend more money on transportation infrastructure. It's an embarrassment that our roads are in such poor condition. And we're paying premium rates on taxes and bonds. Most of the potholes just get patched year after year (as if that is a sufficient solution!) which makes the streets bumpy to drive on. Some streets don't even get patched. I've had to memorize where the street holes are and drive around them. And the road medians and sidewalks look terrible with dead weeds, half dead vegetation, and trash. Some roads don't even have clear lane striping. Enough is enough with the neglect. I don't want to hear excuses anymore. Do something about it.
171. City Virtual Comment
Form 7/18/23 90803 I wholeheartedly support the city of Long Beach rebuild ing the Belmont Plaza pool on the beach in Belmont Shores 172. City Hard Copy
Comnent Card 6/27/23 90815
The design faces the ocean. The wind will HOWL and does HOWL many afternoons. The wind will blow so much sand into the pool. You may be putting glass in front however the wind will blow so much sand. By putting the building in front you spare the pool so much wind & sand & weather. Also the fans/spectator seating will be facing the wind, the weather, and the sun. Not in tune with the weather situation down there. This said I support this project entirely. Thank you - Hank Wise
173. City Virtual Comment
Form 6/28/23 90814 The pool needs to be scrapped and the money used for police, roads and sidewalks 174. BBAC Website 6/28/23 90803 I don't understand the meaning of the full name of this facility. "Belmont Beach AND Aquatics Center". I believe this is an Aquatics Center but it is also a "Bemont Beach"? I don't think so. Maybe Beach should be dropped and title is Belmont Aquatics Center.
Public Comments Page 22 of 22