City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: January 27, 2026
Agenda Item: 11.D
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To: Mayor and City Council
From: Rick Valte, Public Works Director, Public Works, Architecture Services Subject: Approval of the Revised Plan for Phases 1 and 2 of the Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt the attached resolution certifying the attached Environmental Impact Report for the Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project;
2. Adopt mitigation measures set forth in the Environmental Impact Report; and
3. Approve the revised plan and direct staff to proceed with design development and construction documents for Phases 1 and 2 of the Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project.
Summary
The Santa Monica parks system includes 30 parks encompassing more than 144 acres.
Within this parks system, there are small neighborhood parks such as Ozone Park and Euclid Park, and larger community parks such as Clover, Virginia Avenue, and Memorial Park. Each of these parks features amenities that together form a rich range of opportunities for various types of sports, play experiences, gardening, picnicking, walking, and relaxing. Memorial Park, established in the 1950s and geographically located in the heart of Santa Monica, is important to the overall parks system, as it serves as the primary park for baseball and softball as well as being the home of the City’s only public gymnasium, skate park, and tennis/pickleball courts. The Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project (Project) would combine Memorial Park and the adjacent City-owned former Fisher Lumber site into a 13.2-acre newly renovated and expanded community park to meet increasing demand for recreational activities. The Project would also integrate components of the Pedestrian Action Plan 2 of 34
and Bicycle Action Plan. An extensive community outreach process guided the development of a master plan layout and park program for the future renovation and expansion of Memorial Park that would include additional diamond sports fields and other highly desired community amenities. Additionally, the expanded Memorial Park is identified for a potential underground stormwater harvesting tank (Phase 0) in support of the City’s water self-sufficiency and sustainable infrastructure goals by increasing locally produced water and providing a drought-resilient water supply.
Staff recommends the Council adopt the draft resolution certifying the Project Environmental Impact Report, review and approve the Revised Plan for Phases 1 and 2, and provide direction to staff to proceed with final design.
Background
The Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project (Project) would combine the
10.3-acre Memorial Park and the adjacent 2.9-acre, City-owned former Fisher Lumber site into a 13.2-acre, newly renovated and expanded community park in the heart of Santa Monica. This Project responds to the growing demand for recreational activities and the longstanding goal of expanding and redefining Memorial Park, first established in Santa Monica’s 1997 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. In 2004, the City purchased the Fisher Lumber site specifically for this purpose. At that time, the Public Landscape Division (PLD) was headquartered at the Santa Monica Airport but was displaced by the construction of Airport Park. On May 10, 2005, Council approved the interim relocation of PLD operations to the former Fisher Lumber site.
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Figure 1: Project Location
On March 22, 2016, Council adopted and formally selected the expansion of Memorial Park as one of the City’s highest-priority park projects and incorporated it into the Los Angeles Countywide Comprehensive Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment Report.
On January 23, 2018, Council awarded an agreement with AHBE Landscape Architects to develop a feasibility study, master plan layout, and phased construction approach that would meet the project objectives of maximizing fields with a focus on diamond sports; considering community programs such as the Police Activities League (PAL), gymnasium, and fitness facilities; integrating the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plans and appropriate buffering along busy streets; and considering the park’s relationship to the surrounding neighborhood and City context. On October 15, 2019, Council reviewed the master plan layout, directed staff to seek design proposals for Phases 1 and 2 of the Project, and provided Additional Items for Design Consideration (Attachment A) to be considered by the selected design team. Subsequently, on February 11, 2020, Council awarded a design-build agreement with W.E. O’Neil 4 of 34
Corporation; however, due to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Project was suspended, and the agreement was never executed.
Figure 2: Existing Memorial Park and Approved Memorial Park Master Plan
Figure 3: Original Phases 1 and 2 (2019-2020)
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As the City began to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, staff returned to Council on September 27, 2022, to present a “reduced Phase 1” scope of work as a way to advance the Project with a reduced budget and increased construction costs. Of the original $30 million Project budget—comprised of approximately $5 million in City Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funding, $5 million from Santa MonicaMalibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) Measure SMS bonds, and $20 million from the Santa Monica College (SMC) Measure V bond—only the $20 million from the SMC bond measure remained available. Council directed staff to restart the Project and proceed with the revised phasing, re-engage with SMC and SMMUSD, and study possible temporary relocation sites for PLD operations (Phase 1 implementation of the Project requires the temporary relocation of PLD operations until a permanent location that adequately meets the space and logistical needs of this critical work unit can be identified).
The reduced scope of Phase 1 aligns with the project objectives outlined in the development of the feasibility study and master plan layout for an expanded and redeveloped park. However, due to funding limitations, the remaining scope of the original Phase 1—including Combo Field 3/4, an interim use at future field 5, the Community Hub building, and playground would now be included in Phase 2. This change would leave the park without a playground until Phase 2 is complete. 6 of 34
Phase 1
Combo Field 1/2
Surface Parking Lot
Elevated Tennis/Pickleball Courts
Improved 14th St Entrance
New Colorado Ave Entrance
Dog Run
Mobility/Streetscape Improvements:
8’-wide sidewalk, parkway, plantings on 14th St
Shared use bike path, parkway, plantings on
Colorado Ave
Phase 2
Combo Field 3/4
Interim Use at Future Field 5
Improved 16th St Entrance
Community Hub Building
Playground
Mobility/Streetscape Improvements:
8’ wide sidewalk, parkway, plantings on 16th St
Figure 4: Reduced Phases 1 and 2 (2022 - Present)
On August 22, 2023, Council directed staff to seek design proposals for Phases 1 and 2 of the project and authorized a payment agreement with SMC for Phase 1 design and pre-construction services, not to exceed $2.75 million. Additionally, Council approved the appropriation of $500,000 of Park and Recreation Impact Fee resources for Phase 2 design and approved the reinstatement and fifth modification of an agreement with WSP (formerly Wood Environmental and Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. and AMEC Environment & Infrastructure, Inc.) for environmental consulting services related to the project. On August 27, 2024, Council approved the appropriation of an additional $200,000 in Park and Recreation Impact Fee resources for Phase 2 design and awarded a design agreement with SWA Group (SWA) in an amount not to exceed $4,405,000 (including a 15% contingency), broken down as follows:
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• Phase 0 design (including pre-construction and construction administration) services are funded with Clean Beaches and Ocean Parcel Tax Funds in an amount not to exceed $2,492,000 (including a 15% contingency); • Phase 1 design (including pre-construction) services are funded through a payment agreement with SMC in an amount not to exceed $1,213,000 (including a 15% contingency); and
• Phase 2 design (including pre-construction) services are funded with a combination of Park and Recreation Impact Fee and Clean Beaches and Ocean Parcel Tax Funds in an amount not to exceed $700,000 (including a 15% contingency).
