Updated:  03.19.26

PROJECT STATUS

The Park Equipment Replacement project began in July 2023 and initial design began in September 2023.  The project includes three parks, one of which is Orpheus Park.  Equipment options and layouts have been received and reviewed.  A Community CPP meeting was held on December 3, 2024 to review design options.   Final design and permitting were completed in fall 2025.  Additional funding for construction is needed to complete the project.

BACKGROUND

The Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Department has determined that the playground equipment at Orpheus Park requires replacement due to its age and repair costs.  The playground was installed in 1993.  Routine maintenance and repair are typically not able to prolong the service life of playground equipment beyond 20 years.  The sand and poured-in-place flexible ground cover will also be replaced with engineered wood fiber mulch.  To further enhance resident’s enjoyment of this park, the Department will also install adult fitness equipment.

The OGALS grant will cover most of the cost for replacing the playground equipment and ground cover.  The City's Park Improvement Fund will cover the rest.

Replacing playground equipment that has exceeded its serviceable life contributes to the City of Encinitas Strategic Plan goals of maintaining a safe and livable community through well maintained infrastructure.  

The proposed conceptual design maintains the existing footprint, while replacing play equipment and adding a shade shelter and four precast picnic tables with ADA accessibility.   Special attention has been paid to maintain the heigh limits for the new structures in order to maintain existing views.