On January 28, 2025, Council approved a seventh modification to the agreement with WSP for additional analysis of project design and material options, as well as preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). A sixth modification, using contingency was executed in November 2024 to complete a required Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA).
Potential Phase 0 – Underground Stormwater Harvesting Tank The expanded Memorial Park is identified as a potential stormwater harvesting site in the Watershed Management Plan (WMP) for the Central Santa Monica Bay Jurisdictional Groups 2 & 3 (J2/J3) Watershed, which was approved by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) in April 2023 as part of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit, under Order No. R4-2021-0105. The WMP identifies the Memorial Park Regional Project as a multi-benefit stormwater project consisting of several storm drain diversions and pumping systems that would convey runoff from approximately 135 acres of draining area in the Pico-Kenter sub-watershed, within city limits, to a proposed underground tank beneath the Memorial Park fields. This tank would have a maximum capacity of 3 million gallons (3 MG) for storage, capture, and reuse and/or infiltration.
Previous feasibility studies have identified and evaluated preliminary diversion strategies and analyzed site location and sizing for the underground tank at Memorial 8 of 34
Park. The City’s efforts in stormwater and watershed management are centered around compliance with state and federal permits and mitigating contaminants entering Santa Monica Bay. The Memorial Park Regional Project represents a major step towards achieving that goal.
Phases 1 and 2 - Approved Master Plan
The master planning process involved a thorough examination of existing conditions and park program elements, along with an extensive community outreach effort. While this process produced a single, cohesive, and well-supported master plan layout that addresses long-standing issues at Memorial Park—including, but not limited to, inadequate field functionality, restrictive perimeter and edge conditions, poor connections to the surrounding neighborhood, and the misuse of restrooms and other amenities ̶Council identified several programmatic and dimensional considerations still requiring refinement. As a result, Council approved the master plan layout and authorized the design of Phases 1 and 2, with conditions requiring the selected design team to work through fifteen Additional Items for Design Considerations (Attachment A)—hereafter referred to as “Council Considerations”—to develop a proposed Revised Plan for Council approval before advancing to final design.
With Council authorization from September 2022, staff reengaged SMC and SMMUSD and is actively negotiating Fiscal and Use Agreements for capital improvement construction costs and the associated joint-use programming for the implementation of phases 1 and 2. If successfully negotiated, the Fiscal and Use Agreements would fund the bulk of the construction costs of phases 1 and 2. The ability to proceed with construction is therefore contingent upon the City’s ability to finalize agreement(s) with SMC and/or SMMUSD.
Discussion
Following the execution of a design consultant agreement in spring 2025, SWA initiated the design process to evaluate Phases 1 and 2 of the master plan layout, identify design alternatives based on the Council Considerations, and ultimately develop a Revised Plan for Council input and approval. An interdepartmental group, comprised of staff from 9 of 34
Public Works (PW), Recreation and Arts Department (RAD), Department of Transportation (DOT), Community Development Department (CDD), and the Fire Department, collaborated to review design alternatives and reach consensus on a proposed Revised Plan, accommodating alterations to the master plan layout where feasible and appropriate.
The design team presented a range of alternatives for review by the interdepartmental group. Each alternative explored and sought to address the Council Considerations within the context of the project objectives, phasing, existing conditions, site constraints, and feasibility. Collectively, these alternatives—focused on the underground tank, site plan, streetscape, community hub and on-site parking, and the interim use—provided the basis for developing and refining the proposed Revised Plan (see Attachment B for detailed descriptions and comparison of all alternatives).
Proposed Revised Plan
The proposed revised master plan layout was developed and refined using the alternatives mentioned above, in parallel with an evaluation of impacts on the tree canopy, 16th Street right-of-way (ROW), and parking. The proposed Revised Plan (Attachment C) focuses on refinements to program elements within Phases 1 and 2 and is shown below in comparison to the original master plan layout. The proposed Revised Plan does not include refinements to program elements in future phases—such as Fields 6 and 7, the skate park, or community recreation center—as these were not studied as part of the current revision.
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Figure 5: Approved Original (left) vs. Proposed Revised (right) Master Plan Layouts The following provides detailed information on each major program element of the proposed Revised Plan.
Sports Fields
Relevant Council Considerations (refer to Attachment A; descriptions abbreviated):
[1] California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) baseball field, [2] National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) softball field, [3] field amenities/elements, [14] sun/shade in positioning fields, [15] natural turf vs. synthetic turf The master plan established seven diamond sports fields (e.g., baseball, softball, etc.) at Memorial Park to provide one additional field beyond what currently exists and to allow for greater flexibility—including the ability to play simultaneous games on combination (or “combo”) fields—something the existing fields cannot currently accommodate. Combo fields 1/2 and 3/4 are included in Phases 1 and 2, respectively.
As part of Phase 2, future Field 5 will serve as an interim use until Fields 5, 6, and 7 are constructed in Phase 3.
The proposed Revised Plan considered a CIF baseball field at combo field 1/2 and an NCAA softball field at Combo Field 3/4. Combo Field 1/2 could accommodate a single regulation high school baseball game with a portable pitcher’s mound, adjustable bases, 11 of 34
and backstop distance 25’ (non-CIF) or adult softball game on Field 1. Combo Field 3/4 could accommodate a single collegiate softball game or adult softball game on Field 3.
Additionally, in alignment with the Master Plan, each combo field could be divided with temporary fencing to accommodate simultaneous games for girls’ fast pitch-softball and youth baseball and softball.
Although fields 1 through 4 were originally proposed to be artificial turf in the master plan, per City Council direction natural grass was explored for the combo fields as well.
An interdepartmental team—including staff members from the Recreation and Arts and Public Works Departments—carefully analyzed the impacts of natural grass and artificial turf sports fields on environmental and human health, player safety, durability and playability, required maintenance, and life-cycle costs.
After carefully considering these factors, staff arrived at a policy that proposes:
• No new City-owned artificial turf sports fields will be installed in the City of Santa Monica.
• Existing City-owned grass fields will be maintained as grass fields. • Existing City-owned artificial turf fields will be replaced as artificial turf fields. • The City will explore options to work with independent and industry experts to develop a request for information on sustainable artificial and durable natural alternative materials that continue to meet the City’s needs for environmental and human health, safety, playability, maintenance, and cost.
Therefore, fields 1 through 4 will feature natural grass. Fields 1 through 4 would also feature portable mounds and adjustable bases for high school baseball and little league, covered dugouts, bullpens, batting cages, shaded spectator seating, scoreboards, and LED sports lighting, with the option to use portable public address systems and score booths or tables. Portable score booths or tables could be set up behind home plate or in the bleachers. Of important note, if only Phase 1 is implemented, Field 1 will temporarily serve as the NCAA softball field for SMC use (pending a negotiated fiscal 12 of 34
and use agreement) until Phase 2 is completed, after which it will be designated as the high school baseball field for SMMUSD use (pending a negotiated fiscal and use agreement).
Ultimately, site constraints and the field dimensions and elements required for high school baseball, NCAA softball, girls’ fast-pitch softball, youth baseball and softball, and adult softball made it infeasible to rotate Combo Fields 1/2 and/or 3/4. As a result, the ability to address the Council Consideration regarding sun/shade through field rotation or repositioning was limited. That said, because the original Master Plan layout accounted for required field dimensions and sun/shade when recommending a pinwheel orientation for the combo fields, staff concludes the original layout for the combo fields remains both practical and effective. However, the Revised Plan does propose repositioning future Field 5 to create more usable space at the community hub center of the park and along the perimeters of the combo fields, to maximize opportunities for community and field elements/amenities.
Tennis/Pickleball Courts
Currently, the existing tennis and pickleball courts lack many amenity components necessary for programs to thrive. The court lighting is nearing the end of its lifespan, with frequent bulb replacements causing court closures. Pedestrian circulation occurs within the fence line, often interrupting play. This leads to longer wait times for drop-in users. When the courts are at full capacity, there are just as many—if not more—users waiting along the sidelines to play in areas without seating and shade.
Courts striped for both tennis and pickleball—allowing for either four tennis courts or sixteen pickleball courts—would be built on an elevated platform above a new surface parking lot and accessible via stairs and an elevator. The courts would feature LED sports lighting, dedicated equipment storage, spectator seating, and shaded areas. A centralized attendant and single-entry location would support an organized check-in process, improved participant experience, and enable efficient management of court reservations and programming.
Community Hub and Amenities
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Relevant Council Considerations (refer to Attachment A; descriptions abbreviated):
[4] off-leash dog run, [5] grouping fitness equipment, [6] shade for playground, [9] passive recreation at future field 5, [10] more community amenities, including barbecue grills
The master plan located the community hub centrally within the park and included a universally accessible playground alongside a one-story building housing restrooms, concessions, storage, a trash room, and a small office for field monitor staff. The community hub’s location—adjacent to the diamond sport fields, elevated tennis/pickleball courts, skate park, and interim use area at future Field 5—would make it the active center of the park. The master plan also included a walking loop trail with fitness equipment along the park’s perimeter.
The proposed Revised Plan considered and incorporated an approximately 2,800 SF off-leash dog run; one grouping of 3-4 fitness equipment stations; playground shade provisions through a combination of trees and built elements; an interim use at future Field 5 that is flexible space for both passive and active recreation; table tennis; picnic seating; barbecue grills; and a potential green roof and overlook at the Community Hub building. The playground is anticipated to feature safety surfacing made from natural cork and primarily non-plastic play equipment, with the exception of slides. While metal could serve as an alternative material, it is not recommended due to its tendency to retain heat—thereby increasing the risk of injury and discomfort for users—and its susceptibility to rust, which requires frequent ongoing maintenance.
Future Field 5 is envisioned to serve as flexible lawn and practice field space until Phase 3 construction. Fencing would be removed, and a strategically placed planting barrier creates a natural buffer —helping to define the space, reduce noises, and visually soften the landscape—making the park more inviting and balanced while reinforcing the flexible space’s role as a multi-use community gathering space.
Tree Canopy
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Relevant Council Considerations (refer to Attachment A; descriptions abbreviated):
[13] tree assessment
Due to the overall park reconfiguration proposed by the master plan, opportunities to preserve existing trees are extremely limited. To mitigate this impact, the master plan proposed replacing removed trees at a ratio consistent with the City's Urban Forest Master Plan.
The design team conducted a comprehensive inventory of trees within Memorial Park and assessed those located in Phases 1 and 2. Of the 96 trees within Phases 1 and 2, the Revised Plan proposes to preserve 10 existing trees, relocate 4 existing trees, and plant 110 new trees, resulting in a total of 124 trees. Tree Counts are subject to change as design progresses through design development (coordination with utilities, planting, equipment, etc.).
In accordance with the City’s restitution policy, 423 restitution trees to replant are required to offset the removal of 82 trees in Phases 1 and 2. Any restitution trees that cannot be accommodated on-site will be planted in other designated areas throughout the City, with priority given to replanting with 1/4 mile of Memorial Park.
Proposed species of new trees include Carrotwood (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) along Colorado Avenue, California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) along 16th Street; Paperbark Tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia) along 14th Street; and Silverleaf Oak (Quercus hypoleucoides), California Bay (Umbellularia californica), Channel Island Oak (Quercus tomentella), Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis), and Coast Life Oak (Quercus agrifolia) within the park.
Existing Preserve or
Relocate
Proposed New Revised Plan
(phases 1-2)
On-site (Park) 42 6 57 63
On-site (Palms) 24 1 0 1
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On-site subtotal 66 7 57 64
Off-site (Colorado) 21 0 40* 40*
Off-site (16th) 2 2 4 6
Off-site (14th) 7 5 9 14
Off-site subtotal 30 7 53 60
Total 96 14 110 124
*14 proposed trees will be within park property.
Mobility and Streetscape Improvements
Relevant Council Considerations (refer to Attachment A; descriptions abbreviated):
[7] rotating fields 3 and 4 for Expo access, [8] 14th Street drop-off area more pedestrianfriendly For those choosing to walk, bike, or use public transit to access Memorial Park, the master plan considered and enhanced the pedestrian and bicyclist experience. The master plan layout included a new entry point from Colorado Avenue, in addition to enhancing access from 14th Street, 16th Street, and Olympic Boulevard; a new Class I shared use bike path connecting to the regional Exposition Corridor Bike Path; 4’-wide planted buffers between 8’-wide perimeter sidewalks and field activity within the park; and street trees and parkway planters to provide shade and comfort.
The proposed Revised Plan explored the option of rotating Combo Field 3/4 and making the 14th Street entrance friendlier to pedestrians to address the Council Consideration for enhanced permeability and entry at park’s northeast corner. However, as previously mentioned, site constraints and the field dimensions and elements required for high school baseball, NCAA softball, girls fast pitch softball, youth baseball and softball, and adult softball made it infeasible to rotate Combo Fields 1/2 and/or 3/4. Nevertheless, the proposed Revised Plan aims to address the Council Considerations to create a more inviting experience through the following design strategies:
• Improvements to the14th Street entrance improvements include a planted center island with trees in the surface parking lot and a planting bed at the west end of the structure to soften and green the appearance. This project 16 of 34
also reduces vehicle access from two driveways, per the master plan, to one driveway—helping to reduce conflict points, improve sidewalk continuity, and increase space for pedestrian amenities. There is also an opportunity to incorporate artwork on the parking structure west façade and/or court fencing. • Expand the sidewalk at the northeast corner into 16th Street as much as possible, while maintaining required vehicle and emergency access. • Set the Combo Field 3/4 fencing as far from the northeast corner as feasible, per the field dimensions and provide a rounded or chamfered corner. • Consider alternatives to tiered bleachers for spectator seating at the northeast corner of Combo Field 3/4, to support better sightlines and circulation. • Integrate clear and cohesive wayfinding and signage elements to enhance visibility and ease of navigation to the Colorado Avenue mid-block promenade entry to the park.
• Establish pedestrian-friendly dual promenades with welcoming entries that encourage movement and gathering, via overhead string lights and opportunities for banners and/or flags.
• Strengthen visual connectivity into the park through thoughtful sightline design—potentially incorporating an art mural—to attract and engage visitors. • Locate bike parking at entrances and throughout the park.
Figure 6: Colorado Avenue Entry and Promenade Rendering 17 of 34
The streetscapes within Phases 1 and 2 follow the master plan layout, with refinements as needed based on ongoing City input and adjustments to the park’s site plan and program elements. The proposed Revised Plan streetscapes maintain general alignment with the master plan layout in terms of streetscape configuration; however, certain components have been scaled back due to space constraints. Comparisons of streetscape refinements relative to the original master plan layout are shown below. • Colorado Avenue: Streetscape design features a 12’-6”-wide eastbound travel lane per Fire Department input, a 4’-wide planted parkway with street trees, a 12’-wide shared use bike/pedestrian path, a secondary row of trees where feasible, and a planting buffer of variable width.
Figure 7: Colorado Avenue Master Plan (top) vs. Proposed Streetscape Design (bottom) 18 of 34
• 14th Street: Streetscape design proposes retaining the existing 10’-wide northbound travel lane, 9’-wide bike lane, 7’-wide metered parking, and 7’- wide planted parkway with street trees, along with adding a new 8’-wide sidewalk. Maintaining the 7’-wide planted parkway allows preservation of 5 of the 7 existing trees, whereas reconstructing a new 4’-wide planted parkway per the master plan would necessitate removing all 7 existing trees.
Additionally, a separate project led by DOT will implement a two-way cycle track on the east side of 14th Street, further enhancing the overall bicycle infrastructure in the area (cycle track not shown in the proposed streetscape design section below).
Figure 8: 14th Street Master Plan (top) vs. Proposed Streetscape Design (bottom) 19 of 34
• 16th Street: Streetscape design seeks to maximize off-site parking by proposing angled parking in areas where further park expansion into 16th Street is not necessary to meet project objectives (angled parking allows for more parking spaces within the same curb length compared to parallel parking). This approach strikes a balance between the need to expand park space to achieve project objectives and the need to provide adequate parking.
Figure 9: 16th Street Master Plan (top) vs. Proposed Streetscape Design (bottom) Parking
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Relevant Council Considerations (refer to Attachment A; descriptions abbreviated): [12] parking loss on 16th Street
The master plan estimated the covered parking lot would increase on-site parking inventory by 49 spaces, for a total of 128 spaces to be used exclusively by park patrons, and would include a safe and convenient passenger drop-off area. The footprint of Memorial Park would be expanded into portions of 16th Street and Colorado Avenue, resulting in a reduction of 37 off-site metered parking spaces adjacent to the park.
The proposed Revised Master plan expands the covered parking lot to be adjacent to the community hub building, increasing the number of on-site parking spaces. As mentioned above, it also proposes angled parking along 16th Street where feasible.
Existing on- and off-site parking spaces currently total 212 spaces. After completion of future phase improvements, the Revised Plan’s parking spaces would total 201 spaces.
Parking counts are subject to change as design progresses through design development (coordination with utilities, planting, equipment, etc.).
Existing Master Plan
(all phases)
Revised Plan
(phases 1-2)
Revised Plan
(all phases)
On-site (PLD) 28 - - -
On-site (Park) 79 128 142 142
On-site subtotal 107 128 142 142
Off-site (Colorado) 19 - - -
Off-site (16th) 42 24 36 18
Off-site (14th) 22 22 19 19
Off-site (Olympic) 22 22 22 22
Off-site subtotal 105 68 77 59
Total 212 196 219 201
16th Street Right-Of-Way
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Relevant Council Considerations (refer to Attachment A; descriptions abbreviated):
[11] closing some or all of 16th Street
16th Street between Colorado Avenue and Olympic Boulevard, currently operates as a one-way northbound street, featuring sidewalks and driveways on both sides, with angled parking along the west side and parallel parking along the east side. Within this segment, portions of the ROW have varying status. The portion of the 16th Street ROW adjacent to Memorial Park has been vacated, with ownership now divided among the City of Santa Monica, SMMUSD, and private property owner. In contrast, the portion of the 16th Street ROW north of Memorial Park is not vacated and remains held in trust for public transportation and utility uses.
Figure 10: Status of 16th Street ROW
Staff considered but did not pursue closing all of 16th Street to expand the park beyond what is proposed in the master plan for the following reasons:
• Closing 16th Street and eliminating vehicular and emergency access would impact properties on the east side of the street, particularly those currently relying solely on 16th Street for access. Alternative access would need to be 22 of 34
established, likely via 17th Street—a heavily used corridor that already accommodates a cycle track and rapid bus lane. Proceeding with this change would require traffic impact studies and initiation of a formal street vacation process, both of which would extend the project timeline and add to overall project costs.
• Park improvements are limited to City-owned property due to legal, funding, maintenance, and liability reasons. Therefore, expanding the park into the full 16th Street ROW would require the acquisition of private property, including property owned by SMMUSD. For SMMUSD to sell property, it must first be declared as surplus and follow a formal disposition process. Acquiring both private and SMMUSD property would significantly extend the project timeline and increase costs.
Staff also evaluated the option of closing some of 16th Street while maintaining vehicular access and limiting park expansion beyond what is proposed in the master plan to City-owned property. However, the decision was made that maximizing off-site parking, while still meeting the project objectives, would provide the most benefit. The proposed Revised Plan includes some expansion into the unvacated portion of 16th Street to maximize the use and flexibility of Combo Field 3/4. To expand Combo Field 3/4 into the unvacated portion of 16th Street, the City would proceed with a 4-6 month summary vacation process requiring coordination with utility companies, City departments, and adjacent property owners and Council approval of a resolution.
Sustainability
This project advances sustainability by replacing impermeable parking lots and aging facilities with increased capacity for park programs and amenities that promote health, wellness, and social connection, while also improving the park’s ability to filter, capture, and infiltrate urban runoff. While much of the park will continue to support active recreation and team sports—with specific requirements for field design and surface materials—the project strategically enhances the interstitial spaces between those facilities to integrate natural systems, balancing recreational needs with native landscaping and sustainable water management practices. Tree canopy and Low 23 of 34
Impact Development (LID) strategies—such as water-efficient irrigation systems, drought-tolerant plantings, and permeable surfaces—are essential for reducing urban heat, conserving water, and supporting long-term ecological health. Through naturebased, multi-benefit design, Memorial Park will deliver lasting environmental, health, and community outcomes. If constructed, Phase 0 would provide an additional treatment and water supply element of the Sustainable Water Infrastructure Project (SWIP), expanding the treatment and water supply capacity, increasing locally produced water, and providing a drought resilient water supply.
Figure 11: Proposed Location for Phase 0 Stormwater Tank
METHODS
VEGETATION / GREEN
SPACE
100% of the planting areas that are outside the sport facilities are native or climate-appropriate species. Tree plantings are also constrained by the site conditions but are planted in spaces that accommodate their growth, to the greatest extent feasible.
INCREASE OF
PERMEABILITY
Impermeable uses – parking & tennis courts – are smartly stacked to reduce the combined footprint and provide shade, thus improving stormwater & urban heat island conditions. Impermeable asphalt surfaces & buildings are replaced with permeable vegetated ball fields. An 24 of 34
estimated 67.8% of paved area is removed (inclusive of removed buildings). Proposed paved non-sport surfaces within the park integrate permeable materials, such as unit pavers and decomposed granite.
PROTECTION OF
UNDEVELOPED
MOUNTAINS &
FLOODPLAINS
The site has been previously developed & does not include native vegetation that could be preserved. Enhancing a previously developed site with new amenities helps relieve pressure on development of greenfield sites. The project improves the City’s existing drainage system by capturing urban run-off for storage, reuse, and infiltration, diverting flow from channels that discharge to the ocean.
STORMWATER TANK The phase 0 stormwater tank captures runoff and filters pollutants, capturing the 85th percentile 24-hour storm event from the entire project parcel. The project will help the City achieve its 2026 goals for the Santa Monica Bay Bacterial TMDL.
ENHANCEMENT OF SOIL 100% of the planting areas that are outside the sport facilities are native or climate-appropriate species. These planting areas may include the use of mulch and compost that is locally generated, where feasible.
NEW PHOTOVOLTAIC
ELEMENTS
The project offers opportunities for roof-mounted PV systems and/or PV shade structures with good sun exposure and the installation of new EV chargers under solar carports.
Following a preliminary assessment of the project’s potential to meet the prerequisites for LEED SITES certification, the project team is targeting Gold Certification. Additional analysis will be conducted during the design development phase.
Summary of Key Changes
Below is a summary of proposed refinements and revisions for Council consideration.
Master Plan Revised Plan
Phase 0
Underground
Stormwater Tank
Not included Proposed location within Phase 1
Phase 1
Combo Field 1/2 Will consider grass vs.
turf, bullpens, batting
cages, and seating for
secondary field in the
design phase
Incorporates high school baseball field, natural grass, bullpen, batting cages, and seating at both fields
Surface Parking Lot Increase dedicated
park inventory by 49
spaces for a total of
128 on-site spaces
Expands surface parking lot to maximize on-site
spaces, increases inventory by 63 spaces for a total of 142 on-site spaces
Note: Removes pathway between surface parking lot
and community hub building; however, creates
opportunities for mural art that can be seen from
Colorado Avenue entrance and access to Community
Hub rooftop.
Elevated
Tennis/Pickleball Courts
Courts striped for
tennis and pickleball
Incorporates centralized attendant and single-entry
location and additional storage space
Improved 14th St
Entrance
Two driveways for
vehicle access
Reduced from two driveways to one driveway
Dog Run Not Included Incorporates approx. 2,800 SF dog run 14th St Streetscape New 4’-wide parkway Maintain 7’-wide parkway to preserve existing street 25 of 34
and 8’-wide
sidewalk/walking loop
trees, where feasible
Colorado Ave
Streetscape
Shared use
path/walking loop with
double row of trees,
jogging path, and
planting buffer
Due to right-of-way and site constraints, the shared
use path width has been reduced from 12’-6” to 12’
and streetscape does not include a jogging path
Phase 2
Combo Field 3/4 Will consider grass vs.
turf, bullpens, batting
cages, and seating for
secondary field in the
design phase
Incorporates NCAA softball field, natural grass,
bullpen, batting cages, and seating at both fields
Note: Requires summary vacation for field elements
Interim Use at Future
Field 5
Practice field Flexible space for both passive and active uses in the interim, rotates future Field 5
Community Hub
Building
Include restrooms,
concessions, storage,
small office
Additional opportunity for green roof and overlook
accessible via elevated tennis/pickleball courts
Playground Universally accessible
and feature ample
integrated shade
Incorporates shade
16th St Streetscape Convert angled parking
to parallel parking
Proposes angled parking in areas where further park
expansion into 16th Street is not necessary to meet
project objectives
Engagement
Prior to master plan layout approval, the Field Sports Advisory Council (FSAC) voted to formally support transmittal of the proposed master plan to the Recreation and Parks Commission (RPC) on June 6, 2019. On July 18, 2019, RPC voted unanimously to support the master plan layout and programmatic concepts with recommendations for further consideration during the design and implementation phase—these recommendations are captured in the Council Considerations. On July 24, 2019, the Urban Forest Task Force (UFTF) expressed informal support for the plan and agreed to further review of preliminary tree species palette.
With the initiation of the design phase in spring 2025, a project website was launched to provide project information, updates, and news:
https://www.santamonica.gov/memorial-park-redevelopment-and-expansion-project Throughout the design phase, staff presented to RPC (5/15) and met with SMC, SMMUSD, Metro, and RPC ad hoc committee to share progress and obtain input. Staff presented the proposed Revised Plan to the Urban Forest Task Force (11/5); the Field Sports Advisory Council (11/5); the Commission on Sustainability, Environmental 26 of 34
Justice and the Environment (11/17); Mid City Neighbors (11/18); and RPC (11/20), with members from each group expressing support for the proposal. The UFTF specifically supported a net increase in trees, a tree-shaded shared use path, and grass fields, and voted unanimously to endorse the proposed Revised Plan.
Construction Budget and Funding
The construction budget for phase 0 is between $20-$25 million. At the time of this report, approximately $10 million has been budgeted for construction from the City’s Clean Beaches and Ocean Parcel Tax Fund and the Stormwater Parcel Tax Fund and the City is seeking grant funding as described below.
Given rising costs and ongoing uncertainty, the construction budgets for Phases 1 and 2 were updated in early 2025, prior to the commencement of design, to align with realistic expectations for the scope of work. The construction budget for phases 1 and 2 is $40 million—$25 million for phase 1 and $15 million for phase 2. At the time of this report, neither phase is fully funded for construction. The City is continuing to engage with SMC and SMMUSD and is actively seeking grant funding, as described below.
Since then, preliminary cost estimates for these phases, based on the proposed Revised Plan and additional design phase input, indicate even higher construction costs. As a result, pending Council approval of the proposed Revised Plan, the construction budgets would need to be updated again.
Phase Current
Construction
Budget (2025)
Projected
Construction Budget
(2026)
Funding Secured Funding
Shortfall
0 $20-$25 million $20-$25 million $10 million $10-$15
million
1 $25 million $34-$40 million
(up to 15% value
engineering)
$18 million*
(pending final
agreement with SMC)
$16-$22
million
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2 $15 million $18-$21 million
(up to 15% value
engineering)
$0 $18-$21
million
Total $60-65 million $73-$86 million $28 million $45-$58 million
*Of the $2.75 million allocated from the $20 million SMC bond measure funds for phase 1 design and preconstruction services, staff expect to use only $2 million, preserving $18 million for construction.
Phases 0 and 1—or Phases 0,1, and 2—would only be constructed as a single project if sufficient grant awards and funding for all included phases are secured. Should funding be available exclusively for Phases 1 and 2, construction would proceed without Phase
0. If only Phase 1 is funded, it would advance independently of Phase 0, with the construction of Phase 0 deferred to coincide with Phase 2 as funding permits.
Grant Funding
On March 11, 2025, the City submitted a grant application for Round 8 of the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP). Unfortunately, the ORLP Round 8 was placed on hold and its future status is unknown.
On July 31, 2025, the City submitted a funding request in the amount of $11.75 million through the Measure W Safe Clean Water Program administered by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LACFCD). The request represents approximately 50% of the total project cost for Phase 0, with the remaining portion anticipated to be covered through local matching funds and other funding sources. Funding approval and grant administration under the Measure W Safe Clean Water Program typically follows a 12- to 18-month timeline. During the first six months, applications are reviewed and scored by various committees. Over the following six months, project funding recommendations will be developed and advanced. The final six months generally involve the investment planning process, approval by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LACFCD) and Department of Public Works (LACDPW) Board of Supervisors, and distribution of awarded funds through a funding transfer agreement.
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On July 29, 2025, Council adopted a resolution authorizing the application for grant funds from the California Department of Parks and Recreation Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Grant Program. On August 1, 2025, the City submitted a grant application for $6 million in LWCF funding to move forward with Phase 1.
On October 30, 2025, the City submitted a grant application for the 2025 Measure A Competitive Grant Program. The City requested $4 million in Measure A funding to help finance the elevated tennis/pickleball courts.
Below is a summary of grants pursued along with the anticipated award recommendation, final approval, and funding availability timelines.
Grant
Program
Funding
Requested
Applied Anticipated
Award Reco.
Anticipated
Final
Approval
Funds
Available
ORLP
(federal)
$15 million 3/11/2025 N/A – Grant
Paused
N/A – Grant
Paused
N/A – Grant
Paused
Measure W
(local)
$11.75
million
7/31/2025 Spring 2026 Summer 2026 Fall 2026
LWCF
(federal)
$6 million 8/1/2025 Jan 2026 Mar 2026 Summer 2026
Measure A
(state)
$4 million 10/30/2025 Mar 2026 Summer 2026 Winter
2026/27
Total $21.75 million
Alternatives
Given the remaining shortfall, even if all grant funding were awarded, Council may also consider the following alternative actions:
• Direct staff to further reduce the scope of work for each phase to align with current construction budgets—This approach is not recommended, as further 29 of 34
scope reductions could result in unresolved issues at the site until future phases are implemented.
• Direct staff to update construction budgets as necessary and delay project implementation until additional funding is secured—This approach is not recommended, as construction costs would continue to rise during the delay, increasing the overall project expense.
• Eliminate elevated pickleball/tennis courts and associated structure from the proposed Revised Plan, proceed with on-grade courts in place of future Field 5, and consider incorporating the future Field 5 development as part of the Airport Conversion Project—This approach is recommended to bring the project closer to the current total construction budget of $40 million for phases 1 and 2. This alternative would maintain six total fields at Memorial Park while increasing overall playability with the addition of the combo fields. Recognizing the master plan’s objective to add a seventh field at Memorial Park, this alternative includes consideration of incorporating the future Field 5 development into the Airport Conversion Project.
PLD Relocation Update
On August 13, 2024, an Information Item describing the evaluation of possible relocation sites and scenarios, identifying the City Yards as the only feasible temporary relocation site, and serving as the final summary report closing out the PLD Relocation Process was posted. To meet scheduling requirements for design, permitting, and the timely relocation of PLD operations, staff proceeded with City Yards as the interim site selection. It is important to note that this relocation is intended to be temporary, and that identifying and securing a permanent home for PLD operations will need to be addressed in the future. The following progress has been made:
• A tent structure is proposed to protect PLD equipment and Street Services vehicles at the Flap Happy portion of City Yards. A design and engineering team has been brought on to complete the design and documentation set for 30 of 34
the site and infrastructure, and to provide any additional information needed for permitting and construction bidding.
• The remainder of the operation will be accommodated within the existing City Yards facilities.
• To create the necessary space, Resource Recovery and Recycling (RRR) bins that were located at the City Yards have now been moved to the Airport under a lease agreement and the Fire Department Training Facility footprint has been reduced.
Next Steps
If directed to proceed, staff will move forward with final design and anticipates returning to Council in spring 2026 with the following:
• Request adoption of a resolution for the summary vacation of 16th Street. • Provide an update on the development of fiscal and use agreements. • Final construction scope and funding strategy based on available resources • Projected ongoing operations and maintenance costs associated with Phases 1 and 2.
Staff also recognizes and shares the concerns regarding displaced programming during construction and would provide an update to Council prior to any impacts. Internal discussions are underway to explore options and develop a plan that minimizes impacts and disruptions. Community Recreation staff have begun identifying alternative locations for programs during construction. As planning progresses, staff will continue to engage stakeholders, share information, and provide updates.
Final design and permitting are anticipated to be completed by fall 2026, with construction anticipated to begin winter 2026/27 following a competitive bidding process.
Environmental Review
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In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was prepared to analyze the potential environmental impacts resulting from the implementation of the Project based on direction provided during the community outreach process of the development of the master plan. Pursuant to Section 15082 of the CEQA Guidelines, a Notice of Preparation (NOP) was published on February 27, 2025, for a 30-day comment period. Additionally, a public scoping meeting was held on March 12, 2025, at Memorial Park to present the project and receive comments on the scope of the EIR.
On September 19, 2025, a Noice of Completion and Public Availability of the Draft EIR was published, commencing a 45-day public comment period for the Draft EIR. The environmental issues studied in detail in the Draft EIR include:
• Air Quality
• Cultural and Tribal Cultural Resources
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change
• Hazards and Hazardous Materials
The Final EIR, which was published in November 2025, contains all comments and responses to comments received during the comment period as well as minor changes to the Draft EIR. The Draft EIR was available for a 45-day public review period, during which two comment letters were received. Responses to all comments received are included in the Final EIR. EIR Table ES-2 includes a summary of the environmental impacts that could result from the proposed project. All impacts were determined to be less than significant or can be mitigated below a level of significance through implementation of feasible mitigation measures. Accordingly, all mitigation measures identified in the EIR are included in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP).
Based on the analysis provided in the EIR, there are no significant and unavoidable impacts associated with the project. Although there were no significant impacts identified, in accordance with CEQA, the EIR studied three alternatives to the project, 32 of 34
which are intended to reduce the environmental impacts of the projects. The alternatives studied respond to public comments and include:
• Alternative 1 – No Project Alternative
• Alternative 2 – Real Grass Turf Fields and Non-Plastic Playground Equipment • Alternative 3 – Reduced Development Alternative
In general, the environmentally superior alternative as defined by CEQA should minimize adverse impacts to the project site and its surrounding environment. Of the alternatives considered, the No Project Alternative is environmentally superior since it does not create new impacts; therefore, it is the environmentally superior alternative when compared to the proposed Project and other alternatives. However, the No Project Alternative would not fulfill the project objectives regarding improvements to park and recreational amenities, addressing community needs, strengthening community programs, integrating active transportation components into the design of the park, or promoting sustainability.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 states that if the environmentally superior alternative is the No Project Alternative, an EIR shall also identify an environmentally superior alternative from among the other alternatives. Of the other alternatives considered, Alternative 2 (Use of Natural Grass Turf and Non-Plastic Playground Equipment) is considered to be the environmentally superior alternative. This alternative is currently the selected project for Council consideration. Alternative 2 would replace the two artificial turf combo fields with two real grass combo fields. As such, this alternative would minimize potential impacts related to Hazards and Hazardous Materials, and MM HAZ-1 through MM HAZ-7 would no longer be required.
Past Council Actions
Meeting Date Description
05/10/05 (Attachment E) Approved Relocation of Public Landscape Division Operations to the Fisher Lumber Site on an Interim Basis 03/22/16 (Attachment F) Memorial Park Expansion Selected as High-Priority Park Project and Incorporated into the LA Countywide Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment Report
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01/23/18 (Attachment G) Design Agreement with AHBE Landscape Architects for the Memorial Park Feasibility Study and Master Plan
10/15/19 (Attachment H) Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Master Plan Layout and Park Program Review
02/11/20 (Attachment I) Design-Build Agreement with W.E. O’Neil Corporation for Memorial Park Expansion
09/27/22 (Attachment J) Memorial Park Expansion Study Session on Restarting the Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project with
a Reduced Initial Phase Aligned with Master Plan
05/23/23 (Attachment K) Resolution Authorizing Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program Application
08/22/23 (Attachment L) Payment Agreement with SMC to Proceed with Solicitation for Design Services
08/27/24 (Attachment M) Design Agreement with SWA Group for the Memorial Park Redevelopment and Expansion Project
01/28/25 (Attachment N) Seventh Modification to Environmental Consulting Agreement for CEQA Documentation for the Project
07/29/25 (Attachment O) Resolution Authorizing Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program Application
Financial Impacts and Budget Actions
There is no immediate financial impact or budget action necessary as a result of the recommended action. Currently, none of the phases are fully funded for construction.
The only project funds available include $10 million for Phase 0 and up to $20 million from the SMC bond measure for Phase 1 (pending final agreement). Based on Council direction, staff would return with a recommended award and funding request, including grant awards, for construction.
Prepared By: Linda Cogswell, CIP Project Manager
Approved Forwarded to Council
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Attachments:
A. Memorial Park Additional Considerations
B. Memorial Park Alternatives Assessment (DRAFT)
C. Memorial Park Proposed Revised Plan (DRAFT)
D. EIR Certification Findings and Proposed Resolution
E. May 10, 2005 Staff Report
F. March 22, 2016 Staff Report (Web Link)
G. January 23, 2018 Staff Report (Web Link)
H. October 15, 2019 Staff Report (Web Link)
I. February 11, 2020 Staff Report (Web Link)
J. September 27, 2022 Staff Report (Web Link)
K. May 23, 2023 Staff Report (Web Link)
L. August 22, 2023 Staff Report (Web LInk)
M. August 27, 2024 Staff Report (Web Link)
N. January 28, 2025 Staff Report (Web Link)
O. July 29, 2025 Staff Report (Web Link)
P. Memorial Park Final EIR (Web Link)
Q. Memorial Park Final EIR - Appendix I (Web Link)
R. Memorial Park Final EIR - Appendix II (Web Link)
S. Written Comments
T. PowerPoint Presentation